P.O. Box 11794, Kansas City, MO 64138.

Raising Your Equine Experience To A Higher Level Higher A To Experience Equine Your Raising ­ Issue Spring 2020 — Volume 21 No. 2 No. 21 Volume — 2 BETTER HORSES 2020 Spring Issue 3

Hello Friends, Has it been a weird Spring or what? I have found myself somedays wearing a short sleeve shirt and a Carhartt jacket. The first part of this May I shared a post on Facebook that pretty much summed up my situation. It pretty much tells it all so I Inside this Issue... thought I would share it with you again to reach those that are not on FaceBook. LEWY BODY DEMENTIA? Until three weeks ago I never even heard of this Page 4 A Family Business Booms in the Flint Hills disease. Now I am faced with having it. I wanted to share with my FB friends on Page 7 what to expect from me going forward This disease is incurable but medication Western Art Corner: Lori B. Gustafson can help moderate some of the symptoms. It is a form of Parkinson’s Disease with Page 8 The Elusive “FEEL”! dementia. It affects several functions including balance and memory along with other things. Page 10 Conformation Often Overlooked In My approach is I would always say, “We are not getting out alive in this world.” I Reproductive Ability Of plan on ramping up my efforts in helping lead my friends to Jesus Christ my Lord & Savior. It should have been my main job before and it is definitely my main job now. Page 11 Equine Supplements: Be a Careful Consumer I never will forget a close friend and great horseman once told me, “Our time on Page 18 Ahead Of Health Scare Athletes Add earth is the shortest time ever in eternity we will ever spend anywhere.” We still plan to keep Better Horses going in all facets of the company. Better Big Paychecks At ‘The American’ Horses TV, Better Horses Radio, Better Horses Publication and other Media. I am Page 20 Up Long Before Sunrise, Alta Vista Native excited to have both my wife, Connie, and son, Brent, stepping in along with the Still Going Strong Serving Rural Hometown rest of our team to help and grow Better Horses. I am blessed with great business partners, Ed and Tara Adams. I have a great wife and wonderful family whom I love Page 24 Hippie Chic Cowgirl very much. I am still going to ride my horse, hopefully with my son Brent. I plan also to promote a tour in the area with many stops promoting our Faith in our Lord Jesus For advertising Information contact: Christ. (See page 23 for details of the first one on Sunday, June 21st.) You know in the past I might have avoided the above comments with the fear of being too Ernie Rodina Ed Adams churchy. But when you throw death into the picture, I have every right to bring it up. 785-418-6047 816-830-1998 Don’t hesitate to give me a call at 785-418-6047 or email me at [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]. You will be hearing more from me and don’t hesitate to get in touch. Connie Rodina Jennifer Mitchell, Graphic Designer Do me a favor and tell at least five folks each day that you LOVETHEM. 785-418-2615 913-485-6495 Bring & KEEP JESUS IN YOUR LIFE. [email protected] [email protected]

Thanks for letting me share this with you again. Taking Your Horse Experience to a Higher Level Happy Trails, Subscribe to:

If you want to continue to receive your copy of the Better Horses Network publication via mail the cost will be $15.00 per year for five issues. If you don’t want to receive it Ernie in the mail you can always pick up your FREE copy at your local participating Purina Dealer or other distribution points.

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 online at www.betterhorsesnetwork.com and pay by PayPal) Return this form with payment to: Better Horses, LLC, P.O. Box 11794, Kansas City, MO 64138. 4 BETTER HORSES a great experience being able to A Family Business Booms in the Flint Hills compete at that level.” By Alice White Amy recently moved back to Kansas. She trains horses and gives Nestled in the green sea of the jumpers and eventers, but they also “I started teaching lessons when a fresh perspective in lessons. She Flint Hills, a horse lover’s haven have a string of ranch horses and I was in high school,” said Alice started importing hunter and jumper bustles with activity. The oasis western riding horses. VVEC pulls in White, Ann’s oldest daughter. “After prospects from Europe to Kansas. started as an open wheat field 30 clients from a 200 mile radius, some graduating from Oklahoma State, I Training at the family farm exposes years ago. Now, Vermillion Valley boarding their horses and others started training horses and teaching the young horses to many different Equine Center boasts two large hauling in weekly for lessons. lessons at VVEC full time.” scenarios. sand arenas, a water jump, a bank “We have clients from across the Alice spends the day riding the “Having the pasture right by the complex, multiple paddocks, two stall country keeping their horses here, horses in training, working with Ann’s barn really helps build up their barns, a new 60’ round pen and a 20 or they haul for lessons,” said White. young sale horses and teaching muscles,” said Amy. “And being able acre cross country field. “Sometimes the kids will stay for lessons. She has been working to get them out of the arena is great “When I first moved out here, this a few days for lessons and extra hard to bolster the beginner rider for their brains.” was a giant wheat field,” said owner training rides before going back program. Amy also plays a pivotal role in Ann White. “Over the last 30 years, home.” “We have a good group of young the expansion of the barn. She we have just kept adding on.” Ann and Mike open their home to kids who have started riding at least and her fiancé, Travis Briggs, work The VVEC sits in the middle of Ann’s clients, offering plenty of beds for two to three times a week,” she said. diligently to improve and maintain husband’s family farm. Mike White “boot camp” attendees. Every day, “They range from four to ten-year- the facility. Throughout the year, they and his brothers are third generation Ann feeds lunch to the trainers, barn olds, and they have a great time can be found grading new paddock farmers. Being surrounded by fields workers, students and anyone else learning how to ride and care for the locations and working on drainage and pastures allow for riders and who happens to be working at or horses.” issues. horses to get plenty of time out of the visiting the barn. Ann’s youngest daughter, Amy, “Travis has brought a whole new arena. As the VVEC began expanding, finished her fourth season competing dimension to the barn,” said Ann. The VVEC houses horses of a White found she needed not only at the Winter Equestrian Festival in “With his expertise in construction variety of disciplines and teaches more space and bigger facilities but Wellington, FL, this spring. riders of all ages and experience. also more help. Her daughters, Alice “I worked for a barn that had high The barn mostly caters to hunters, and Amy, have helped fill that void. end show horses,” said Amy. “It was

The latest 300’ x 150’ arena built by Travis Briggs boasts a bank The lower arena at VVEC is set for a Kansas Hunter Jumper horse complex, a hill, and a run in and out water complex. show in 2019 2020 Spring Issue 5

and building, he has added top Amy, Alice and other VVEC riders notch arenas and continues to travel across the country competing make amazing additions and in horse shows. Sometimes, two to improvements to our facility. We three trailers of VVEC horses and are so fortunate to have him on our equipment will travel hundreds of team.” miles for horse shows. Briggs, owner of Briggs Brothers “We are hopefully awaiting the Construction, built both arenas and start of show season,” said Ann. the round pen for VVEC. The arenas “There are new guidelines for USEF have a fabric lining between the sanctioned shows that we will have leveled dirt and the six inches of lime to adhere to, but, our clients are screenings base. After compacting chomping at the bit to get into the the lime, two and a half inches of show ring.” sand is spread evenly across the surface. “The newest arena, which was originally supposed to be new individual runs, used to be a giant The field is set for a KHJA derby ravine,” Briggs said. “We placed a with a combination of hunter drainage tube at the bottom, hauled jumps and cross country fences. truck loads of rock and dirt to fill the hole, and added drainage ways around the ring to direct the water running off the hills.”

Competitors line up at the Kansas Hunter Jumper show in 2019. Competitors wait for the Basement Tack Shop Derby to start in the field 6 BETTER HORSES 2020 Spring Issue 7

Lori has worked professionally as Lori has ridden hunter-jumpers Son,” owned by Terry Hendrix of a freelance illustrator and portrait and horses most of her Fort Worth, Texas, will be featured artist for over 30 years working life. She has had the blessing of as the promotional artwork for the both traditionally and digitally. She raising five children and now is 2020 IALHA National Champion earned her BVA in Illustration from enjoying her six grandchildren. Event next November Georgia State University in 1986. She and her husband, Gus, live in Fort Worth, Texas. Lori met She earned her MFA in Illustration on a small farm in Perry, Kansas, Terry four years ago at Equifest of from Savannah College of Art and with their dogs, kittens, two horses, Kansas. Design in 2011with a concentration Poppie the pig, and chickens. If you are interested in talking Featuring in portraiture, editorial illustration, There is always a wealth of with Lori about commissioning and character design. She went inspiration for painting, illustration a portrait, Please email her at on to serve as a Professor of and character design every time [email protected] and Lori Gustafson Visual Art for The Art Institute of she walks down to the barn! visit her website at LoriGusArt.com. Pittsburgh. Lori’s painting, “Mother and

Any interest or questions in the Western Art Corner contact Don Dane at [email protected]. 8 BETTER HORSES The Elusive “FEEL”! By Al Dunning

I recently had a question asking, form is riding like you are sitting on sync with the movement. It works!!! “how do I develop feel with my the couch. That puts your seat too Maybe it also takes the riders horse?”. It is such a huge subject far back in the saddle, your knees mind off their seat and puts their that I thought it would be better to forward, and your legs not behind concentration on their snap? Either answer her question by writing an the front cinch. This position, which way, most will find a relaxation and article about my journey with trying is all too common, does not allow the discover the rhythm! to teach riders to have that special rider to ride directly over the motion Hands often get in the way of a connection. and makes it impossible to use your good seat. Green riders often try to There are two aspects of “feel”. legs efficiently to connect with the balance off the horse’s mouth. As One is having the ability to feel horse’s rhythm. a very young rider, my coach made through your seat and hands. The I teach to ride in what I term “the me ride bareback with no bridle second part of feel is thinking about athletic riding position”. I start by on a steady old horse in the round your horse and thinking like a horse. having the rider stand on the ground. corral, holding my arms straight out I will begin by explaining about I have them open their stance, like on either side. That definitely made key. Reaching down the rein and feel through your seat and hands. around a horse, bend their knees, me sit balanced, in the middle of taking the slack out before you pull, The more confident you are with toes out, have their back lightly my horse, close to the horse’s back, keeps your body in the center and your seat while riding, the better flexed, chin and eyes forward. I and stay in sync with the motion. I the rein pressure complementing the connection you will have with your ask them to keep their elbows learned the importance of my seat necessary need. Practice doing as horse. Balance is key! Balance softly by their sides and hands in a and legs first and the separation little as possible to obtain the proper starts by having rhythm at all gaits. 90-degree angle forward. This is the between them and my hand. (I am response. That should always be I have always asked my students if same position that I learned in judo, not recommending this unless you your mindset. they can dance. When dancing, you basketball, baseball, and many other are under a controlled situation! Basically, there are six parts of never want to step on your partners sports I played. I often then throw Safety first!) your body as a rider. 1/2-Your feet! Being in sync with your partner a ball to them so they can see that Your hands and arms are used legs that stay in rhythm with the and understanding their moves and a balanced form makes a positive separately from the rest of your movement and work independently. abilities, makes dancing easier. difference. After, they return to the body. Good riders have a rhythm 3-The trunk of your body, that sits Good riders sit in the middle of their saddle and duplicate the “athletic with their hands that are in concert still, in the center and balanced. 4/5- saddles and are comfortable. Sitting position”. Every time, the light bulb with the movement with the horse’s Each arm and hand that also work in the middle has many parts. Your goes on and balance, which leads to gaits. Hands and legs should have independently from all other parts. saddle needs to be in the middle of muscle memory, becomes a habit. a 50/50 relationship. My legs are 6-Your head that looks forward, chin the horse’s back. Often when riders All riders must understand that lightly in contact with the horse’s up, and thinks about all of what is mount, they pull the saddle to the each gait of the horse has particular sides and in rhythm with each gait. going on below it. left. Be sure to straighten the saddle foot fall patterns. The walk is a Stopping a horse is a good way All of this riding form gives you a so that it aligns with the horse’s four-beat gait. It is smooth and flat to understand proper use of hands. leg-up on being able to have feel mane and withers. When sitting in motion which is easier to sit down First, you should quit riding! That and communicate it to the horse. balanced, riders are able to stand quietly on then the jog or lope. The means to stop moving completely. The second part of having feel straight up in the stirrups without jog is a two-beat gait that the horse’s Sit deep in the saddle, release your is about the horse. After you have assistance of the horn. Settling legs work in pairs of diagonals. heels downward, say whoa, and proper horsemanship, making a back into the seat, they bend their Some horses are smooth jogging after all of that…add rein control to connection with your horse will knees and sit in the center of the but others are rougher, more up complete the maneuver. Hands are become easier. Horses cannot saddle. Obviously, having a saddle and down. The lope is a three-beat last to react!!! talk words (except Mr. Ed) but they that is the correct size really helps gait which has a rounder motion to Hands should be in what I call the can sure let you know what they this process. The correct riding the rider. To be proficient at sitting box. The box is forward of the horn are thinking and how they feel. I’m position is looking forward with your quietly at each gait, you must ride about one foot, as wide as your hips, positive that some equestrians were ear aligned with your shoulder, your close to the saddle and not stiffen up and slightly back behind the horn. born with the ability to read a horse’s shoulder over your hip, and your hip in your legs and back and feel the Try not to have your hands too low mood and internal being. It can over your heel or . You should stride. (by your knees), way out to the side, be learned by years of experience be able to remain in this straight but I have even had riders snap their or back past your hip. Learning to and constantly studying horses. relaxed alignment at all gaits. Poor fingers to the jog and lope to get in properly adjust your rein length is I’m positive that you need to have a special understanding for the 2020 Spring Issue 9 horse’s mind, mannerisms, and One of my suggestions is that you their individual personalities to be consider my saying, “care and ride a complete horseman. This “Feel” your horse with no stone unturned”. eludes many riders that ride like the You have a responsibility for your horse is a machine rather than a horse’s well-being. Everything you living, breathing animal that reacts to do with a horse makes a positive or every interaction or lesson we teach negative impression on them. Try them. to think about your horse and think Having proper timing is part of like your horse is thinking. That will feel. Your hands and legs should change what you do with them and move and react with the movement how you do it. of the horse. When you stop your That is “Feel”! horse, it should be on the downbeat Great horsemen have both “Feel” of the front feet. When you change with how they ride and understand leads, you should ask for the change what is going on inside the horse’s on the downbeat also. When I was a mind and body! Amazing things young trainer working for John Hoyt, happen when the light bulb goes he gave me some sage advice. He on!!! said, “Al, if you want to be a good trainer, you must have the ability to Ride well and be happy, feel everything that is going on under Al Dunning you. That includes what each of the horse’s legs are doing. I took me a while to understand what he meant but the day I figured it out, it changed my life with horses. 10 BETTER HORSES explained. Conformation Often Overlooked “If a gets too thin, the lack of fat can cause the vulva and pelvis to In Reproductive Ability Of Mares shift out of position,” she said. “Good By Frank J. Buchman body condition in broodmares is very important.” “How a mare is shaped can often material into their vulva,” LeBlanc determine how reproductive she is.” detailed. “That’s because much of With longer warmer days, mares the vulva is open above the brim of are showing signs of interest in the pelvis even though they’re not mating. Their owners are discussing tilted.” who the next foal’s father should be. A mare with a tilt to her perineum Little consideration is typically or too much vulva above the Renowned equine veterinarian Dr. Michelle LeBlanc has spent given to how the mare herself is built pelvic rim may require a “Caslick’s decades working on the mare and how it might affect reproduction. procedure.” side of equine reproduction. “Equine reproductive conformation To prevent contamination, the matters,” according to Dr. Michelle veterinarian sutures shut the lips of “Body condition can also have an LeBlanc, who spent decades the vulva to the brim of the mare’s impact on a mare’s foaling,” LeBlanc working on the mare side of equine pelvis. informed. “Simply being underweight reproduction. Poor reproductive conformation can cause a mare’s perineum to tilt.” A mare’s conformation changes “Breeding a mare is much easier if can cause vaginal contamination Fat is necessary to maintain due to aging and the number and she is built for the job,” the prominent from air or feces, infections, urine the proper relationship between size of the foals she’s had can horse veterinarian emphasized. pooling and difficulty foaling causing the vulva and the pelvis, LeBlanc cause reproduction issues. “The mare’s external form counts tears. when you’re assessing her ability “If a mare is dealing with infection to function as a broodmare,” Dr. and uterus fluid, I check if she needs LeBlanc pointed out. a Caslick’s,” said Dr. LeBlanc. Perhaps technical for lay horse Actually, many factors can cause Walton’s Wisdom owners, LeBlanc explained the poor reproductive conformation. IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT MOVING YOUR HORSES FEET importance of a mare’s “perineal “Perhaps the most common factors conformation.” relate to physical changes in the “SOMETIMES IT’S ABOUT DOING NOTHING” The “perineum,” LeBlanc detailed, mare that occur over time,” LeBlanc “is the group of muscles located said. “That is due to aging as well as Do not allow your horse to walk off when mounting. The between the anus and the vulva.” the number and size of the mare’s horse should only move his feet when the rider asks with Straightforward in discussion foals.” their legs. When mounting from the left , make a little LeBlanc said, “Looking at the vulva With age and after carrying several contact with the left rein. If the horse moves, put more and the anus, they should be vertical foals, a mare’s broad ligaments pressure on the left rein until the horse stops moving their with no tilt. If there’s a tilt, the rectum that maintain stability in the uterus feet, then immediately release the rein. (Use the right rein often looks sunken in and the vulva generally stretch. “That causes the when mounting from the right). slants toward the mare’s head.” uterus to drop further down into the It’s not uncommon for mares with abdomen,” she clarified. a tilted perineal conformation to “If a mare has a large foal, then the contaminate the vagina with fecal uterus drops lower and eventually material, she stated. does not snap back,” LeBlanc said. Location of the vulva in relation to “This situation occurs especially if the Bill Walton (816)223-3469 the pelvis is of utmost importance, mare has had a lot of big and heavy www.WilliamCooperWalton.com the veterinarian graphically foals.” explained. Injuries can be caused by very “There are some mares who may large foals, pulling a foal before the aspirate small amounts of fecal mare relaxes, and rips in a vulva. 2020 Spring Issue 11 to prove its efficacy? Is there a Equine Supplements: Be a Careful Consumer positive difference in the horse? Hannah West, DVM If the answers are no, then that Wilhite and Frees Equine Hospital particular supplement is likely not a 21215 S Peculiar Drive good choice. Peculiar, MO 64078 6. Cost (816) 779-0100 Supplements can be expensive. Horse owners and veterinarians 2. “Buyer Beware” reviewed? Reputable companies Sometimes owners make the all want our horses to be happy, Horse owners need to be skeptical will often have extensive research decision whether they would rather healthy, and performing at the top when choosing a supplement. Lack of their products to prove they put funds toward supplements of their game. For those reasons, of regulation means that many are safe and effective for horses. or spend that money on other supplements are popular in the products have not proven efficacy Some companies will claim to have treatments and therapies. For horse industry. One of the most and not all products have quality research behind their products; example, a competition performance common questions that equine control measures in place to ensure however, it may not be published horse may require preventative veterinarians receive from clients is their safety. Some companies may research which could suggest those maintenance care to maintain what supplement we recommend not monitor ingredients and some products lack evaluation from an joint health and longevity. Owners for their horse. This can be a tricky outsource their products to be made outside, unbiased party to confirm may choose in that case to feed question, as there are hundreds in other countries with the potential the research is accurate. a joint health supplement instead of supplements available from for even more variability in the 4. Ingredients & Dose of a systemically administered many companies labeled for a wide production process. Sadly, there What ingredients are included (intravenous or intramuscular) range of indications from joint and have been several cases reported in the supplement? How many are chondroprotective (joint sparing) gastric health, hoof and skin care, to where horses have died due to toxic there? The ingredient list should agent. Both are reasonable options, allergies and behavior. With so many supplements. include familiar products that are but it depends on what is within the to choose from, it can be difficult Some supplement companies non-toxic to horses. For example, owner’s budget. A cost comparison for owners to select an appropriate have voluntarily become NASC blue green algae is sometimes used sometimes shows an FDA approved supplement. There are many (National Animal Supplement as an ingredient in supplements. product that is already proven to factors that owners should take into Council) members. NASC’s Quality Microcystin, a component of blue be effective and safe, can actually consideration: Seal Program requires companies green algae, can cause liver failure, be more cost-effective than an oral 1. Why do owners want to to meet certain criteria in order to neurologic disease, and death. supplement. supplement their horse? display the NASC seal on their label. There have been reported cases There are many good quality Surveys have shown that horse These criteria include independent of microcystin toxicity caused by supplements on the market— owners get peace of mind and facility audits, quality control feeding equine supplements. If unfortunately, there are many feel like they are improving their manuals to ensure consistency and a supplement has a long list of poor-quality ones as well. The horse’s life by feeding supplements; quality, real-time product monitoring ingredients or includes uncommon bottom line: we all need to however, there needs to be a valid and adverse event reporting system, ingredient names, that is a red flag. make educated decisions when reason for providing a supplement stringent label guidelines, and A long list could indicate choosing a supplement with safety such as joint health, coat health, etc. random product testing. There are unnecessary and ineffective and effectiveness of primary Supplements are not a “cure all.” If other voluntary certifications as ingredients. concern. Quality supplements a horse has an established health well, such as cGMP (Current Good The dosage of ingredients used can add longevity to traditional problem, the owner needs to work Manufacturing Practice) and NSF and the recommended dose of medical approaches when used with their veterinarian to come up (National Sanitation Foundation) that supplement by the manufacturer correctly, but should be veterinarian with an appropriate treatment plan. require specific criteria to be met should be appropriate for a horse. recommended. If you have any Starting the horse on a supplement to ensure product safety. Owners Often, the doses are too small or are questions regarding a supplement won’t cure its existing condition. can check supplement labels and human doses which are not sufficient for your horse, please talk to your Supplements are meant to be used company websites for proof of for the size of a horse. Also, the veterinarian or an equine nutritionist. as adjunctive therapies—not disease certification. product should be used prior to the treatment. It’s important not to have 3. Research expiration date. unrealistic expectations from feeding Are there research studies 5. Efficacy supplements. regarding the supplement? Are Has the supplement been shown the studies published and peer- to work? Are there research studies 12 BETTER HORSES 2020 Spring Issue 13 A Better Cowdog By Laura Stimatze

can range from an hour to a couple of days. CPH Arena offers a large indoor arena, a covered arena and also a very large outdoor arena, along with a stall barn that has 30 stalls and several outdoor runs with shelter. The facility is available for all types of events. Plus it is open for horse boarding. If you need a place to host an event or clinic give me a call. I have been a cowdog trainer for around 30 years. One of the things I would like to share with you today going to be what you is how to find a cowdog and what to want. look for. I strongly suggest that I got a call last night from Ernie, he Most of the calls I get from people, you try to find a seller in asked me to write a training article come from the older generation. your area. Also one that for the magazine. Before I get into The kids have left home and likely is willing to help you out the training part let me tell you that I aren’t going to return to the livestock with your training as well got to spend three days at Equifest industry. They need help with the as helping you get in sync ( spectacular Event by the way) in cows. So when they begin their with the dog. a booth next to Ernie and the Better search, they will see many different Good dogs, like good available as it will chew on Horses crew. I have done a couple breeds and many different options horses, are not cheap, and not easy everything. It must have a kennel different interviews with him and and many, many different prices. to find. But they are out there. If you to stay in. I prefer a pup be in a 10x Dawn and I have to tell you, they First you need to decide on don’t have a lot of money to spend 10. Remember if you buy a working make it pretty simple. They are both what breed is best suited for you. I you can go the puppy route. This bred pup it is likely going to want to so good at what they do and an personally prefer the versatility of the is time consuming and can be very work the minute it sees something amazing team they are. With a push Border Collie. But there are a few disappointing, as not all pups are moving fast. This can be a car, a kid, from Ernie I did an interview that day other breeds to pick from. Do your going to turn into great Cowdogs. a bird, anything. Discourage it from and he and Dawn helped me share research and choose wisely. Don’t But it can also be very rewarding to working anything except the stock it the new Beginning in my life, on the pick a breed that isn’t bred to do the raise your dog up from a pup. The will eventually work. Saying this, you radio. job you want it to do. bond you have with him will make don’t want a puppy working cows I have recently moved to Owasso, Once you decide on the breed, him a better dog. Again with a pup, before it is old enough to take a kick. Oklahoma. I reside at CPH Arena then you again have to do more you need to buy from someone So be prepared, puppies are a lot just outside of town. The decision to research. The internet is an amazing that will help you in the future. of work. I sell a puppy training DVD move was the toughest thing I have tool. Make sure you are searching At least one that will recommend that will help with puppy obedience. ever done. I had come to a cross for the right thing. If you are looking someone to help you. And one that Order it and watch it before the pup road in my life and a change was for a cowdog, type in the breed and will stand behind the pup with health comes home. Training a pup is a lot necessary. So as hard as it was, I the word cowdog. A lot of herding guarantees. like sending your kid to kindergarten. left Kansas, and all it holds dear to dogs work livestock, but not many So you buy this pup, then what? They learn so much at this age. If my heart. This amazing facility is the are for working cattle. So be specific, Puppy training should begin the you don’t teach them right, they will perfect set up for training Cowdogs. and only buy from someone that minute you get your pup home. learn a lot of wrong! So that is what I am doing. I am also uses their dogs like you want to use Rules should be set and stuck to. teaching several Cowdog training yours. Buying dogs is much like The more black and white you clinics here and across the country. I buying horses. There are a ton of are the easier it is for your pup. am available for private lessons that them out there but only a few are No biting people ever. Have chew 14 BETTER HORSES Not even in the top 50 in the world Ahead Of Health Scare Rodeo Athletes Add Big before The American, Field rocketed up in the standings. Son of the late Pro Rodeo Hall Paychecks At ‘The American’ of Farmer Lewis Field, the younger By Frank J. Buchman champion is thrilled about the Despite worldwide health concerns $100,000 with $50,000 counting NFR. present state of his sport canceling a number of high paying toward the PRCA world standings. Mayfield attributes this season’s “Rodeo just used to be kind of , fortunately the biggest of all Casper, 23, and Mayfield, 19, also success to last season’s NFR a hobby for the tough rancher, the concluded before the scare. split a $1 million bonus, paid out to struggles. tough farmer,” Field said. “See if you It’s what has become the most qualifiers who won their event. “When I got home from the finals, can ride that horse and go win some renowned much anticipated rodeo for Both men entered the Shoot- the next day I went right back to the money on the weekend; that might cowboys and cowgirls: RFD-TV’s, Out round at The American in their practice pen,” Mayfield said. “I was be pretty good. Now, it is a career The American. respective events with the best pretty mad over the finals. Having path, and the sport is getting better. The world’s richest weekend in two-head averages. They also all the people look up to you getting “The past three years in the sport Western sports was at AT&T Stadium both entered as the top cowboys in there and not doing very well.” of rodeo have been better than my in Arlington, Texas, March 7–8. their respective events in the world History repeated itself for whole career,” Field added. “It is only Talented athletes compete in standings. bareback rider Kaycee Field at The getting better and better, and there qualifying events all year for a A score of 91.25 points on American. For the second time in are more opportunities.” chance to rope and ride in this Northcott Macza’s Get Smart in three years, Field rode C5 Rodeo’s Other winners at The American annual rodeo event. More than $2.35 the Shoot-Out won Casper’s title Virgil to victory. were steer wrestler Matt Reeves million is paid out through a series while Mayfield’s winning run was Field’s win came with a rodeo- (4.05 seconds); team ropers of qualifiers, semi-finals, and The 7.75-seconds. record ride of 93 points aboard Virgil Luke Brown and Joseph Harrison American. “I don’t think I’ve ever had more in the four-man Shoot-Out. A four- (4.30 seconds); breakaway roper Competition pits top Professional than $20,000 in my account at one time PRCA world champion (2011- Kaycee Hollingback (2.17 seconds); Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) time, $600,000 is going to be life- 14), Field earned $433,333 when barrel racer Stevi Hillman (15.405 contestants against underdogs changing,” he said. “I don’t have the he won The American in 2018 with seconds); and co-champion bull battling for the biggest single slightest clue what to do with it.” a 90.75-points ride on Virgil in the riders Sage Kimzey and Joao paycheck of their lives. The $50,000 toward the standings Shoot-Out. Ricardo Vieira. There were no Top contestants in the world all but guaranteed the two will be at Field edged reigning PRCA world qualified rides by bull riders in the receive invitations and a handful the (NFR) this champion Clayton Biglow, who had four-man Shoot-Out. of exemptions are offered to year in Las Vegas. a 91.75-points ride in the Shoot-Out. the brightest stars in the sport. Casper entered the weekend Field advanced from the eight-man Additionally, hopeful contestants with $66,645 in earnings, more semifinals with 174.50 points on two can pay an entry fee to compete at than $20,000 ahead of his closest head. “qualifiers” throughout the year. competitor. Last season, it took Nearly 4,000 entries competed $90,811 to qualify for the NFR, and in 70 qualifying events to make the Casper already has $119,645. Biggest checks semi-finals. There were 700 athletes “I rodeo for a living,” he said. at The American battling for 38 byes to The American “I’m not satisfied until I can’t ride high paying rodeo with a million dollar side pot. any more. I’m going to try and take competition in Rodeo companies from across the advantage of every rodeo I can.” Arlington, Texas, were awarded country brought their best animal Mayfield has been one of the saddle bronc rider athletes to test bareback, saddle hottest cowboys on the rodeo Wyatt Casper and bronc and bull riders. . The 19-year-old entered The tie-down roper Biggest paychecks went to Wyatt American with $77,701, which was Shad Mayfield. Casper and Shad Mayfield, winners more money in the world standings of saddle bronc riding and tie-down than any other event competitor. roping respectively. With $127,701 now, he’s surpassed Every event winner took home his total from 2019 including the 2020 Spring Issue 15

You Can’t Expect Unless You Them to Supplement Perform Them Right Their Best In Here Out There

Midcontinent Livestock Supplements

MLS #16 Equine Nutrition Supplements mlstubs.com Equine Mineral Plus [email protected] Filling in the nutritional gaps your feed and forage miss 16 BETTER HORSES Up Long Before Sunrise, Alta Vista Native Still Going Strong Serving Rural Hometown By Frank J. Buchman

“It’s four in the morning, need to There’ve been plenty of changes I was able to get most car problems be at work an hour down the road, in the rural community during his back in running order during tire is flat, oil’s low.” lifetime. “Used to be lots more those times, but not now. All the No worry, Virgil Ziegler is at people and every building up and electronics and gadgets on today’s McDiffett Service on Main Street in down the street had a business,” cars are more than I can do.” Alta Vista ready to help out. Ziegler tallied. Logically vehicles have always Modern days’ self-service, nearly Population peak was estimated at been close to his heart. “My first car impossible to get tires fixed, oil about a thousand, with only half that was a used Model A Ford, but I’ve checked, gas filled, yet those old many living in Alta Vista today, he had a lot of vehicles over the years,” traditions do still exist. speculated. Virgil admitted. “Working for Dierking “I’m up at 3:30, have my oatmeal When Virgil was growing up, a Chrysler, Plymouth dealership, and get here so people with city jobs businesses included as many as there was always a car coming in get there on time,” Ziegler said. seven filling stations, five grocery that I just had to have. Serving his Wabaunsee County stores and five churches. There “I never put over 10,000 miles on hometown has been the life for the were two feed stores, an elevator, a car until I got a different one,” he energetic, heathy, outgoing 89-year- two barber shops, a couple said. “I do my best to take care of Familiar pose as Virgil Ziegler, 89, is ready to pump fuel and repair old most congenially acknowledged beauticians and two cafes. my vehicles and always keep them tires at McDiffett Service in Alta as Virgil. “Of course, the drug store, doctor, in the garage at home when I’m not Vista. (Jeff Ginnett photo) “I live in the same house where I dentist, implement dealer, hardware .” was born, never got far from home,” store, lumberyard, blacksmith, locker Contending he doesn’t use his of customers,” he remarked. “We Ziegler smiled. “Worked in the plant, even a movie theatre,” Ziegler 1956 Chrysler enough, Ziegler delivered groceries around town garage business, grocery stores and reminisced. “Wolgast Lumber is the drives his 2018 Nissan pickup two twice every day.” mowed lawns, it’s been my life.” only one still in business with the blocks to and from work. “Oh I do Store was closed on Sunday, so Youngest child of carpenter John same family. get out of town once in a while,” he Saturday was always the busiest. and Alice (Strom) Ziegler, older “Oh yes, there was Abbott noted. “Farmers came to town, brought sisters Mary Lou (Wainwright) and Furniture Store and they had the Operating service stations as their eggs and cream in to sell, Helen (McDiffett) have passed away. funeral home, too,” he continued. “In owner and partner through the and did their shopping,” Virgil “I’m still going strong, never had any those days, for some reason, it was years, Ziegler now works for the remembered fondly. “We stayed ill health to speak of, ready to get common for furniture store owners business operated by his nephew’s open late. There was a free outside more work done,” Virgil said. to also be the undertakers.” family. “I open in the morning, movie and the country folks would Graduating from Alta Vista High Before his time, there were two stay until 8 o’clock, then come often shop after that.” School in 1949 with a class of 15 banks, but he only remembers Alta back around noon so they can get Although he sold the modern students, “there are only three of us Vista State Bank operated by the dinner,” he said. grocery business a number of years left,” he counted. Clark family. “Of course it has new Alan McDiffett usually works at ago, Ziegler has worked for different Out of school, Ziegler worked at owners now too,” Virgil added. the station throughout the day. “I owners occasionally. the post office. Then the drug store, Closing the high school after the help out too when I’m needed,” Virgil “The grocery store is open again a grocery store, and got his start class of 1969 was a community loss. grinned. now, and seems to be doing well. I pumping gas, fixing tires, car repair “Fortunately, we still have the grade Grocery business has changed sure hope so,” Virgil commented. at Dierking Garage. school which keeps people coming too since Ziegler began working, Initially assisting his nephews in “Perry Patterson and I worked to town,” Ziegler appreciated. progressing to partnership, mowing lawns, Ziegler has been there at the same time, became Uncountable the number of flat ownership, and construction of mowing the Alta Vista Cemetery partners, and bought it out. Then tires he’s fixed, but Virgil sure knows a new building. “I did checkout, longer than he remembers. “Started we were in the grocery business how. “It’s easier than before,” he never much at the meat counter, out with a push mower and then together, too,” Virgil reflected. verified. “Car repair is another story. but had to stock shelves, take care hand cut and pulled grass around 2020 Spring Issue 17 the tombstones,” Virgil said. “Even with a riding mower now it takes 12 to 15 hours plus that much more time with the weed eater. “Depending on the rains, I usually mow at least twice a month sometimes more often,” he tallied. “I operated the weed eater myself too until about a year ago, but hire others to do that now.” Mowers are brought into the service station for blade sharpening and maintenance. “We’ve had to buy a couple mowers over the years. But they last a long time because I take care of them,” Virgil said. Playing on the baseball team during school, Ziegler has been an avid bowler through the years. “I’ve bowled on leagues at both Council Grove and Manhattan,” he related. A confirmed bachelor, Ziegler isn’t sure the reason for his fit and vim Hearty Grub with Mark Burkdoll longevity. “It might be in my genes somewhat, my cousin over at Dwight Homemade pasta time. Now squeeze the settings 1 tsp thyme is 102-years-old,” Virgil related. “I’ve 2 cups all purpose flour by two numbers and run it again. 1tsp marjoram always kept busy with different jobs. 1/4 cup semolina flour Leave the dough flat and keep 1 tbs basil Start out with my oatmeal, cook 2 tsp salt running it through squeezing by salt and pepper my own dinner, usually fried beef, 2 whole eggs plus 2 egg yolks two numbers down to the number maybe potatoes, and never eat (beat the eggs together) two. Any thinner and you’ll have Brown the beef then add the supper.” problems. Now run it through the onions, peppers, mushrooms. No slowdown in sight for one of In your trusty kitchen aid mixer, cutter and just like magic you have Cook the veggies until tender Alta Vista’s oldest, most visible, add the flour and salt and stir pasta linguini. Enjoy, its worth all then add all the rest of the highly appreciated native sons. “I together. With your dough hook the trouble. ingredients . Add more beef broth just get up, keep going and usually installed at about a 2 or 3 speed, if needed to adjust the thickness. have a good night’s sleep,” Virgil add the eggs slowly. Run the Spaghetti Cook at least 30 minutes to marry Ziegler said. beater for about 3 to 4 minutes Brown 1 1/2 lbs hamburger the flavors. Add more seasoning after the dough pulls away from 1/2 cup red onion chopped as needed. the sides. Cover with plastic wrap t tbs minced garlic and rest in the refrigerator for 30 1/4 cup chopped red pepper Serve over homemade linguini minutes. You really need a pasta 1 tbs jalapeños pepper ,minced pasta. Homemade spaghetti machine to roll the pasta out. This 8 button mushrooms ,chopped sometimes gets kind of gummy so is what develops the glutens in 28 oz can crushed tomatoes I like the wider noodles better. the pasta. Cut the ball of dough 2 tbs tomato paste into about 5 pieces and flatten 1 small can hot n spicy V8 them out with your hands Run the 1/4 cup red wine dough through the machine on the 1/4 cup beef broth widest setting. Fold in half and do 1 tbs beef base it again 4 more times folding each 2 tbs Italian seasoning 18 BETTER HORSES 2020 Spring Issue 19

Ernie Rodina & Ed Adams hit the trails!

Would you like to advertise with Better Horses?

CONTACT: Connie Rodina Ernie Rodina Ed Adams Dawn Dawson 785-418-2615 785-418-6047 816-816-830-1998 785-456-4495 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 20 BETTER HORSES Hippie Chic Cowgirl

Templeton Thompson is not only a forward a few years to a singer/ Executive Producer Nashville veteran singer/songwriter, songwriter tour in France with her of Buck the film and she’s also a horse crazy “hippie chic now husband and musical partner, as a result, their cowgirl” which is what her husband Sam Gay. There were horses music video. A dear and musical partner, Sam Gay, everywhere In Normandy, and Sam friend had introduced started calling her the first time she saw that she needed to be around Sam and Templeton sang from the back of a borrowed horses. He rallied their other tour to Buck and to Cindy horse at a horse expo in California. mates and they bought her a ride Meehl and it was It’s also the title of her newest album. on the beach on a Selle Français that introduction that Templeton hails from Texas but horse named “Toupé.” They bucked led to Templeton getting to take doesn’t tend to wear a hat their way up and down the beach very often. When someone once that day and she couldn’t have been her own horses to asked her why no , her happier!! Sam saw the change in Buck’s clinics and husband Sam said “because she’s a Templeton and knew that she had to for Templeton and “ hippie chic cowgirl ,” and the brand have horses and have horses they Sam’s music to stuck! would!! It would take a few years but eventually be the Templeton spent a lot of her Jane and Beau would soon be their music behind the growing up years in Maryland and babies and a beauty~full journey and 7 Clinics with Buck Virginia. While in Texas, she was relationship would begin. When they Brannaman DVD the Sweetheart of the Rodeo in her met Jane and Beau, they were just series. Jane and 4-H group and ran barrels with her yearlings, they were just turning two Beau are no stranger beloved horses Charlie and Anna. when they became their very own. to video cameras hippie chic cowgirl Mama. My When they moved to the east coast, All of those years having horses in and performing under the lights. babies heal me and teach me every her horse loving Mom then taught Texas and Maryland and Virginia, Sam and Templeton took Jane on moment of every day. I’m amazed her to ride English. You’re now Templeton had never started a the road and performed everywhere and grateful for the journey we’ve getting it, the love of horses is in young horse. She unlearned and together from close to their home been on and continue to be on. I Templeton’s DNA! then learned a lot, getting help from near Nashville, TN, to all the way remember one of the first times my Templeton attended high school in savvy horse friends, beginning a up in Minnesota, out in Texas and baby girl Jane and I performed out Poolesville, MD, then found her way beauty~full journey with her Jane down South in Florida. Jane’s even on the road. We had been practicing first to Randolph Macon College in and her Beau. Her husband Sam is been on American Idol when a small with our “dream big, work hard, have Ashland, VA, then to the University quite a hand himself as he did most crew from the show came out to their faith” pedestal at home. I played of Virginia. She graduated with a BA of the early journey work with their house to film one of the contestants loud noises for both of our kiddos... in English Literature which serves Beau. When you see Templeton with Templeton and Sam’s Jane and applause, fireworks, kids running up her well in her songwriting career. get “bucked off” of her Beau in their Beau. Beau decided he’d “host” the and down bleachers, anything we She was supposed to go to Law “When I Get That Pony Rode” music AI crew, Jane decided she’d be the could think of so she was used to School but that wasn’t her path and video, all of that relationship there one on camera. It was at Templeton whatever she might hear and see luckily, she knew that early on. While is because of Sam. Templeton had and Jane’s first performance at out there on the road. Someone told at UVA, Templeton was on the riding to act like she’d been thrown while Breyerfest that they debuted their me in that big arena she’d never team and also played Womens Sam sent Beau around their friend’s Girls and Horses music video. come to me and get on her pedestal. Indoor . Upon graduating arena a few times to ask him to buck That’s right, Jane has her very own, Well, we proved them wrong that from UVA, Templeton couldn’t get and then asked him to come back in actually two, Breyer Horses models! night because we were magically to Nashville quick enough!! She to him, that’s relationship right there The limited edition run of her model connected out in that arena that found ways of at least being around y’all!! It was Templeton and Sam’s was sold exclusively in Tractor night just like we are at home. I horses in her early years in Nashville relationship with Buck Brannaman Supply Company stores across the can’t say every performance went because if you’re a horse person who Templeton considers one of her country with their Girls and Horses that way, she was always perfect clear down to your soul, you’re biggest horsemanship mentors, that and Happy Yee~Halidays music. but I had and still have a lot to learn absolutely lost without them. Fast led them to knowing the Director and Templeton is a “proud and grateful and am happy and grateful to keep 2020 Spring Issue 21 learning from my big kids. They cowgirl album to be out early this truly AMAZE me!! I think it’s funny Summer. This hippie chic cowgirl’s when I’m sometimes asked if I ever got BIG DREAMS and she plans to ride my horses! I do but I rarely put GET THAT PONY RODE y’all!! a saddle on their backs these days and most of the time we’re all out playing chase around our big oak trees out in the pasture. Our Jane and our Beau remind me to “let the kid out” every day. I would ‘ follow my babies anywhere’!” Templeton and Sam’s music has been reviewed in publications like Cowboys and Indians, Western Horseman and more. Look for Templeton’s new hippie chic 22 BETTER HORSES with Steve Stafford that we all will run to God during this time - and stay there. So many questions right now with so few answers, so let’s take our questions to God. Isaiah 58:8 NIV, Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear, then your righteousness will go Hey folks, good to be with you before you, and the glory of the once again. Well we made it Lord will be your rear guard. Then through the winter, we made it you will call, and the Lord will through the holidays, spring is just answer, you will cry for help, and about over, wait a minute, there He will say: Here am I. is one more thing that we have to WOW! the darkness will turn get through, coronavirus. Never into light, sickness turns into thought I would be saying that, healing, and the the glory of the dealing with that, or writing about Lord will watch out for us, guide that. But here we are, all of us, us, lead us, protect us, what at the same time, all around the more could we ask for. Please world. remember that God wants the Life as we knew it in January, best for us, He loves us beyond I’m not sure will ever be the same. our understanding. Father God A new way of living, a new way of loves us so much that He sent His working, even a new language. only Son to us, to go to a cross, Shelves at the stores are bare, our cross, to die for our sins, so jobs are scarce, and fears are that we could have life with Him. running high. We here at Better Horses are We are afraid of everything. praying and hoping that you and When someone coughs we your families are doing well. We take cover, when someone care about you, we thank you, reaches out to shake our hand and we appreciate you - all of we pull back, if we need one you. of something we will buy two, This is Steve Stafford, I am the instead of complaining about our Pastor at Risen Ranch Cowboy job, we’re just grateful to even Church in Carthage MO, and a have one. Yes sir - it’s a new day. very proud member of the Better Now I’m a pastor, so my hope is Horses Family. 2020 Spring Issue 23 24 BETTER HORSES Humboldt Rancher Is Television Show Host Singing, Reciting Poems About Cowboy Life By Frank J. Buchman This singing cowboy is the real civic clubs and other groups took me He’s recorded five full length thing, truly living the life of his music up on it and I began doing a number CDs (compact discs) and “a couple and the poetry he recites. of shows,” Shields remembered. singles.” Popularity of Shields’ Unlike most silver screen cowboys When acquaintances who host cowboy songs is verified by high and television Westerns stars, Del local events had ranking on the Western Music Shields is a working rancher. The friends from Virginia visit, Shields Association’s Sunset Western Music Humboldt cowboy singer, songwriter, was asked to entertain. Chart. and poet entertains as he lives at his “They seemed to really enjoy One song was “Number 2” on the family’s Woodson County ranch. my show and suggested I make chart for most of a year. Two other Nationally recognized Shields is contact with RFD-TV,” Shields said. CDs were also in the Top Ten for an host of the weekly series “Best of “I followed up, had an interview extended time. Humboldt rancher Del Shields is America by Horseback” on RFD-TV. in Dallas, Texas, and got the “Several songs have been in the prominently known as cohost of His personal appearances, opportunity to host ‘Best of America Top Ten airplay on the charts for “Best of America by Horseback” singing and playing cowboy songs by Horseback.’” several weeks,” he added. on RFD-TV. Shields entertained singing and playing cowboy songs and reciting , attract The real cowboy entertainer has Opinions vary according to and reciting cowboy poetry at the audiences throughout the country as been part of that show for 15 years personal preference of course, but recent horse meeting in Garnett well. with broadcasts also on The Cowboy Shields said “The Best of America” hosted by Brummel Farm Service No costume required as that Channel. is his most requested recording. “It’s and Better Horses LLC. of most prominently proclaimed “I absolutely love the opportunity a patriotic song with vast appeal to “cowboy entertainers,” Shields combining my love of the cowboy audiences just about everywhere,” shows up in his everyday ranch work life with music and poetry,” Shields he verified. clothes. He’s a cowboy from start to admitted. Shields’ cowboy songs can often nowadays. “It’s interesting that I’ve always be found on YouTube and are “Although I did grow up in town, enjoyed writing poems as well as purchasable on Amazon and other my dad always had a cattle operation music and the cowboy life,” he internet marketing services. I enjoyed helping with,” Shields said. said. “I started writing poems when Uncertain exact count of the “My dad sang and played guitar so I was in grade school and I had number of cowboy poems he’s my family and I enjoyed entertaining resurgence about writing poetry in composed, Shields writes at least together in public performances. 1997.” one a week. “The Humboldt Union “You’d have to say being a cowboy His true-to-life cowboy poems newspaper took me on to write the and musician was engrained in me appeal to vast audiences as part of poetry column,” he appreciated. all of my life,” Shields surmised. the cowboy music programs. Again which work is the best His ranching knowledge was Demand for Shields’ cowboy composed by the cowboy poet enhanced during high school at singing and poetry keep his calendar depends on personal preference. Chanute in a work study program for nearly filled with engagements “One titled ‘The Runaway,’ about the Triple R Ranch. throughout the country. my own experience, is a personal Traveling coast to coast to “My wife Shevawn is from a ranch Occasionally singing well known favorite that appeals to audiences,” produce the “Best of America background too,” Shields noted. cowboy hits made famous by he said. by Horseback” for RFD-TV, Del “After getting married we started other entertainers, most of Shields On the ranch, Shields maintains Shields and his wife Shevawn developing our ranch to raise our programs showcase his original a small cowherd and riding horses. had the opportunity to be close up to where the wildest action family in the same way we grew up.” works. “We cut our cowherd size down takes place at the National Finals Continuing to play guitar and “I really don’t know how many since I have to be away so much,” Rodeo in Las Vegas. sing cowboy songs for personal songs I’ve written, but it’d be more he said. “Six horses are used for enjoyment, Shields offered his talent than a hundred for sure,” Shields ranch work and are generally just for public entertainment. “The local tallied. grandkids’ horses.” 2020 Spring Issue 25

While Shevawn Shields sometimes gets to go to cowboy music and poetry shows presented by Del Shields, their home is the ranch near Humboldt.

Del and Shevawn Shields have love the Western way of life.” five children and eight grandchildren. No drugstore cowboy here, Del “They about keep us busy along with Shields entertains based on the the ranch, the shows and my wife’s cowboy life he lives. hospice work. She’s a special lady “I don’t see how I could with a special job,” Shields pointed have anything better,” Shields out. appreciated. “With my family, a Developing the 26 “Best of working ranch, singing and playing America by Horseback” shows cowboy music with cowboy poetry produced annually gives Shields as a bonus. I enjoy and love every opportunity to travel coast to coast. bit of it.” “I get to see so much of the country,” he said. “It’s really great to meet so many good people who all 26 BETTER HORSES Computerized Tomography for Diagnostic Imaging of the Horse Skull Nicholas Hemphill, R. T. (R)(CT)(ARRT) and Warren Beard, DVM Diseases of the head are common what or what to do about it. So how in equine practice. Fractures, do we image the skull in sufficient infected teeth, tumors, cysts, and detail to plan our treatment? sinus diseases are among the The term Computed Tomography, most common cases seen by or CT, refers to a computerized practitioners. Radiographs are the X-ray imaging procedure in which a mainstay for imaging of the head. narrow beam of X-rays is aimed at While X-rays can be taken from a patient and quickly rotated around multiple angles to highlight specific the body. This provides a series of areas of the skull it is inescapable Figure 1 images from many different angles. Figure 3 that imaging is complicated by the A computer uses this information fact that you cannot isolate the left lateral view (Fig 1) we can see to create cross-sectional images. the veterinarian can scroll through versus right side of the skull as there is an area of decreased bone Like one slice in a loaf of bread, the various slices on a computer you can when imaging a leg. If you opacity (green arrows) but because this two-dimensional (2D) scan in multiple different planes to fully attempt to image the teeth of the left of superimposition of the opposite shows a “slice” of the inside of the characterize the lesion. Cross side of the head you will have the mandible we cannot tell which body typically 0.625mm-1.25mm sectional, (Fig 4) coronal (Fig 5) teeth of the right side in the image mandible is affected. Neither can we thick. This process is repeated to and sagittal (Fig 6) images allow as well. Similarly, if the X-ray is discern whether the lesion is on the produce a number of slices. The us to clearly see that the lateral taken from top to bottom to isolate computer stacks these scans one cortex of the mandible has a fracture left from right, the upper teeth on top of the other to create a (green arrows) and that there overlie the lower teeth obscuring detailed three-dimensional image. are several pieces of devitalized your ability to view the upper or The reconstructed images can then bone. The CT scan provides much lower teeth in isolation. In many be viewed in multiple planes to fully more information than the plain cases radiographs are able to make characterize the lesion. The only radiographs. a diagnosis but in instances in which real down side to a CT scan is the The computer will also perform the radiograph is insufficient to need for general anesthesia. a 3-D reconstruction (Fig 7) that isolate the lesion then a CT scan is This horse is anesthetized facilitates a better visualization of indicated. with its head positioned inside the lesion. The 3-D reconstruction Take for instance this horse that the CT scanner. (Fig 3) The is an animated model that can be presented for a progressive painful table will advance pushing the manipulated with a computer mouse swelling of his mandible. On the horse’s head into the scanner as to view from any angle. lateral view (Fig 1) we can see it acquires the images. After the there is an area of decreased bone computer processes the images opacity (green arrows) but because Figure 2 of superimposition of the opposite mandible we cannot tell which mandible is affected. Neither can we inside, outside, or within the bone. It discern whether the lesion is on the makes a difference in deciding on a inside, outside, or within the bone. It treatment. makes a difference in deciding on a If we image from top to bottom to treatment. get a better view, (Fig 2) the upper Take for instance this horse that teeth obscure the area of interest presented for a progressive painful (green arrows). In short, we can tell there is something wrong, but not swelling of his mandible. On the Figures 4, 5 & 6 2020 Spring Issue 27

In summary, CT permits accurate anatomic location and the ability to see the lesion in three dimensions. Soft tissue lesions that would be obscured by the bones and teeth are readily visible on the computerized reconstructions that allow differentiation of different tissue densities. The acquired Figure 7 images can be manipulated This composite of still images as needed to facilitate surgical Figure 8 captured from the animated 3-D planning. Computerized Tomography About the authors model (Fig 8) that has been is a valuable tool in imaging of the Nicholas Hemphill is a Radiology constructed to only contain the horse’s head and other sites. technologist that performs CT bones of interest and demonstrates scans at the Kansas State that the fracture only involves the University Veterinary Health lateral cortex of the mandible. The Center. Warren Beard is one actual animated models can be of four equine surgeons at viewed here: https://www.vet.k-state. the Kansas State University edu/vhc/services/equine/surgery/ct- Veterinary Health Center. scans.html

The First Choice for Equine Care Routine, Advanced and Emergency Care The equine clinicians come to work every day hoping to help clients and their horses. Whether routine, preventative care or an emergency colic surgery, VHC clinicians are dedicated to improving the lives of their patients. We look forward to helping you and your horse! 785-532-5700 • www.vet.ksu.edu/vhc

Surgery • Internal Medicine • Lameness CONTACT US: 785-532-5700 Field Services • Reproduction • Neonatology www.vet.ksu.edu/vhc 24-hour Emergency Care 1800 Denison Ave. Ophthalmology • Dermatology • Regenerative Medicine Manhattan, Kansas 28 BETTER HORSES

KOFO 103.7FM KMHT 103.9FM WAUB 1590AM Ottawa, KS Marshall, TX Auburn, NY Sundays 4:00pm Saturday 5:45am Sunday 6:00pm

KBST 1490AM KNCW 92.7FM WAUB 98.1FM Big Spring, TX Omak, WA Auburn, NY Saturday 7:00am Sunday 7:00am Sunday 6:00pm

KDKD 1280AM KSIR 1010AM WDBL 1590AM Clinton, MO Fort Morgan, CO Springfield, TN Sunday 8:00am Sunday 6:00am Saturday 7:00am

KMDO 1600AM KFKF 94.1FM KTPK 106.9FM WGVA 1240AM Fort Scott, KS Kansas City, MO Topeka, KS Geneva, NY Saturdays 5:00am Saturday 5:00 am Sunday 10:00 am Sunday 6:00pm

K252FYFM 98.3FM KGGF 690AM KYRO 1280AM WIBW 580AM Fort Scott, KS Coffeyville, KS Troy, MO Topeka, KS Saturdays 5:00am Saturday 11:00 am Saturday 7:00am Saturday 7:00am

KOFO 1220AM KKOW 860AM KWLS107.9FM Regional Radio Ottawa KS Pittsburg, KS Wichita, KS Paola KS Sunday 4:00pm Saturday 11:00am Sunday 9:00pm 2020 Spring Issue 29 Is Your Horse Ready for a Cattle Drive? we continued dream. After miles and hours of Written by Crystal Socha & Matthew Jobe to push the being soaking wet we finally saw the cattle through light at the end of the tunnel. Back It was an adventure indeed! It to their new Spring pasture. Whew, the rain. Every crack and crevice in at the trailer we slid off our saddles, was two days moving cattle in what an adventure! the hills quickly flooded with water. ready for a warm truck. I dumped the beautiful Flint Hills of Kansas. The second day was eight hours The water looked like veins running water out of my boots, removed my The first day was 9.5 hours in the in the saddle and just over 25 miles. down the hills. Rain continued to wet and my now, ten-pound saddle, almost 30 miles (by the time The cattle were better, 60 head of pound us as we pushed. Finally, with hat. It is just a reminder that we all we chased the strays) moving the nice yearling heifers. The weather, the cattle in their new pasture we got to experience something only wildest, most unruly herd of 180 however, decided to present us with headed for home, which presented made for a Hollywood movie. And yearlings we have ever had the new challenges. Before we could its own challenges. The rain picked although it was cold and a little pleasure of moving. It gives you get the cattle to their new pasture back up. Then the wind really hit miserable at times, it is something a new appreciation of the word, 17 miles away, we continued to get us, as the temperature dropped. we will never forget. And I am so stampede. These yearlings had no light rain off and on. But nothing like Our horses trotted at a side pass thankful that I got to experience it! handle on them whatsoever. They when the sky finally opened up. We as they struggled to get us home. Everyday can’t be sunny and 70. were high headed and quick. We could see the approaching storm Water sloshed around in my boots Often times the hardest days provide rode our horses fast and hard in a in the distance and knew we were as I trotted. Often times the strong, us the best memories. Just another wide circle to get in front of them about to be pounded. It wasn’t long cold wind was at our backs. Other day in the life of a cowboy. without pushing on them more. The before lightning began striking closer, times it was at our side. I suspect we Flint Hills Ranchin Adventures cattle didn’t care, they rammed our until it was surrounding us. Ominous crossed water at least 10 times on consists of Rex Buchman of the Bar horses and kept running. We had thunder rolled across the hills. our trip home, some belly deep on U Ranch in Burdock, Kansas, and cattle scattered over 10,000 acres, in Soon the clouds let go. Heavy rain our horses. This was no small feat. Matthew Jobe of the C Bar J Ranch about six or seven groups. All hands pounded us. Small hail laid on our Years of erosion has caused some in Windsor, Missouri. This duo has did an outstanding job gathering horses’ manes. Just past one gate, very steep drop offs. Normally we’d been keeping the iconic western what they could and kept pushing on. our horses refused to go any further. look for the safest place to cross. heritage of the United States alive About three hours into our drive, we All we could do was sit on top of a But now with overflowing water in the present day, by providing finally saw our first riders. Once back hill (because where else would you we had no idea how far we would authentic old west cattle drives and together, we combined our groups want to be in a storm with lightning) drop, as our horses stepped into other adventures to the public. and pressed on. Rex and I went out with our backs to the rain and wait the water. I swear water was even to gather more strays. The crew kept it out. In that rain, my black felt hat standing on the hill tops! Despite it driving on. By the end of the day decided to bleed. Soaking wet, we all we continued to be in good spirits. we had most of our cattle delivered went full on City Slickers movie as After all, we were living the cowboy 30 BETTER HORSES 2020 Spring Issue 31

time beating on high until stiff peaks form. Fold in vanilla and almond extract (gently). Fold in flour and sugar mixture, 1/4 cup at a time over beaten egg whites, fold in gently just until blended. Pour batter into ungreased 10-inch tube pan. Cut gently through batter to remove large air bubbles. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cracks are very dry. Immediately invert on soft drink bottle; let hang until completely cool. Remove from pan.

Twelve-Egg Sugar Cookies I like to use the yolks left from making an angel food cake in this recipe. 1 Cup Sugar 1 Cup Brown Sugar Angel Food Cake 1 1/2 Cup Butter Flavored Crisco 3/4 Cup Flour 12 Egg Yolks 1 1/2 Cups Sugar 2 teaspoons Lemon Extract 1 1/2 Cups Egg Whites (about 12 eggs) 3 1/2 Cups Flour (Room Temperature) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon soda 1 1/2 teaspoons Vanilla Cream sugars and shortening. Beat in egg yolks and lemon extract. Stir 1 1/2 teaspoons Cream of Tartar in dry ingredients. Form in small balls and roll in sugar. Press flat with 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract bottom of glass. Bake at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes or until lightly Heat oven to 375 degrees. browned. Makes about 6 dozen cookies. In a small bowl combine flour and 3/4 cup sugar. In a large mixing bowl, I will zest lemon sometimes for a richer lemon flavor. beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until mixture forms soft peaks. Gradually add remaining 3/4 cup of sugar, 2 Tablespoons at a 32 BETTER HORSES live? If you had five years? Now, I horse/day which in turn saves us know that’s kind of a harsh example about an hour each day. In a week’s but I think it puts that question to time that saves 5-6 hours and in a rest for all of us. So, the same holds month it easily saves 20-25 hours. true for someone that is setting up That’s almost three whole work days their business to be efficient, or for a month! In a year that’s 240-300 someone that is going to work for hours which is roughly 30-35 work someone, or some company. I have days in a year, that’s a month that been self employed now for over 30 you’ve saved! That’s a small change years and most people would think that pays off big in the saving of that the reason I have been able time which in turn makes you more to survive is the knowledge I have efficient. Just think of that over a ten about how to train a horse. That is year period, the return is staggering! definitely important but it is also just Any time that I can save just makes a part of why I’ve survived. I think it so much easier for me to do the to survive, thrive, and to continue to little things that it takes to help a improve in any business, you have horse to be its best. There are only to be an excellent time manager. 24 hours in a day and I don’t care So going back to my friend, the if you’re Superman, when that 24 young trainer’s question about hours is over his day is over just setting up his facility. The first thing like mine is. Treat time like it’s your I had a call from a young trainer a service, or you are working for I would look at is how the flow of most precious commodity and your the other day with some questions a company, an individual, or a your training facility is setup, it’s business will grow and flourish like about setting up a training facility corporation, the first thing you all about saving steps and being you’ve never seen it before. If you and some of the suggestions that I have to understand is that TIME efficient with your time. Here’s an have questions or comments please might have for him. This particular is your most precious commodity, example; we always try to lead two feel free to contact me. Have a great individual is in the transition phase not money. For years I made the horses at a time when we’re leading month! from working for another entity to mistake of focusing more on the them to the saddle barn or back to Fb Phil Haugen Horsemanship going into business for himself. money than the value of time. For their stalls. We always saddle two www.PhilHaugenHorsemanship.com Whatever business you are in, example, if you had 24 hours to live horses at a time if at all possible and whether you are self employed and what would be more important to you unsaddle two at a time if possible. working for the public by providing time or money? If you had a year to That easily saves 10 minutes/extra

Call 1.800.407.TWIN or visit www.twinmotorsfordks.com for your Sales & Service, and Your Cowboy Headquarters

Bring in this ad and get $500 off a vehicle purchase New or Used or 10% off your next service visit. 2020 Spring Issue 33 34 BETTER HORSES 2020 Spring Issue 35

Dear Property Shop Team,

This COVID-19 is just crazy! While we really need to move, I’m scared how COVID-19 will impact us being able to do that. What are you seeing out there?

Sincerely, Feel in Limbo

Dear Feel in Limbo,

We are truly in unprecedented times and with everyone doing their part, hopefully they will be sell, we recommend that you wait mandates are lifted. over sooner than later. As of right until the Stay Home mandates Sellers – now, we are all under some level of are lifted. • Start working with your Realtor county, state and federal mandates • All activity is by appointment on what you need to do to have for staying at home, safe distancing only – showings, inspections, etc. your house ready to go. and other safety protocols. And • There are COVID-19 Hold • Consider doing a Pre-Inspection we are seeing the county and Harmless Waivers that are of your home now. This allows state mandates are not consistent. required of all sellers, buyers, you to decide outside the In Kansas, the statewide Stay buyer’s agents, contractor pressure of a buyer contract what Home mandate does classify Real (inspectors, appraisers, repair you are willing, or not willing, to Estate as an Essential Service. In providers, etc.) prior to any repair. This becomes your punch Missouri, that is not the case at this appointments. list of items to address and a time. • The use of booties, sanitizers, great marketing tool when you do

wipes, etc. are required upon list. We are fortunate to be part of a entering any property. • Declutter and organize. This is Coldwell Banker Good Life. Our a great time to clean out cabinets, Brokers have been on top of all the So while you many Feel in Limbo, closets, the basement and the changes and working hard to keep you do have some options if you garage. Buyers love organized everyone safe; even going beyond absolutely have to buy or sell houses! the mandates in place. Here are right now. If you can wait until • Spring is a great time for just a few key items: the mandates are lifted, you can sprucing up the landscaping.

still be doing things to be ready to Clean out gutters. Add mulch. • If you have an essential need go! When the mandates are lifted, Plant flowers. Improve the curb to buy or sell, we can help you we expect to see a lot of pent up appeal of your home. do that in Kansas but will follow activity so spend some time now • Buyers form their key several protocols to do so safely. getting ahead of the curve. perceptions of the home during • In Missouri we are not listing the 15 feet up to the front door any new properties at this time Buyers – and the 15 feet inside the front and any showings will be a Virtual • Work with your lender to get door. Pay close attention to this Tour provided by the Listing or pre-approved. “target zone”. Buyer’s Agent. • Clean up any credit issues now. • For all clients, we will qualify • Save money while staying home We are ready to help you navigate that their needs are essential, to increase your down payment. through these challenging times! that they are well qualified and • Start working with your Realtor ready to buy or sell. If you don’t so they are working for you Maggie, Tara & Jolene have an essential need to buy/ now and ready to go when the In these challenging times, you need an expert to guide you through the buying and selling process. Check out The Prop- erty Shop Column for tips on how to nav- igage should you need to buy or sell now and how you can be ready to buy or sell if you can wait.

Experience Matters!

Call Maggie Today 913-908-6992 Maggie Stonecipher (913) 908-6992

Excel