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Fall 2010 www.horse.on.ca Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement #40946006 The Official Newsletter of The Ontario Equestrian Federation • 9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203 Richmond Hill ON L4B 3J9 OEF Conference Program New Member Spotlight Insurance 101 Equine Guelph Fall Research Update OEF Conference Program New Member Spotlight Insurance 101 Equine Guelph Fall Research Update Fall 2010 www.horse.on.ca

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Page 1: Whoa! fall2010

Fall 2010www.horse.on.ca

Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement #40946006The Official Newsletter of The Ontario Equestrian Federation • 9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203 Richmond Hill ON L4B 3J9

OEF Conference Program

New Member Spotlight

Insurance 101

Equine Guelph Fall Research Update

OEF Conference Program

New Member Spotlight

Insurance 101

Equine Guelph Fall Research Update

Fall 2010www.horse.on.ca

Page 2: Whoa! fall2010

Publication DatesWinter 2011 / deadline December 3Spring 2011 / deadline February 11

Summer 2011 / deadline June 3Fall 2011 / deadline September 3

® INSURANCE SERVICES INTERCITY

Working with Our Equine Partners from Coast-to-Coast

Intercity Insurance is proud to be the official insurance provider to the Ontario Equestrian Federation and all its members

Horse Mortality

Commercial Liability

Special Group Rates for Personal Home and Auto

Risk Management

Coaching Liability

Farm Insurance

Michael A. King - CAIB, R.I.B. 15221 Yonge St., Aurora, ON L4G 1L8

Phone (888) 394-3330 Email: [email protected] www.intercityinsurance.com

Page 3: Whoa! fall2010

www.horse.on.ca | 3

9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3J9

Tel: 905-709-6545 • Fax: 905-709-1867

Toll-free: 1-877-441-7112 • Email: [email protected]

"Striding for Equine Excellence!"www.horse.on.ca

Publication DatesWinter 2011 / deadline December 3Spring 2011 / deadline February 11

Summer 2011 / deadline June 3Fall 2011 / deadline September 3

Gary Yaghdjian President 905-649-1342

Allan Ehrlick 1st Vice President 905-854-0762

Jack de Wit 2nd Vice President 905-655-4666

Bruce Brown Treasurer 905-995-0275

Kathy Fremes Secretary 905-642-2642

Alan Barnes Director 905-672-7400

Jeremy Denouden Director 905-699-7196

Ken Denouden Director 416-409-8614

Mark Dobrindt Director 905-892-9769

Susan Legge Director 289-221-2279

Ross Millar Director 519-941-5194

Al Patterson Director 905-659-1132

Lindsey Reeve Director 905-424-1151

Bonnie Simpson Director 705-438-5752

is published quarterly byONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION

Ontario is the 4th largest equine industry in North America

Copyright, including electronic, belongs to the OEF. All rights reserved. Articles and letters are welcome from all members but must be signed and include a phone number. The publisher reserves the right to edit articles and letters due to space restrictions.

The Ontario Equestrian Federation is the umbrella organization committed to equine welfare, and to providing leadership and support to the individuals, associations and industries in Ontario's horse community.

Ontario Equestrian FederationBOARD OF DIRECTORS

Vicki BanksChief Financial [email protected]. 16

Melissa MonardoMarketing [email protected]. 17

Susan BellSr. Membership Services [email protected]. 14

Jennifer IrwinEducation [email protected]. 11

Lesley [email protected]. 15

Catherine BarkerOperations [email protected]. 23

Kim BanksMarketing [email protected]. 22

Andrea NemethMembership Services [email protected]. 13

Lesley McCoyEducation [email protected]. 15 General [email protected]

STAFF

Fall 2010

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® INSURANCE SERVICES INTERCITY

Working with Our Equine Partners from Coast-to-Coast

Intercity Insurance is proud to be the official insurance provider to the Ontario Equestrian Federation and all its members

Horse Mortality

Commercial Liability

Special Group Rates for Personal Home and Auto

Risk Management

Coaching Liability

Farm Insurance

Michael A. King - CAIB, R.I.B. 15221 Yonge St., Aurora, ON L4G 1L8

Phone (888) 394-3330 Email: [email protected] www.intercityinsurance.com

ContentsNEWS4. Presidents Message4. Brand New OEF Council Members6. Extended Memberships Are Now Available6. 2011 Membership Renewals

Available in November6. Associations Advisory Council Update6. Promote Your Business in the 2011

Ontario Horse Directory6. OEF Council Chairs8. Equi-Challenge Riders Change Hats In a

Rollicking Good Time to Raise Funds for OVC Equine Health Facility

9. Equine Canada Launches New Recreational Program with First Series of Grants9. Barnmice Member Wins Free Conference

Registration9. Intercity Insurance Honours

the Memory of Horses10. Masterfeeds Donates $15,000 to the Canadian

Equestrian Team11. OEF Youth Bursary

OBITUARY10. Canadian Equestrian Community Loses Canadian

Olympian Walter Pady

AROUND THE BARN12. Who’s Holding the Reins of Your Horse Business?

MANE EVENTS16. 2010 Competitions16. Spirit of the Horse 2010 Is Sure

to Be a Crowd Pleaser!18. OEF Annual Banquet & Auction18. 2010 OEF Annual Conference20. Notice of Annual General Meeting21. 2010 OEF Annual Conference Program

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT26. Canadian Dressage Riders Big Winners at the

2010 North American Junior and Young Rider Championships

28. Canadian Reiners Sweep the Podium at the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships

30. International Tetrathlon Exchange 201030. Oshawa Pony Club Member Victorious at National

Show Jumping Championships

COACHES CORNER37. Instructors – The Foundation to a Successful Start

ON THE TRAIL42. Dog Days of Summer43. Meeting A Horse on the Trail43. Best Practices for Horses on the Trails

ASK MIKE44. Insurance 101

LEGAL48. Six Ways to Leave Your Lawyer Lonely

EQUIFACTS50. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

GOING GREEN52. Welcome to Hop Hill Stable (Part 3)

BREED & DISCIPLINE UPDATES54. Ganaraska Forest Horse Club54. COPDA Update55. OCTRA Riders Compete in North American

Young Riders Endurance Ride56. Ontario Percheron Horse Association56. Ontario Reining Horse Association57. Ontario Trail Riders Association – Fun-D Ride57. Ontario Friesian Horse Association –

Editorial Retraction

EQUINE GUELPH59. Fall 2010

Cover photo by Ellen Cameron from

Orangeville ON

Page 4: Whoa! fall2010

4 | WHOA! Fall 2010

President’s Message

As autumn nears, yet another show season winds down, the final trail ride is ridden with fallen leaves crumbling under hooves, our fly sheets are traded for winter blankets, and we hunker down for another winter. As the season comes to a finale, so does my tenure as a Director of the Ontario Equestrian Federation. After serving as a director on and off for the past 25 years, the last eight years consecutively and the past two years as President I have decided that it is time to retire.

In those many years, I have witnessed many changes. Our association has morphed into the great organization that it is today. We have gone from being an unwieldy board of over 50 Directors to the much more manageable 14 person board. We have seen our membership swell from a few thousand members, to the almost 20,000 members that we have today. We have gone from an organization that was very dependent on government grants to one that is much more self-sufficient and fiscally responsible. Our marketing initiatives have become so popular that we are able to attract even “non horsey” people to our organization.

The success of this type of organization rests on the shoulders of the many great volunteers who have sat on this board over the past 25 years. A great big thank you to all of you who have served selflessly, in trying to make a better future for our horses, our riders/drivers, our equine sports, and our industry members. These volunteers are the real unheralded heroes that have brought us to this point in our history. It has been my privilege to serve alongside all of you.

I have had the good fortune to serve as President at a time when our Board of Directors has been made up of ex olympians, many past OEF presidents, OEF Hall of Famers, successful business men and women, teachers, farm owners, coaches, trainers, competition officials and even a rodeo cowboy. The diverse backgrounds of the individuals that make up our board, truly mirror the diversity of our equine community, and thus have proven to be effective and current.

Our office continues to be staffed by the very best professionals in their field of expertise. These individuals wear the OEF insignia with pride as they deliver our many programs and services to our members. They make us proud as our front line and in many circumstances the face and voice of our federation.

I will retire from the Ontario Equestrian Federation proud that we were the first province to negotiate an Affiliation Agreement with our national federation, Equine Canada. While some provinces continue to resist an official affiliation with the national federation, Ontario is committed to a unified national vision for our equine communities and activities across the land. It is vitally important to all stakeholders that we look beyond our immediate mandate and to that of a more global perspective. A perspective that is respectful of local differences and varying customs, while yet able to envelope all equestrians under the same umbrella. Let us not wait for a national crisis or catastrophe before we see the value of a partnership with our national federation. It is time to stop marking our territory and work collectively to better serve our mutual constituents. It is time to stop the divisive rhetoric and stand together. In doing so, we will better serve our role as stewards of equine welfare, sport, recreation and industry both in our province as well as our country.

It has been my privilege to be of service to this organization. I thank you for the opportunity.

Gary Yaghdjian , President

Brand New OEF Council Members

The OEF is pleased to introduce BRAND NEW 2010 Council members:

AFFILIATEAppaloosa Horse Club of Canada

Canadian Fjord Horse Association

Ontario Haflinger Association

The Donkey Santuary

INDUSTRYAlltech Canada Inc.

Saddlebagz

The Repeat Rider

Wellspring Equine Consulting

HORSE FACILITIESHighlite Equestrian Services

Shadowfox Stables

Silver Meadows

Willaway Farm

Please visit www.horse.on.ca to view a current listing of all OEF Council members and learn about the products and services they provide.

The OEF appreciates the support that OEF Industry members provide, and encourages WHOA! readers to support OEF Industry and Horse Facilities members! In addition, we would like to thank all WHOA! advertisers!

If you are interested in including your business, horse facility, or organization in the 2011 Ontario Horse Directory, on the website and benefit from additional marketing opportunities please contact Melissa Monardo [email protected], 1-887-441-7112 or 905-709-6545.

Page 5: Whoa! fall2010
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6 | WHOA! Fall 2010

News

The Associations Advisory Council (AAC) has experienced a great year that has covered many important topics and presentations including insurance, white line disease, breed suitability and endangered horse breeds.

The AAC is pleased to announce that Ken Denouden was acclaimed as vice chair and will remain for another two year term. Ken has been a great help to the committee with his vast understanding of horse competitions. Thanks Ken!

I am pleased to provide the 2011 meeting schedule. Please note that the AAC meeting day is changing to Mondays.• Monday, February 28, 2011 - OEF Office - 7:00pm to 9:00pm• Monday, May 2, 2011 - OEF Office - 7:00pm to 9:00pm• Monday, September, 12, 2011 - OEF Office - 7:00pm to 9:00pm• October 2011 - AGM location and time to be determined

At the September meeting a pizza party was held in appreciation of those who attended meetings this past year. Thank you to everyone for your devotion!

I look forward to seeing everyone at the 2010 AGM in October. _

The Ontario Horse Directory is a great marketing tool to promote your business to Ontario’s horse industry. Copies of the Directory are distributed to all OEF members and are available at various tack shops and special events throughout the year. The Directory includes a list of organizations that belong to the following OEF Councils:

Affiliate – saddle clubs, hunt clubs, trail groups, polo clubs, other not-for-profit organizations, etc.Associations – all provincial breed and discipline groupsHorse Facilities – boarding stables, lesson stables, etc.Industry – retailers, distributors, farriers, trainers, breeders, etc.

All listings include extensive contact information and descriptions of the various products and services provided. In addition, all Council members have the opportunity to advertise. The deadline to submit listing information and advertising copy is Friday November 5, 2010.

For more information about listing your business in the 2011 Ontario Horse Directory and other advertising opportunities please contact Melissa Monardo at [email protected] or 1-877-441-7112 ext. 17. _

For a limited time, the OEF is pleased to provide you with the opportunity to purchase your 2010 membership at a prorated price. For those who have not joined or renewed in 2010, you can now purchase an extended membership that will allow you to receive member benefits for the remainder of this year and all of next year – including your automatic insurance coverage!

Extended memberships are available for all membership categories, excluding the OEF Associations Council. The extended memberships are priced as follows:

Extended Adult Membership - $75Extended Junior Membership (members 17 years of age or younger as of Jan.1, 2011) - $65Extended Horse Facilities Council Membership) - $200Extended Industry Council Membership - $175Extended Affiliate Membership - $125

Extended memberships are available beginning September 1st of each year. To purchase an extended membership please visit www.horse.on.ca or contact our membership services team at 1-877-441-7112 or [email protected] / [email protected].

2011 Membership Renewals Available in November

2011 OEF membership renewals will be mailed out at the beginning of November. Please note that there will be some changes to the membership form next year and it is important that you carefully read the form when completing it. Here are a few tips to ensure that your membership can be processed promptly and accurately. Include your birth date – Due to your automatic insurance coverage we must have a record of your birth date. Sign and date your form – please ensure that you sign and date your application form. We can not process any applications that are not signed and dated.Privacy Policy – By law, you must give us permission to send you any correspondence that goes through a third party i.e.) a mail house or email service. In the past, you were asked to cross out the paragraph stating the privacy policy if you did not permit us to send your address to a mail service. This year, the application is now asking you to give us permission by checking off a box. Please be sure to read the policy and answer accordingly. If you do not check the box you will not receive OEF mailings including WHOA!, the Ontario Horse Directory, email notices, etc. Submit t ing an Appl icat ion – we can only accept membership forms that are completed online or hardcopies that are returned via fax, mail or in person. We can not accept membership applications over the telephone. Acceptable forms of payment are V isa, MasterCard, Cheque, Money Order or Cash (in person only). _

Associations Advisory Council Update

Promote Your Business in the 2011 Ontario Horse Directory

by Bonnie Simpson, ChairExtended Memberships Are Now Available!

“Cottage Craft” Sheepskin Half Pad 5 colours to choose from. (reg.$109.99) Royal Special $65*

“Ariat” Boots Ladies & Mens Heritage ll Paddock Boots, or Bromont Winter Boots (reg.$129 to $199) Royal Special $75*

“Signature Series” Equipe Saddle Pad Choose from Navy, tan, grey, white, sage, denim blue, melon, black or red. (reg.$39.99) Royal Special $19.99* Get it embroidered for free**

I GOT GREAT STUFF AT PICOV’S

PICOV’S Where Horse People Come First

380 KINGSTON ROAD. EAST,AJAX, ON. L1Z 1W4 PH.(905) 686-0948 ,TOLL FREE: (800) 661 –9622

EMAIL: [email protected] STORE HOURS: MON. TO SAT.: 10-6, SUN.: 12-5

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.picovsca

ROYAL WINTER FAIR SPECIALS NOVEMBER 5th TO 14th 2010

Masta Zing Fixed Neck Turnout 600 Ripstop Denier.Waterproof and Breathable.170g Thermal fill. Fully attached neck. (reg. $175) Royal Special $89.99*

Charles Owen Helmets Bonus! Free Backpack with Purchase* (Valued at $40)

“Ariat” Cameo Leather Half Chaps Black (reg.$139.99) Royal Special $69.99

“Tuscany” Italian Leather Field Boots Made with Premium Italian Leather, fully leather lined. These “semi custom” field boots come with a full back zip. $349.99

Mountain Horse Venice Field Boots

with back zip $179.99

25% Off on selected Rambo Blankets

Typhoon Winter Turnout 1680 Denier, Waterproof and Breathable. 220g. Polyfill insulation. (reg.$199.99) Royal Special $99.99*

*WHILE QUANTITIES LAST. AVAILABLE AT THE ”ROYAL WINTER FAIR” ONLY. NO RAIN CHECKS. QUANTITIES LIMITED ON SOME ITEMS. NO SUBSTITUTIONS. **SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.

Bonus! Free deluxe tall boot bag

with Field Boot purchase*

(Valued at $50)

Windstopper

Gloves Royal Special

$15.00

An Offi cial Publication of the Ontario Equestrian Federation

www.horse.on.ca

Ontario Horse Directory2010

OEF Council ChairsBruce Brown and Jeremy Denouden will be remaining on the OEF Board of Directors for another two year term. Bruce has been acclaimed Chair of the OEF Industry Council and Jeremy has been acclaimed Chair of the OEF Competitions Committee.

Page 7: Whoa! fall2010

Associations Advisory Council Update

“Cottage Craft” Sheepskin Half Pad 5 colours to choose from. (reg.$109.99) Royal Special $65*

“Ariat” Boots Ladies & Mens Heritage ll Paddock Boots, or Bromont Winter Boots (reg.$129 to $199) Royal Special $75*

“Signature Series” Equipe Saddle Pad Choose from Navy, tan, grey, white, sage, denim blue, melon, black or red. (reg.$39.99) Royal Special $19.99* Get it embroidered for free**

I GOT GREAT STUFF AT PICOV’S

PICOV’S Where Horse People Come First

380 KINGSTON ROAD. EAST,AJAX, ON. L1Z 1W4 PH.(905) 686-0948 ,TOLL FREE: (800) 661 –9622

EMAIL: [email protected] STORE HOURS: MON. TO SAT.: 10-6, SUN.: 12-5

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.picovsca

ROYAL WINTER FAIR SPECIALS NOVEMBER 5th TO 14th 2010

Masta Zing Fixed Neck Turnout 600 Ripstop Denier.Waterproof and Breathable.170g Thermal fill. Fully attached neck. (reg. $175) Royal Special $89.99*

Charles Owen Helmets Bonus! Free Backpack with Purchase* (Valued at $40)

“Ariat” Cameo Leather Half Chaps Black (reg.$139.99) Royal Special $69.99

“Tuscany” Italian Leather Field Boots Made with Premium Italian Leather, fully leather lined. These “semi custom” field boots come with a full back zip. $349.99

Mountain Horse Venice Field Boots

with back zip $179.99

25% Off on selected Rambo Blankets

Typhoon Winter Turnout 1680 Denier, Waterproof and Breathable. 220g. Polyfill insulation. (reg.$199.99) Royal Special $99.99*

*WHILE QUANTITIES LAST. AVAILABLE AT THE ”ROYAL WINTER FAIR” ONLY. NO RAIN CHECKS. QUANTITIES LIMITED ON SOME ITEMS. NO SUBSTITUTIONS. **SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.

Bonus! Free deluxe tall boot bag

with Field Boot purchase*

(Valued at $50)

Windstopper

Gloves Royal Special

$15.00

Page 8: Whoa! fall2010

8 | WHOA! Fall 2010

News

Equi-Challenge Riders Change Hats In a Rollicking Good Time to Raise Funds for OVC Equine Health Facility

Seasoned international rider and coach Peter Gray (Orangeville, ON) is equally at home on the back of a galloping event horse or an elegantly moving dressage horse.

But on August 26, he found himself in unfamiliar territory as he attempted to whack a ball from atop a spirited polo pony and careened around barrels on a blistering quarter horse at the second annual Equi-Challenge. The sold-out event, held at Halton Place, was in the name of good fun and a good cause. Gray and other equestrian leaders and legends “changed hats” to thrill the crowd at a fundraiser to benefit the Ontario Veterinary College’s new Equine Sports Medicine and Reproduction Centre, at the University of Guelph.

Among the participants in the unique team competition were show jumpers Erynn Ballard (Orangeville, ON), Mac Cone (King, ON) and Yann Candele (Caledon, ON); jockeys Sandy Hawley, Jim McAleny and Chantal Sutherland; dressage rider Julie Watchorn (King, ON) and David Marcus (Campbellville, ON); standardbred driver Jody Jamieson; barrel racers Stephanie Leyzac and Jodi Hendry; roper Jason Thompson; polo player Dave Offen (Aurora, ON) and other world-class riders from across the sport.

Judging from the laughter and wide grins, it was difficult to tell who enjoyed themselves more: the participants or the 500-plus ticketed guests cheering from the ringsides' fully catered VIP tent.

This was my first Equi-Challenge and I had a lot of fun. The most fun was being

with all the riders in the warm-up area. We were having a hoot. It was terrific,” said Gray, who has competed at the Olympic level as an eventer, shows grand prix dressage and is one of Canada’s few level 4 coaches. “I have never done barrel racing and that was definitely the highlight of the evening. It was very fast and very fun. It was exhilarating.”

Polo proved to be more of a challenge for Gray: “I have never played polo and I always thought if I did, I’d be hopeless and I lived up to my expectations.” Show jumper Erynn Ballard was equally enthusiastic.

“It was really exciting – I’d never played polo and have never barrel raced, and though I’ve taken dressage lessons, I’d never been in a situation to have to ride a test before,” said Ballard. “I enjoyed all of it. The whole event, the crowd and the people who supported it were terrific, it was for a great cause and I think it looks really good for our industry. All the show jumpers – Mac (Cone), Roberto (Teran), Yann (Candele) and I were ready to make career changes!”

Jockey Chantal Sutherland was “very grateful that I got the opportunity to do it. It was a lot of fun. I upset every barrel in the barrel race and in the dressage; I rode an Arabian horse with the costume and veil. It’s a beautiful, beautiful place and I hope I get invited back next year.”

Even a fal l dur ing show jumping couldn’t keep racing legend Sandy Hawley down. He gamely got back on the horse, completed the course and returned to compete in dressage on a western reining horse. Despite joking that he’d “need a couple of Advil when I get home,” he said he plans on returning next year.

A new twist this year was the participation of a group of “mystery riders” who challenged the winners of each class. Grand prix show jumpers Hugh Graham (a former rodeo competitor), Frankie Chesler Ortiz (a former barrel racing champ) and Halton Place owner Timur Leckebusch challenged the top barrel racers, while show jumping legends and Mexico Olympic team gold medalists Jim Day, Jim Elder, and Torchy Millar, joined by Kelly Hall-Holland pitted their skills against the night’s leading show jumping rookies.

Before the opening ceremonies, it was announced that the University of Guelph had received $2 million from the E.P. Taylor Equine Research Fund, to support clinical research in the health and performance of racehorses at the new Ontario Veterinary College Equine Sports Medicine and Reproduction Centre.

The night’s winning Equi-Challenge team was Team Novartis, which included Mac Cone, Chantal Sutherland, Julie Watchorn, Dave Offen and Jason Thompson. _

1. Jockey, Jim McAleny competes over

fences in the show jumping phase

2. David Marcus trades in his dressage

saddle for a western saddle during the barrel

racing phase

3. Equi-Challenge guests cheer on the riders

from the ringside

2

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by Liz Shaughnessy

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www.horse.on.ca | 9

• The Okanagan Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of British Columbia has been given a grant to partially fund the purchase of corral panels that will triple the capacity for overnight camping at the site.

• The Bouchie Lake Gymkhana Club will receive a grant that will supply a portion of the funds required to create a new warm up and dressage arena for the facility.

• The Endurance Riders Association of British Columbia has a ride camp on the Coutlee Plateau near Merritt and their grant will help with restoration and to bring a much-needed water line into the camp.

• The Powell River Trail Riders Club applied for funding towards improving their indoor arena footing.

• N o r t h V a n c o u v e r I s l a n d H o r s e Association received a grant to help fund the installation of livestock pens at the Comox Valley Fairgrounds.

• HCBC Industr y Commit tee app l ied for funding to host a Jennifer Woods Horse Hauling course at the 2011 Equine Industry Conference in Kelowna.

• Slocan Val ley Outr iders Associat ion applied for funding to replace wooden stalls at their facility with metal panel stalls.

• The Sointula Riding Club will purchase round pen panels and erect bleachers for their riding arena, the only community riding ring in the area.“Brit ish Columbia is the first of our

partnering provinces to launch this new national initiative. We are delighted that we will soon be rolling out similar grants in the Yukon, Manitoba, Ontar io, and New Brunswick, nourishing grassroots equestr ianism from coast to coast to coast,” said Equine Canada CEO, Akaash Maharaj. _

With the introduction of a $5 membership fee this year, Equine Canada has launched a new series of recreational programs. Work ing w i th Horse C ounc i l B r i t i sh Columbia (HCBC), the first new program was to invite British Columbia recreational groups to apply for grants for projects that would benefit recreational and trail riders in the province. The response was outstanding and applications were received for over $100,000 in projects.

“It is fantastic that Equine Canada is finally in a position to support recreational programs,” said Equine Canada President, Mike Gallagher. “I want to thank Horse Council British Columbia for their commitment to getting this first major project off the ground.”

The following projects received a total of $26,000 in funding:• The Sooke Saddle Club will create a Trail

Riders’ Rest Area created in Will iam Simmons Memorial Park, which forms the hub of a proposed network of multi-use trails for the Otter Point area of southern Vancouver Island. The rest area will feature a hitching rail, a mounting block, a manure bin, picnic table, and signs to allow safe crossing of Otter Point Road.

• The Yarrow Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Br i t ish Co lumbia has undertaken the creation of a horse camp adjacent to the Manning Park Resort. The grant will al low them to prepare the location for five horse camp sites in a fenced enclosure with access to the popular recreational trails in Manning Park. (This is a major project that will take several years to complete ful ly, but the ultimate goal is to have hitching rails, picnic tables, fire pits and corrals at the site.)

Equine Guelph has announced that Intercity Insurance will be sponsoring Hoofprints, a new memorial program celebrating the lives of horses. Hoofprints is an online initiative created to remember and honour the memory of deceased horses through stories and pictures.

“Hoofprints provides grieving horse owners a positive means to cope with the devastating loss and a loving way to remember horses through shar ing their memor ies wi th other horse lovers – fo lks who care and understand,” says Gayle Ecker, director of Equine Guelph.

Equine Guelph invites those who have lost a horse (recently or in the past) to pay tribute by sending a photo and message of remembrance along with a memorial gif t in the name of the horse.

To honour your ho rse o r to view the legacies of other cherished horses, go to www.equineguelph.ca /suppor ters /hoofprints.php

“Intercity knows first-hand about the trauma of losing an equine friend,” says Mike King, principal broker of Intercity Insurance. “We are pleased to support this heartfelt Equine Guelph initiative. Our sponsorship is being directed to help fund Equine Guelph’s education programs and I’m all for that. Educating our care givers empowers them with knowledge on the health and well-being of horses. In the end, this leads to maintaining health and even saving horses’ lives.”

Gifts to Equine Guelph help make a difference in the lives of horses through the funding of equine research, education, per formance, healthcare and industry development. _

Intercity Insurance Honours the Memory of Horsesby Henrietta Coole

News

Equine Canada Launches New Recreational Program with First Series of Grants

Barnmice Member Wins Free Conference Registration

During the week of August 18, the OEF and Barnmice provided Barnmice users the opportunity to win a free 2010 OEF Conference registration package. Those who joined the OEF Barnmice group during the week were eligible to be entered into the draw. Congratulations to our winner, Renata Rusiniak!

The OEF is proud to be the largest group on Barnmice with over 400 members! Everyone is encouraged to use the group to ask questions, post comments, share ideas, etc. For more information please visit www.barnmice.com/group/ontarioequestrianfederation.

Page 10: Whoa! fall2010

10 | WHOA! Fall 2010

News

Masterfeeds Donates $15,000 to the Canadian Equestrian TeamRepresenting the Canadian Equestrian Team (CET) and Equine Canada, Michele Mueller of Port Perry and Jessica Phoenix of Cannington accepted a $15,000 donation from Masterfeeds, the Official Gold Feed Partner of WEG.

Masterfeeds is donating a portion of proceeds from sales of the official WEG/Masterfeeds merchandise and horse treats. $1 from the purchase of each bag of Love Bites, the Official Treat of the CET, is being directed to the Equine Canada Athlete Assistance Fund. This fund’s sole purpose is to help realize the dreams of many of our athletes – especially those most in need of financial support – to compete for our country

“We continue to be thrilled to have such a great partnership with Masterfeeds,” says Equine Canada president, Mike Gallagher.

The Games, to be held at the Kentucky Horse Park from September 25 – October 10, 2010, are the world championships of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). Held outside of Europe for the first time, the 16-day competition involving 600 riding competitors and 700 horses from more than 60 countries is expected to be attended by as many as 600,000 spectators and viewed on television by an international audience exceeding 460 million.

Good Luck in Kentucky!On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff, the OEF would like to congratulate all those who successfully earned a position on the Canadian Equestrian Team heading to the 2010 Alltech World Equestrian Games. We wish you all success in Kentucky! _

ObituariesCanadian Equestrian Community Loses Canadian Olympian Walter Pady

The Canadian equestrian community is saddened to learn of the loss of 1952 Helsinki Olympian and former Chair of the Canadian Equestrian Team, Walter Pady, of Rosemont, ON, following a tragic car accident.

When he was still a student, Walter was identified as a talented equestrian during the 1952 pre-Olympic Three-Day Trials and chosen as one of the five riders who would be sent from Canada to Helsinki, Finland as members of Canada’s first Olympic Three-day Event Team, along with Tommy Gay ford , Lar r y McGuinness, Stewar t Treviranus and John Rumble, where Walter was an alternate rider for the team.

W h e n h i s i n te re s t s s w i t c h e d to international show jumping, Walter was also named to Canada’s first European Show Jumping Tour in 1954. With his horse Slow Motion, Walter placed among the

top riders during stops in England, Ireland, Hol land and Belg ium with Canadians James Elder, L. T. McGuinness and Shirley Prosser (Thomas).

W a l t e r ’s c o n t r i b u t i o n s t o s h o w jumping continued after his competitive career had ended. He was the chairman of the Jumping Team for the Canadian Equestrian Team (CET) and in the 1980s, he volunteered as the chair of the CET.

"Walter was one of the founding leaders of Canadian equestrianism, and one of the great figures of our sport. Our hearts go out to Jane and to his family,” said Equine Canada CEO, Akaash Maharaj. “Although we will miss him terribly, we take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will live on through his formative influence on the Canadian Equestrian Team and Canadian equestrian culture itself."

“Walter was such a great friend to the broad equestrian community. Among other things, his interests included show jumping, eventing and fox hunting,” said Terrance ‘Torchy’ Millar, chef d'équipe of the Canadian Show Jumping Team. “He was a great leader for our jumping team for many years. Those of us who had the privilege to know him will miss him greatly.”

Walter leaves behind his wife Jane and his children, Michelle, Angus, Ian and Bryan (Heather); his stepsons, Jacques (Sue) and Palmer (Melissa); his siblings Eleanor, Jack (Audrey) and David (Sandra); his grandchildren, Dennis, Marsha, Devon, Alex and Owen; and his step-grandchildren, Corson and Carly.

Equine Canada and the Ontario Equestrian Federation would like to extend its deepest sympathies to Walter's family and friends. _

Jackie VandenBrink, Nutritionist for Masterfeeds congratulates

Canadian Eventers Michele Mueller and Jessica Phoenix and

presents them, as representatives for Equine Canada, with a

cheque for $15,000 as well as a supply of Love Bites, the

Official Treat of the Canadian Equestrian Team. Left – right:

Bill Ransberry of Sunderland Feed Supply, Michele Mueller,

Jessica Phoenix, Jackie VandenBrink.

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ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION 2011 YOUTH BURSARY PROGRAM A P P L I C A T I O N

DEADLINE: applications must be received in the OEF Office by 4:00pm on Friday December 3rd, 2010

IMPORTANT: The application must be completed IN FULL and accompanied by all required original documentation by December 3rd, 2010 in order to be considered for a 2011 Youth Bursary. Faxed or emailed applications will NOT be accepted.

Applications received after the due date will not be eligible. All information provided will remain strictly confidential.

CRITERIA FOR APPLYING: OEF Junior member in good standing between the ages of 14 and 17 as of January 1st, 2011 (2011 OEF membership for

yourself and your coach must accompany your 2011 Youth Bursary application in order to be valid) Currently attending high school in the Province of Ontario

APPLICANT INFORMATION:

Name: OEF Membership #: Date of Birth: mm / dd / yy

Address:

City: Province: Postal Code:

Phone: Fax: Email:

Parent/Guardian: TOTAL Gross Household Income/Support: $

Total # of Adults In Household: Total # of Children/Youth In Household:

List any special Awards/Recognition received:

Areas of Equine Interest (i.e. Hunter, Jumper, Eventing etc): How are most of your equestrian endeavours paid for? Yourself Parents Other: What challenges do you face in pursuing your hobby? Money Transportation Other: APPLICANT’S COACH: (Equine Canada certified coaches are recommended. Coach MUST BE an OEF Adult member in good standing – 2011 OEF membership must accompany this 2011 Youth Bursary application in order to be valid

Coach Name: OEF Membership #:

Phone: Email: EC Certification:

** Please include a reference letter from your current coach ** RIDING EXPERIENCE: None Little Moderate Experienced Lessons with a coach? Yes No If yes, how long

Member of a school team? Yes No If yes, what sport(s) SCHOOL INFORMATION:

High School Name: Address:

Phone #: Fax #: 1. Please provide an original copy of recent report card detailing your Grade, Subjects and most recent Marks and have your Principal sign

and date ESSAYS REQUIRED: 1. In 200 words or less, please describe your interest and experience with horses (attach a separate sheet) 2. In 200 words or less, please indicate how you would spend the bursary funds if they were awarded to you (attach a separate sheet) PICTURE: A current, non-returnable, colour photo of yourself (head and shoulders or in-action with horse) must accompany your youth bursary application. RELEASE FORM: I, , acknowledge that (parent/guardian) (applicant) is applying to the Ontario Equestrian Federation’s Youth Bursary Program. I hereby consent to his/her involvement in this Program. It is recommended that he/she attend an approved riding facility to receive coaching in horse-related skills. This is to certify that the information provided is accurate and the applicant and parent/guardian agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the Ontario Equestrian Federation. Publicity Agreement: I hereby give permission to the OEF to use the name and/or photo of my son/daughter in conjunction with the OEF Youth Bursary Program being reported in the OEF newsletter, WHOA!, and in articles or reports of activities used on the radio or in newspapers, magazines, the OEF website, or other media which may be utilized by the OEF for publicity or communication purposes.

Signature: Date: (applicant)

Signature: Date: (parent/guardian) Please send completed application to:

Ontario Equestrian Federation, 9120 Leslie St., Suite 203, Richmond Hill, ON , L4B 3J9 Phone: 905-709-6545 Fax: 905-709-1867 Tollfree: 1-877-441-7112 Email: [email protected] Web: www.horse.on.ca

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Around the Barn

As a stable owner, do you require a license to operate in your municipality? How many people can answer that question without making a call? Multiply that by the number of stables in your area and you have a regulatory mess of grand proportions.

In the self proclaimed Horse Capital of Canada, Stouffville, licensing is mandatory for any horse riding establishment offering lessons or trail rides. The initial cost to the stable owner for the first year is $200 to become licensed and $110 every year thereafter (HST included). An annual inspection of the facility is conducted by someone with little or no horse experience.

Colleen Clarke is the License and Public Services Coordinator for Whitchurch-Stouffville and she would like to see the by-law repealed. “Everything

is covered by Bill 12,” she argues, “and we’re taking on a huge liability. I don’t think we’re qualified and we can’t keep track.” She sites the example of the high turnover in stables with summer teenage workers and the mandated first aid certification that all employees must have. “We’re opening ourselves up to a huge liability,” she adds, “This is a high risk sport.” If there is an accident, those with the deepest pockets will be targeted and in this case she worries it may be the municipality. “We had a death, it was before my time,” she says, “and this is why we have this by-law.” However, this by-law is redundant, Ms Clarke feels, “Because it’s all covered in the act.”

Bill 12, “An Act to Increase the Safety of Equestrian Riders” became the law in 2001. The “helmet law,” as it is casually referred to by many,

Government vs. Industry

Who’s Holding the Reins of Your Horse Business?

by Kathy Fremes, Chair, OEF Horse Facilities Advisory Council

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www.horse.on.ca | 13

was the reaction to a catastrophic injury that resulted in the death of Elizabeth Hader, who fell off a horse while celebrating her 10th birthday at Wagon Wheel Ranch. The child had no head protection and she was wearing running shoes. Tragically, she was dragged to her death and the owner was charged with criminal negligence. There was, quite rightly, a public outcry.

On closer look at Bill 12, the Whitchurch-Stouffville by-law and the City of Brampton, another munic ipa l i t y where r id ing establishments are licensed, there is a lot of duplication. However, the by-laws include standards that go beyond helmet and footwear/stirrup requirements. And there lies the rub. What expertise do municipality inspectors have to revoke or suspend licenses that amount to actually taking away a person’s r ight to conduct a business, and possibly his/her livelihood?

Clarke agrees that the inspectors have little knowledge and familiarize themselves with the equipment requirements by visiting local stores.

On the matter of duplication, the OEF Horse Facilities Advisory Counsel (HFAC) conducts site visitations of all new member facilities. The OEF provides recommended standards such as tack and rider attire, but also examines the safety of tacking up stations; paddocks, barns and shelters; indoor and outdoor arenas as well as trails. Storage areas for grain and hay are examined as well as manure management practises and parasite control. Instruction/trail riding programs are also discussed as are the qualifications of staff, as well as ratios between guide/instructor/coach and rider. Management practises are reviewed, such as, reporting of incidents and injuries to riders. Horse health documentation is examined as are emergency practises and

procedures. Available animal and human first aid kits are mandatory. Last but definitely not least, members are required to show proof that the facility has a minimum of $2-million commercial liability insurance coverage.

At the end of my discussion with Ms Clarke it was clear that what the HFAC is trying to do to self-regulate the industry is a duplication of the Whitchurch-Stouffville by-law. On closer examination, the HFAC site standards are far more comprehensive than those in the municipal by-laws I have read, and are regularly updated. The HFAC site standards are designed to help improve the facility, rather than penalize it.

Stable owners may perceive the municipality licensing requirements as a tax grab and an unwanted interference in the running of their business. I see it as an inappropriate means to apply minimal industry safety standards by people who are ill

Around the Barn

For more information please call 1-888-345-2351 or visit www.aldistributing.com

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Around the Barn

equipped to do so. By rights, the horse industry should be self-regulating and has the ability to be its own best watch dog.

Rules and regulations, like policy and procedure manuals, are living documents—they are not worth the paper they are written on if they are not enforced and reviewed regularly. Site inspections of yesteryears were done by a government representative from the Ministry of Agriculture as part of the Riding Horse Establishment Act of Ontario, which was appealed in 1997. At that time, there was a strong push from the government for the industry to govern itself and the Associat ion of Riding Establ ishments of Ontario (ARE-Ont) was formed. This small, but mighty, group of stable owners successfully fought and won the fight against an unfair and sudden hike in realty tax on riding establishments and horse farms that was proposed by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). As a result of its close ties with the OEF, ARE-Ont became an OEF Council in 2005 and was renamed the OEF Horse Facilities Advisory Council.

Now is the time for us to take back the reins of our industry. I plan to meet with Ms Clarke and discuss rescinding the Whitchurch- Stouffville by-law with her by-law officer and discuss how the HFAC can take a more active role. I urge all stable owners who conduct lessons or trail rides to contact their municipalities to find out if they have by-laws regulating horse riding establishments and invite you to email your findings to me at [email protected]. I believe it is a win-win situation if the municipalities can remove themselves from governing riding establishments. It’s a responsibility they don’t want and one that we should have. Let the industry apply its own standards professionally and fairly, by peers, not by politicians.

I also urge all stable owners, if they haven’t done so already, to encourage each rider and horse owner to have his or her own OEF membership, which will take a little of the liability, but not the responsibility, off our collective shoulders. To make a safer environment for all, we need every person who puts a foot into a stirrup to participate. _

204 Main Street N, Powassan (located between Huntsville and North Bay) (705) 724-1313

knowltonridgeequestrian.com / [email protected]

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Visit our website at www.therider.com

We have evolved over theyears along with the horseindustry that we support.Thank you to all of you

who have helped us along the way!

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2010 COMPETITIONSCOMPETITION START END LOCATION EMAIL

SCHOOLING DRESSAGE South Malden Equine Centre Dressage Show 10/17/2010 10/17/2010 7067 Briton Rd, Essex, ON [email protected]

BRONZE DRESSAGEGlanbrook CADORA Bronze 5 10/03/2010 10/03/2010 [email protected] Four Seasons Fallfest Dressage #2 10/16/2010 10/16/2010 Iron Horse Equestrian Centre, 5244 No 1 Sdrd, Milton, ON [email protected] RCRA Autumn Dressage #1 10/16/2010 10/17/2010 RCRA, 4252 Davis Dr, Cedar Valley, ON [email protected]

SILVER H/JNorfolk County Fair & Horse Shows 10/06/2010 10/07/2010 172 South Drive, Simcoe, ON [email protected]

SILVER EVENTINGWoodwind Horse Trials 3 10/10/2010 10/10/2010 2465 Line 10N, RR2 Hawkestone, ON [email protected]

GOLD H/JAll Star Grand Prix 10/02/2010 10/02/2010 Scotiabank Place, Ottawa, ON [email protected]

PLATINUM H/JThe Royal Horse Show CSI 4* 11/05/2010 11/14/2020 Ricoh Coliseum, Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON [email protected]

Mane Events

Spirit of the Horse 2010 Is Sure To Be A Crowd Pleaser!

T h e O E F i s o n c e a g a i n pleased to be a part of one of the most excit ing Royal A g r i c u l t u r a l W i n t e r F a i r (RAWF) traditions, the Spirit of the Horse. Managed by the OEF, the Spirit of the Horse

exhibit offers RAWF patrons the unique opportunity to learn all about horses.

Spirit of the Horse 2010 will feature various breeds including Akhal-Teke, American Saddlebred, Appaloosa, Arabian, Canadian, Fell Pony, Fjord, Friesian, Gypsy Vanner, Haflinger, Newfoundland Pony, Paso Fino, Percheron, Thoroughbred, miniature horses and donkeys, who will entertain audiences with riding and driving demonstrations highlighting the history, versatility and unique traits of their breed. In addition to breeds, visitors will have the opportunity to meet the working horses from the Toronto Mounted Police, play with Shorty Leggs the Rodeo Clown, learn about some of the different disciplines involving horses and much more!

The Spirit of the Horse is pleased to welcome Gord Searle and Glenn Kipp from Alberta. Gord has been working with horses for almost 30 years, and travels across Canada, hosting demonstrations and clinics on everything from calming aggressive behaviours to effective trailer-loading techniques. They will entertain along with educate – it’s all about reminding people why they got involved with horses. Gord and Glenn will be doing daily demonstrations from November 6 to 10.

New this year will be daily educational sessions demonstrating equine magnetic therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic therapy, the work of the farrier, saddle fitting, and hoof care scheduled in the round pen located within the Spirit of the Horse exhibit area. In addition, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority will be doing a presentation on agricultural practices and funding programs.

The Spirit of the Horse stalls, round pen and demonstration ring are kindly provided by System Fencing and the exhibit is proudly sponsored by Mamma's Pizza.

There will be lots to see at this year’s Spirit of the Horse exhibit, so stop by often. The OEF will have our booth located right in the Spirit of the Horse area, so please drop by and say hello to the staff.

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is the world’s largest indoor agricultural and international equestrian competition. The Royal draws more than 300,000 visitors to the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto annually to see thousands of unique entries from elite Canadian and International breeders, growers and exhibitors, over 4,500 large and small animals, shows, activities, shopping, dining and The Royal Horse Show. For more information about the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and Spirit of the Horse 2010 please visit www.royalfair.org.

Be sure to mark your calendar and join us for the Spirit of the Horse at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair November 5-14, 2010. We look forward to seeing you there! _

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At Case IH, we know that successful farming is about being ready, with the right equipment, the right technology, the right support. Be ready for all your loading, blading, tilling, mowing, baling jobs and more with these great offers on Case IH Farmall tractors, built with rugged reliability and simple operation.

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News

OEF Annual Banquet & Auction 2010 OEF Annual Conference – A learning experience for all.

Please be sure to mark Saturday October 23, 2010 on your calendar and join us for the OEF Annual Banquet featuring the Live & Silent Auctions. The OEF invites you to come acknowledge member achievements, enjoy great food, spend time with other horse enthusiasts, and participate in our live and silent auctions in support of the OEF Youth Bursary Program.

Some of the items up for bid include:• 2 tickets to a Toronto Maple Leafs game - courtesy of Harmony Printing • 4 Box Seats at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair on the evening of November

10th - courtesy of the Royal Winter Fair • 4 Night RV Rental at Palgrave - courtesy of Orangeville Motorhome Rental • Toy Pedal Tractor - courtesy of Kubota Canada Ltd. • Beswick Sheepdog- courtesy of Bruce & Sandra Brown

If you are interested in donating an item to be auctioned off please contact Melissa Monardo [email protected] or Kim Banks [email protected]. Any item you are willing to donate will help us grant additional bursaries in 2011. _

When we ride we are often unaware of the other disciplines and their benefits. Many riders don't think to look beyond their own discipline for possible solutions in overcoming riding and training issues.

The 2010 OEF Conference is a one day multi -discipline clinic focusing on the advantages and importance of a multi - discipline approach to training and communicating with your horse.

The cl inic features Peter Gray (Eventing), Hyde Moffatt (Hunter/Jumper), Lindsay Grice (Western Performance) and Jacqueline Brooks (Dressage) along with 16 horse/rider combinations. A lunch time saddle fitting presentation with Schleese Saddlery Services, will focus on the importance of choosing the right saddle for you and your horse.

No matter your goals, from the recreational rider looking to build confidence out on the tr ials, the student interested in new disciplines or the competitor looking for help getting to that next level, there is something everyone can learn from this clinic.

F o r fu r the r i n fo r m at i o n an d registration please visit the OEF webs i te (w w w.horse .on .c a ) o r contact the office directly. _

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OEF Annual Banquet guests place their bids during the 2009 OEF Annual Silent Auction.

The OEF raised more than $7,000 last year in support of the OEF Youth Bursary program.

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News

ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATIONNOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGNotice is hereby given to the membership of the Ontario Equestrian Federation that the 2010 Annual General Meeting will take place during the OEF Annual Conference on Friday, October 22, 2010 commencing at 7 p.m. in the Pavilion Auditorium at the Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre in Mississauga.

All Adult Members are encouraged to attend and exercise their vote.

2010 NOMINATION FORM - OEF INDIVIDUAL DIRECTORThe Committee on Nominations of the Ontario Equestrian Federation

is seeking nominations for Individual Directors to the Board of Directors

We, ________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Name and OEF # of Nominator 1 Signature of Nominator 1

________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Name and OEF # of Nominator 2 Signature of Nominator 2

hereby declare we are members in good standing of the OEF and wish to nominate

_______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ (full name) (OEF #)

for election to the Board of Directors of the Ontario Equestrian Federation.

I hereby declare I am a member in good standing of the OEF and I accept this nomination to the Board of Directors of the Ontario Equestrian Federation. I enclose a copy of my curriculum vitae for display on the website, in the OEF Newsletter, WHOA!, and for distribution to the members attending the Annual General Meeting. If elected, I agree to abide by all of the following (available on request from the OEF Office):• Current role of a member of the OEF Board of Directors• Director's Code of Responsibility (Article XIX, OEF Bylaw, 2008)• Conflict of Interest policy (Article XX, OEF Constitution, 2008)

_________________________________________________________ __________________________________ Signature of Nominee Date

mail/fax to: ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION - 9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3J9 phone 905-709-6545 • fax 905-709-1867 • email [email protected] • website www.horse.on.ca

curriculum vitae must accompany nomination

1. Opening Remarks2. Minutes of Previous Meeting (November 27, 2009)3. Business Arising from the Minutes4. President’s Address5. Treasurer’s Report (a) Appointment of Auditor for 2011-2012

6. Annual Activity Report7. Elections8. Council and Committee Reports9. Other Business10. Announcement of Election Results11. Adjournment

The meeting agenda is as follows:

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Member Spotlight

Ontario Dressage Riders Big Winners at the 2010 North American Junior and Young Rider Championships

Team Ontario was victorious, capturing the silver medal in the Young Rider division at the 2010 North American Junior and Young Rider Championships which was held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY July 28 -August 1, 2010. Amy Jager of Waterloo, ON, Jaimie Holland of Caledon, ON, Maura O'Sullivan of Toronto, ON and Megan Lane of Collingwood, ON finished with a team score of 198.421, having been edged out of the top spot by the USA Region 5/6 Team who had a gold medal combined score of 199.842. The bronze medal was won by USA Region 4 / 8 with 19 6.421.

The individual competition for the Young Riders continued on July 29 with the Individual Test. Lane, 19, riding her nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare, Caravella, earned the Individual silver medal, scoring 68.947%. The Bronze medal went to fellow team member Holland , 21, and her 12-year-old Westphalian mare Fleurina with a score of 68.211%.

The success continued for the Canadian dressage r iders as they captured one gold and two bronze medals on the final day of the dressage competition. The Young Rider Freestyle was held under lights in the main ring on Saturday July 31. Jaimie Holland, 21, of Caledon, ON, and Fleurina, won the class with a score of 72.700%, more than two percent higher than the silver medalist, American Jhesika Wells from Region 5/6 , who scored 70.550%.

“I would like to thank my parents for their support and Tom and Ellen Dvorak for their help,” said Holland. “They have coached me since I was ten.”

Megan Lane, 19, of Collingwood, ON, and Caravella, earned the bronze medal in the Freesty le with 70.350%.

“Caravella definitely pushed into a higher gear, and I suddenly have more from her than ever before,” said Lane, who was a triple Junior medalist at the Championships in 2009. “I would like to thank my new coach, Albrecht Heidemann, for his help, and Tina Irwin for her help previously.”

Exclusively for Junior riders, aged 14 -18, and Young Riders, 16 -21, the NAJYRC gives up -and - coming r iders the oppor tunity to experience representing their country as a team, and prepares them for future internat ional compet i t ion. For more informat ion and complete resul ts for NA JYRC, p lease v is i t www.youngriders.org. _

Megan Lane, 19, of Collingwood, ON, riding Caravella, earned the

bronze medal in the Young Rider Freestyle at 2010 North American

Junior and Young Rider Championships.

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The Ontario Young Rider Dressage Team won the silver medal in the

FEI Young Rider Competition

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Member Spotlight

Canadian Reiners Sweep the Podium at the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships

Canadian Reiners won individual gold, silver and bronze on July 31 at the 2010 Adequan FEI North American Junior Young Rider Championships. Presented by Gotham North, these Championships were held July 28–August 1 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.

At the Individual Final, 20 starters ran pattern 9 and Nancy Pratch of St. Paul, AB rode Marie Cameron’s six-year-old gelding, Rooster Kicker, to a gold medal finish with a score of 215. Darcy Wilson of Goodwood, ON, won the silver medal with a score of 213.5 with Miss Cielo Chex, an eight-year old Quarter Horse mare owned by Tamalyn Wilson. Taking the bronze medal was Vanessa Strotmann of Salmon Arm, BC riding her seven year old Quarter Horse gelding, Listos May Day Hobby to a score of 212. Winning all three top placings at the Championships is certainly an honour for Canada’s reining community, as the quality of riders and horses is always very high.

“Rooster Kicker went really well. It was a running pattern and we both thrive on that type of pattern,” said Pratch. “He is a solid stopper and there were four stops which also helped us. I plan on staying in the reining pen and working in some of the other western performance sports as well.”

“About half way through the draw Darcy Wilson came

blazing into the pen obviously intent on holding on to her 2009 title and it seemed as if her score would stand as each competitor failed to match her score of 213.5 until Nancy Pratch started her run,” said chef d’équipe of the Canadian reiners, Wendy Dyer. “The arena was filled with whoops and whistles as Nancy's first stop and backup showed she meant business. The spins were fast and precise. By the time she had completed her first set of circles everyone was aware this could be the one to better Darcy's score and, if possible, the whoops and whistles got louder at each maneuver until her final stop. Everyone was on the edge of their seats waiting for the score, and when 215 was announced the whole audience, especially the Alberta group, erupted with so much noise it was impossible to hear the announcer's next comments.”

In sixth was Kaylynn Malmberg of Carseland, AB, riding Pickin Around, a 12-year-old Quarter Horse gelding owned by Garry Boan, with 210.50, and seventh place, scoring 209, went to Sage Sapergia of Cochrane, AB, and Shiners Q Chex, Don Leach’s 10-year-old Quarter Horse stallion. Tenth place was awarded to Megan Robinson of Dufresne, MB, riding her own nine-year-old Quarter Horse mare, Breanna Kid, with 206.50. _

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30 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Oshawa Pony Club Member Victorious at National Show Jumping Championships by Bob Inglis

Jennifer McKeen, a 17 year old member of the Oshawa Pony Club, has won the National Show Jumping Championships at the Cochrane Agricultural Society near Calgary. Jennifer is in her first year of Police Foundations at Sir Sanford Fleming College.

This was a true national competition, with entries from coast to coast. Regions were limited to one entry each. All competitors rode borrowed horses, selected the day before the actual competition. Ms McKeen drew a 17 year old Dutch Warmblood called Charlie, described by the McKeens as “easy-going, loving and well-tempered”.

The Championships used a flat class, a gymnastics course and a jumper equitation (medal) class on Day 1 and the morning of Day 2. Riders were marked not only on how their mounts jumped, but also on their equitation (riding technique), and even on their tack and turn-out. Ms McKeen won the flat class and placed second in the other two phases for the overall win.

As part of the weekend, the young competitors visited Spruce Meadows Friday night to watch the Masters (jumps somewhat higher than those they had to deal with), and also to take in the Evening of the Horse plus a fireworks display. On Saturday evening they enjoyed a banquet with Olympian Sandra Donnelly as guest speaker. _

Member Spotlight

Jennifer McKeen of Oshawa ON at the National Pony Club Show Jumping

Championships

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International Tetrathlon Exchange 2010by Philip Cigagna

Tetrathlon is a variant of Modern Pentathlon, without fencing. Philip Cigagna from Tottenham, ON was among the athletes that represented the Canadian Pony Club at the 2010 International Tetrathlon Exchange. Here is Philip’s recount of the event and his experiences.

This year’s International Tetrathlon Exchange took place in San Francisco, California. There were teams from Ireland, Great Britain, Australia, United States and Canada. As this was my first International Tetrathlon, I had no idea what to expect. We knew from past Canadian Tetrathletes that the Irish and English would be tough and they were. As expected, the Irish and English came well prepared in all phases of running, swimming, shooting and riding. Canada’s team consisted of me and Gen Walton from London, ON. Gen was on a team with three American girls, while I was on a team with one English boy and one Irish boy.

The hosting American Pony Club Region made us feel welcome and they had an incredible trip planned for us. We toured San Francisco; Yosemite National Park, where we went white water rafting; and visited beautiful Lake Tahoe. We took time off in the middle of our touring to hold the competition, which took place at Stanford University and Woodside Horse Park. There were so many great people and with all the crazy different English accents, it was hilariously funny!

It was a fantastic trip that I will never forget. I loved meeting the other kids and look forward to the next event. It was unfortunate that only two Canadians participated this year. I highly encourage more boys and girls in Canadian Pony Club to get their C2 and train hard so they can join on this trip of a life time! _

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Page 33: Whoa! fall2010

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www.horse.on.ca | 37

aybe i t was a tra i l r ide on your summer vacation or a pony ride at

the local fair. Maybe it was a lesson or two at that summer camp your child attended this year. No matter how it starts, when a child is first introduced to horses it can ignite a passion that is difficult to ignore.

Now you find yourself looking for a lesson barn or riding school that is close to home and your child’s first riding teacher. Who you choose and your child’s first experience can affect his or her future with horses and horse related activities.

There has long been a misconception that being an “Instructor” somehow makes you less then a “Coach”. That could not be farther from the truth.

T he d i f fe rence bet ween a C oach and an Instructor lies solely in the skill development stage of the rider involved. Instructors focus their training and skills on teaching the fundamentals. Instructors are responsible for teaching basic riding skills and for laying the foundation for overall physical, psychological and social development, especially in young children.

When compared with the Long Term Equestrian Development (LTED) model, instructors focus on the FUNdamentals and Learning and Training to Ride stages.

M

Coaches Corner

Instructors – the Foundation to a Successful Start.

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38 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Coaches Corner

In these contexts an Instructor is teaching the technical skil ls of r iding – like the posting trot. However the instructor is also building a child’s fundamental movement skills such as balance, flexibility, strength, coordination and stamina.

The major i t y of par t ic ipants at the FUNdamental stage are between the ages of 6 and 10 years. At this stage there is a large psychological component that is influenced by Instructors. During the course of a riding lesson the Instructor helps to develop the student’s reasoning skills and the ability to think through and execute tasks. They are helping to develop self-esteem and confidence through goal setting, learning to deal with outside influences and developing social skil ls through group lessons and interaction in the stable.

In many ways, a child’s first instructor is much l ike a k indergar ten teacher who is responsible for a youngster ’s first exposure to school. They help their students’ to par ticipate in groups and cooperate with their peers. These teachers foster confidence and provide a positive experience for a student to learn and grow. This important foundation sets the tone for the rest of a child’s school life.

The Instructor’s role is similar and just as impor tant. Being well star ted as a beginner is important for the development of any par t ic ipant in any spor t . The foundations of more advanced skills are laid at this stage.

The Equine Canada coaching programs are developed on the principles of LTED and the importance of positive and safe experiences for all riders at all levels. The chart on the right shows how the various levels of the coaching programs reflect the different developmental stages of LTED and how each of the pieces fit together.

When you go looking for that first riding stable keep in mind that the Instructor is invaluable to a rider’s development. The basics are fundamental for everyone’s success and enjoyment of this spor t whether the riders have their sights set on the Olympic podium or simply choose to pursue equestr ian act iv i t ies as a recreational hobby. A discouraging experience

for a child can turn them off completely or create fear or anxiety that may prevent them from the enjoyment that horses and horse related activities can provide.

The Instruction of Beginners certification program is held to a nat iona l set of standards and evaluated on that basis. Candidates are evaluated on their riding sk i l ls , their stable management sk i l ls and teaching skills all while maintaining a nationally established level of safety, conduct and ethics. Certified Instructors are recognized by the Coaching Association of Canada and the Nat ional Coaching Certification Program. They are required to maintain a current first aid certificate and participate in professional development.

Page 39: Whoa! fall2010

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40 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Coaches Corner

Take a moment to think back. Who taught you the posting trot? Was it your current coach? Was it the coach that took you to your first competition? Perhaps it was the patient teacher at summer camp, or at the riding school on a Saturday afternoon where he or she repeated, “up, down, up, down, up, down” until the moment that you finally found your balance. It was probably the latter and in most cases that person is probably an Instructor of Beginners.

Ensure that you and/or your child are riding with a certified Instructor or Coach!

For more information on the Instruction of Beginners program, a list of certified Instructors or any other information regarding

certification, please visit the OEF website (www.horse.on.ca) or contact Jennifer Irwin, Education Manager at [email protected]

Check the OEF website often as we are busy planning more events for the remainder of this year and next.

Congratulations to our newly certified Instructors and Coaches so far this year.

English Instructors Noelle Zondervan, Toronto, ON Glenda O’Reilly, Plainfield, ON Brittany Dieleman, St. Thomas, ONLauren Parisius, Grafton, ONAnne Louise Abraham, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

English Coach 1Carolyn Ramsay, Toronto, ONMarg White, Orangeville, ON

Western InstructorsGavin Johnston, Brampton, ONJessica Sluys, Clinton, ON

English Instructions of Beginners Jumping ModuleOver the past 2 years certified Instructors have had the opportunity to further develop their skills and be evaluated on an optional Jumping Module in addition to the regular evaluation they take part in. Ontario would like to recognize the Certified Instructors that have successful ly completed the Equine Canada Instructor Jumping ModuleNoelle Zondervan, Toronto, ONCaryn Cathcart, Bolton, ONKatherine Reilly, Toronto, ONRobyn Oldham, Caledon, ONLesley Vanclief, Ajax, ONJeannine Bastien, Hawkesbury, ONYvonne Walker, Pickering, ONBrittany Dieleman, St Thomas, ONRebecca Brown, Cobourg, ONCindi Gardner, Braeside, ON _

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by Bonnie Simpson,Equestrian TrailAdvisor

On the Trail

Dog Days of Summer

The "dog days of summer"...for many of us, this phrase is a nostalgic reminder of the long hot summer we are leaving behind. This time; however, I am actually referring to “man’s best friend”. Whether you choose to bring your dog or leave him at home, here are some tips to safely share the trails with our “other” four legged friend.

If you choose to bring Fido out on your ride, be sure that both he and your horse are properly trained and conditioned to be together. While on horseback it is very difficult to have your dog on a leash, so you must be sure that he respects voice commands. Your dog should know to respond to sit, down, stay, and come. Obedience classes are a great way to teach your dog these simple commands and be sure to practice with him so that he obeys you the first time you ask. Call him back regularly so you know he’s all right. Returning to your signal is good practice for him, and it’s just good sense to have a dog that comes when you call, no matter what.

In addition to training your dog, you also need to ensure that your horse is used to having your dog around. If your horse has a tendency to kick out or spook easily, it's probably not a good idea to bring your pooch along. Practice riding at home accompanied by your dog before riding out in an uncontrolled environment. Even well trained dogs will jump in and out of bushes so the more your horse is used to the dog the least likely he or she is to spook. Attach a small bell to your dog's collar that will enable you and horse to hear him from a distance. This will help your horse become familiar with the sound making it harder for your dog to surprise your horse when he jumps out of that bush. Always be cognizant

that not all horses are comfortable around dogs and that you should always check with the riders in your group before bringing your dog along. Always remember that your dog is your responsibility.

Even if you decide to leave your dog at home, still be prepared to encounter dogs on the trail. Whether you meet other riders or other trail users such as hikers or cyclists chances are some of them may have dogs with them. If you meet a dog on the trail, immediately take control by asking the owner of the dog to put the animal on a leash until you have passed. If they look unwilling to do so, explain that you are asking them out of respect for the well being of all parties involved. If in the event that the owners of the animal are no where to be found always remember to stay calm and pass quietly because loosing control will only cause the dog and your horse to become anxious. Horses and dogs can share the trails, but it is imperative that your dog is well trained and that your horse is familiar with your dog. It is important to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.

Be Comfortable Trail riding is a leisure activity that should be enjoyable. Here are some tips to ensure you have a comfortable ride both mentally and physically.

Always ride in a group that you feel safe with. To ensure everyone in your group is comfortable, ride to the ability of the least experienced horse and rider. It is your responsibility to state your experience and your horses' experience to the trail boss. Don't be shy, speak up - everyone is still green in some respects

Dog Days of Summer

On the Trail

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www.horse.on.ca | 43

that will secure jobs with municipalities and will ensure that equestrians are included when master plans are being developed. Most of the new trails are suitable for day rides only. It’s a challenge to get areas that have enough trails to warrant a campground. If the area is large enough, it usually has many bugs and a short riding season. Algonquin Park is still one of the few provincial parks that allow equestrians and equestrian camping. Be sure to register when entering the park and keep your camp area

clean, leaving nothing but hoof prints behind. Visit the OTC website, www.ontariotrails.on.ca, for a listing of all trails in Ontario; if you know of any trails that are not listed please submit your information to the OTC.

No matter where we ride it is up to us to be aware of our surroundings. Make sure you and your horse are visible to other trail users. Give clear instructions if a situation arises and stay calm. If you are calm, your horse will stay calm. Ride Smart! Ride Safe! _

1. You and your horse should have suitable riding attire – hunter orange from waist up all year, boots with a heel, helmet, well fitting saddle and good tack.

2. Ride a suitable horse – size, conditioning and training matter.

3. Carry a first aid kit, cell phone, GPS/compass and map on you NOT the horse.

4. Never lead off until all riders are mounted.5. Stay on the marked trails and obey the

signs. Know where you are on the trail in case of an emergency.

6. Walk on the right of the trail or road. Never canter or gallop.

7. Leave two horse lengths between you and the other horses even when you have stopped.

8. When crossing a road do so all together.9. Use the buddy system; be responsible for

the rider in front and behind you.10. If riding alone, tell someone where you

have gone and when you will return.11. Use the three C ’s – Cour tesy,

Communication and Common Sense.12. Do not litter on the trail or campsite. Put

manure and hay in designated areas. Leave only hoof prints behind.

13. No dogs on the trail or alone in the campsite.

14. No alcohol or smoking on the trail.15. Water your horse from the shore, and do

not cross or wade unknown waters.

Best Practices for Horses on the Trails

Meeting A Horse On the Trail

• Make your presence known from a distance by calmly addressing the rider.

• Please pass slowly on the left after the rider has acknowledged your presence.

• If you are motorized, we request that you stop and shut off your engine as a courtesy. Please greet the rider and wait until horse and rider have moved off a safe distance before continuing.

• If you are unsure of what to do in any situation concerning a horse, please ask the rider before taking any action.

• We all share the trails, so let’s work together in harmony to ensure safe and enjoyable trails.

Courtesy of the Ontario Trail Riders Association www.otra.ca

USE THE THREE C’s1. courtesy 2. communication 3. common sense

On the Trailto their riding abilities. If this is your first trail ride choose a shorter trail ride with less riders and find a group that will move at the speed you are comfortable with.

Before you go out on the trails it is your responsibility to ensure that you and your horse will be physically comfortable for the duration of time you will be out. One thing that is extremely important is ensuring that your saddle properly fits your horse. How do you know if your saddle fits correctly? I suggest attending a “how to” saddle fitting clinic. The OEF is hosting one such information session at the upcoming conference. Schleese Saddlery Services will be doing a one hour presentation as an added bonus to attending the upcoming clinic. Don't miss out – mark October 23, 2010 on your calendar and go to www.horse.on.ca for more details and to register.

Bruce County's Wild Trails In the summer 2010 issue of WHOA! a new feature – Wilderness Riding Best Practices - was introduced. This information was in preparation for the 2011 opening of trails in Bruce County. Bruce County is currently preparing a large number of equestrian trails with one big drawback – this is the last natural habitat for rattle snakes and, as a result of the snakes, there is also a large population of bears. With the possibility of encountering either or both of these wildlife creatures this is not what one would consider ideal trail riding, but with urban sprawl, consideration of all areas is a must. There is a surprisingly large horse population in the area, and the locals are very excited about the new trail system and welcome the tourism that it will bring. A campground is under consideration. Look for updates regarding these new project developments in future issues of WHOA!

Ontario Trails Council I have graciously been invited by the Ontario Trails Council (OTC) to attend meetings when new trails are being discussed. Working with all the different trail user groups has been very educational and has opened many doors for promoting equestrian trails where there seemed to be no previous interest.

The OTC recently held a convention entitled Trail Head Ontario. This convention was a huge success and provided useful information to many municipalities. Professional trail builders discussed how not all trails are suitable for all trail users, and in many cases trails are not correctly designed to sustain the traffic. Since the launch of the Trails Training Specialist Program, doors have opened to create certified trail builders

Page 44: Whoa! fall2010

44 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Chapter 1: $5,000,000 Personal Liability Insurance This is one of the two insurance policies that is automatically provided to the member when the Provincial Equine Association (OEF) accepts the membership fees. As soon as the applicant is considered to be “in good standing”, the personal liability insurance as provided is in full force.

The period of coverage is directly tied to the membership - when the membership expires, so does the insurance.

This is liability insurance. By definition, this means that if someone else (a third party) alleges that the member is legally responsible for Bodily Injury or Property Damage caused to them by an owned or leased horse of the member the policy will respond, defend the member as necessary and pay the damages if found to be legally liable.

The whole story…After many successful years of providing service to the equine community across Canada, several of our Provincial Equine Association partners (including the OEF) have asked us to draft an article to clarify the insurance program and to try and dispel some of the myths that pop up from time to time.

We hope that this information will help readers understand the terrific value of this member benefit and ask only that if you have thoughts/comments/questions about what is written here, let us know. Our job as insurance brokers is to serve you and our clear objective is to exceed your expectations – every time. We need and welcome all feedback.

Ask Mike

Insurance 101 by Mike King

Page 45: Whoa! fall2010

www.horse.on.ca | 45

In addition, the policy provides coverage for the care, custody and control of non-owned horses. For example: if the member was transporting another person’s horse ( in a non-commercial situation) and an accident occurred where the member was held to be legally liable for the transported horse’s injury (or death) then this policy would respond. This is a unique coverage that we provide to recognize that almost invariably, the member who owns a horse trailer will (at some point) transport a horse that does not belong to them.

Regardless of the type of liability claim made, the response of the insurer will vary by individual circumstance and it will come as no surprise that not every claim will be paid.

The reasons for possible denial of coverage are many. A few examples:

a) The third party makes no formal allegation of liability. Insurance is not a “voluntary

payment because the member feels guilty” program. For a liability policy insurer to do “anything”, then “someone” has to actually go to the trouble of alleging that the insured (member) is responsible and then prove their loss. This is true of all liability insurance.

b) The value of property damage caused by the horse is under the deductible of $1,000. (yes, there is a deductible – but only for Property Damage claims. There is no deductible for Bodily Injury claims).

c) The use of the horse is not covered. This is a personal liability insurance coverage. Commercial use of the horse is not covered. Riding instruction is a commercial activity and is not covered. For your information - showing, boarding, incidental breeding, leasing between two individuals and recreational use are all considered to be personal uses and are covered by the insurance policy for individual members.

d) The member charged a fee for the service of transporting someone else’s horse and by definition, entered into a commercial transport transaction - which is not covered.

e) There is “other” insurance that could or should respond. Almost every insurance policy (except life insurance) has a clause within the wording that addresses the possibility that the insured has/may have “other insurance”. “Other Insurance” in this program means that if the member has another insurance policy to put the claim through, then that “other” policy is going to be involved and may have to pay all or a part of the claim. This “other insurance” clause is a very common risk deferral strategy that insuring companies of all stripes use. This does not mean that the Equine Association policy will not cover the member or the loss. If the member does not have any other insurance that could or should respond to the claim, then the Equine Association will respond.

Chapter 2:Accident, Death and Dismemberment. (“AD&D”)This is the second insurance policy that is automatically provided to the member in good standing of the equine association.

This AD&D policy has a “Principal Sum” limit of $30,000. The “Principal Sum” is the amount which is used to determine how much the member will receive if they sustain a “scheduled” (listed) injury which resulted from an equine accident . The amount paid will be a multiple of $30,000 or a portion of $30,000. The “schedule” (list) of injuries is what determines how much will be paid.

This is a catastrophic and permanent injury policy. Paraplegia, quadriplegia, loss of sight, loss of a limb, loss of hearing are all examples of the types of injuries that are “scheduled” and; therefore, covered. Death from an equine accident is also covered.

What this AD&D policy does NOT COVER is any:1) loss of income2) rehab cost for injur ies that are not

scheduled on the policy3) fractures (or other non- permanent injuries)4) dental work 5) members who are over the age of 90

years old

The policy is in force 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and covers the member anywhere in the world.

The policy will pay regardless of any other insurance policy that may be in place for the member. These types of insurance (AD&D) "stack" so conceivably the injured person could collect from more than one insurer if they have more than one insurance policy that covers the same loss.

So, that is it for the included insurance.. an excellent program, at very low cost, that addresses the reality of being involved with horses.

Ask Mike

Insurance 101

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46 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Chapter 3:A few years ago, at the request of our customers, we expanded the insurance programs we offer to our Equine Association partners and their membership

The following is a summary of those Optional coverages that require the member to pay an additional fee.

E n h a n c e d A c c i d e n t , D e a t h a n d Dismemberment (AD&D) CoverageIf the member chooses, they can opt to increase the “Principal Sum” of coverage provided to them by an additional $50,000. When this optional coverage is purchased, then there is some limited coverage provided for Fracture and Dental injuries.

The fracture benefit is a one time payment and the amount is determined by which bone(s) is /are invo lved. The h ighest payment is for a fractured skull and is $750.00. Other fractured bones pay less.

The maximum dental benefit is $1,000. when we poll members across the country, they tell us that they are motivated to purchase this addit ional coverage for the increased coverage obta ined for catastrophic injuries and dental and not necessarily for the relatively small benefits provided for a “broken arm”.

There is no coverage under this optional enhancement for loss of income or rehab costs for injur ies not scheduled. This policy is not available to members over the age of 70 years.

Optional Travel CoverageIf the member chooses, they can obtain a travel/medical policy through the association insurers that will cover the member for out of Province/Country emergency medical expenses that might be incurred. This policy covers any number of trips the member may take throughout the year - anywhere in the world - for the first 90 days of any one trip. This policy recognizes that the member may be involved in horse related activities when they travel and if they have an accident that requires medical attention, the coverage will be there.

There are exclusions and as one would expect, conditions of coverage are impacted by some pre-existing medical conditions. This coverage is not available to members over the age of 70 years.

“Members Named Perils” Horse InsuranceIf the member chooses and pays for this optional insurance coverage, they will have

obtained horse mortality (life) insurance for any horse they own if the horse dies as a result of one of the insured perils. The perils (causes of death) insured are Fire, Lightning and Transport.

The maximum the policy will pay is $4,000 for any one loss. The territory for coverage to respond is anywhere in North America. The maximum benefit for any one term- for any one member is $4,000. There is no deductible. This policy does not cover vet expenses or death arising from any other cause.

As the insurance broker for all members, we also offer FULL MORTALITY insurance (a product called EQUI CARE) that covers the horse for death arising from ANY ACCIDENT OR SICKNESS and offer discounted rates for this broad coverage. EQUI CARE can also be extended to cover emergency medical / surgical expenses that might be incurred.. a great product and very inexpensive. If you do want information regarding the product, call our office and we can send out some detailed information.

Optional Tack InsuranceThis is the latest addition to our Provincial Equine Association insurance program. If you choose this option, then up to $2,500 of your tack will be insured for ALL risks of loss.. anywhere in North America

Definitions and other quick facts:1) Who is an insured: Under the MEMBER

insurance program, it will come as no surprise that only the MEMBER is the insured - not the members friend, not the members coach, not the members board ing p l ace owner… on ly the MEMBER.

2) It does not matter how many horses you own to have coverage under the Personal Liability policy that is included in your membership and it does not matter if you board the horses away from your home..

3) The Personal Liability policy will not provide coverage for you if you are sued because you let someone else ride your horse and they fall off and get injured unless the person riding the horse is also a member of an equine association or is a person who earns their living in whole or in part in the horse industry. Your association set this rule in place years ago to encourage membership. The solution is simple… get people to join the equine association

before you let them ride your horse… then you are covered.

4) If someone else is holding your horse and the horse kicks them/bites them/stomps on them etc. and they decide to hold you legally liable for their injury, then you are covered.

5) The AD&D policy is for the member… not the members horse… if you wish to insure your horse against injury or death, we can help… but under a separate policy.

6) If the member is a Junior/minor and owns the horse and a lawsuit is launched against the member because the horse did “something” to “someone” it is almost certain that the Junior’s parent/guardian is going to be named as a co-defendant. In this circumstance, the Equine Association policy will protect the Junior/minor and the parent/guardian – automatically.

7) If the member allows their coach to use their horse in a riding instruction environment (perhaps for a reduction in board etc.) then BEWARE of the legal implications. The Equine Association policy will NOT protect the member if the horse causes bodily injury or property damage while being used “commercially”. There is a simple solution. The member should request that the coach/boarding place owner (user of the horse) provide a certificate of insurance to confirm that they have Commercial General Liability insurance in place – we recommend a limit of no less than $2,000,000 – AND - have the coach or boarding place insurance provider add the name of the horse owner /member to the Commercial General Liability insurance policy as Additional Insured. This simple endorsement typically has no cost associated with it and will potentially protect the member.

The above information is a summary only and should not be construed to be a complete detail of coverages or exclusions that may apply. We urge all members to contact our trained insurance professionals – toll free at 1-888-394-3330 with any and all inquiries about the insurance programs that are provided through your Provincial Equine Association. _

Intercity Insurance Services Inc. / Michael King of Aurora ON is the official insurance program administrator for the OEF and all of it’s members.

Ask Mike

Page 47: Whoa! fall2010

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48 | WHOA! Fall 2010

I hardly think that we will achieve the status of the lonely Maytag repairman but there are ways to avoid your lawyer's office. Most disputes that end up

in Court result from a lack of communication, forethought, or paper. Obey these six simple rules and your lawyer can take a vacation.

1. PUT IT IN WRITINGIf horse lawyers had a mantra, this would be it. Many of the cases that

come through my door wouldn't be there if the parties had signed an agreement. Too often, one party's understanding of a horse transaction varies

significantly from the other party's understanding. This gap seems to widen if a problem surfaces. Reducing the transaction to writing makes the terms more clear and at the very least, creates an environment in which misunderstandings are less likely to occur.

This rule applies to all aspects of this business including boarding arrangements, leasing arrangements, sale agreements, breeding, and even training agreements. By expressing an arrangement in writing, the parties are forced to communicate clearly, think about the deal, and comply with its terms. Any agreement should be signed by all involved parties and a witness should sign the agreement beside each party's signature.

If a dispute does arise, the written agreement will serve as your first line of defence.

Legal

Six Waysto Leave YourLawyer

Lonelyby Catherine Willson, Willson Lewis LLP

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www.horse.on.ca | 49

2. BUYER BEWAREWhen purchasing a horse, this old maxim is still the law. If you, as a buyer, don't ask the important questions about the horse before you buy it, then you have only yourself to blame if the horse is less than perfect.

The seller of the horse has no obligation to tell you anything about it. The horse could be dead lame and if you, as a prospective buyer don't ask about its soundness, you have purchased a lame horse. (Note that there is an implied condition of fitness for a particular purpose when buying from a ‘dealer’).

When buying a horse, consider what you require in a mount. Make a list of the important qualities and then ask the seller whether the horse possesses the qualities you require. It could be show circuit experience, age, disposition, breeding, or a history of soundness. When you get the answers you require, go back to point 1 above and PUT IT IN WRITING.

3. ASK THE EXPERTSPenny wise, pound foolish. It is always a good idea to spend a little money on the experts if their advice will save you grief in the long run.

If you are not willing to pay for a thorough veterinary examination when purchasing a horse then you get what you get (see point 2. above - BUYER BEWARE).

Spending a few hundred dollars on a lawyer to review a complicated sale agreement or draft a boarding or lease agreement is money well spent if it protects you from a problem. One court case created by the lack of a well written agreement will cost many times more than the cost of the agreement.

If you are operating a horse business, consider reviewing the financial side with an accountant. There are complicated farm tax rules that will impact your business.

4. THINK AHEADIf you are entering into a transaction, think ahead.

Try to imagine all the possible outcomes - good and bad - and plan for them in the agreement.

As an example, a lease agreement should indicate what will happen if the horse becomes lame in the care of the lessee. Who will pay for the veterinary bills? Who assumes the risk if the horse is permanently injured or killed? Will the lesser or the lessee carry insurance so that both are protected in the event that the horse hurts a person? All these questions are forward looking. The answers to these questions should be decided between the lesser and the lessee before the horse is leased and should be written into a paper agreement and signed by the parties.

In a boarding agreement, think ahead to plan for emergency veterinary care, the amount of notice required if a boarder wishes to leave the stable, collection procedures for non-payment of board including interest, penalties, etc.

This exercise should take about ten minutes and requires you simply to sit quietly and think about the big picture and all its possible outcomes.

5. COMMUNICATE YOUR INTENTIONSThis is a big one. A failure to communicate lies at the beginning of many a law suit as well as at the ending of many a marriage. Often, two parties will complete a transaction and have two very different ideas of what they just did. To make this even more difficult, memories are short especially when the memory is not in the person's favour.

The best way to communicate your intentions is to obey rules 1, 2, and 4 above. Make sure you discuss with the other party all things that are important to the transaction and when you have reached an agreement, PUT IT IN WRITING. You will be surprised how often a party will say, "That's not what we agreed to!", when he or she sees it in writing. By catching the misunderstanding before you are in the middle of things, you can negotiate a

solution to the disagreement and move on with the deal. Finding a misunderstanding when a problem arises is too late.

6. COMPROMISEIf points 1 through 5 have not prevented a dispute or worse yet, Court action, then it is time to COMPROMISE. On earth at least, it is very rare for someone to be 100% right and the other party to be 100% wrong. It is not wise to fight a court battle based on "principle". It is much better to fight for "principal". Show me the money! In other words and using point 4 above - THINK AHEAD. If you will spend more money fighting a legal battle than you can realistically obtain if successful at trial, then compromise and settle the case.

Legal action is expensive. It also takes an emotional toll and a lot of time. Think carefully about the possible outcomes and your chances of success before pursuing court action. If you can settle a dispute without legal action, perhaps for a little more money than you think you owe or for a little less money than is owed to you, the quick settlement will be much more rewarding to you than a long court battle.

That’s it – six suggestions that are so simple and yet so often ignored. Don’t feel bad about your lawyers – they will have lots of other clients to attend to. I’d rather be riding anyway. _

Catherine Willson is a partner at Willson Lewis LLP, a law firm based in Toronto, Ontario with counsel practising civil and commercial litigation and construction, employment, family, and equine law. This article contains general information only, based on the laws of Ontario, and is not intended to provide a legal opinion or advice. Readers should consult a lawyer with respect to the application of the information contained above to their particular circumstances. Readers may also contact the lawyers at Willson Lewis LLP at (416) 534-9504 or www.willsonlewis.com to discuss any specific issues they may have.

Legal

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I asked her how she was feeling, and she immediately broke down in tears and cried, “They don't like me!” With that admission, Woody, one of the horses Becky was working with (and often a loner himself) came to her and patiently waited for her to place the halter on him. Becky broke out into a huge grin - she had made a new friend.

As a psychotherapist, riding horses has become a central method of reducing my own stress. It was my own experience with horses that led me to search for a way to combine my two passions - horses and psychotherapy. In my search, I stumbled across Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and became EAP certified.

Standing alone in a large arena with horses running around you would be intimidating to most people, but not to 14 -year-old Becky – she just wanted to be their friend. The horses, however, had other ideas. Becky was given the task of catching and haltering one of the three horses that she wanted to work with. Having no experience with horses, Becky quickly became frustrated as they continued to move away from her.

Becky had often struggled with making friends in school. Her way of coping was to pretend like she didn't care, keeping her feelings to herself. She tried this with the horses as well. As Becky's psychotherapist,

Equifacts

by Jasmine Chomski, MAEquine Assisted Psychotherapist and Director of EAP at Harmony Ranch

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy: How I Brought My Office into the Arena

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www.horse.on.ca | 51

EAP is a method of using activities with horses, on the ground, to help people learn about themselves. Participants are given problem-solving activities to do with the horses, then the thoughts, feelings and behaviours that emerge are processed by a mental health professional. How people approach these activities mirrors the way they approach difficulties within their own lives. EAP activities are rich with metaphor. In Becky's case, she was able to see how others responded to her behaviour and what she could do to get a different response. It was the beginning of Becky learning how to build relationships.

The horses are an important element of this kind of therapy because they respond to who people really are inside. If you are nervous, a horse will perceive it. There is no faking with a horse. It’s important to know that EAP is not about learning horsemanship or riding skills. The horses are merely tools that help with self-discovery.

It is crucial to have a qualified therapist present to assist in the processing of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy activities. This is where the real change occurs. As a psychotherapist,

I help my clients apply what occurs in the arena to the rest of their lives. I incorporate other therapeutic theories, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, to provide clients with tools for change.

EAP provides a very different perspective than traditional talk therapy. These activities allow people to see the immediate cause and effect of their behaviour. In the office, we rely on the client's perspective only. EAP provides clients with the opportunity to work through their problems and get immediate feedback, leading to quicker change. The serene, tranquil environment of a beautiful ranch is also a lot less daunting than a sterile office, especially for teens, who often resist traditional talk therapy

One of the most common questions we are asked is if our program includes riding the horses. The teens are often disappointed to hear the answer is no. However, any horse person will tell you, our relationships with horses always start on the ground. I believe this is one of the most powerful tools this type of therapy offers, the ability to create relationships.

At our core, we are relational beings. Most of the difficulties that people come to therapy about can be traced back to difficulties in relationships. Usually, the one we have with ourselves. Children in general, are not taught how to be effective in relationships. For the most part, we learn by observing our parents. EAP gives clients an opportunity to learn what their relationship patterns are and how to safely create new ways of relating. In particular, EAP provides a unique setting for family therapy with activities that are fun and engaging as well as therapeutic.

The relationship work begins by allowing the horses to be unrestrained during most of the activities. The horses are allowed to be exactly that, horses. When working with horses in this way, the real personality of the horse emerges and we are able to see how each client's personality impacts the horse. Clients learn that as they change their approach, the horse's response changes as well. They are then encouraged to try this new behaviour with others in their lives.

The rules in the arena are also guidelines that many people need to have in their life. Our first rule is respect. Respect for yourself in terms of personal safety and honouring what your needs are and respect for others, including the horse. The sheer size of a horse commands respect. Participants quickly find out that a lack of respect, leads to an uncooperative horse.

This kind of therapy can also be extremely powerful for people who have difficulty making friends, like Becky. Horses are herd animals and as such, want to form connections with others. As a result of spending time with a horse, many of my clients have reported feeling liked and accepted for the first time.

Equine assisted psychotherapy is beneficial for anyone who wants to learn about him or herself and make changes in his or her life. EAP is a particularly effective therapeutic treatment for people with depression, learning disabilities, self-esteem issues, anxiety issues and relationship issues. It has been found to be beneficial for building confidence and self-esteem, conflict resolution skills, problem-solving, communication and team-building skills.

This approach is not just for people who are dealing with major life difficulties. Our group activities and workshops can benefit anyone interested in self development. Change, in any form, is a major source of stress for many people. How to handle change effectively is a skill that many could use assistance with. Our activities focus on problem solving and how to change our response to frustration.

Many people often report that they feel stuck in their life and are unable to stop repeating ineffective patterns. Traditional learning workshops help to understand the thoughts that are creating those patterns. EAP activities take it one step further by allowing participants to see how a change in those thoughts creates new behaviours. We give people the chance to try many different approaches to a task to experience what that change would feel like. Through the processing, clients are then able to translate that into change in their real life.

This type of therapy is for horse and non horse people alike. While horses are an integral part of this process, participants do not have to have an interest in horses or building a relationship with them. They are merely a tool to help the client learn about themselves.

At Harmony Ranch in Schomberg , Ontario, we offer a variety of programs for teens and adults. We offer individual the rapy, fami l y the rapy, and g roup workshops like Self Esteem for Teens and Women's Harness Your Power, which are excellent ways to discover how EAP can enrich your life. Sessions may be fully or partially covered by extended health insurance plans. _

Please call Jasmine Chomski at 416-518-6999 or visit www.harmonyranch.ca for more details.

Equifacts

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Management Strategy (NMS). For more information on how you can complete an Environmental Farm Plan, contact your loca l representat ive at OSCIA (www.ontariosoilcrop.org).

The cost for a manure storage facility can range significantly depending on the farms needs and size of operation. The cost of labour and materials must also be considered. Based on manure storage facilities completed in 2010 by landowners in the Greater Toronto Area, the cost varied significantly ranging from $6/m2 for a 15m x 23m facility to $17/m2 for a 14m x 9m facility. The size and location of the facility, which should provide a minimum of 240 days of manure storage as per the EFP guideline, is based on a number of factors which are investigated during the development of your NMS. The number of livestock on the farm, topography of the land, the amount of pasture available to spread the manure and if there are any significant natural features nearby such as a creek or wetland are just some of the factors investigated. With so many variables to consider, one can see that a NMS is unique

contr ibute to contaminat ion of nearby ground and surface water sources integral to the health of Hop Hill Stable’s two and four legged residents!

With funding assistance from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority ( L SRC A ) , the Onta r io So i l and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA), and Environment Canada, the Jewett’s have constructed a modern 200m2 (2,150ft2) covered manure storage facility adjacent to the barn. The faci l i t y consists of a cover-all type roof, pre-cast concrete walls and a sloped concrete slab to facil itate drainage. “While we understand the risk of contamination, we also recognized the benefit manure can provide to improve pasturing for our horses. By keeping the manure on site, it also saves us the cost of trucking it to another facility for composting or disposal”. The manure storage facility was specifically sized and designed for Hop Hi l l as per the recommendat ions prov ided in the farms’ Env i ronmenta l Farm Plan (EFP) and subsequent Nutrient

In the summer issue of WHOA!; Hop Hill Stables, owned and operated by Michael Jewett and his family was highlighted for its unique approach using recycled materials for constructing a barn, adjoining tack room and riding arena. Using salvaged materials sourced from building demolitions around the province and repurposed on site features like the original homesteads’ masonry stove, Hop Hill Stables illustrates its commitment to reducing its environmental ‘hoof’ print.

With 26 horses residing at Hop Hil l Stables at any given time, there are a lot of hoof prints to consider. With the average horse consuming 2% of its body weight per day (about half a square bale) and an estimated 300,000 horses in Ontar io; that is a lot of hay making and hay eating! However, it was the end result of the hay eating that concerned the Jewett family. With 220 feeding days when pasture is not available, the end result is a lot of accumulated manure. This needs to be removed from stalls, stored, composted and recycled to ensure that it does not

The manure storage facility at Hop Hill Stable

by Nadine Abrams

Welcome to Hop Hill Stable (Part 3)

Going Green

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www.horse.on.ca | 53

to each farm and that the cost of a manure storage facility can be easily affected.

At Hop Hill, the manure subject is still up for discussion as the Jewett’s investigate phase two of their manure management plan, a composting system. Over the past year, Mr. Jewett and his family have investigated various uses for horse manure. After careful consideration and analysis of anaerobic digestion (composting without oxygen) for biogas and fertilizer, gasification and basic composting, the decision was made to pursue composting in a series of windrows. In agriculture, windrow composting is the production of compost by piling organic matter or biodegradable waste, such as animal manure and crop residues, in long rows (on level ground). In the case of Hop Hill, the farms’ tractor is used to sculpt the manure into windrows. It is then turned every two days initially and then approximately once a week. The windrow is simultaneously watered via a compost turner (attached to the back of the tractor) which has built-in nozzles that spray the windrow during turning. The nozzles are attached to a 1,500 gal tank, acquired from a maple syrup equipment supplier, and is filled using the “recycled” water out of the existing cistern (rain water collected from the arena roof). Of course, a good watering from a hose works as well. The windrows are also monitored for temperature as the optimal temperature to kill pathogenic organisms and undesirable weed seeds is 1300F to 1600F. The turning process is repeated for approximately 10 to 12 weeks or until the manure has been suitably composted for application to the pasture or lawn area. There is no definitive rule but finished compost should be dark in color and have an earthy smell (like the smell of soil).

Mr. Jewett commented that manure from horses is not well studied as it is mixed with wood shavings or straw/straw pellets and that he is still learning about basic composting, the material compositions as well as more technical data such as the carbon-nitrogen ratios within the compost. The first round of composting at Hop Hill was successful with product being spread on the paddocks by early August. “The advantage for us, “ says Jewett, “is that we no longer need to haul manure off-site, but we eliminated spreading raw, nutrient high manure on the land, which is so much better for the environment and our water resources.”

It is estimated that Hop Hill Stable produces 400 tons of manure each year, providing a considerable amount of invaluable nutrients for other uses around the property. Not only can composted manure help to improve pasture yield, but extra product can be applied to lawn and garden areas prompting some equine establishments to bag and sell their leftovers as a revenue generator.

“Every horse farm should look at their manure as a resource,” recommends Jewett. “Even if a properly designed manure storage facility is not in the budget, I would encourage people to look at the location of their manure storage and how they can reduce the risk of runoff contaminating local water resources.” Suggestions from the Healthy Lands, Healthy Horses program include making sure your manure pile is not located “up-hill” from your well or local creek. Based on the best EFP rating, manure storage of any type should be a minimum of 90 metres away from a private well and greater than 300 metres away from any municipal well (numbers vary in the Nutrient Management Act). Installing eaves troughs to divert clean water from building roofs away from the manure pile can help. It may be as simple as putting an extension on an existing downspout. Another option is tarping your manure pile as this will speed up composting and reduce runoff which reduces the

nutrient content of your manure. For more information on how you can better manage your manure, visit the ‘nutrient management’ section on the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs website (www.omafra.gov.on.ca).

We hope you enjoyed our three part series on Hop Hill Stables. To learn more about stewardship programs, the Environmental Farm Plan process and funding programs available to help you, contact your local Conservation Authority or OSCIA. Not sure which of the 36 Conservation Authorities you should contact, check out the provincial map and contact listing on the Conservation Ontario website at www.Conservation-Ontario.on.ca.

This article has been prepared by the Healthy Lands for Healthy Horses Steering Committee, which is comprised of representatives from the OEF Horse Facilities Advisory Council, Uxbridge Horseman’s Association, Ontario Trail Riders Association, Equine Guelph, University of Guelph, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ontario Equestrian Federation and various Conservation Authorities. Funding for events organized by this committee has been provided by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association from the Nutrient Management BMP Demonstration Grant funding project. _

For more information please visit: www.equineguelph.ca/healthylands.php

Going Green

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54 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Breed & Discipline Updates

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Amy Kohler with Relhok's Honour Roll

Hilary Tolhurst with CWM Felen Dulais

Ganaraska Forest Horse Club by Sandy Macfarlane

The Ganaraska Forest Horse Club (GFHC) represents over 100 members that have a

strong interest in trail riding in the Ganaraska Forest. GFHC has operated for more than a decade and is focused on safe non-competitive trail-riding through 11,000 acres of pastoral countryside an hour east of Toronto. Our goal is to work with the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) to help maintain the trails, parking lots, signage and amenities. While enjoying the beautiful trails, we also want to help educate all forest users in safe trail riding and equine awareness. The GFHC is strongly supported by a very dedicated club executive and its many volunteers!

2010 shaped up to be a busy year! During the winter and spring months, GFHC hosted several social functions including the annual family sleigh ride at Kennedys Sugar Bush in Millbrook on January 24, a fundraising dance in support of community events and the enhancement of trail riding on March 6 and the Annual General Meeting held on April 18 at the new Ganaraska Forest Centre/Oak Ridge’s Moraine Centre.

When the weather improved, the GFHC members hit the trail. On May 30 the 14th annual “Poker Ride” at the Forest Centre saw a record breaking attendance with a total of ninety-four riders joining in on the fun. We proudly presented a cheque for $1,000 to the GRCA to support the centre. The Summer Sizzler Ride on June 26 at the Sandaraska Park turned into the Summer DRIZZLER with twenty five very soggy riders and horses!

A camping clinic on July 17 taught members techniques and safe practices on how to properly camp with horses. Ron Keeler, horseman extraordinaire, showed the group new knots to practice, along with simple and safe techniques. On August 21, members had a chance to practice their highline techniques, ride with friends and enjoy lunch. On September 11, members rode out on five miles of marked trails and stopped at five designated skill stations during the Skill Challenges Ride. The last scheduled 2010 event is the Cool Colours Ride on October 3, come and join us - the colours in the forest are absolutely breathtaking this time of year!

GFHC members receive a number of benefits plus opportunities to ride and have fun with fellow equine enthusiasts. For more information please contact [email protected] or visit www.gfhc.ca. We hope to see you out on the trail! _

h

hCOPDA Updateby Mary Gregoris

Everyone in attendance enjoyed a beautiful day at the Orangeville Fairgrounds on August 1st for the Central Ontario Pleasure Driving Association (COPDA) Pleasure Driving Show. After enduring the more ‘bracing’ weather of the June 6th show. This nice change in weather made it much easier for all of the competitors.

Judge Kail Palmer of Pennsylvania was presented with a varied assortment of driving equines, from some very polished VSE’s (miniature horses) to a miniature donkey named Daisy! The cones course gave most competitors a few nervous moments, as it was a challenging course with a great layout.Champions from the competition were as follows:VSE champion: Magic Man’s Silver Sheik driven by Jordan AlmaSingle Horse Champion: Kitia owned and driven by Cynthia ZalewskiSingle Pony Campion: Joe driven by Nicky GluckJunior/Novice Driver: Alexis Clark

The winner of the Concours d’Elegance award was Miss Amy Kohler driving Relhok Honour Roll. This award is presented to the entry with the most elegant effect during the competition and is judged on vehicle, harness, appointments, horse and driver but is mostly based on the overall impression.

Congratulations to all of our competitors for a successful showing season and thanks to everyone who came out to our competitions – we look forward to seeing you all next June!

On a special note, COPDA wishes to thank our dedicated (and brave!) volunteers for all their help in running the show- we appreciate your time and couldn’t do it without you!! _

Anne Vavra,

President of

GFHC, helping

out at the Poker

Ride

h

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Breed & Discipline Updates

OCTRA Riders Compete In North American Young Riders Endurance Rideby Nancy Zukewich

Two members of the Ontario Competitive Trail Riding Association (OCTRA), Jessica Hendricks and Lee Hutten, represented Canada at the North American Young Riders Endurance Ride (NAYRER) in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. This FEI CEI** 75 mile endurance event was held in conjunction with the North American Junior/Young Riders Championships on July 29, 2010.

During endurance events, horses and riders cover 50 to 100 miles in a day. The goal is to finish as fast as possible with a healthy horse. The welfare of the horse is paramount. Horses are checked at regular intervals by veterinary judges before being deemed “fit to continue”.

Here is Lee’s story about how they made it to the event, against the odds!Everything seemed to be going wrong from the beginning. Two weeks before we travelled

to Kentucky, the sand crack on Phantom's hoof broke off, leaving him a half inch short on the right front. Strike One. We had him re-shod and kept our fingers crossed.

Off we went with not only our fingers crossed, but our toes as well. The fifteen hour trip was uneventful. However, when we took Phantom off the trailer, we saw that he had rubbed his hindquarters raw! Strike Two. We iced him to get the swelling down, and before presenting for the initial veterinary inspection, we went for a short ride. When we got back, we discovered girth sores. Strike Three! Thankfully, they were not serious.

Jessica and I rode together, and the ride day was extremely hot and humid. We got through the vet checks quickly. Phantom’s heart rate was pulsing down in good time thanks to my awesome crew, my mom, Colette Hutten and Dr. Art King.

By mile sixty three, Phantom’s back was sore from compensating for that shorter foot. Jessica’s horse, Cherokee, was also off due to a tight muscle. That ended our hopes of completing the ride. Things didn't go as planned, we got to ride sixty three miles of beautiful trail and learned lots. We had an awesome day! Now.... time to start planning for NAYRER 2011!!!

Lee Hutten aboard Phantom and

Jessica Hendriks aboard Cherub Rosen

competing at the North American

Young Riders Endurance Ride that took place

this past July in Kentucky.

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For all your equine legal needs

Stacey Cronyn David Stout June Rudderham613.231.8272 613.231.8344 613.231.8246

Injuries to horse & riderLease and boarding agreementsCo-ownershipBusiness disputesEmployment contracts

www.nelligan.ca Ottawa Kingston Vankleek Hill Alexandria

Cross border and transportationissuesOccupiers liabilityPurchase disputesInsuranceEstate planning and family law

Page 56: Whoa! fall2010

56 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Breed & Discipline Updates

Tim Stanton on Chex To Bee Cashed winning the Gun Dealer Derby Open at the Spooks Gotta Gun Futurity in London

hOntario Reining Horse Associationby Carol Ivey

The Ontario Reining Horse Association (ORHA) has had a great slate of shows this summer, with some very impressive runs.

Fletchers Horse World once again put on some terrif ic shows this year, with a Derby highlight at the July show, complete with a pizza party, BBQ dinner and a saddle draw (courtesy of Roy and Joan Ionson). Congratulations to Tim Stanton for winning the Derby Open and to Deena Colic for the Non-Pro. Kodak Canada generously donated free disposable cameras for all competitors at both summer shows held at Fletchers Horse World.

The August Spooks Gotta Gun Futurity in London was another show that set the bar high. Ken and Dana Van Alstine went above and beyond to put on a fantastic show, complete with a complimentary pizza and karaoke party and some fun classes.

The Pro-Am class, although it ran Saturday night, was a big hit with a large number of entrants and many spectators. This class featured a run where a non-pro ran the first half of the pattern, and an open rider ran the second half, with their scores combined. The Champions of the class were Kelly and Steven Hedges, who coincidentally also won the saddle and saddle stand at the Fletchers show. They are making quite a mark in Ontario!

We are delighted to congratulate Darcy Wilson for her individual silver medal at the July Young Riders Reining Competition in Kentucky, and also Lane Wilson and Lyndsay Kloster for making the Ontario team.

Congratulations also goes out to Jason Richards and Wimpys Tinseltown, owned by John Fletcher, for being Derby Finalists this summer in the Intermediate Open and Limited Open.

We are also very proud of our many members who are in the Reining Canada Top Ten this year, and they are listed on our website at www.orha.on.ca .

Well done everyone! For information on our Association and the great sport of reining,

please email me at [email protected]. _

Ontario Percheron Horse Associationby Kim Davidson

The Ontario Percheron Horse Association Inc. (OPHA) continues to promote the Percheron horse in Ontario and recognize the versatility of this great breed.

The OPHA presented an award to the highest placing plowman using a Team of Percherons at the 2010 International Plowing Match that was being held in St. Thomas, Elgin County, September 21-25. In addition, the OPHA is pleased to be sponsoring the new futurity program that was kicked off last year at Carson's Fall Colors Draft Horse Show.

Having hosted a successful World Percheron Congress (WPC) in 2008 the OPHA is pleased to be sponsoring a class at the WPC 2010 being held in Des Moines, Iowa in October of this year. In addition, the OPHA will be setting up an information booth in order to encourage Percheron enthusiasts to "take a look at Ontario Percherons!"

The Premier Percheron Sire and Premier Percheron Dam award will be awarded at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair to recognize successful breeding programs. Look for the OPHA promotion booth and our participation at "Spirit of the Horse" at the 2010 Royal.

A new futurity program, the All-Ontario Percheron Futurity, has been developed to encourage breeding and showing of Ontario Percherons.

The OPHA recognizes the importance of its youth members and has a youth showmanship program. Showmanship Awards for the 2010 season will be handed out at the OPHA's annual banquet in February, 2011.

A new Breeder Directory has been published to help those looking for a Percheron find where the Ontario breeders are.

For more information on any of the programs or events of the OPHA, visit our website www.ontariopercherons.ca or contact Kim Davidson, President [[email protected] (519) 454-8734] or Michelle Campbell, Secretary [campbellfarms@silomailcom (519) 443-6399]. _

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Briana DeVos riding a purebred Percheron gelding to

first place in the English Riding class at the 2010 CNE

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EQUINE MASSAGE

THERAPY

BY DIANE

CERTIFIED EQUINE MASSAGE THERAPIST SERVING

YORK REGION

SPORTS MASSAGE FOR AHAPPIER HORSE

DIANE BARROW, C.E.M.T.

406 - 249 MAJOR MACKENZIE DR. E.RICHMOND HILL, ON L4C 9M8

905 884 [email protected]

h

Page 57: Whoa! fall2010

www.horse.on.ca | 57

Editorial RetractionThe Summer 2010 issue of WHOA! incorrectly published information in the Ontario Friesian Horse Association article (page 59). The article should have read as follows:

The OFHA has been busy the last few months planning for the upcoming season of activities, and hosting Friesian horse owners from all over Canada and the United States for the Friesian Horse Association of North America’s AGM in February at the Hilton London Ontario.

The OEF apologizes for this mistake. _

Ontario Trail Riders Association - Fun-D Ride The Ontario Trail Riders Association (OTRA) hosted the Fun-D ride, fundraising event held over the August long weekend. Janice Clegg and Morris Radomsky graciously welcomed thir ty six riders to their Pine River Ranch in Everitt ON. Riders had the opportunity to ride the beautiful trails in the Dufferin and Simcoe County forests over the three days.

On Saturday evening, fif ty hungry OTRA supporters attended the Fun-D beef dinner. All proceeds raised were donated to trail development.

“The weather was good and the food was great. Everyone seemed to have a good time and the campfires were just as impressive as last year”, stated Bob and Marg Webb.

Thank you to Janice and Morris for another great Fun-D Ride! _

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Breed & Discipline Updates

Well deserved drink on the way back to camphRiders heading to Dufferin County Forest from Pine River RanchhP

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Page 58: Whoa! fall2010

58 | WHOA! Fall 2010

Page 59: Whoa! fall2010

Research Update Fall 2010

As purses increase in the horse racing industry, thestakes for winning get higher…driving someparticipants to use performance-enhancing drugs.The diversity of these substances is makingadequate drug testing and fair racing more difficultto ensure.

Erythropoietin (EPO) is one such drug. It’s anaturally occurring hormone in mammals, whichstimulates red blood cell production. Red bloodcells contain haemoglobin which carries oxygenfrom the lungs to body tissues.

Injecting extra EPO means the bone marrowproduces more red blood cells thus making moreoxygen available for strenuous physical activity.This, in turn, can improve athletic performance.

Increased efforts are now in place to detect illicituse of EPO. This is difficult because it comes inmany forms. Prof. Dorothee Bienzle, Departmentof Pathobiology, is performing a number of pre-and post-race tests to hone in on the exact levels ofblood haemoglobin that indicate EPO drug use.

“We’re developing a test that will prevent horsestreated with any form of EPO from competing,”she says Bienzle.

The Ontario Racing Commission is serious aboutgetting drugs out of the racing sector. ORC isproposing horses found to have been injected withEPO be banned from racing. They believe thisintent to punish will reduce the likelihood of itsuse.

“Not only is the use of EPO illegal from a racingstandpoint, it can also be dangerous,” says Bienzle.

“When used in excess, clumping of blood cells canoccur, causing strokes, heart attacks or even death.”

Bienzle’s test, along with the heavy fines for EPOuse, will help to maintain the integrity of the horseracing industry, she says.

Research funding has been provided by EquineGuelph, the Ontario Racing Commission and theCanada Research Chairs program.

- Vanessa Perkins

INSIDE Volume 7, Number 2

Equine Guelph

Prof. Dorothee Bienzle is performing a number of pre- and post-race tests tohone in on the exact levels of blood haemoglobin that indicate EPO drug use.“We’re developing a test that will prevent horses treated with any form of EPOfrom competing,” she says.

In Step With Industry IssuesThe race is on for an adequate drug test

photo by Dave Landry

“The very positive response from theindustry to last year's Fall newsletter witha focus on research encouraged us torepeat the exercise this year. We present asurvey of the progress made in the past 12months by researchers who wereshowcased last year, and introduce the newprojects that were funded earlier in theyear and which are getting up to speed. Ina special article, we ask design engineerDr. John Runciman, "What is theattraction for you working with vets onissues of equine health? We hope thewhole package gives you an informativesnapshot of the current status of researchbeing funded with the help of the industrypartners of Equine Guelph.”

Dr. Jeff Thomason, Co-Chair,Equine Guelph Research Committee

Exploring Imaging Techniques......................................2

Respiration Restoration ...............................................4

Next Step in Stem Cell Research..................................7

Journey Through the Joints .........................................8

helping horses for life

Page 60: Whoa! fall2010

60 | WHOA! Fall 2010

2 Equine Guelph

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) is one of only two facilities in Canada that has extensive imaging capabilities, with x-ray andultrasound technology, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear medicine. “The CT and MRItechnologies are generating never before seen pictures of horse anatomy,” says Nykamp. “This will be helpful for owners, industryprofessionals and veterinary students to better understand their animals.”

Rapid injury diagnosis is a key step in injurytreatment, and high-tech imaging machines oftenhelp. The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) -which holds x-ray and ultrasound technology,computed tomography (CT), magneticresonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear medicine- is one of only two facilities in Canada that hasall five diagnostic tools. This makes the OVC asought-after locale for injury diagnosis.

Stephanie Nykamp, a certified radiologist atOVC, is using this equipment to its full potential.She’s working with Equine Guelph to developthree-dimensional models and images of ahorse’s anatomical features. These enhancedimages could help veterinarians and researcherswith injury diagnosis, and serve as educational

materials when teaching equine anatomy toOVC students or other graduate students.

“We can create interactive files with images thatthe students can rotate into any orientation theywould like,” says Nykamp.

Stephanie is combining images taken with CTand MRI technologies to create these three-dimensional models of a horse’s legs, head andneck, for example. These enhanced images willprovide a closer and more detailed look at thebones, joints, ligaments and muscles in eachlimb.

“The CT and MRI technologies are generatingnever before seen pictures of horse anatomy,”says Nykamp. “This will be helpful for owners,

industry professionals and veterinary students tobetter understand their animals.”

When the CT scans and MRI photos are taken,they will be compiled into interactive teachingtools as well as videos that show the limbrotating, so anatomical features can be viewedfrom different angles.

Nykamp says this perspective of horse anatomywill add value to Equine Guelph’s educationalprograms.

This research has been funded through theEquine Guelph Research Fund.

- Carol Moore

Capturing the whole picture

2009 RESEARCH PROJECT UPDATE

Excellent EmbryosEmbryo freezing in horses has been mostlyineffective, as the capsule around the embryoremains impermeable to many widely usedfreezing chemicals, called cryoprotectants.University of Guelph researchers are lookingto determine if novel types of cryoprotectantsmay be more successfully metabolized byhorse embryos.

“Right now, there is only a very narrowwindow in which we are able to freezeembryos effectively – only very earlyembryos, at about five and one-half to six daysold,” says leading researcher Prof. TraceyChenier from the Department of ClinicalStudies. “For these frozen embryos to

be commercially viable worldwide, we need tobe able to freeze embryos at day seven oreight.”

This spring, Chenier and her colleagues havebegun flushing mares to collect embryos.Then, they will use a chemical process knownas gas chromatography to determine howmuch of the cryoprotectant is able to penetratethe embyro’s outer capsule and reach theembryonic fluid inside.

Chenier and her colleagues hosted formerGuelph researcher Dr. Stanley Leibo, a worldrenowned cryobiologist, and assisted with theproject this past summer.

- Alycia Moore

September 25 - October 10EquiMania! at the Alltech FEI WorldEquestrian Games, Kentucky

November 05 - 14EquiMania! at the Royal AgriculturalWinter Fair, Toronto

Anyone wishing to excerptEquine Guelph should contact:Jackie Bellamy, ext [email protected]

Mark your calendar!EVENTS

Page 61: Whoa! fall2010

www.horse.on.ca | 61

Equine Guelph 3

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Stressed regions of a horse’s pulmonary artery are examined by (from left)undergraduate student Matt Teeter, Prof. Luis Arroyo and Prof. John Runciman.

and students since then. He attests “Expandingareas of research is best when collaborationcombines strengths”. Runciman is quick to praisethe quality of equipment and staff at the Universityof Guelph. Some of the greatest challenges he hasfaced while researching projects with vets concernsfunding. By the time serious financial backingmaterializes, a young vet in the DVSc program mayhave graduated. Funding from the equine industrymade available through Equine Guelph has oftenhelped to alleviate this problem.

Runciman is currently working with veterinaryresearchers Dr. Luis Arroyo and Dr. Laurent Viel inthe department of Clinical Studies, researchingpulmonary artery calcification which is a conditionlinked to premature death in young, athletic, racehorses. Runciman has facilitated the groundworkwith 3-D models in the test lab. There are manychallenges when working with complicated systemsinvolving heart and lungs together. The nextsignificant stride will be made this summer, takingthe static lab work; which looks at one functionalunit in isolation and using these findings to moveforward and study live functioning of thecardiopulmonary system during exercise.

Runciman enjoys the research resulting from hisinvolvement with vets. He says it staves offcomplacency, as he picks up a book off his desk andstates he is never sure what is coming up next. “Ifyou had told me I would be researchingaerodynamics to understand fluid flow in animals afew years ago, I would not have believed it!”Runciman proclaims: “I am attracted to thechallenge of working on animals. They are morecomplex than the most complicated machinery everbuilt.”

Funding for Runciman’s equine research wasprovided by Equine Guelph.

- Jackie Bellamy

2009 RESEARCH PROJECT UPDATE

Working in the FieldRoutine anaesthetic and analgesic methods today only allow practitioners a very short window in whichto complete surgeries such as castrations before additional doses of anaesthetic drugs are required. Toeliminate this problem and optimize surgery time and analgesia, University of Guelph researchers arelooking at the effectiveness of systemic lidocaine as an additional method in equine field surgeries,compared to more standard techniques.

Prof. Melissa Sinclair and her colleagues from the Department of Clinical Studies began performing thefirst half of their study this spring when most field castrations are performed. So far, the response to their

work from private practitioners and area clientshas been overwhelmingly positive, helping theresearchers in their ongoing data collection withsurrounding clinics and farms.

The remaining data will be collected in latesummer and fall during the next wave ofcastrations.

“So far we’re thrilled at the very positiveresponse from private practitioners and farmowners who have been eager to participate,”says Sinclair.- Alycia Moore

photo by Martin Schwalbe

Dr. John Runciman joined the faculty at University of Guelph’s School of Engineering eleven years ago withan impressive background in mechanical and bioengineering. Runciman never would have guessed hisinterest in disassembling mechanical objects and analyzing how they function would lead him to researchingpulmonary artery calcification in alliance with veterinary researchers. He declares “The rules of engineeringstill apply to the animal side but are more complicated, interrelated and optimized.”

Runciman shifted his focus from gears to tissue after a professor raised his interest in orthopedic researchand its clinical applications. He furthered his Masters in Mechanical Engineering at Queen’s University witha Ph.D. in Bioengineering at University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland and returned to Queen’s inKingston for a postdoctoral Fellowship in the Department of Physiology. Runciman became involved inresearch areas including: the biomechanics and design of orthopedic implants, design of assistive devicesand waterskiing biomechanics and equipment design.

One year after signing on at the University of Guelph, Runciman’s mechanical engineering skills weresourced to assess a knee impact measuring tool for Dr. Jim Dickey (human biomechanics) and Dr. MarkHurtig (veterinary orthopaedics). Runciman has worked with half a dozen large animal veterinary faculty

Bioengineer Collaborating with Vets

Page 62: Whoa! fall2010

62 | WHOA! Fall 2010

4 Equine Guelph

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Respiration RestorationResearchers in many fields aim to clear up common respiratory conditions

At a metre and a half in length, horses have oneof the longest mammalian airways — threetimes longer than a human’s. These airwayshelp them obtain the oxygen they need whenrunning…but racehorses and companion horsesalike suffer from a myriad of respiratorydiseases. To help lead the way to clearerairways, University of Guelph researchers areusing a variety of approaches to combatrespiratory conditions.

One such condition is exercise inducedpulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH), which plaguesabout 80 per cent of racehorses. It occurs afterintense activity, when within seconds a horse’sheart rate more than quadruples to over 200beats per minute. The huge increase in bloodpressure can cause the capillaries in the lung toburst, resulting in nose bleeds and in somecases, potentially fatal haemorrhaging.

Dr. Luis Arroyo and Prof. Laurent Viel,Department of Clinical Studies, and Prof. JohnRunciman, Department of Engineering, areexamining the relationship between EIPH andcalcified lesions in the pulmonary artery, whichare also found in about 80 per cent of racehorses(the body deposits calcium as an ultimate repairmechanism in an attempt to reinforce tissueweakened by injury or stress).

The main trunk of a horse’s pulmonary artery isfour to six centimetres in diameter andresponsible for carrying more than 250 litres ofblood per minute from the heart to the lungs foroxygenation.

Researchers used MRI and CT scans to build a3-D image computer model that calculated thestress that this huge volume of blood can causeon arterial walls. They also examined the spatiallocation of the calcified lesions.

If the research finds that calcium deposits arelinked to EIPH, then more resources can gotowards understanding and preventing them.

“From our models, we found that the higheststresses were right where the artery branches,and this is also where the calcification alwaysstarts,” says Runciman. “The blood flow in

racing horses is tortuous; it almost becomes theirAchilles’ heel.”

Arteries will stretch to accommodate each pulseof blood from the heart and contract to move theblood along, thereby acting as shock absorbersso the blood pressure in the smallest arteries isminimal, avoiding rupture. A calcified artery isless elastic, losing its shock-absorbing role,which results in a larger, faster pulse wave thathas greater impact when it reaches the lungs.Researchers believe this pressure spike is whatbursts lung capillaries and causes EIPH.

Their research is taking a new twist. Thissummer, Arroyo, Runciman and Viel will put

catheters in the pulmonary arteries of ex-racersand young, healthy horses to perform inside-outultrasounds that monitor the animal’s blood flowand pulse wave.

“This is the first time we’ll be looking at liveanimals,” says Arroyo. “We can examine themboth resting and exercising, to see firsthand ifand how the calcified lesions affect arterialstiffness and parameters like pulse wave.”

In many cases, existing EIPH seems to beassociated with — and perhaps a contributor to— a respiratory condition found in youngracehorses called inflammatory airway disease(IAD). This condition concurrently studied by

photo by David Landry

Equine Guelph 5

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Viel is similar to asthma in humans, where theairways become overly sensitive to allergensresulting in bronchial constriction, or closure ofthe airways.

On the racetrack, horses with IAD struggle to getenough oxygen. In an oxygen deprived state, thebody’s natural response is to constrict bloodvessels. During intense exercise, blood vesselsmust dilate to accommodate increased bloodflow. These counteracting mechanisms couldresult in the damage and bleeding associatedwith EIPH.

That’s where research by Viel and graduatestudent Modest Vengust comes in. Theyexamined the effect of the drug furosemide onthe lung. Known commercially as Lasix, it isused on many racehorses and believed to treatEIPH; specifically, fluid in the lung.

Before high blood pressure causes the lung’ssmall blood vessels to rupture, some of the fluidin the capillaries will be forced out into the lungin an attempt to reduce pressure. Lasix wasthought to prevent this accumulation of fluid,called pulmonary oedema, reducing excessivesmall artery blood pressure.

However, when the researchers put Lasixtreated horses on a treadmill to increase theirheart rate and blood pressure to racetrack levels,they found that it had no effect on reducing fluidbuild-up.

Lasix also has many side effects, includingdehydration and blood electrolyte imbalance.

“We wanted to know if Lasix treated orsomehow prevented EIPH,” says Viel. “Wefound that it does neither. Therefore, it becomesquestionable if Lasix has any preventative effectat all, meaning the debate should continue as towhether Lasix is a valid pre-racing medication.In my opinion, it would be a great welfarebenefit to the horse in treating them for IAD, aswe treat asthmatics with a simplebronchodilator that opens up their airways totheir normal, healthy level. Many of these drugsare approved for use in horses and would offer asafer, more effective solution.”

Some veterinarians also believe that effectivelytreating IAD early on, could prevent the onset ofrecurrent airway obstruction (RAO), or“heaves”, amore advanced respiratory illness ofolder animals.

RAO is commonly found in hunter-jumpers,ponies, dressage and companion horses. Thecondition causes frequent allergic respiratoryresponses which include performance disruptivecoughing and animal discomfort. It’s especiallyprevalent in colder countries like Canada wherehorses must be stabled for a portion of the year,since mouldy hay and dusty stable conditions areknown to induce symptoms.

Prof. Dorothee Bienzle, Department ofPathobiology, is studying Clara cells, the cellsthat line most of the bronchi in the lung, tounderstand how the disease progresses. Claracells produce a protein – Clara cell secretoryprotein (CCSP) – which reduces theinflammation caused by inhaling harmful dustand fungal spores.

Bienzle found that years of continuous exposureto poor quality air eventually exhausts the Claracells, which means lower CCSP levels and lessability to limit the inflammatory allergicresponse. Older horses with advanced RAOproduce very little CCSP.

Researchers can measure CCSP levels in therespiratory tract with lung washes, where wateris flushed into and then collected from the lung.From these tests, researchers have determinedthe amount of protein present in normal horsescompared to those with severe RAO. This allowsthem to tell how advanced the disease is basedon CCSP levels. They also found that CCSPleaks into the blood of animals with inflamedlungs.

“We’d like to develop a CCSP test for blood,which might be a very good indicator of howsevere the disease is,” says Bienzle. “This wouldallow us to simply take a blood sample and beable to give the animal’s owner an accurateprognosis.”

Over the summer, Bienzle and her teamperformed lung washes on horses from severalnearby farms. The hope was to obtain realisticdata by testing animals that are housed inconditions typical to Ontario stables.

Previous studies by Bienzle have identified threetypes of fungal agents that may be responsiblefor RAO cases throughout Ontario. She willexamine the fungal agents found in the lungwashes as well as CCSP levels and the differenttypes of inflammatory cells present in horseswith and without RAO.

Research funding has been provided through thefunding agencies of Equine Guelph and theNatural Sciences and Engineering ResearchCouncil.

- Natalie Osborne

Our research writers belongto the unique U of G trainingprogram, SPARKS (StudentsPromoting Awareness ofResearch Knowledge).

Page 63: Whoa! fall2010

www.horse.on.ca | 63

4 Equine Guelph

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Respiration RestorationResearchers in many fields aim to clear up common respiratory conditions

At a metre and a half in length, horses have oneof the longest mammalian airways — threetimes longer than a human’s. These airwayshelp them obtain the oxygen they need whenrunning…but racehorses and companion horsesalike suffer from a myriad of respiratorydiseases. To help lead the way to clearerairways, University of Guelph researchers areusing a variety of approaches to combatrespiratory conditions.

One such condition is exercise inducedpulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH), which plaguesabout 80 per cent of racehorses. It occurs afterintense activity, when within seconds a horse’sheart rate more than quadruples to over 200beats per minute. The huge increase in bloodpressure can cause the capillaries in the lung toburst, resulting in nose bleeds and in somecases, potentially fatal haemorrhaging.

Dr. Luis Arroyo and Prof. Laurent Viel,Department of Clinical Studies, and Prof. JohnRunciman, Department of Engineering, areexamining the relationship between EIPH andcalcified lesions in the pulmonary artery, whichare also found in about 80 per cent of racehorses(the body deposits calcium as an ultimate repairmechanism in an attempt to reinforce tissueweakened by injury or stress).

The main trunk of a horse’s pulmonary artery isfour to six centimetres in diameter andresponsible for carrying more than 250 litres ofblood per minute from the heart to the lungs foroxygenation.

Researchers used MRI and CT scans to build a3-D image computer model that calculated thestress that this huge volume of blood can causeon arterial walls. They also examined the spatiallocation of the calcified lesions.

If the research finds that calcium deposits arelinked to EIPH, then more resources can gotowards understanding and preventing them.

“From our models, we found that the higheststresses were right where the artery branches,and this is also where the calcification alwaysstarts,” says Runciman. “The blood flow in

racing horses is tortuous; it almost becomes theirAchilles’ heel.”

Arteries will stretch to accommodate each pulseof blood from the heart and contract to move theblood along, thereby acting as shock absorbersso the blood pressure in the smallest arteries isminimal, avoiding rupture. A calcified artery isless elastic, losing its shock-absorbing role,which results in a larger, faster pulse wave thathas greater impact when it reaches the lungs.Researchers believe this pressure spike is whatbursts lung capillaries and causes EIPH.

Their research is taking a new twist. Thissummer, Arroyo, Runciman and Viel will put

catheters in the pulmonary arteries of ex-racersand young, healthy horses to perform inside-outultrasounds that monitor the animal’s blood flowand pulse wave.

“This is the first time we’ll be looking at liveanimals,” says Arroyo. “We can examine themboth resting and exercising, to see firsthand ifand how the calcified lesions affect arterialstiffness and parameters like pulse wave.”

In many cases, existing EIPH seems to beassociated with — and perhaps a contributor to— a respiratory condition found in youngracehorses called inflammatory airway disease(IAD). This condition concurrently studied by

photo by David Landry

Equine Guelph 5

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Viel is similar to asthma in humans, where theairways become overly sensitive to allergensresulting in bronchial constriction, or closure ofthe airways.

On the racetrack, horses with IAD struggle to getenough oxygen. In an oxygen deprived state, thebody’s natural response is to constrict bloodvessels. During intense exercise, blood vesselsmust dilate to accommodate increased bloodflow. These counteracting mechanisms couldresult in the damage and bleeding associatedwith EIPH.

That’s where research by Viel and graduatestudent Modest Vengust comes in. Theyexamined the effect of the drug furosemide onthe lung. Known commercially as Lasix, it isused on many racehorses and believed to treatEIPH; specifically, fluid in the lung.

Before high blood pressure causes the lung’ssmall blood vessels to rupture, some of the fluidin the capillaries will be forced out into the lungin an attempt to reduce pressure. Lasix wasthought to prevent this accumulation of fluid,called pulmonary oedema, reducing excessivesmall artery blood pressure.

However, when the researchers put Lasixtreated horses on a treadmill to increase theirheart rate and blood pressure to racetrack levels,they found that it had no effect on reducing fluidbuild-up.

Lasix also has many side effects, includingdehydration and blood electrolyte imbalance.

“We wanted to know if Lasix treated orsomehow prevented EIPH,” says Viel. “Wefound that it does neither. Therefore, it becomesquestionable if Lasix has any preventative effectat all, meaning the debate should continue as towhether Lasix is a valid pre-racing medication.In my opinion, it would be a great welfarebenefit to the horse in treating them for IAD, aswe treat asthmatics with a simplebronchodilator that opens up their airways totheir normal, healthy level. Many of these drugsare approved for use in horses and would offer asafer, more effective solution.”

Some veterinarians also believe that effectivelytreating IAD early on, could prevent the onset ofrecurrent airway obstruction (RAO), or“heaves”, amore advanced respiratory illness ofolder animals.

RAO is commonly found in hunter-jumpers,ponies, dressage and companion horses. Thecondition causes frequent allergic respiratoryresponses which include performance disruptivecoughing and animal discomfort. It’s especiallyprevalent in colder countries like Canada wherehorses must be stabled for a portion of the year,since mouldy hay and dusty stable conditions areknown to induce symptoms.

Prof. Dorothee Bienzle, Department ofPathobiology, is studying Clara cells, the cellsthat line most of the bronchi in the lung, tounderstand how the disease progresses. Claracells produce a protein – Clara cell secretoryprotein (CCSP) – which reduces theinflammation caused by inhaling harmful dustand fungal spores.

Bienzle found that years of continuous exposureto poor quality air eventually exhausts the Claracells, which means lower CCSP levels and lessability to limit the inflammatory allergicresponse. Older horses with advanced RAOproduce very little CCSP.

Researchers can measure CCSP levels in therespiratory tract with lung washes, where wateris flushed into and then collected from the lung.From these tests, researchers have determinedthe amount of protein present in normal horsescompared to those with severe RAO. This allowsthem to tell how advanced the disease is basedon CCSP levels. They also found that CCSPleaks into the blood of animals with inflamedlungs.

“We’d like to develop a CCSP test for blood,which might be a very good indicator of howsevere the disease is,” says Bienzle. “This wouldallow us to simply take a blood sample and beable to give the animal’s owner an accurateprognosis.”

Over the summer, Bienzle and her teamperformed lung washes on horses from severalnearby farms. The hope was to obtain realisticdata by testing animals that are housed inconditions typical to Ontario stables.

Previous studies by Bienzle have identified threetypes of fungal agents that may be responsiblefor RAO cases throughout Ontario. She willexamine the fungal agents found in the lungwashes as well as CCSP levels and the differenttypes of inflammatory cells present in horseswith and without RAO.

Research funding has been provided through thefunding agencies of Equine Guelph and theNatural Sciences and Engineering ResearchCouncil.

- Natalie Osborne

Our research writers belongto the unique U of G trainingprogram, SPARKS (StudentsPromoting Awareness ofResearch Knowledge).

Page 64: Whoa! fall2010

64 | WHOA! Fall 2010

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Researchers Look to Discover UnknownForms of Bacteria Causing Colitis

Faeces-contaminated environments, such astransport trailers and stables, can spell trouble forhorses. These are locations where deadly colitis-causing Clostridium bacteria can sometimes thrive.

Colitis occurs when the horses’ colon becomesrapidly inflamed through infection from clostridiaor other bacteria. This leads to severe diarrhoeathat often results in a swift, painful death fromdehydration and toxaemia.

Treating colitis-afflicted horses is especiallydifficult, since owners and veterinarians have onlya small window of time for early emergencymedical treatment.

On top of this, scientists only know of three colitis-causing bacteria – Clostridium difficile,Neorickettsia risticii, and Salmonella. Together,they cause roughly 40 per cent of colitis cases,while the causes of the other 60 per cent areunknown.

University of Guelph researchers are beginning atwo-year study to find out what other bacteriamight be responsible for some of these unknowncauses.

Profs. John Prescott, Department of Pathobiology,and Luis Arroyo, Clinical Studies, suspect thatpreviously unrecognized strains of Clostridiumperfringens — the fastest growing bacterium

known — may be responsible for causing colitis inhorses.

Among other approaches, they plan to construct agenomic sequence of an isolate from a colitis-affected horse that is not infected with the knowncauses of colitis. Then, they will compare thisisolate to the genome sequence of known and fullysequenced Clostridium perfringens strainsinvolved in other types of disease in animals andhumans.

If they are able to spot variations between thegenomic sequences, they can then begin looking atthe genetic differences and particularly for variantsof toxin genes known to be important for seriousdisease in Clostridium bacteria. This could indicatea different strain of this bacterium, and be a keystart to developing vaccines or therapeutic controlstrategies.

“Once we know specifically what we’re dealingwith, we can take action and make a dent in that 60per cent of cases for which we don’t know thecause,” says Prescott. “It’s the not knowing and notbeing able to provide targeted treatments – that’sthe problem.”

This study receives support from Equine Guelph.

- Joey Sabljic

6 Equine Guelph

The researchers are hoping to start striking back against the 60per cent of colitis cases caused by previously unknownClostridium perfringens strains.

Monitoring Study Moves On ToThoroughbredsSome horses are born with heart abnormalities that may go undetected until theybegin their racing career. Sudden death due to heart complications are rare…butdisastrous for all concerned.

Two years ago, University of Guelph researchers Peter Physick-Sheard and KimMcGurrin conducted a study on Standardbred horses to explore how racingaffects their heart rate.

Now, the researchers have decided to take their study to the next step and explore

the actual cardiac function of Thoroughbred horses’ hearts during races.

Physick-Sheard and McGurrin found that a horse experiences differentpsychological and physical stimuli during a competition, such as sensing thephysical presence of other horses and understanding that they are in acompetitive race. This elicits a greater heart rate than while training or duringtreadmill exercise.

“We wanted to see what a horse’s heart rate and heart rhythm responses were

photo by Jacquie Labatt

continued on page 7

Page 65: Whoa! fall2010

www.horse.on.ca | 65

Stem cell research is becoming a popular andimportant part of regenerative medicine in bothequine and human medicine. Joint cartilagecannot regenerate on its own (in either horses orhumans) and current treatment options lead torepair by fibrocartilage with inferiormechanical properties compared to normalhealthy cartilage.

Researchers, veterinarians, orthopedic surgeonsas well as engineers are working together todiscover an innovative approach to use stemcells when repairing damaged cartilage andtissue in horses with the hope that favourableresults can translate into better treatmentoptions for humans as well.

Thomas Koch, a Guelph Ph.D. graduate andadjunct faculty member of the Department ofBiomedical Sciences, have been collaboratingwith researchers in Denmark and Canada on

pioneering stem cell research since 2005. Awell recognized problem in cartilage repair isthe ability to retain the cells at the injury siteand prevent the cells from “falling” into jointspace.

Koch is studying the utility of synthetic, bio-degradable hydrogels for retaining the cells atthe injury site as well as more commonly usedmatrixes such as fibrin and platelet rich plasmaderived from the patient or individual.

Koch’s research group was recentlystrengthened by the addition of Post-DoctoralFellow Younes Leysi-Derilou, who has a strongbackground in human stem cell research andbiochemical engineering. Leysi-Derilou’s workis centered on producing cartilage exhibitingmechanical properties mimicking that ofnormal cartilage.

He will be investigating the mechanicalstimulation needed to engineer tissue constructsex vivo. The successful application of theseconstructs in horses suffering from cartilagedefects could be of great interest in humanmedicine, since the horse is one of the bestanimal models of cartilage repair due to similarcartilage thickness between horses and humans.

Koch is employed by the Orthopedic ResearchLab at Aarhus University in Denmark andfunded by the Danish Research Agency forTechnology, Production and Innovation.Additional operating funds are providedthrough the Equine Guelph Research Fund, theOntario Ministry of Agriculture, Food andRural Affairs, and the Grayson ResearchFoundation of Lexington, Kentucky.

- Johnny Roberts

Taking the Next Step in RegenerativeMedicine

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

The researchers, including Thomas Koch, are focusing on theutility of synthetic, bio-degradable hydrogels for cartilagerepair. Their goal is to produce cartilage that exhibits themechanical properties of normal cartilage. The successfulapplication of these constructs in horses suffering from cartilagedefects could be of great interest in human medicine, since thehorse is one of the best animal models of cartilage repair due tosimilar cartilage thickness between horses and humans.

Equine Guelph 7

continued from page 6

like during actual competition,” saysMcGurrin. “Getting a better handle on theheart rate of Thoroughbred race horses canprovide insight into the psychological andphysiological experiences a horse goesthrough, from the time prior to the race untilthey cross the finish line.”

Their previous Standardbred studyestablished normal parameters, enablingthem to gather information and data requiredto inform the Thoroughbred study. McGurrinsays they used their previous results asbenchmark comparisons when trying toidentify any horses with potentialabnormalities.

Funding for this research is provided throughEquine Guelph. The Thoroughbred studywill be conducted in cooperation with theWoodbine Entertainment Group in Toronto.

Assisting Physick-Sheard and McGurrin areundergraduate students Eva Hirmer andJordan Cook.

- Johnny Roberts

“We wanted to see what a horse’sheart rate and heart rhythmresponses were like during actualcompetition,” says McGurrin.“Getting a better handle on theheart rate of Thoroughbred racehorses can provide insight into thepsychological and physiologicalexperiences a horse goes through,from the time prior to the race untilthey cross the finish line.”

photo by Martin Schwalbe

Page 66: Whoa! fall2010

66 | WHOA! Fall 2010

helping horses for lifeequine guelph

promoting health& performance

funding industryresearch

educatinghorsepeople

UPDATE ON EQUINE GUELPH’S WORK

Equine Guelph, University of Guelph, 50 McGilvray St., Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1tel: 519.824.4120 ext. 54205, fax: 519.767.1081 • email: [email protected] • www.EquineGuelph.ca

EquiMania! Road TripFrom Lexington to Toronto

Take a JourneyThrough YourHorse’s Joints

Equine Guelph’s Journey through the Joints,sponsored by Pfizer, is an online tool designed totake horse people on an interactive journey from ahealthy joint to an inflamed, arthritic joint.

One of the biggest health challenges facing bothhorses and humans is arthritis. We all know that ithurts, but don’t really understand what is happeningin the joints.

Currently, there is no effective long-term treatmentto repair a cartilage injury in the joint, one of theleading causes of early retirement in horses. Thetissue from the cartilage heals extremely slowly andthe damaged (or missing) tissue is oftenirreplaceable, usually leading to osteoarthritis.

The goal of the Journey through the Joints tool is toeducate caretakers on the different stages of jointdegeneration and explain exactly what arthritis is –what it means and how to prevent and care for horseswith arthritis. The interactive tool also challengesparticipants’ knowledge with user-friendly activitieson the anatomy of a joint, featuring a 360 degree tourof an actual horse joint.

“We think it’s really important to teach horse peopleabout the basics on joints,” says Dr. Cathy Rae,manager of equine technical services for PfizerAnimal Health. “It is critical to have a basicknowledge of joints before grasping anunderstanding of causes and care of lameness.”

To check out this new tool, go towww.EquineGuelph.ca.

The fall schedule for Equine Guelph’s youthprogram, EquiMania!, is an extemely busy one thisyear – starting at the Alltech FEI World EquestrianGames in Kentucky in September and ending atThe Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in November.

“It’s a bit of a road trip this fall – and it’s worthevery mile,” exclaims Gayle Ecker, director ofEquine Guelph.

A small army of Equine Guelph staff and volunteersfrom Canada are in Kentucky from September 25until October 10 manning the EquiMania!education centre, the anchor tenant of the KidsZone at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

As soon as the 5,500 lb. exhibit is unloaded fromthe truck from Kentucky, it will be time to pack upagain for The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair inToronto from November 5 to 14.

EquiMania! has become one of the most popularattractions at The Royal for ‘horse crazy’ kids. Thisyear, EquiMania! will be located on the main floornear the President’s Choice® SuperDogs Theatre.

As always, EquiMania! will be chock full ofunique educational displays, activities andquizzes to engage youth about horse health careand safety. Kids of all ages will learn: how tobraid a tail, about potential careers in the horseindustry, how to tell the age of a horse by itsteeth, horse farm and rider safety, to identifyhorse bones, why horses can sleep standing up,equine nutrition, how to wrap legs and whatparasites look like.

To learn more about EquiMania!, visitwww.EquiMania.ca.

photo by Henrietta Coole

Page 67: Whoa! fall2010

helping horses for lifeequine guelph

promoting health& performance

funding industryresearch

educatinghorsepeople

UPDATE ON EQUINE GUELPH’S WORK

Equine Guelph, University of Guelph, 50 McGilvray St., Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1tel: 519.824.4120 ext. 54205, fax: 519.767.1081 • email: [email protected] • www.EquineGuelph.ca

EquiMania! Road TripFrom Lexington to Toronto

Take a JourneyThrough YourHorse’s Joints

Equine Guelph’s Journey through the Joints,sponsored by Pfizer, is an online tool designed totake horse people on an interactive journey from ahealthy joint to an inflamed, arthritic joint.

One of the biggest health challenges facing bothhorses and humans is arthritis. We all know that ithurts, but don’t really understand what is happeningin the joints.

Currently, there is no effective long-term treatmentto repair a cartilage injury in the joint, one of theleading causes of early retirement in horses. Thetissue from the cartilage heals extremely slowly andthe damaged (or missing) tissue is oftenirreplaceable, usually leading to osteoarthritis.

The goal of the Journey through the Joints tool is toeducate caretakers on the different stages of jointdegeneration and explain exactly what arthritis is –what it means and how to prevent and care for horseswith arthritis. The interactive tool also challengesparticipants’ knowledge with user-friendly activitieson the anatomy of a joint, featuring a 360 degree tourof an actual horse joint.

“We think it’s really important to teach horse peopleabout the basics on joints,” says Dr. Cathy Rae,manager of equine technical services for PfizerAnimal Health. “It is critical to have a basicknowledge of joints before grasping anunderstanding of causes and care of lameness.”

To check out this new tool, go towww.EquineGuelph.ca.

The fall schedule for Equine Guelph’s youthprogram, EquiMania!, is an extemely busy one thisyear – starting at the Alltech FEI World EquestrianGames in Kentucky in September and ending atThe Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in November.

“It’s a bit of a road trip this fall – and it’s worthevery mile,” exclaims Gayle Ecker, director ofEquine Guelph.

A small army of Equine Guelph staff and volunteersfrom Canada are in Kentucky from September 25until October 10 manning the EquiMania!education centre, the anchor tenant of the KidsZone at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

As soon as the 5,500 lb. exhibit is unloaded fromthe truck from Kentucky, it will be time to pack upagain for The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair inToronto from November 5 to 14.

EquiMania! has become one of the most popularattractions at The Royal for ‘horse crazy’ kids. Thisyear, EquiMania! will be located on the main floornear the President’s Choice® SuperDogs Theatre.

As always, EquiMania! will be chock full ofunique educational displays, activities andquizzes to engage youth about horse health careand safety. Kids of all ages will learn: how tobraid a tail, about potential careers in the horseindustry, how to tell the age of a horse by itsteeth, horse farm and rider safety, to identifyhorse bones, why horses can sleep standing up,equine nutrition, how to wrap legs and whatparasites look like.

To learn more about EquiMania!, visitwww.EquiMania.ca.

photo by Henrietta Coole

As Canada’s leading source for horse health and training, Canadian Horse Journal showcases Canada’s horses and their people, delivering the latest veterinary researchupdates, horsemanship from industry experts, fitness and lifestyle tips, opinions andcommentary, breed profiles, interviews, major event coverage, new products, contests,PonyCare for young readers, and much more. A favourite with horse lovers of all ages,readers LOVE our Canadian content. Canadian Horse Journal’s P&P and C&A RegionalEditions are everything your horse magazine should be.

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