Horse 1.0

 Recently, I purchased and installed Horse 1.0. I soon noticed that this program has appears to have many glitches. For instance, every time my computer boots up, I have to run Feed 5.3 and Water 7.1. Many times I've been in the middle of an important document and a window will flash telling me to run Clean Stall 2.0. This program also contained applications I did not wish to install, such as Manure 8.5, however they auto-installed with Horse 1.0. Applications such as Vacation 2.7 and Free Time 10.0 can no longer run, crashing whenever selected. Possibly the worst is thatHorse1.0has attached itself to programs like Finance Manager and MS Money, with folders added such as "Monthly Shoeing" and "Winter Blanket". Periodically, I'll get a reminder telling me to send a check to the manufacturer ofHorse1.0 for the aforementioned items. I have tried to uninstall Horse 1.0numerous times, but when I try to run the uninstall program, I get a warning messages telling me that a deadly virus known as "Withdrawal" will infect my system. Please Help!!! 

THE REPLY:Dear User,
 Your complaint is not unusual. A common misconception among users is that Horse 1.0 is a mere "utilities and entertainment program". It is NOT--it is an OPERATING SYSTEM and is designed by its creator to run everything! A warning will soon be imprinted on the box. Since you have already installed Horse 1.0 here are a few tips on how to make it run better. If you are annoyed by the applications Feed 5.3 and Water 7.1, you may run C:/HIREHELP, however this will cause another folder to be added to financial applications labeled "Staff". Failure to send payment to "Staff" will result in Feed 5.3and Water 7.1 being run again on startup. A note of caution: NOT booting up your computer for several days isn't the answer to avoid Feed 5.3 and Water 7.1. You will find that when you boot your computer again a nasty virus called "Colic 4.2" will have attached itself to important documents and the only way to rid computer of Colic 4.2 is by purchasing and installing"Vet10.0" which we admit is extremely expensive, but crucial! Otherwise, Colic4.2 will cause irreversible damage to the operating system. Finally, it is important that you run C:/Carrots and C:/Scratch Ears on a fairly regular basis to keep the application running smoothly. If you have any more questions, please call our toll free number.

Sincerely, Tech Support
  - - compliments of Nikki VanS

Cowboy Bubble Bath (Baked Beans)

1 lb. Bacon
3 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped
1 each chopped green, red and yellow bell peppers, 
2 large white onions, chopped
2 - 15 oz cans white beans
2 - 15 oz cans kidney beans
2 - 15 oz cans black bean
1 - 15 oz can garbanzo beans
1/2 cup dark molasses
1 tblsp liquid smoke
1 tblsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

 Crisp bacon in deep skillet.  Crumble and set aside.  Pour off excess fat and lightly fry all peppers and onion in about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
 Partially drain all beans.  Save the liquid to add to the beans later, if necessary.  Combine all ingredients in deep roaster.  At this point, you can set the whole thing aside overnight, if need be.
 Bake for 3 hours at 350 degrees.  Add some of the reserved bean juice if the pot gets too dry. 
 

Strange Horse Laws

Here is a collection of some of the wildest horse laws ever passed. This is a compilation of approximately 41 loony laws. Hope you enjoy! A great many of these laws were aimed specifically at horses and riders. No one knows how they got there and no one living has a memory of anyone arrested under them. 

• In Hartsville, Illinois, you can be arrested for riding an ugly horse.
• In Pattonsburg, Missouri, according to the Revised Ordinances, 1884: "No person shall hallo, shout, bawl, scream, use profane language, dance, sing, whoop, quarrel, or make any unusual noise or sound in such manner as to disturb a horse."
• A Wyoming community passed this one: "No female shall ride a horse while attired in a bathing suit within the boundaries of Riverton, unless she be escorted by at least two officers of the law or unless she be armed with a club." And continues with this amendment to the original: "The provisions of this statue shall not apply to females weighing less than ninety pounds nor exceeding two hundred pounds."
• A misworded ordinance in Wolf Point, Montana: "No horse shall be allowed in public without its owner wearing a halter." 
• A Fort Collins, Colorado Municipal Code: "It is unlawful for any male rider, within the limits of this community, to wink at any female rider with whom he is acquainted."
• West Union, Ohio: "No male person shall make remarks to or concerning, or cough, or whistle at, or do any other act to attract the attention of any woman riding a horse." 
• Abilene, Kansas, City Ordinance 349 declares: "Any person who shall in the city of Abilene shoot at a horse with any concealed or unconcealed bean snapper or like article, shall upon conviction, be fined."
• 1899 vintage law from Waverly, Kentucky: "Any person who shall ride a horse in a public place while wearing any device or thing attached to the head, hair, headgear or hat, which device or thing is capable of lacerating the flesh of any other person with whom it may come in contact and which is not sufficiently guarded against the possibility of so doing, shall be adjudged a disorderly person."
• A 1907 Cumberland County, Tennessee statute reads: "Speed while on horseback upon county roads will be limited to three miles an hour unless the rider sees a bailiff who does not appear to have had a drink in thirty days, then the horseman will be permitted to make what he can." 
• Figure out this 1913 Massachusetts law: "Whosoever rides a horse on any public way-laid out under authority or law recklessly or while under the influence of liquor shall be punished; thereby imposing upon the horseman the duty of finding out at his peril whether certain roads had been laid out recklessly or while under the influence of liquor before riding over them." 
• Male horse buffs in Basalt, Nevada, are prohibited from eating onions between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. while out riding.
• Law specifies only men! Ice cream lovers beware in Cotton Valley, Louisiana. Citizens aren't allowed to eat an ice cream cone while on horseback in public places. 
• An antiquated city ordinance in Quartzite, Arizona, prohibits anyone from playing cards with a pregnant woman, a child, or an Indian, "lest they acquire a taste for gambling!"
• In McAlester, Oklahoma, it's taboo for a woman over 235 pounds and attired in shorts to be seen on a horse in any public place. 
• It's illegal in Marion, South Carolina, to tickle a female under her chin with a feather duster to get her attention while she's riding a horse! 
• It's a violation of the law for a married man to ride on Sunday in Wakefield, Rhode Island. Married women aren't mentioned, so it must be okay for them. 
• A newly married man in Kearney, Nebraska, can't ride alone. The law states that he "can't ride without his spouse along at any time, unless he's been married for more than twelve months."
• It is strictly against the law in Bicknell, Indiana, for a man to leave his new bride alone and go riding with his pals on his wedding day. The penalty is a week in jail. 
• In Bismark, North Dakota, every home within the limits of Bismark must have a hitching post in the front yard. 
• Budds Creek, Maryland, has an antique law which prohibits horses from sleeping in a bathtub, unless the rider is also sleeping with the horse. 
• In Headland, Alabama: "Any man on horseback shall not tempt another man's wife. An unmarried horseman should not stop overnight when the woman is alone." 
• Bluff, Utah's legislation regarding the Sabbath: Women who happen to be single, widowed or divorced are banned from riding to church on Sunday. Unattached females who take part in such outlandish activities can be arrested and put in jail. 
• Citizens are prohibited from buying, selling or trading horses "after the sun goes down" in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, without first getting permission from the sheriff. 
• In Schurz, Nevada, they have an old law which prohibits the trading of a horse after dark. 
• In Pee Wee, West Virginia, people are prohibited from swapping horses in the town square at noon! 
• A unique law in Pine Ridge, South Dakota where horses are banned from neighing between midnight and 6 a.m. near a "residence inhabited by human beings." 
• And in Pocataligo, Georgia, horses aren't allowed to be heard neighing after 10 p.m.
• Paradise, California, retains a most unusual law that says it is illegal to let a horse sleep in a bakery within the limits of the community. What about goats, cows, etc.?? Only horses are mentioned.
• In Sutherland, Iowa, a law governs how horses may be seen when on the streets during evening hours. The animal must always have a light attached to its tail and a horn of some sort on its head.
• No rodeos in this town! No man is allowed to ride his horse "in a violent manner" if he happens to be in Boone, North Carolina.
• Female riders in Clearbrook, Minnesota, be aware of this one governing the heel length of a horsewoman's shoes. Any such woman can wear heels measuring no more than 1-1/2 inches in length. 
• A loony clothing ordinance in Upperville, Virginia, bans a married woman from riding a horse down a street while wearing "body hugging clothing." A $2 fine can be imposed on any female rider who wears "clothing that clings to her body."
• An attorney can be barred from practicing law in Corvallis, Oregon, should he refuse to accept a horse in lieu of his legal fees. 
• Trying to find a wife? Watch out in Tranquility, New Jersey that you don't violate this law. The law states that a person can't distribute handbills while on horseback as a means of advertising for a wife.
• It is against the law in California for horses to mate in public within five hundred yards of any church, school or tavern! The penalty can be a $500 fine and six months in jail. This law isn't clear as to whether the horse or the owner is fined and jailed. 
• McAllen, Texas, has outlawed citizens from taking pictures of horses on the Sabbath. Any person who "disturbs" or "otherwise antagonizes a horse" in this manner will be subject to a fine of at least $1.50 and can be jailed for as much as "three full days and nights."
• In Burdoville, Vermont, it states that "no horses are allowed to roam loose between March 1 and October 20! 
• In case you have an accident in Hortonville, New York, here's their antique law: "The rider of any horse involved in an accident resulting in death shall immediately dismount and give his name and address to the person killed. 
• Watch out in Rhinelander, Wisconsin if you are riding a horse while intoxicated! An old ordinance takes care of the problem. Such a horseman, per the law, must be given a "large dose of castor oil." Who doles out the penalty? The horseman's wife! Refusal to take the castor oil results in a fine! 
• In Omega, New Mexico, every woman must "be found to be wearing a corset" when riding a horse in public. A physician is required to inspect each female on horseback. The doctor must ascertain whether or not the woman is, in fact, complying with this law!

In closing, a summation of Clergyman Henry Ward Beecher's view on the art of lawmaking holds so much truth. "We bury men when they are dead, but we try to embalm the dead body of laws, keeping the corpse in sight long after the vitality has gone. It usually takes a hundred years to make a law; and then, after the law has done its work, it usually takes another hundred years to get rid of it."
 

Horse Husband's Lament 

My wife has a Palomino Horse, with pretty white man & tail
She thinks he is the finest thing that ever jogged a trail.

She calls him Joey Darling, and if the truth I tell,
That fancy pampered Palomino Horse 
has made my life pure hell!

My wife she used to cook for me and serve it with champagne.
But now she'd rather feed that horse and fix him special grain!

She rides him every morning, and grooms him half the night.
And the last time that she kissed ME, was just to be polite!

He dresses better than I do, with matching wraps and ties.
My wardrobe's so neglected now, that I attract the flies!

One day my wife was shopping, she was way down at the mall.
And fancy, pampered JOEY was just a standing in his stall.

He looked so smug and sassy, that I began to grin.
I'd saddle that fat sucker up, and take him for a spin!!

I've wondered since if the cues I gave, 
he may have misconstrued.
Cause when I climbed aboard that horse, 
he rightly came UNGLUED!!!!

He bucked and spun, and snorted fire, 
then threw me through a fence!
I saw big stars and there are 6 teeth, 
that I ain't heard from since!

My wife came home and saw me, just a lying in the dirt.
She rushed up to her HORSE and asked him, 
"Sweetheart are you HURT?"

He'd scratched his nose a little bit, 
and the memory galls me yet......
She left me lying in the mud, and ran to call the VET!!!

~Author Unknown~
 
 

Chiropractic Steps to Use to Help Avoid the Most Common Injuries to Horses

 At our May program, several people asked for a review of the five simple steps that Dr. Marvin Anderson had gone over at the chiropractic clinic in April.  If you need any further clarification on how to do the procedures described below, or would like to contact Dr. Anderson about a related issue, please call him at (408) 482-5923.
 Dr. Anderson developed a great analogy to help us remember the 5 steps we can do to help prevent some of the most common injuries in our horses.  It would be very similar to the 5 steps we might use before we get behind the wheel of a car to drive.

1. Check the Tires: Pick up a hoof, slide your thumb so that it rests on top of the sesamoid.  With the other hand, grasp the toe of the hoof.  Apply pressure with the thumb while briskly rocking the toe of the hoof 3-5 times. Repeat procedure on other sesamoid of same hoof.  Repeat this on remaining legs.  A cracking sound might be heard. This is to free any tension and/or help the suspensory tendon slide freely over the sesamoid during exercise, helping to prevent an injury to the suspensory ligament.

2. Check the Steering: Using a carrot or other favorite treat as an incentive, get your horse to stretch his head and neck as far back as possible on either side of his body, as well as between his front legs.  Carrot stretches help loosen the large, heavy muscles in the neck and chest before a workout.  This can also be used as a diagnostic tool.  If the horse is having difficulty in stretching his head and neck in one particular direction, this can be an indication that he could need a chiropractic adjustment.

3. Pop the Hood: Using both of your arms up to elbow, not just your hands, firmly cradle/hug a front leg behind and at the knee, slowly stretch the leg upwards until the knee is about level with the shoulder.  Gently rotate the leg in one direction for about 3-5 rotations.  Switch directions and repeat again 3-5 times.  Set leg down, and repeat with other front leg.  This helps to stretch and loosen the ligaments and muscles both inside and outside the shoulder.  If there is a noticeable difference or limitation in one direction and/or in one leg over the other, this can indicate a shoulder needs an adjustment.

4. Check the Oil: This helps to relax and loosen the main ligaments that hold the hips of the horse together.  Lift tail of horse.  Locate either the 11 o'clock or the 1 o'clock positions on either side of the anus.  With the same amount of pressure as you would use on your own eye, gently push your finger into the depression located at one of these positions.  Maintain light pressure for 1-1.5 minutes, then give a quick thrust.  Repeat at other location.  These are the sacral tubercle pressure points.  The sacral tubercle ligaments literally hold the horse's hips together, providing the stability for all of the very heavy hindquarter muscles.  If one pressure point feels larger/deeper than the other, this can indicate that an adjustment might need to be made in the hip area.

5. Start the Engine: This helps to relieve compression of the tail vertebrae.  Since horses rarely spend a lot of time standing on their hind legs to cause the compression, this only needs to be done about two times a month.  Grasp the tail with both hands near the hindquarters.  Gently 'milk' the tail, sliding each hand downward along the tail, each time adding a little more weight by leaning back gradually.  Keep doing this, working your way towards the end of the tail until you have only hair in your hands and your full body weight is pulling on the tail hair.  In a quick, decisive motion, pull the tail hair firmly so that the hips rock slightly.
 

The Expectant Mare

 We often think of pregnancy as a delicate and fragile condition.  When it comes to horses, this perceptions is perhaps due to the mare's relatively poor reproductive performance in comparison to other domestic animals.  However, in a natural setting, the mare does comparatively well reproductively.  Therefore, this seemingly poor performance is due as much to improper management as to any reproductive deficiency.  Fortunately, management is something we can control.

 As a conscientious owner, you probably have many question about caring for your expectant mare.  In truth, you may be a little worried.  Relax.  With a little TLC, your mare should progress through her pregnancy without mishap.  Proper nutrition, deworming, exercise, and vaccinations will help ensure a healthy pregnancy, and you can look forward to the birth of your foal with greater confidence.
 Precarious Beginnings:  The earliest days of an embryo's existence are perhaps the most precarious.  During the first 30 days, there is a 10-15% chance that the embryo will be resorbed.  Stress, illness, uterine infection, hormonal abnormalities, the presence of twins, and other factors have been implicated in early embryonic loss.  Often, the cause remains undetermined.

 When the mare conceives, the fertilized egg (zygote) travels down the fallopian tubes and enters the uterus around day 6-7.  It migrates throughout the uterus until about day 16 and typically implants into the uterine wall at 6-8 weeks.  By day 12-13, the embryonic vesicle is usually large enough to be detected by ultrasonic examinations, during which an image is made by bouncing sound waves off tissues.  For practical reasons, some breeding farms simply tease the mare 14-20 days after her last breeding date to see if she comes back into estrus (heat).  If she does not, the pregnancy may then be confirmed by ultrasound or trans-rectal palpation at approximately 30-35 days post-breeding.

 Troublesome Twins:  Some reproductive specialist recommend an ultrasound exam at 14-16 days post-ovulation to detect twins.  Early detection of twins provides an opportunity to eliminate one embryo, thus allowing the other to develop normally.  This is commonly done because twins pose a number of risks:

• In 95% of mares with twin embryos, one or both embryos are resorbed or aborted during the first 60 days.  However, waiting to see if this occurs naturally could delay or interfere with a subsequent successful pregnancy.
• Of the small percentage of twins that survive in utero past 50 days, it is highly unlikely that two healthy foals will be born.  If either survives, it may be small and weak.
• Most Twins surviving past 50 days will spontaneously abort at 6-8 months.
• Mares carrying twins are more likely to give birth prematurely (before 300-320 days).  Premature foals may have serious medical problems and are less likely to survive.

 Helping nature take its Course:  Good broodmare management is the best aid for helping the mare make it through the critical first 30-60 days of pregnancy. 
 The mare should go into the breeding season fit and perhaps gaining weight.  Severely underweight mares will have more trouble conceiving than will mares of appropriate weight.
 Avoid stressing the mare as much as possible.  Stress can cause a drop in progesterone, a hormone which helps maintain pregnancy.  Illness and/or fever can cause the mares system to secrete prostaglandins, which may cause abortion.

 Use good Judgment: 

• Transport your mare only if necessary.
• Use caution when exposing your mare to other horses.  You should avoid any undue risk of injury or disease transmission.
• Provide nutritious forage, but don't overfeed.  Supplementing with vitamins and minerals is unnecessary in mares being fed a balanced diet.
• Make sure the mare is current on vaccines and deworming.  Consult your veterinarian for recommendations regarding specific vaccinations and deworming interval during pregnancy.
• Do not administer hormones or other drugs unless specifically prescribed by your equine practitioner.
• Carefully evaluate the mare before deciding whether to breed on foal heat.  Consult your veterinarian.

Coasting Through Middle Pregnancy:  Unless there are special circumstances, during the first 7 months of pregnancy, treat your mare as you would a non-pregnant one.  She will benefit from moderate riding or exercise.  The ration should be composed primarily of high-quality forage in approximately  the same as pre-pregnancy amounts.  Extremes in weather can alter her nutritional requirements and should be taken into account when formulating the ration.  She should always have plenty of clean, fresh water.  The mare will also benefit form routine hoof and dental care, standard vaccinations, and regular deworming.

 Vaccines:  Vaccinations should be current, since infectious diseases can trigger abortions.  A four-way inoculation of Eastern and Western encephalomyelitis, influenza, and tetanus is recommended at the beginning of pregnancy.  A booster should be given one month prior to foaling to increase the antibody level in the mare's colostrum (first milk) and help protect the newborn foal from disease.  Also, the mare should be vaccinated for equine rhinopneumonitis (commonly called virus abortion or rhino) at five, seven, and nine months gestation.  Consult with your local veterinarian regarding other vaccines that may be advisable In your area, such as rabies and botulism.

 Deworming:  Most deworming agents available today are relatively safe for pregnant mares. Consult your veterinarian to establish an effective and safe deworming schedule for your mare.
 It is especially important to deworm the mare within several weeks of foaling, because the mare will be the primary source for infecting her foal with parasites.  Of course, manure should always be properly disposed of.

 Changing Needs:  During the last four months of pregnancy, the foal will grow rapidly.  To accommodate this growth, the mare's energy needs will increase.  Even so, special nutritional supplements are probably unnecessary.  Good-quality hay and forage should remain the bulk of the expectant mare's diet.  Concentrated feeds, such as grains, may be added to the ration to bolster energy intake without adding excess bulk.
 Use the mare's body condition as your guide to how she's faring.  Adjust the ration accordingly.  The mare should not become obese.  Your veterinarian can advise you regarding a proper nutritional program for your mare.
 Exercise during the last four months of the mare's pregnancy should be light to moderate.  In fact, a pastured mare will get as much exercise as she needs just grazing. Vigorous exercise is not recommended.

Home Stretch:  The average length of pregnancy in the mare is 338-343 days.  However, normal gestation can range from 320-380 days.  You needn't become overly concerned if your mare is past due.  Prolonged gestation is not generally associated with problems or extra large foals.  If your mare's pregnancy extends much past 340 days or you're concerned, ask your veterinarian to examine her to determine if the mare is still pregnant and confirm that all is well.

 Suspected Abortion:  Mares do occasionally abort.  If you notice a vaginal discharge or dripping milk during pregnancy, contact your veterinarian.  If you find the remains of a placenta or fetus, save it for your veterinarian to examine.  It may be possible to ascertain the cause of abortion and treat the mare accordingly.  Mares can and do abort without ill effects.  However, it's always a good idea to have her checked by your veterinarian, because some complications of abortion, such as a retained placenta, can be life-threatening to your horse.

Impending Birth:  There are obvious as well as subtle signs of impending birth.  The time frame during which they occur varies from mare to mare.  The most obvious and reliable are:

• Filling of the udder (two to four weeks pre-foaling)
• Distension of the teats (four to six days pre-foaling)
• Waxing of the tits (one to four days pre-foaling)
• Obvious dripping of milk
• More subtle signs include:
• Softening and flattening of the muscles in the croup
• Relaxation of the vulva
• Visible changes in the position of the foal

- - Information developed by the American Association of Equine Practitioners through a grant from Miles Inc, Animal Health Products. 
 

The Foaling Mare and Newborn

Preparing for a Safe and Successful Foal Delivery

 A safe place to foal;  What your mare will need, however, is a clean, safe, quiet place to foal.  Horses have been giving birth on the open range for eons, and this is till an acceptable choice.  Allowing the mare to foal in the pasture even has some advantages.  An open grassy area is likely to be cleaner than a stall and provides a healthy environment with adequate room to foal.  You won't have to worry about the mare crowding into a corner or foaling too close to a wall.  However, may owners prefer to confine the mare to observe her progress. 

 Should you choose to foal your mare in a stall, provide one that is a minimum of 14â x 14â.  If possible, the stall should have a floor that can be readily cleaned and disinfected.  Dirt or clay floors make sanitation more difficult.  Also, provide adequate clean bedding.  Straw (particularly wheat straw) is preferable to shaving, as it won't cling to the wet newborn or mare the way small wood particles can.  Remove manure and soiled bedding promptly, and disinfect the stall between deliveries.

 The Countdown:  Mare provide clues that they will soon give birth.  However, the timetable is far from absolute.  Some mare may show all the signs like clockwork; others show practically none.  The following is a general guideline, but be prepared for surprises:

- The mare's udder begins filling with milk 2-4 weeks prior to foaling.

- The muscles of the vulva and croup relax.  The tailhead may become more prominent a few days prior to foaling.

- The teats become engorged 4-6 days prior to foaling.

- Waxing of the teats occurs.  (A yellowish, honey-like secretion [colostrum] appears 1-4 days prior to foaling.  The secretions may drip, and the udder may even drip milk several days prior to birth.)

- The mare becomes anxious and restless.  She may appear to be colicky.  She may kick at her belly, pace, lie down and get up, look or bite at her flanks, and sweat.  She may frequently rise her tail and urinate.  Generally, this is the first stage of labor. (However, be aware that colic remains a possibility.  If such behavior is prolonged for more than an hour or two without progress toward foaling, contact your veterinarian.)

 Preparing for Birth:  Most mares foal without difficulty.  It usually is best to allow the mare to foal undisturbed and unassisted.  If a problem becomes apparent, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What you can do:

- Write down your veterinarian's phone number well in advance of the birth and keep it by all phones.

- Keep a watch or clock on hand so you can time each stage of labor.  When you're worried or anxious, your perception of time becomes distorted.  The watch will help you keep accurate track of the mare's progress during labor.  Take written notes so that you won't have to rely on memory alone.

- Wrap the mare's tail with a clean wrap when you observe the first stage of labor.  Be sure that the wrap is not applies to tightly or left on too long as it can cut off circulation and permanently damage the tail.

- Wash the mare's vulva and hindquarters with a mild soap and rinse thoroughly.

- Clean and disinfect the stall as thoroughly as possible.  Provide adequate bedding.

- Test strips that measure calcium in mammary secretions are available commercially.  These strips aid the owner in predicting when the mare will foal because sudden increases in calcium are associated with imminent foaling.

 Understanding Labor & Delivery: 

Labor is divided into three stages:

Stage one begins with onset of contractions and generally lasts 1-2 hours.  During this phase contractions move the foal through the cervix and into position in the birth canal.  The fetal membranes (allantois) may become visible at the mare's vulva.  When the sac breaks, signaled by a rush of fluid, stage one ends.

Stage two is the actual expulsion of the foal.  This phase moves relatively quickly.  If it takes more than 30 minutes for the mare to deliver, there could be a problem.  Call your veterinarian immediately.  If labor seems to be progressing, wait and watch.  Even in a normal deliver, the mare may stand up, lie down, and roll several times in an effort to properly position the foal for delivery.

 Normal presentation of the foal resembles a diving position, with front feet first, one slightly ahead of the other, hooves down, followed closely by the nose, head, neck, shoulders, and hindquarters.  If you notice hoof soles up, the foal may be backwards or upside down, and you should call your veterinarian immediately.  If you suspect any deviation from the normal deliver position, call your equine practitioner.

Stage three labor begins after delivery and is the phahe during which the afterbirth (placenta) is expelled.  Most placentas are passed within 1-3 hours after the foal is delivered.  If the placenta had not passed within 3 hours, call your veterinarian.  A retained placenta can cause serious problems, including massive infection and laminitis.

 Postpartum Care for Mare and Foal:    In the excitement of birth, it is important to remember some tried and true guidelines:

 Allow the foal time to break the fetal membranes.  Once the foal breaks through, be sure is breathing.

 Generally, it is not recommended to cut or break the umbilical cord.  If it has not broken during deliver, it will usually break when the mare or foal gets up.  The cord should break at a site approximately one inch from the foal's abdomen, where the cord's diameter is slightly narrower than the remainder of the cord.  If it is necessary to manually separate the cord, it should be held firmly on either side of the intended break site, then twisted and pulled to separate (Never cut the cord!).  Twisting and pulling of the cord stimulate closure of the umbilical vessels and reduce the likelihood of hemorrhage from the cord stump.  If bleeding persists following cord separation, pressure can be applied to the stump for several minutes by squeezing with a thumb and finger.

- Encourage the mare and foal to rest as long as possible.  Give them an opportunity to bond undisturbed.
- Treat the umbilical cord with an antiseptic solution, recommended by your veterinarian, soon after the cord breaks and for several days thereafter to prevent bacterial infection.
- Observe the mare and foal closely for the next 24 hours.

Importance of Observation:  Following birth of the foal, the mar and foal should be monitored for the following:

- Foal is breathing normally.

- Foal is bright and alert to its new surroundings.  The foal should make attempts to rise within 30 minutes following its birth.

- Mare is non-aggressive, curious, and accepting of her newborn.  (Occasionally a mare will reject her foal.  In such a case, the foal should be removed and reintroduced with the mare under restraint.  Foal rejection is more common in maiden mares.)

- Foal should stand and nurse within 2 hours of birth.  If the foal has not nursed within 3 hours, call your veterinarian.  The foal may be weak and in need of assistance or medical attention.

- Foal should pass meconium (the first sticky, dark stool) within 12 hours after birth.  If not, an enema may be needed.

- Mare should be bright and alert.  Allow her to eat as soon as she is ready, and supply plenty of clean, fresh water.

- Once the placenta has been expelled, examine it to make sure it is intact.  The afterbirth will be Y-shaped and should have only the hole through which the foal emerged.
- If you suspect the mare has retained part of the placenta, call your veterinarian.

- You may wish to check the mare's temperature and other vital signs periodically within the first 24 hours to make sure they are normal.  An elevated temperature may indicate infection (normal is 100.5ºF).

Importance of Colostrum:  It is essential that the foal receive an adequate supply of colostrum.  Colostrum, the mare's first milk, is extremely rich in antibodies.  It provides the foal with passive immunity to help prevent disease until its own immune system kicks in.  A foal must receive colostrum within the first 8-12 hours of life in order to absorb the antibodies.  If a foal is too weak to nurse, it may be necessary to milk the mare and give the colostrum to the foal via a stomach tube.

 If a mare appears to be leaking an excessive amount of milk prior to birth, consult your veterinarian.  This pre-foaling milk is not typically colostrum-rich.  However, depending on your veterinarian's recommendation, the mare may be milked and the colostrum frozen to give to the foal shortly after birth.  For orphan foals, or mares without an adequate supply of colostrum, it is important to locate a back-up supply.  Without it, the foal is at an increased risk of infections.  Your veterinarian can test the colostrum to determine whether it is rich in antibodies.  Also, the foal's serum can be tested at 18-24 hours of age to evaluate IgG antibody levels.  If IgG is inadequate, treatment for Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT) should be instituted by your veterinarian.

 Other Foaling Caveats: 

- If a mare appears to require assistance during foaling, call your veterinarian.
- If you suspect a problem during the foaling process (such as a foal which is not in the normal birth position), call your veterinarian immediately.  If caught early enough in labor, your veterinarian may be able to reposition the foal for a normal delivery.  Remember, a prompt delivery is crucial to the health of a newborn foal.

- Unless it is a dire emergency, do not try to pull a foal.  An exception to this rule might include a backwards presentation, because the foal can suffocate unless delivered promptly.  Under no circumstances should you ever pull with anything more than your own muscle power, and pull only during a contraction (when the mare is straining).  Improper pulling risks damage to the mare's reproductive tract, injury to the foal, and premature separation of the umbilical cord, which will deprive the foal of oxygen.

- Many foals begin life with weak legs.  Don't be overly concerned if the baby is down in the pasterns and fetlocks for the first day of two of life.  They will generally straighten up.  However, if you see extreme deviations of limbs or note other physical problems, or the condition persists, consult your veterinarian.
- It is always a good ides to have your veterinarian do a port-partum examination of both the mare and foal, as well as the placenta.

A Final Note:  Nature has provided an efficient system for the mare to deliver and care for her young.  Be a prepared and informed owner so you can enjoy the miracle of birth, keep your anxiety in check, and help the new mother and foal get off to a great start.

- - This information was developed by the American Association of Equine Practitioners through a grant from Miles Inc., Animal Health Products
 
 

 Health Alert: Read Drug Labels

 A recent report emphasizes to horse owners the importance of carefully reading all drug labels. Philip Johnson, BVSc, from University of Missouri published a report detailing three cases in which foals were given incorrect, adult dosages of the wormer moxidectin. Two foals became very sick while the third died. All three situations could have been prevented had the package insert instructions been followed.

 According to Johnson, the dewormer's insert gave directions on usage according to body weight. Another oversight was that two of the foals were well under the manufacturer's minimum age recommendation of four months. The three youngsters all went into comas within 12 hours of the deworming. While two eventually recovered, the third, much too young to have been dewormed, died from the ordeal. Johnson stated that foals are vulnerable not only because of their small size but also because certain blood-transmitted materials pass more readily into their nervous systems.

 The report serves as a reminder for all horse people to pay closer attention to instructions and inserts in all medical products
 
 

How to tell a Horse's age by his teeth

 Starting at 2 years of age the horse's front teeth (incisors) are the way to tell age. There are three sets of incisors, central, intermediate and corners. Open the horse's lips and look to see if all are baby teeth or adults. The central pair are adult (permanent at 2 - 2.5 years., the intermediate at 3 - 3.5 years and the adult corner incisors at 4 - 4.5 years. At 4 - 5 years of age some horses (mostly males) grow canine teeth which is that fang-like tooth just behind the incisors.
 Now starting at six years old, you need to look at the flat (table) surface of the lower incisors. There is a pit called the infundibulum that is easily seen in the center of each incisor's flat surface. At six years of age the pits of lower central permanent incisors are worn out (disappear). At 7 years the lower central incisors lose their pit and the upper corner incisor develops a hook off the back edge. By 8 years, all the lower adult incisors have lost their pit but a new small depression (dental star) appears in the lower central incisors. At 9 years of Age, the horse's lower central and intermediate and intermediate and upper central incisors will have a dental star but the infundibulum (pit) of the upper corner incisor is still present - they do not disappear until the horse is eleven years old.
 From the age of eleven on, the incisors become more triangular and the teeth begin to project out toward the front of the mouth more with each additional year. The best way to get good at aging horses is by practice. Look at as many horses of know age and test yourself. Some day you'll save a friend from buying a 1980 model that he thought was brand new!
 

Horse Hay Fever

 A common condition seen in young and old horses alike is allergic Respiratory Disease. Unlike humans, horses that have allergies tend to show more flu-like symptoms and less sinus and nasal effects. Their lungs become inflames and are more susceptible to virus and bacterial infections. The horse owner sees this as frequent (recurrent) "chest colds" that the horse never quite gets over. Other symptoms include coughing, excessive eye discharge and exercise intolerance (gets tired easily).
 The causes of allergic Respiratory Disease are many but some general classes of allergens are more common. Several types of mold spores and weeds found in otherwise high quality hay or straw seem to bother many horses. These contaminants are seasonal, so for the horse in pasture the problem pay only be seen in spring and summer. However, hay that is taken from local fields represents a year round source. Each year, the horse usually shows more symptoms as the body's sensitivity to these allergens gets stronger and stronger.

Treatment of this problem can be as simple as keeping your horse outside where air circulation is optional (fresh air vs. stagnant dust filled air). If your horse must stay in the stall most or all of the time, try to store your hay in a separate place; maximize airflow in the barn. If it is cold, put a blanket on the horse and soak the hay fed to the horse in water first.
 If the problem is not taken care of by the above steps, then your vet should get more involved in the process. Diagnostically, the vet can help by performing a simple procedure that looks at the fluid and cells in the horse's lungs to determine the severity of the allergy. Secondly there is a relatively new blood test that can specifically determine what "things" the horse is allergic to and allow for production of a "customized" treatment for that individual horse. Other general treatments include corticosteroids (cortisone) and bronchodilators (like those taken by human asthma patients). The important thing to realize is that recognizing your horse has this problem is more than half the battle. Once that is done, proper treatment can dramatically improve the usefulness of your horse.
 

Internal Parasite Control

Parasites are living organisms that live off a host causing harm to the host and giving nothing in return. Large quantities of
 money are spent every year to kill parasites on people, animals, and plants because of the amount of destruction they cause. In
 the confined horse, parasite control is of utmost importance. 

Many different types of internal parasites, or worms affect horses. These include Ascarids (Roundworms), large and small Strongyles, Oxyuris (Pinworms), Strongyloides (Threadworms), Tapeworms, and Gasterophilus (Bots). All of these parasites  can cause mild to major health problems. Ascarids and threadworms are mainly a problem in foals. Bots and Tapeworms  (Cestodes) rarely cause major problems, but Strongyles can lead to serious health problems. 

Large Strongyles (vulgaris, equinus, and edentatus) can cause problems throughout the body due to their migration patterns,
but most commonly effect the liver and arteries. When in the arteries, Strongyles can obstruct blood flow and cause colic,
which can potentially lead to death. Small Strongyles (Cyathostomes and Trichonema) can lead to inflammation in the intestines
also leading to colic and/or diarrhea. 

There are three classifications of dewormers, or Anthelmintics. These are as follows: 

                Benzimidazoles, which include Fenbendazole (Panacur) and  Oxfendazole (Benzelmin), 
                Tetrahydropyrimidines, which include Pyrantel tartrate and  Pyrantel pamoate, and 
                Avermectins, which include Ivermectin (Eqvalan and 
                 Zimectrin) and Moxidectin (Quest). 

The Avermectins are the newest and most powerful group of anthelmintics. The Benzimidazoles and Tetrahydropyrimidines are
older classes, which will kill Strongyles, Roundworms, and Pinworms. In addition to these groups, Avermectins also kill Bots,
Lungworms, and worms that live in the skin causing summer sores and other problems. Quest also destroys a lot of the
Strongyles living in the walls of the intestines, but will not necessarily kill the worms in the skin and lungs.

Upon reviewing this information it appears that only Avermectins should be given, but this is not the case. First of all, the three
 classes should be used in rotation because they all kill in different ways and therefore the worm resistance to one particular drug
 does not become a problem. Secondly, there are other unique points to some of these drugs. For example, Oxfendazole is a
 better drug than Fenbendazole, but cannot be used in pregnant mares. Quest cannot be used in foals. Oxfendazole and Pyrantel
 pamoate cannot be used in sick or severely thin horses. Finally, only Pyrantel pamoate will kill Tapeworms (see your
 Veterinarian for dosage). Some other important considerations are that foals should be dewormed with Fenbendazole the first
 time instead of Avermectins which could cause a massive roundworm kill off followed by colic. Mares should be given
 Ivermectin two weeks before parturition. In some horses, Quest may help with certain chronic colic and chronic diarrhea
 problems. 

 The answer to reducing worm problems is twofold. First, reduce the environmental contamination by removing the manure on
 a regular basis. Secondly, deworm horses with an approved anthelmintic every two months and be sure to rotate different
 classes of dewormers every time, in a fast rotation, or every six months, in a slow rotation. The other option is giving Strongid
 C 2X daily along with Ivermectin every six months. 
   - David Byerly DVM 
 

The Horse's Digestive System

 Over a period of many millennia, horses have had to adapt to their environment and natural habitat. As a result of this adaptation, they became herbivores and in order to cope with this they developed a highly specialized kind of digestive system which is not seen in any other animal species.

 The horses are normally occupied with their food intake for almost 20 hours. Their diet consists mainly of grass, herbs, shrubs, and leaves. Once in a while they treat themselves to seeds, granules or fruit. As a result, their nutrition is very rich in fiber, but poor in carbohydrates. During certain times of the year their intake of proteins and vegetable fats is rather low. Due to the low energy content in their natural feeds, the horses have no option but to spread large amounts over a period of 24 hours. These fiber-rich feeds have to be chewed very thoroughly. For this purpose, the horses produce a copious flow of saliva manufactured as a result of the intensive chewing process, which ensures that the feed is well broken down before it reaches the stomach. This process is an essential prerequisite for the horse's digestion.

 Since the food intake is so slow and protracted, the stomach receives only small portions at a time. The initial breakdown of the nutrients by the enzymes and bacteria, which are contained in the feed, takes place in the anterior part of the stomach (known in medical terms as the aglandular cecal pouch). The second half of the stomach (the medical terms of which are fundus and pylorus) handles the supply and saturation of the contents with the horse's own gastric acids. During this process the pH-value drops down to below 2.5. In the course of this, the microorganisms contained within the feed are eliminated, the pepsin (which is a protein-splitting enzyme) is activated and this initiates the breakdown of the proteins into short chains (di- and tri- peptides). After about 4 hours, the stomach contents finally reach the small intestine. In the small intestine the pancreatic secretions and the bile are carried into the small intestinal system. The pancreatic secretions contain all the enzymes, which are necessary for the splitting of the principal nutrients, namely proteases for protein splitting, amylases for the amylolysis, and lipases for the release of lipids. In the course of this process, the alkalis required for the increase of the pH-value (up to pH 7) are multiplied and it is only within the neutral pH-range that all the enzymes become activated 100 %. This is the only way in which the amino acids produced by the protein, as well as the sugar molecules produced by the carbohydrates and the fatty acids produced by the fat can be utilized by the small intestine and its mucosa.

 What is different in horses by comparison with other animal species is the fact that the pancreatic secretions contain a low concentration of enzymes.

"Horses do not have any Gallbladders".

 The digestion of fats is assisted by the liver, which provides a continuous supply of salt-containing bile. The existence of a mineral stone is of the utmost importance.

 In order for the nutrients (proteins, fats and carbohydrates) to be able to pass through the 60' long small intestine, they have to be fully absorbed and digested, otherwise they will be lost for ever.

 Within the small intestine an entirely different strategy governs the digestive process. Here you have a plentiful supply of bacteria and these are capable of splitting the fibrins which the horse would find hard to digest, resulting in short-chain fatty acids (acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid). These acids are very energy-rich and are therefore indispensable suppliers of energy for horses. The bacteria produce valuable vitamins (B-vitamins, vitamin C and Biotin) which the horse may not necessarily get from, its feeds. However, in cases where there are disorders of the digestive tract, the above-named may be either in short supply or may not be produced at all.

 A number of different bacteria turn the large intestine into a virtual fermentation chamber and this also includes the appendix and colon. But not all the bacteria are necessarily good ones. Just like with any other fermentation process, there may be unwanted side effects, which can easily lead to the development of colics. When undesirable bacteria of this type multiply, the horse cannot always cope and they may turn poisonous or even fatal. They can also cause long-term damage to the horses' health (hoof-laminitis, liver-damage, colics etc.). The food may remain in the large intestine for up to 48 hours and after that it is normally excreted in well-formed bowel movements, when the horse is in good health.
In the modern horse-world an amazing number of mistakes occur on an on-going basis. This is not just the fault of the horse owners themselves but even more due to the greed for additional profits exhibited by the industry, as a result of which the protein content in the horse feeds is often far too high and contains far too many animal by-products. The hay is far too rich and as a result the horses are often very short of raw fiber. The feeds do not contain a sufficient amount of minerals and vitamins, but worst of all these have been added in an inorganic or synthetic manner, which means that the horses are unable to derive any benefit from them, making them totally useless and a complete waste of money.
However, nowadays there are many ways and means of avoiding all these problems and getting things back to normal by natural means. All you need is the right kind of information and a slight change in attitude.

Here is just one example:   Nowadays many of the herbs, which are missing from our hay and pastures, need to be replenished. Sunflower seeds, linseed and plant germs, for instance, supply fats, minerals and vitamins in a natural composition, which is well absorbed and utilized by the horses.

 The above is based on the author's personal opinions and his 35 years experience in horse breeding. To get more information from Karl Hermanns and Topfit of America contact him at 
khermanns@topfit-online.com 
 
 

Rainbow Bridge

 Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.  When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.  There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.  There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

 All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.  The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone special to them, who had to be left behind.  They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance.  His bright eyes are intent; his eager body begins to quiver.  Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

 You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.  The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together ...
 

Starting a Gymkhana Horse

 Starting a horse with no gymkhana experience or is out of condition: NO MORE THAN A HALF HOUR PER DAY on barrels or poles.  Practice at the walk and trot using voice commands, light-handed reining, legs or light spurring and praise.

Practice & Conditioning Programs

First of all, your horse or pony must be sound and healthy.  Pay close attention to the legs and hooves.  Learn to know the difference between being stocked up and swelling.  Keep your horse shod regularly, and don't compete with a loose shoe.
 Having a happy, healthy, well conditioned gymkhana horse is one of your goals.  Other objectives are good form and control and hyper prevention.  A gymkhana horse can also be a good trail horse, cow horse, endurance horse, and even a hunter/jumper.  To create an all-around horse, it takes time and patience.

 Currently, your horse or pony should fall into one of  the following categories of condition:

 Out of Shape:  Exercised less than 3 hours per week, kept in a paddock or stall or pastured with lazy, inactive horses.
 O.K. Shape:  Exercised or turned out 3 to 5 times a  week, or  pastured with active horses and goes on an  occasional trail ride or ridden in an arena.
 Good Shape:  Exercised at least every other day, for 2 or more hours per day.
 Excellent Shape:  Ridden hard every day for 2 or more hours or hilly trails for several hours per day.

 The out of shape and the O.K. shape horse needs a gradual introduction to gymkhana.  If you don't go about it in an easy manner, you will get a grouchy, uncooperative mount.  If you push the horse too fast you may have problems, and most likely look pretty sloppy.  Your main goal is good form & control.

The horse that is in Good Shape or Excellent Condition  may not be limber.  Even if he's a working cow horse, he may not be used to the arc body positioning needed for gymkhana.  Horses that are in good condition should still be taught each course slowly until learned.  Even a seasoned barrel racing horse needs to learn each gymkhana course, to do well at all events.

Suggested Practice and Conditioning Program

WEEK ONE (OR THE FIRST FIVE DAYS)
Half Hour Sessions

Trot and/or lope in large-to-small circles in one direction, then the other (clockwise/counter clockwise).  Pay attention to leads. 

Practice stopping, and backing.

Walk him out for several minutes or until he stops breathing hard. (look for flank movement)

Set up two barrels, at least 30 feet apart and begin practicing making and rounding in a figure 8 pattern.  Start out slowly at the walk or trot.

If your horse is learning to move well, and you want to try a lope, move the barrels farther apart.  If he gets to excited, go back to the walk or trot (It is perfectly okay to go to a gymkhana and just trot through the events.  It shows you care about control and good form!)

Keep working on your body and voice commands,  When you fell you have control and he's reading your body, you may try the lope again.  Remember to pause and rest after a few circles or figure 8âs.  Especially remember to praise him for doing this new and somewhat strenuous (arcing) activity.

After this short workout (no more than a half hour per day), rub him down, give him a treat.  Reward him with loving kindness.  In the next few days of this training, he may be sore and achy.  This is why we should not overwork him in the very beginning.  He can't tell you where he's sore, but he'll let you know by being fussy.  Go down to the walk or trot, with lots of praise, until the soreness goes away.  Next week he may feel better and want to work.

WEEK TWO (OR THE NEXT FIVE DAYS)
Still a half hour per day

 Warm up with circles in the arena.  Practice stopping and backing.

 Introduce your favorite courses that you will probably enter at the next show.  Start with only 2 or 3 per day, and do them slow and easy.  Use the start and stop formula so that he begins and ends each course the same way.

 He cannot read a written diagram or ready your mind, so he has to learn the courses by your guidance and patience.  With the start and stop formula, at least he'll know when he's starting and ending a course.

If your horse is starting to become hyper when there's barrels around, concentrate on walking through the courses.  Relax your body, and don't show irritability.  If you do become irritable, put him away, or go on a slow leisurely trail ride.  Hyper Prevention is the other main objective of practice and conditioning. 

Remember:  Speed is the last thing on your mind. 
Your goal is GOOD FORM AND CONTROL.

It is time to think about getting or making some poles.  The best way to get good at Pole Bending is to own, or have use of a set.

If you have poles to use now, remember to go through them slowly.  Always keep fluid movement as you weave through.  If you are losing good form, go to a slower gait.  Trotting through the poles evenly and fluidly looks better than loping sloppily out of control.

 In the days ahead, your horse may trot and lope through the poles.  Soon he will surprise you with nice fluid pole bending at the lope.

Limit gymkhana training to a half hour per day, but start a conditioning program of aerobic trail riding or ringwork.  Gallop only on trails that have good footing (no holes) and plenty of vision (no blind corners). Aerobic trail riding is not recommended for beginner riders, or young horses.  A helmet is a good idea.

Don't overlook the rubdown and treat part, of the training!  Besides the fact you have a new activity together, your forming a closer relationship.  He'll be happy to work for you if one of those nice massages come afterwards, not to mention the treat!

Also, there are those horses that love to roll after a workout.  Let them!  They worked for it.  Patience, praise, and reward is what gymkhana training is all about.  If you want him to remain a calm trail horse, or have nice arena manners, you need to understand your horse's mind and body, as well as his instincts.

WEEK THREE
(or after 10 days of basics)

You should still be warming-up by loping in large-to-small circles, improving your stops, hand backing.  You should have light hands, and you can feel your horse underneath you better.  You are making sure that he is cool and calm after the warm-up, before going to the barrels and poles.  Congratulations.  You are becoming a team.

Your horse should be becoming confident in you, and loves to show you haw well he can trot or lope through the courses.  You may be having to hold him back because he's getting so good at it!  It is okay to push him through a course occasionally (during practice) but not all the time.

Try walking him through a course that you just loped through.  If he walks without fuss and is relaxed, you have excellent control.  Take pride in being able to walk your horse as well as run through any gymkhana course.  If you work as a team and understand each other, you should be able to maintain the control and confidence.

The horse that was out of shape is becoming limber and probably more active.  Gymkhana practice should still be limited to a half hour per day, but other types of ringwork and aerobic trail riding can be increased.

Don't you forget that rubdown and treat!  Your horse won't forget.  He works for it.  If things are going well, he's becoming as faithful as a dog!
 

The CSHA TRAP Program
Sign up now for the Trail Rider Award Program

The TRAP (Trail Rider Award Program) provides an award structure for the trail riding member.  The information obtained from the rider's logs can be utilized to demonstrate trail usage to federal, state and local governments as well as local and state Park Departments.

THE PROGRAM:
All categories of trail riding qualify toward awards under this program.

• Competitive trail rides
• Riding alone
• Poker rides
• Endurance rides
• Trail Trials
• Organized Club rides
• Region rides
• Out with the gang rides

Any CSHA member may participate in the TRAP program.  Contact your State or Regional TRAP Chairperson and start working on these hours.

Contact:
STATE CHAIRPERSON:
Diane Digger Gilbert Phone: (909) 687-6214
10922 Campbell Ave. Riverside, Ca., 92505-2440

REGION IV CHAIRPERSON:
Vicki Kardell Phone: (209) 966-2080
4253 Woodview Ln. Mariposa, Ca., 95338

Earn recognition & awards for the hours you spend in the saddle riding the trails.  JOIN NOW!