It is April! The month when things are supposed to be getting green....time to start doing the rain dance people!
The vet will be out on the 7th to vaccinate and do whatever else is needed.
Karen
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
When training/working a horse, there are all sorts of "rules" out there, that can make your average horse owner who is training their own horse is little paranoid. One that bothers me, is the idea that "if you let your horse get away with that once, he will think he can always get away with that!". I think this makes people paranoid about not dealing with something that they know isn't good, even if they aren't sure what they should do....which can lead to riders making some desperate or poorly thought out techniques. And as we know, "violence begins where knowledge ends".
Here is an example; today I went out to catch the three new mares in the bottom field, to introduce them to the barn and brush them. I wanted to bring Charmer in first, as I feel an affinity to her, but when I approached her with the halter, she backed off, and said, "no thanks!". If I believed that allowing her to decide not to be caught this one time would ruin her forever, I would have chased her around in the mud, getting the other two worked up, and spent all sorts of time convincing her she couldn't escape me. Instead, I just went ahead and caught Cocoa. After grooming her, I again approached Charmer, but she was still not sure she wanted to be caught, so I put the halter on Dixie and brought her in, to start her make over (thoroughbreds should not have foot long manes!). So what happened when I put Dixie back out? Charmer walked right up to me and pretty much put her nose in the halter!
Hmmm....so why did that work? Because instead of chasing Charmer around like a predator and convincing her that resistance was futile, I respected her decision and allowed her curiosity to take hold, and I allowed her comfort level with me to increase as she saw me interact with the other two mares. This works because I believe, that at the base of it, the horses need to want to work, and if they don't want to interact with me, then that is my problem to resolve and not theirs to be forced into. Eventually I will build a level of trust, so that sometimes the horse will do something it isn't so sure about.
Another example is the panic some people seem to feel when a horse runs out at a jump; I must discipline the horse right away so it knows not to stop! Sure...or you could simply correct the issue that lead up to the stop, whether that be pace, approach, rider error, or that the horse was over faced...just lashing out with the whip won't tell the horse what it should have done, it will just get the horse worked up in a frenzy. Sometimes lashing out and making a big deal of the issue, makes it a bigger issue that it actually was, and will lock that moment more firmly in memory. Think about it...you tend to remember embarrassing or upsetting moments more if someone makes a big deal about them!
Now that said, I do think it is important to be consistent with a horse, and I do think that it is unfair to allow a horse to do something and then punish them for doing it later on....such as if you let your horse rub on you for years, it isn't fair to suddenly punish them for it later. I think that is where you need to be consistent, and be careful what you are teaching your horse, but I don't think riders need to be in a panic to discipline, or be made to feel guilty that they didn't get their horse to do something they wanted it to do. Instead I think riders should feel comfortable respecting their horse, and understanding their own limitations...and thinking rather than reacting.
And remember, horses actually can like people, and actually can like being ridden/worked!
Karen
Here is an example; today I went out to catch the three new mares in the bottom field, to introduce them to the barn and brush them. I wanted to bring Charmer in first, as I feel an affinity to her, but when I approached her with the halter, she backed off, and said, "no thanks!". If I believed that allowing her to decide not to be caught this one time would ruin her forever, I would have chased her around in the mud, getting the other two worked up, and spent all sorts of time convincing her she couldn't escape me. Instead, I just went ahead and caught Cocoa. After grooming her, I again approached Charmer, but she was still not sure she wanted to be caught, so I put the halter on Dixie and brought her in, to start her make over (thoroughbreds should not have foot long manes!). So what happened when I put Dixie back out? Charmer walked right up to me and pretty much put her nose in the halter!
Hmmm....so why did that work? Because instead of chasing Charmer around like a predator and convincing her that resistance was futile, I respected her decision and allowed her curiosity to take hold, and I allowed her comfort level with me to increase as she saw me interact with the other two mares. This works because I believe, that at the base of it, the horses need to want to work, and if they don't want to interact with me, then that is my problem to resolve and not theirs to be forced into. Eventually I will build a level of trust, so that sometimes the horse will do something it isn't so sure about.
Another example is the panic some people seem to feel when a horse runs out at a jump; I must discipline the horse right away so it knows not to stop! Sure...or you could simply correct the issue that lead up to the stop, whether that be pace, approach, rider error, or that the horse was over faced...just lashing out with the whip won't tell the horse what it should have done, it will just get the horse worked up in a frenzy. Sometimes lashing out and making a big deal of the issue, makes it a bigger issue that it actually was, and will lock that moment more firmly in memory. Think about it...you tend to remember embarrassing or upsetting moments more if someone makes a big deal about them!
Now that said, I do think it is important to be consistent with a horse, and I do think that it is unfair to allow a horse to do something and then punish them for doing it later on....such as if you let your horse rub on you for years, it isn't fair to suddenly punish them for it later. I think that is where you need to be consistent, and be careful what you are teaching your horse, but I don't think riders need to be in a panic to discipline, or be made to feel guilty that they didn't get their horse to do something they wanted it to do. Instead I think riders should feel comfortable respecting their horse, and understanding their own limitations...and thinking rather than reacting.
And remember, horses actually can like people, and actually can like being ridden/worked!
Karen
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Do you recognize the two peppy fillies terrorizing the sway backed gelding in the photo?That is our very own Piper (right) and Coregel (left)! They are off seeing the world and being taught some manners by a grumpy old gelding who seemed VERY disappointed that he was given the task of baby sitter!
The two girls are going to be staying at Delaney vet for a bit to get some real world exposure so that hopefully they will be more adjustable to new things when they are older.
Coregel seemed very interested in the little Donkey next door, whereas Piper wanted to tour the edge of the racetrack.
To maintain the chestnut mare status quo, we had a few new mares come in the last couple days: two 5 year old thoroughbreds that are here to learn to jump and be sold (Secret and Dixie....Secret has the full blaze), and two Quarter Horse mares that are here to be started under saddle and hopefully sold as well (Cocoa is black, Charmer is a neat lightish chestnut).
Penny left today to start her life as a pony club mount. She went very well for her young rider, so I hope that works out well for all concerned! I am going to miss riding my little thoroughbred pony mount!
Karen
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Calvin Jumping!
Clare came out in time to video me jumping her horse. It was my first time jumping him, but she had done some little stuff with him years ago. He seemed to remember how to do it!
Video of Calvin Jumping
Karen
Video of Calvin Jumping
Karen
I jumped YJ today! Well, not literally....to be technically correct YJ jumped a jump with me on his back encouraging him to do so. It was a 12" or so yellow cross pole and we cantered it once each way. He was great! I was fully expecting him to either break to a trot and waddle over it, or only jump with his front end and have poles scattered in our wake...but he jumped it well and cantered off politely after the jump!
He has mellowed a lot this year; last year he would poo 4 or 5 times each work out, and get anxious...but this year the only anxiety he seems to have is regarding the timing of the next cookie...
I think he will be a great lesson partner for Rocket, as they both have about the same length of stride, and the same gluttonous tendencies.
Perhaps by May he will have shed out enough that he can be worked long enough to be used in lessons...he is one woolly boy. I am quite excited/relieved that he seems to like to jump!
Karen
He has mellowed a lot this year; last year he would poo 4 or 5 times each work out, and get anxious...but this year the only anxiety he seems to have is regarding the timing of the next cookie...
I think he will be a great lesson partner for Rocket, as they both have about the same length of stride, and the same gluttonous tendencies.
Perhaps by May he will have shed out enough that he can be worked long enough to be used in lessons...he is one woolly boy. I am quite excited/relieved that he seems to like to jump!
Karen
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
I rode Triton today for the first time. I hadn't planned to, I had only planned to lunge him lightly in the dressage saddle...but then I saw my helmet hanging on a standard and it was just too tempting.
Of course he was just in his halter, and the saddle had no stirrups...but hey, he's quiet and short...so what could go wrong?
So after attaching the lead rope to both sides of the halter, I leaned across the saddle a few times, then I heaved myself on proper. Usually when I first get on, I just let them do what they want to, whether that be sit there, or wander to the out gate (or the Beamer...wander all over the place!). Triton decided to be different...he decided to paw the mounting block....and get his leg stuck in it! Momentary concern (aka panic) on my part as I considered jumping off as he backed up trying to untangle himself, but he really seemed unphased, and got himself free all on his own, so I stayed on and we wandered around the ring. What a good boy! He didn't feel at all small under me either.
I think he will actually enjoy the attention of regular work!
Karen
Of course he was just in his halter, and the saddle had no stirrups...but hey, he's quiet and short...so what could go wrong?
So after attaching the lead rope to both sides of the halter, I leaned across the saddle a few times, then I heaved myself on proper. Usually when I first get on, I just let them do what they want to, whether that be sit there, or wander to the out gate (or the Beamer...wander all over the place!). Triton decided to be different...he decided to paw the mounting block....and get his leg stuck in it! Momentary concern (aka panic) on my part as I considered jumping off as he backed up trying to untangle himself, but he really seemed unphased, and got himself free all on his own, so I stayed on and we wandered around the ring. What a good boy! He didn't feel at all small under me either.
I think he will actually enjoy the attention of regular work!
Karen
Monday, March 22, 2010
Today I ventured into town to get my eyes checked in response to the reminder notice I got back in December. The Dr office is in the Sherwood Park Mall, so off I went, arriving just in time for my 11 am appointment.
Apparently 11am is when the mothers or day home "mothers" go to the mall with their children, as there seemed to be an oddly large number of toddlers wandering the halls. I loved the one laying on the ground in the entrance to a clothing store SCREAMING and pounding fists and legs, blocking the entrance. An older gentleman ended up walking over the child to escape the store. At first I thought perhaps he was related to the child, but he just kept walking...or maybe he was, but wanted to pretend he wasn't? No mother came to grab her kid out of the way in the time it took me to take in and pass by the scene.
Not much further was a young couple dragging their screaming child away from the brightly painted train ride.
So...parents of teenage girls? Take your daughters out of school one day and take them to the mall at around 11 am! That should help convince them to stay out of "trouble"!
After my appointment my eyes were all wonky from the weird light scan thing they started doing, so I decided to browse for shoes while my eyes recovered. First store looked at me like I was deformed for asking for a AAA width. The second one I went to didn't look to have much for runners, and I didn't see any staff, so I left quickly. But then I got to Athlete's World or something...two customers were in the store already, but left as I was browsing...I really just wanted to ask about sizing, as browsing seems pointless...but in the FIVE minutes I was there, NO staff person showed up!
I was half tempted to grab a security tagged garment and throw it out the door to set of the alarm in order to get some service, but I wasn't sure how well that would be taken, so I just left. So apparently the late morning is also a great time to be a shop lifter...
Ugh, I hate malls and shopping!
I hope you all are enjoying the snow though! This snow is for Laura and Courtney's relatives that are coming to town soon and wanted to ski...
Karen
Apparently 11am is when the mothers or day home "mothers" go to the mall with their children, as there seemed to be an oddly large number of toddlers wandering the halls. I loved the one laying on the ground in the entrance to a clothing store SCREAMING and pounding fists and legs, blocking the entrance. An older gentleman ended up walking over the child to escape the store. At first I thought perhaps he was related to the child, but he just kept walking...or maybe he was, but wanted to pretend he wasn't? No mother came to grab her kid out of the way in the time it took me to take in and pass by the scene.
Not much further was a young couple dragging their screaming child away from the brightly painted train ride.
So...parents of teenage girls? Take your daughters out of school one day and take them to the mall at around 11 am! That should help convince them to stay out of "trouble"!
After my appointment my eyes were all wonky from the weird light scan thing they started doing, so I decided to browse for shoes while my eyes recovered. First store looked at me like I was deformed for asking for a AAA width. The second one I went to didn't look to have much for runners, and I didn't see any staff, so I left quickly. But then I got to Athlete's World or something...two customers were in the store already, but left as I was browsing...I really just wanted to ask about sizing, as browsing seems pointless...but in the FIVE minutes I was there, NO staff person showed up!
I was half tempted to grab a security tagged garment and throw it out the door to set of the alarm in order to get some service, but I wasn't sure how well that would be taken, so I just left. So apparently the late morning is also a great time to be a shop lifter...
Ugh, I hate malls and shopping!
I hope you all are enjoying the snow though! This snow is for Laura and Courtney's relatives that are coming to town soon and wanted to ski...
Karen
Sunday, March 21, 2010
It is funny, I usually avoid riding on Sundays as it can get busy, but it was actually fun to have so many people out today! Can you believe we actually have 5 people riding in the arena at the same time with none of them in a lesson? Wow. I was riding YJ who couldn't take his eyes of Brax for some reason. It was funny when Christine brought him in the barn and stood him beside YJ as she shut the door....poor YJ looked like a little pony!
I have officially started advertising Calvin for sale. Fortunately Clare was able to give me some "pre goat" photos! 
Isn't he lovely?
I also have a video Natalie took of me riding him western. I think Calvin picked up that I was an english rider despite the chaps, but tried his best to humor me.
If anyone is looking for a very kind, well trained (albeit a little out of shape), and smooth gelding, Calvin might be your boy! We would love to find him a home with another young girl to love him.
Karen
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Babies are silly
And by babies I mean the 2 year old warmblood kind. I went out to play with them today and noticed Tia was overly warm in her winter blanket, so I pulled the blanket off. But the babies have never seen her without her blanket, and they acted like her skin had been pulled off and she had become a monster horse! They snorted and her and flew back in terror. Then they saw the blanket hanging on the gate and thought that was even more exciting. Ah, to be young again!
I managed to make my way to the Tudor sale today too, some good deals, but I didn't end up buying much; half chaps I desperately needed, some new rubber curries for the lesson horses, and a new lunge line was all I bought for myself. I had hoped that by going around 6, it would be quiet, but I was wrong; it was still busy, so I didn't feel like browsing as I normally would! I think people went there for dinner and drinks as much as to shop. I refrained from eating or drinking, but in hindsight i am not sure why.
I do like the new lay out, and I am sure it will be even better without the catering stuff in the way. Good luck to the new owners and here is hoping for a prosperous 2010!
Karen
I managed to make my way to the Tudor sale today too, some good deals, but I didn't end up buying much; half chaps I desperately needed, some new rubber curries for the lesson horses, and a new lunge line was all I bought for myself. I had hoped that by going around 6, it would be quiet, but I was wrong; it was still busy, so I didn't feel like browsing as I normally would! I think people went there for dinner and drinks as much as to shop. I refrained from eating or drinking, but in hindsight i am not sure why.
I do like the new lay out, and I am sure it will be even better without the catering stuff in the way. Good luck to the new owners and here is hoping for a prosperous 2010!
Karen
Friday, March 19, 2010
After months of waiting, Christine's new horse is here! Brax arrived safe and sound this afternoon. I am not sure what he thought of the long trailer ride, but he was definitely eager to roll in the arena. Bliss is NOT impressed with the new competition for cookies...
He is such a sweet boy, who does not at all give the impression of being a big horse...until you stand beside him; he is huge, and still growing! Very light on his feet when he trots and has a lovely way of carrying himself. I cannot wait to see Christine on him next week!
Karen
He is such a sweet boy, who does not at all give the impression of being a big horse...until you stand beside him; he is huge, and still growing! Very light on his feet when he trots and has a lovely way of carrying himself. I cannot wait to see Christine on him next week!
Karen
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Snow!
Snow is Gods way of:
-doing a quick clean up before the in-laws come over...more or less like sweeping the dirt under the rug & cramming the loose ends in the closets. It does look pretty out right now though!
- Welcoming Christine and Claude back from their wedding in the Bahamas
- Punishing Laureen for considering taking her horse's winter blanket home as "it won't get cold again". If I recall correctly it was Amanda who took her winter blankets home last year and caused oodles of snow in April.
- Telling me I needed a nap this morning
On another note, Debbie, you were right! Triscuit Thin Crisps, Parmesan Garlic flavour are yummy! Easy replacement for chips or nachos!
Karen
-doing a quick clean up before the in-laws come over...more or less like sweeping the dirt under the rug & cramming the loose ends in the closets. It does look pretty out right now though!
- Welcoming Christine and Claude back from their wedding in the Bahamas
- Punishing Laureen for considering taking her horse's winter blanket home as "it won't get cold again". If I recall correctly it was Amanda who took her winter blankets home last year and caused oodles of snow in April.
- Telling me I needed a nap this morning
On another note, Debbie, you were right! Triscuit Thin Crisps, Parmesan Garlic flavour are yummy! Easy replacement for chips or nachos!
Karen
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Happy St. Paddy's dad everyone!
Did you remember to wear green?
This Saturday is Tudor Tack's St. Patrick's Day/Grand reopening sale. She tells me it is catered and will have some great deals, so likely best to get there early!
I am also very excited to have received my first two sponsorship cheques!
#1) $300 from ATSafety! Mr. McIver may also be providing us with a Safety Coordinator and possibly a paramedic! Thanks ATSaftey Training! ATSafety offers First Aid, Defensive Driving, ATV Safety, plus many other things. Check out their website for more information: http://www.atsafetytraining.ca/
I am not sure what their signature jump will look like...but it will have to be super safe and pass their inspection I am sure!
#2) $250 from "Ruby Enterprises" AKA Charity Engleking....aka YJ's previous owner. Ruby Enterprises is named after her faithful canine companions, so her signature jump should be fun to design with a canine motif.
Thank you to both Charity and Bob for kick starting the fund raising with your generous contributions!
Karen
This Saturday is Tudor Tack's St. Patrick's Day/Grand reopening sale. She tells me it is catered and will have some great deals, so likely best to get there early!
I am also very excited to have received my first two sponsorship cheques!
#1) $300 from ATSafety! Mr. McIver may also be providing us with a Safety Coordinator and possibly a paramedic! Thanks ATSaftey Training! ATSafety offers First Aid, Defensive Driving, ATV Safety, plus many other things. Check out their website for more information: http://www.atsafetytraining.ca/
I am not sure what their signature jump will look like...but it will have to be super safe and pass their inspection I am sure!
#2) $250 from "Ruby Enterprises" AKA Charity Engleking....aka YJ's previous owner. Ruby Enterprises is named after her faithful canine companions, so her signature jump should be fun to design with a canine motif.
Thank you to both Charity and Bob for kick starting the fund raising with your generous contributions!
Karen
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
I don't know what it is about farrier day, but it exhausts me. I think in part it is because I try to hurry to get the barn clean, and then ride a couple horses before Ken gets here...and of course there is the guessing game regarding WHEN he will get here....followed by two or more hours of fetching and holding horses. Today there were eleven on the list...which is over 40% of the entire equine population at Hillside, so it took until after 2pm to finish up....at which point I was very ready for a nap!
If anyone had been out at fiveish they would have been witness to just how out of it I still was; i brought Penny in to ride, and decided I would try her in the Happy Mouth snaffle...so I put that on her, took her in the arena, fixed a crooked pole...and then went to get on only to realize I didn't have a saddle! So back out to the barn to put on the saddle, then back in the ring to mount...only to then realize I only had half the lights on in the arena (I had only turned on half to build the course). Penny was suspicious of the light and dark spots, so maybe it was good for her.
Fortunately riding woke me up and the rest of the evening went well. Actually lessons went very well followed by no exuberant kicks from Edgar during feeding time! Possible he is learning? Maybe?
Karen
If anyone had been out at fiveish they would have been witness to just how out of it I still was; i brought Penny in to ride, and decided I would try her in the Happy Mouth snaffle...so I put that on her, took her in the arena, fixed a crooked pole...and then went to get on only to realize I didn't have a saddle! So back out to the barn to put on the saddle, then back in the ring to mount...only to then realize I only had half the lights on in the arena (I had only turned on half to build the course). Penny was suspicious of the light and dark spots, so maybe it was good for her.
Fortunately riding woke me up and the rest of the evening went well. Actually lessons went very well followed by no exuberant kicks from Edgar during feeding time! Possible he is learning? Maybe?
Karen
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Good old kijiji....
Kijiji never ceases to entertain and frighten.
Entertaining: The "Exquisite" Dressage Sport Horse: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ai2gw9fT93AListed as "ready to take any level of rider to the winners circle in FEI competition" I didn't know the FEI had a wiggly head flipping class. To be fair, the ad doesn't list his age, so I suppose if he is a 4 year old, then MAYBE he could make it to the four year old classes with a talented pro this year...or maybe they just meant he is quiet enough you can use him as a taxi to get you to the edge of the winners circle so you can watch the presentations from his back?
To be fair he likely isn't all that bad a horse, but the ad just talks him up sooo much, I was expecting to see an older FEI school master, and not a very green, average moving gelding, whose lateral work involves pulling his head into the wall for a few strides...
Then, a little further on Kijiji, is someone whose foal has swollen hooves/fetlocks, doesn't want to walk, and is tipping in on her hooves....and they decide to post for advice on KIJIJI rather than say, call a vet! I imagine if they woke up with sore/swollen ankles and feet, and were unable to walk comfortably, they would do more than just post for help on a website...
Apparently the lack of 1 hour makes be bitchy....good thing I don't teach on Sundays!
Karen
Entertaining: The "Exquisite" Dressage Sport Horse: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ai2gw9fT93AListed as "ready to take any level of rider to the winners circle in FEI competition" I didn't know the FEI had a wiggly head flipping class. To be fair, the ad doesn't list his age, so I suppose if he is a 4 year old, then MAYBE he could make it to the four year old classes with a talented pro this year...or maybe they just meant he is quiet enough you can use him as a taxi to get you to the edge of the winners circle so you can watch the presentations from his back?
To be fair he likely isn't all that bad a horse, but the ad just talks him up sooo much, I was expecting to see an older FEI school master, and not a very green, average moving gelding, whose lateral work involves pulling his head into the wall for a few strides...
Then, a little further on Kijiji, is someone whose foal has swollen hooves/fetlocks, doesn't want to walk, and is tipping in on her hooves....and they decide to post for advice on KIJIJI rather than say, call a vet! I imagine if they woke up with sore/swollen ankles and feet, and were unable to walk comfortably, they would do more than just post for help on a website...
Apparently the lack of 1 hour makes be bitchy....good thing I don't teach on Sundays!
Karen
Happy Daylight Savings Time day everyone!
Being sunny out make it a little easier to get up this morning...the horses seemed shocked to see me out so early.
Rob and I went over to check out the progress of the new building at Delaney vet. They have the basic frame up, so possible to imagine where everything will be in the end; very excited for them! The will likely have a grand opening sometime this summer so you can all take a tour.
I need a nap....
Karen
Being sunny out make it a little easier to get up this morning...the horses seemed shocked to see me out so early.
Rob and I went over to check out the progress of the new building at Delaney vet. They have the basic frame up, so possible to imagine where everything will be in the end; very excited for them! The will likely have a grand opening sometime this summer so you can all take a tour.
I need a nap....
Karen
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Ahhhh, life
So I thought I had hired an assistant. Set and ready to start tomorrow. But alas, her life circumstances took a turn in a somewhat foreseeable way, and she is no longer able to meet the hours I am looking for. Frustratingly the other person I liked already accepted another job.
Part of the reason I picked the person I did, despite the complications in her life, was that owning/running a barn, was something she dreamed of doing, but her life kept taking her away from that dream. Working here would have been a good step towards that reality, and if I can help someone along in that way, then I would like to.
Now it would be easy to take from this that I shouldn't have hired someone with her life complications, just like it would have been easy to forget about having students work off lessons after the initial few who let their sense of entitlement get in the way of the requirement that they actually WORK for their lessons....but if I had allowed those initial bunch of "spoiled" teens jade my opinion, then we wouldn't have Paige in our lives...if you can really call a world without Paige living.... but seriously, without Paige, I doubt Bugsy would have gotten the shot she did either, and having Paige around is helpful and enriching.
On a similar note, I was recently miffed by a recent Fugly blog post; the one about the three horses killed on a highway. Comments were all out to lynch this person who apparently had inadequate fencing and only fed her horses just enough to keep them from being taken.
But then the story fills in a bit; the horses didn't leave from her property, they were at a friends while she fixed her fencing....and that she lost her husband sometime in 2008.
Now my question was, why didn't Cathy (fugly blog writer) question why the community members who saw her fencing was falling apart, offer to help? Why, after loosing her husband, didn't the community help her see through this tough time? Help the horses AND the person so no rescue is needed!
Her answer was that 99 times out of a 100, the people just take the money and buy more horses....
But my point is even if her odds are accurate, isn't it worth putting yourself out there for that 1/100 chance you can make a positive difference and help someone achieve their dream (or in that case, hold on to their dream?)
Cathy's comment was that this lady should have sold her horses once her husband died. Seriously, if Rob dies, don't expect me to be thinking rationally for a while, and certainly don't think I would be able to make the decision to sell off my horsey friends at a time when I would likely feel very alone! What this lady likely needed was friends and helpful neighbours to hold things together for her so she didn't feel overwhelmed and alone.
The moral I am trying to pass on is this: sometimes doing the right thing doesn't always end with the "right" result, but it is still the right thing. Sometimes people take advantage of nice, but that doesn't mean being nice was the wrong way to be!
Karen
Part of the reason I picked the person I did, despite the complications in her life, was that owning/running a barn, was something she dreamed of doing, but her life kept taking her away from that dream. Working here would have been a good step towards that reality, and if I can help someone along in that way, then I would like to.
Now it would be easy to take from this that I shouldn't have hired someone with her life complications, just like it would have been easy to forget about having students work off lessons after the initial few who let their sense of entitlement get in the way of the requirement that they actually WORK for their lessons....but if I had allowed those initial bunch of "spoiled" teens jade my opinion, then we wouldn't have Paige in our lives...if you can really call a world without Paige living.... but seriously, without Paige, I doubt Bugsy would have gotten the shot she did either, and having Paige around is helpful and enriching.
On a similar note, I was recently miffed by a recent Fugly blog post; the one about the three horses killed on a highway. Comments were all out to lynch this person who apparently had inadequate fencing and only fed her horses just enough to keep them from being taken.
But then the story fills in a bit; the horses didn't leave from her property, they were at a friends while she fixed her fencing....and that she lost her husband sometime in 2008.
Now my question was, why didn't Cathy (fugly blog writer) question why the community members who saw her fencing was falling apart, offer to help? Why, after loosing her husband, didn't the community help her see through this tough time? Help the horses AND the person so no rescue is needed!
Her answer was that 99 times out of a 100, the people just take the money and buy more horses....
But my point is even if her odds are accurate, isn't it worth putting yourself out there for that 1/100 chance you can make a positive difference and help someone achieve their dream (or in that case, hold on to their dream?)
Cathy's comment was that this lady should have sold her horses once her husband died. Seriously, if Rob dies, don't expect me to be thinking rationally for a while, and certainly don't think I would be able to make the decision to sell off my horsey friends at a time when I would likely feel very alone! What this lady likely needed was friends and helpful neighbours to hold things together for her so she didn't feel overwhelmed and alone.
The moral I am trying to pass on is this: sometimes doing the right thing doesn't always end with the "right" result, but it is still the right thing. Sometimes people take advantage of nice, but that doesn't mean being nice was the wrong way to be!
Karen
Monday, March 8, 2010
someone else's cool blog
Every once and a while, after saving my own blog, I click on the "Next Blog" button to see what I get. Often it is in a foreign language, or is just a family newsletter/photo album, but today I got this one: http://writingnriding.blogspot.com
A blog about writing, photography and horses! I liked her photo part way down called "gumption"...of the kitty considering the odds of being able to jump to the rafters.
I thought I would share.
Does anyone else click the Next Blog button?
Karen
A blog about writing, photography and horses! I liked her photo part way down called "gumption"...of the kitty considering the odds of being able to jump to the rafters.
I thought I would share.
Does anyone else click the Next Blog button?
Karen
Only $650.00 more to go and we have reached the target of $1000.00 of sponsor money for Ride for Red! How exciting! Thank you everyone! I will wait to make announcements of the sponsors until I have the cheques in hand.
Next is to set target goals for money raised and blood donations raised by Ride for Red, and then to make posters to advertise the shows.
On another note; I had my first lesson in a while today; Chris Collins came out to give me some feedback on Tango and my potential for shows this year. It was a positive lesson and definitely helps to have knowledgeable eyes on the ground. As well as the lesson, I rode Penny, rode Kokanee bareback, and then decided to work on Edgar the Giants canter....I think I am going to be sore tomorrow!
Karen
Next is to set target goals for money raised and blood donations raised by Ride for Red, and then to make posters to advertise the shows.
On another note; I had my first lesson in a while today; Chris Collins came out to give me some feedback on Tango and my potential for shows this year. It was a positive lesson and definitely helps to have knowledgeable eyes on the ground. As well as the lesson, I rode Penny, rode Kokanee bareback, and then decided to work on Edgar the Giants canter....I think I am going to be sore tomorrow!
Karen
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Seasonal Horse Stables
Horses are expensive creatures, as we all know. They require food and water, and should also receive regular farrier work, deworming, and vaccinations. They require these things even when not being ridden.
Let's say we have a lesson barn that only has an outdoor facility, so they only teach from May to September. That is 5 months of teaching. Maybe they can carry into October a bit, and maybe they can start before May, but I am thinking they need time to recondition their horses, and time to allow for make up lessons to cover for when the weather is uncooperative.
So five months to make money, and 12 months to spend it. In a year like this one, where prices for rounds bales have doubled, and the hay supply is short, it can be hard for stables without a good relationship with a feed supplier to get enough hay. Alternatives to hay are there, such as green feed and hay cubes, but it is still a tricky year for feed.
Now if you are the above mentioned seasonal stable, your first choice might be to try to earn income year round somehow...say by trying to lease your horses out. But hard to get someone to pay for a horse they can't ride as you don't have facilities. Next step is that you might try to sell some of the horses that aren't able to be used in lessons...but with the market the way it is, those types of horses don't go for much, and quite often the meat buyer is the only ready market for untrained horses or questionable quality, or of an age that makes you wonder WHY they are untrained.
So now, this stable is in trouble. They don't have the income to support their horses, they don't have a way to make more money (other than getting another "real" job, but rarely seems to be a consideration), and they can't seem to sell there horses for the price they are asking...and don't want to just give them away...do what to do, what to do.
Well, hey, the horses aren't being worked...so do they really need farrier work? We can save money there...but that isn't enough. Dental work? Nah, don't need that. Vaccinations aren't needed as our horses don't go anywhere...
Hmmm...maybe we can get away with not feeding them so much either. I mean, they may get thin, but we have time in the spring to fatten them up....The ASPCA can't do anything as long as we have feed here and no dead horses...
Well there is the solution! We won't feed them so much! Their hair will hide the ribs!
Only it got warmer sooner than you expected...and the hair is coming off...and people driving by can SEE those ribs. And they email me. And they phone me. And they PM me. See you forgot to take into account that the barn you learned the little trick of inadequate care over winter as a cost saver had something going for it you didn't; their paddocks were all hidden from the road, and they had blankets on the worst ones... and they were better liars.
If you need help...if you are truly in over your head (the horse business is not an easy one!) then ask for help. Hillside Stable will help you! Other barns would help you! But please, please, get some help for your horses, and some help coming up with a better business plan so this doesn't happen again next winter.
Karen
Let's say we have a lesson barn that only has an outdoor facility, so they only teach from May to September. That is 5 months of teaching. Maybe they can carry into October a bit, and maybe they can start before May, but I am thinking they need time to recondition their horses, and time to allow for make up lessons to cover for when the weather is uncooperative.
So five months to make money, and 12 months to spend it. In a year like this one, where prices for rounds bales have doubled, and the hay supply is short, it can be hard for stables without a good relationship with a feed supplier to get enough hay. Alternatives to hay are there, such as green feed and hay cubes, but it is still a tricky year for feed.
Now if you are the above mentioned seasonal stable, your first choice might be to try to earn income year round somehow...say by trying to lease your horses out. But hard to get someone to pay for a horse they can't ride as you don't have facilities. Next step is that you might try to sell some of the horses that aren't able to be used in lessons...but with the market the way it is, those types of horses don't go for much, and quite often the meat buyer is the only ready market for untrained horses or questionable quality, or of an age that makes you wonder WHY they are untrained.
So now, this stable is in trouble. They don't have the income to support their horses, they don't have a way to make more money (other than getting another "real" job, but rarely seems to be a consideration), and they can't seem to sell there horses for the price they are asking...and don't want to just give them away...do what to do, what to do.
Well, hey, the horses aren't being worked...so do they really need farrier work? We can save money there...but that isn't enough. Dental work? Nah, don't need that. Vaccinations aren't needed as our horses don't go anywhere...
Hmmm...maybe we can get away with not feeding them so much either. I mean, they may get thin, but we have time in the spring to fatten them up....The ASPCA can't do anything as long as we have feed here and no dead horses...
Well there is the solution! We won't feed them so much! Their hair will hide the ribs!
Only it got warmer sooner than you expected...and the hair is coming off...and people driving by can SEE those ribs. And they email me. And they phone me. And they PM me. See you forgot to take into account that the barn you learned the little trick of inadequate care over winter as a cost saver had something going for it you didn't; their paddocks were all hidden from the road, and they had blankets on the worst ones... and they were better liars.
If you need help...if you are truly in over your head (the horse business is not an easy one!) then ask for help. Hillside Stable will help you! Other barns would help you! But please, please, get some help for your horses, and some help coming up with a better business plan so this doesn't happen again next winter.
Karen
I will make is simple
A hand is 4 inches.
There are therefor 3 hands to a foot.
So a 15 hand horse is 5 feet tall at the withers.
An 18 hand horse is 6 feet tall at the withers.
If you are 5 feet tall, and your horse is shorter than you, then your horse is 15 hands or less (allowing for the fact you are likely wearing some kind of shoes as you stand beside your horse).
if you are 5 foot 3 inches, and wearing runners, and can easily see over your horse's withers, then your horse is not 15.2 hands unless you have eyes on the very top of your head.
Measuring sticks are not expensive, and good ones have levels to make it simple.
If you do not have a measuring stick, then stand your horse square on level ground, hold a level on its withers (hold the level level!) and measure from the ground to the level.
If you are unable to measure your horse, then put in the ad: "I think my horse is 15 hands, but we have not measured her."
Do not blindly accept what the person who sold you the horse before told you.
Even vets make mistakes, so don't accept their word unless you saw them measure your horse and feel comfortable with the technique used. I remember when YJ was first set to come, his owner told me he was likely 15.3 hands, based on him being measure as 15.2 hands by the vet the year before (and she showed me the vet report to prove it). He was 15.1 hands when he came. Horses do not shrink between their 3 year old and 4 year old year.
Any questions?
Karen
There are therefor 3 hands to a foot.
So a 15 hand horse is 5 feet tall at the withers.
An 18 hand horse is 6 feet tall at the withers.
If you are 5 feet tall, and your horse is shorter than you, then your horse is 15 hands or less (allowing for the fact you are likely wearing some kind of shoes as you stand beside your horse).
if you are 5 foot 3 inches, and wearing runners, and can easily see over your horse's withers, then your horse is not 15.2 hands unless you have eyes on the very top of your head.
Measuring sticks are not expensive, and good ones have levels to make it simple.
If you do not have a measuring stick, then stand your horse square on level ground, hold a level on its withers (hold the level level!) and measure from the ground to the level.
If you are unable to measure your horse, then put in the ad: "I think my horse is 15 hands, but we have not measured her."
Do not blindly accept what the person who sold you the horse before told you.
Even vets make mistakes, so don't accept their word unless you saw them measure your horse and feel comfortable with the technique used. I remember when YJ was first set to come, his owner told me he was likely 15.3 hands, based on him being measure as 15.2 hands by the vet the year before (and she showed me the vet report to prove it). He was 15.1 hands when he came. Horses do not shrink between their 3 year old and 4 year old year.
Any questions?
Karen
Saturday, March 6, 2010
New Horse!
Do you know why we don't have goats? I know, I know...they are oh so cute and playful...but if you want to know why we don't have goats, take a look at the new horsey and his used to be lovely tail!
At first I was quite crushed to see his once full tail bobbed even higher than Shawn's unfortunate encounter with scissors, but now I think that we can perhaps start it as a new trend, reminiscent of the old style field hunters. Of course to make this look like a trend we will have to have other horses sport the same style...shall we start with Egdar? :)
Anyway, the new horsey is named Calvin. He is a registered QH gelding that is well trained for a variety of western events...and he is big for a Quarter Horse and close to 16 hands! He belongs to Clare2, who had to leave him behind when she moved to Edmonton...he is now here to be sold. Maybe we will turn him into a jumping horse!
If anyone is looking for a very cute, nicely trained, big Quarter Horse for sale, keep this boy in mind! I will have photos soon, and hopefully he will be fit enough to video next week!
Karen
At first I was quite crushed to see his once full tail bobbed even higher than Shawn's unfortunate encounter with scissors, but now I think that we can perhaps start it as a new trend, reminiscent of the old style field hunters. Of course to make this look like a trend we will have to have other horses sport the same style...shall we start with Egdar? :)
Anyway, the new horsey is named Calvin. He is a registered QH gelding that is well trained for a variety of western events...and he is big for a Quarter Horse and close to 16 hands! He belongs to Clare2, who had to leave him behind when she moved to Edmonton...he is now here to be sold. Maybe we will turn him into a jumping horse!
If anyone is looking for a very cute, nicely trained, big Quarter Horse for sale, keep this boy in mind! I will have photos soon, and hopefully he will be fit enough to video next week!
Karen
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Horses aren't dogs
It can be a tricky thing with horses. They have personality and an ability to bond. They have character and learn to recognize their human friends. In these ways they are pet like. On the other hand though, they are expensive, require training to be safe to be around, and don't fit well in your living room....and you definitely don't want one to sleep on your bed at night!
Most people buy a horse or start riding because they like horses. And usually they bond with that horse and "love" it. But at some point they may find their skills or ambition requires a new horse, maybe they get too tall for it, or maybe that horse earns an injury that prevents it from continuing to progress in the direction the rider wants to progress in.
And so then the difficult decision comes to sell the horse. A decision most people wouldn't even consider with a dog or cat. Why? Because dogs and cats are cheaper, don't live as long, and don't require as much of a commitment...and because they rarely are needed to fulfil our ambition and goals.
There is a tricky line though, between using a horse as a tool to fulfill ambition, vs using the horse in a respectful manner that benefits both horse and rider. Many of the show horses you see in the ring are only there because they have joint injections and/or are on pain killers to show; is that ok even though it is wearing the horse our faster? On the flip side, some riders will never reach their goals or potential because they are held back my their horse's limitations...and is it fair to expect someone to spend $500+ a month on a horse that they cannot ride/enjoy?
Do competition goals corrupt the purity of riding for the joy of horses? Or does competition encourage better riding and set standards of skills? What about if you are a professional, who needs their horses to set their reputation? That is a lot of weight to put on an equine who really has no concept of the responsibility they are being entrusted with...and pros tend to go through horses faster than the more casual rider, as it does them little good to continue with a less than able horse. I struggle with the ability to be objective in this manner with my own horses...it is hard to break from the love of the horse, and the need to have a horse to showcase/develop my skills.
Then there are the people who sell their problems on to the next person; horse is lame, dangerous, or quirky? Sell it! Don't worry if you were the one who created the issue in the first place...it is too expensive to be responsible for the horse you damaged and it would mean you can't have a new horse...so let someone else clean up and pay for your mess....
For the most part though, I think people are reluctant to part with their horses, and struggle with the idea of selling. The worry of how their horse will be treated, and the loss of the bond they shared together can make the decision to sell a difficult one. Sometimes though, it is in the horse and the riders best interest, if neither one is happy or suited for each other.
And fortunately horses are surprisingly adaptable, and there are other people in the world that also take good care of their horses....it is just a hard balance between the heart and practicality, and between selfishness and mutual best interests.
Karen
Most people buy a horse or start riding because they like horses. And usually they bond with that horse and "love" it. But at some point they may find their skills or ambition requires a new horse, maybe they get too tall for it, or maybe that horse earns an injury that prevents it from continuing to progress in the direction the rider wants to progress in.
And so then the difficult decision comes to sell the horse. A decision most people wouldn't even consider with a dog or cat. Why? Because dogs and cats are cheaper, don't live as long, and don't require as much of a commitment...and because they rarely are needed to fulfil our ambition and goals.
There is a tricky line though, between using a horse as a tool to fulfill ambition, vs using the horse in a respectful manner that benefits both horse and rider. Many of the show horses you see in the ring are only there because they have joint injections and/or are on pain killers to show; is that ok even though it is wearing the horse our faster? On the flip side, some riders will never reach their goals or potential because they are held back my their horse's limitations...and is it fair to expect someone to spend $500+ a month on a horse that they cannot ride/enjoy?
Do competition goals corrupt the purity of riding for the joy of horses? Or does competition encourage better riding and set standards of skills? What about if you are a professional, who needs their horses to set their reputation? That is a lot of weight to put on an equine who really has no concept of the responsibility they are being entrusted with...and pros tend to go through horses faster than the more casual rider, as it does them little good to continue with a less than able horse. I struggle with the ability to be objective in this manner with my own horses...it is hard to break from the love of the horse, and the need to have a horse to showcase/develop my skills.
Then there are the people who sell their problems on to the next person; horse is lame, dangerous, or quirky? Sell it! Don't worry if you were the one who created the issue in the first place...it is too expensive to be responsible for the horse you damaged and it would mean you can't have a new horse...so let someone else clean up and pay for your mess....
For the most part though, I think people are reluctant to part with their horses, and struggle with the idea of selling. The worry of how their horse will be treated, and the loss of the bond they shared together can make the decision to sell a difficult one. Sometimes though, it is in the horse and the riders best interest, if neither one is happy or suited for each other.
And fortunately horses are surprisingly adaptable, and there are other people in the world that also take good care of their horses....it is just a hard balance between the heart and practicality, and between selfishness and mutual best interests.
Karen
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
The dates are set!
I have set the dates for the Hillside run Horse shows to be held at Fultonvale!
They are going to be ran on July 4 and August 29th, with classes from 12" - 3'6" and will be beginner rider/green horse friendly.
The show name is: "Ride for Red Clear Round Classic" and it is benefiting the Canadian Blood Services. We are also going to be organizing a blood drive where you can donate blood in Hillside's name.
My dad is practically a vampire with all the blood he has been getting, so it would be nice to help replenish their stocks by raising awareness and encouraging donations.
I will be doing up prize lists shortly, but I need to get some sponsors on board first. Any ideas on good company's to approach for sponsorship? I want to offer prize money, but this is a benefit show so we need sponsors to make that possible. I will also be looking for help building some show jumps...i was thinking of making signature jumps for the corporate sponsors!
Karen
They are going to be ran on July 4 and August 29th, with classes from 12" - 3'6" and will be beginner rider/green horse friendly.
The show name is: "Ride for Red Clear Round Classic" and it is benefiting the Canadian Blood Services. We are also going to be organizing a blood drive where you can donate blood in Hillside's name.
My dad is practically a vampire with all the blood he has been getting, so it would be nice to help replenish their stocks by raising awareness and encouraging donations.
I will be doing up prize lists shortly, but I need to get some sponsors on board first. Any ideas on good company's to approach for sponsorship? I want to offer prize money, but this is a benefit show so we need sponsors to make that possible. I will also be looking for help building some show jumps...i was thinking of making signature jumps for the corporate sponsors!
Karen
Monday, March 1, 2010
Coincidence?
As some of you may have heard, they are going to be putting up new transmission lines. Ugly, big, transmission lines that they are trying to sell as needed and as the only way to address our electricity needs. Some poeple aren't buying that they can't go under ground, and some people question the need at all.
So is it a coincidence that we have had three power outages lasting from 40 minutes to 2 and a half hours in the last couple weeks? Not at prime use times, or during bad weather either...just spontaneous and annoying power outages. Perhaps someone is trying to sway public opinion?
Thank goodness Rob put emergency lights in the barn and arena that come on in the event of a power failure. I remember teaching at a barn without emergency lights a few years ago. I had a client on a nervous horse when the lights went out, and we found ourselves in pitch black! I remember being quite concerned that the horse would end up running me over in the dark! Fortunately someone came with a flashlight and we could get the rider safely off, and the horse back in the barn....not that the horse cared much for the flashlight.
Karen
So is it a coincidence that we have had three power outages lasting from 40 minutes to 2 and a half hours in the last couple weeks? Not at prime use times, or during bad weather either...just spontaneous and annoying power outages. Perhaps someone is trying to sway public opinion?
Thank goodness Rob put emergency lights in the barn and arena that come on in the event of a power failure. I remember teaching at a barn without emergency lights a few years ago. I had a client on a nervous horse when the lights went out, and we found ourselves in pitch black! I remember being quite concerned that the horse would end up running me over in the dark! Fortunately someone came with a flashlight and we could get the rider safely off, and the horse back in the barn....not that the horse cared much for the flashlight.
Karen
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