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Administrator on September 2nd, 2008
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From the folks who brought us Bares, Epics and Boas, here ’s good info about hoof boots for mules!
Mules typically have longer feet than horses, as measured from the toe to the heel buttress. In addition, they also have steeper angles and larger heel bulbs. The three biggest challenges that you will face when booting are: 1) sizing the boot, 2) getting the gaiter to fit over the heel bulbs, and 3) determining what you can and cannot adjust to get the boots to fit.
In general:
Of all the boots we offer, Epics and Bares work the best (for mules). We have heard success stories with Old Mac’s (that have inserts), but not to the extent of the other two boots.
Proper fit, of course, is of utmost importance. (We will talk about the gaiter later. Later, gaiter. ) Know how to measure and do it twice right after a fresh trim.
Look carefully at the size chart. The upper end of the measurement on the chart is the actual physical dimension of the inside of the boot. For example, a size 1 Epic boot is 4 7/8” wide 5 1/8” long. The boot will be too wide if your length exceeds the width by more than one size. If this is the case for your mule we don’t recommend the boots.
It is best if the width and length are in the same size range. If, on the length, you are only slightly over the range (1/8” or so) try the smaller size. If you think that mule might be just a tad too large you can remove the back strap which will give you an extra 1/8”. While lots of people ride without the back strap, it sometimes affects hoof stability in the boot. The hoof is more secure with the back strap, which keeps the toe pushed forward. If you remove the strap, you will have to replace it with tapers to keep the gaiter screws from rubbing the hoof wall.
With mules you have to be especially careful that the boot doesn’t twist. Read up on how to tighten your boot (available in the brochure or on our website.) If you can turn the boot even the slightest bit with the adjustment as tight as you can get it, the boot is not a good fit. Except for the Old Mac’s G-2’s which have inserts, there isn’t a way to shim a boot that is too wide. It will twist.
With some mules, the gaiter that comes with the boot will be too small to fit over the heel bulbs. It is possible to install a larger gaiter, with modifications. Karen Reeves, a hoof care practitioner who boots a lot of mules, gives suggestions on her website here. Keep in mind that if you modify your boot you won’t be able to return it.
Boots must be snug! If they go on really easy, they’ll come off really easy!
You may have a mule that just won’t fit into our boots. Mules with narrow hooves or very large heel bulbs often cannot wear anything in our current line. At this time we are not planning to make a boot specifically for mules, but there might be something in our 2009 boot line up that will accommodate them better. Keep checking in to Savvy Sport Saddle!
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on August 15th, 2008
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Important reminders from horsecity.com:
By Eleanor Richards
Horse owners are discovering a trip to the feed store requires an armed guard.
But once the edible “gold” is safely transported to the stable, how is it protected and stored?
As with anything of value, the chances of it being stolen is very high. In this case the thieves are usually horses and rodents.
Commercial feeds, grain and supplements must be stored in a secure location. A room, such as an extra stall, with a locking door is best. Within that room, storage containers with lids that can be locked or fastened securely should be provided. This double protection helps insure the thief will have trouble accessing the treasure.
Several types of containers are available. An old chest freezer with the latch removed (to insure a child does not become trapped) works well. Other popular containers are trash cans. Galvanized metal trash cans work best, as the steel also deters the other thieves rodents (rats and mice).
Secure containers will also help prevent Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis. Opossums, skunks and raccoons may have the organism which causes EPM in their feces. Horses may acquire EPM when they ingest grain, forage or water contaminated with the feces.
Regardless of the type of container you choose the lid must fasten securely and be hard for a horse to remove. There is always a chance the feed room door will be left open. Bungee cords may help secure the lid.
Extra bags of feed that will not fit in the secure containers may be stacked on a platform a few inches above the ground. A wooden pallet works well. This allows air circulation around the bags. It is imperative the feed room be securely closed at all times if exposed feed bags are stored.
Feed should be purchased fresh every 30 days and rotated. This means the containers should be cleaned completely and the oldest feed used first.
High humidity can cause spoilage and increase the chances of insects. Even feed stored in containers is susceptible to moisture. If the containers are sweating or show signs of condensation, it is possible the feed will spoil or become contaminated with insects. Insuring proper ventilation and setting up a fan will help. During the summer, when nights are cool and the days are hot and humid, purchasing and storing less feed at one time is smart.
Stables with 20 or more horses may consider buying feed in bulk. While this can be cost effective, you still do not want to store more than a month’s supply at a time.
Clean the bulk bin out completely before refilling. Poorly constructed bulk bins allow the buildup of moisture resulting in spoiled feed. This spoiled feed can hang-up on the sides and may break loose at any time contaminating the feed and causing sick horses.
No matter what type of storage you chose the area must be kept clean. Spilled feed and broken bags will attract unwanted guests.
When buying anything of value, make sure you are buying quality. The feed should not be more than a month old.
Do not be shy at the feed storeyou are the customer. Check the date and refuse it if it is old or does not meet your expectations. Refuse dirty or damaged bags.
Date of manufacturing will be stated on the feed tag, stamped on the bag, or printed on the tear strip along one end of the bag. Many companies use the Julian Date Calendar. For example the date code may read: 08121. The “08″ is the year 2008; the “121″ is the 121st day of the year - May 1st.
Even if the date of manufacture meets your requirements refuse or return the feed if it seems questionable.
Horses can be their own worst enemy. It is up to us to protect them from temptation.
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on August 8th, 2008
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I want to give everyone an update on the Troxel Western Hat Helmet for which we have all been patiently waiting. Troxel has not as yet released the new hat helmet and plans to do so (tentatively) around the end of August, first of September, but only in a very small quantity at first. The full release of the helmet to the public is expected in October. I’m happy to say that we are taking orders daily (reserve yours today!) for this new addition to the Troxel performance headgear family, so please give me a call at 888-245-7730 and we can send your order in promptly. Size for the hat helmet is based on your hat size. Measure the circumference of your head and give me a ring, and I can tell you what hat size you wear—no problem! Look forward to hearing from you soon!
Geri Gellert
Savvy Sport Saddle
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on July 31st, 2008
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AHC Publishes Horse Industry Guide to Getting Involved in the 2008 Elections
Industry News
(7/31/2008)
The American Horse Council has released “Getting Involved in the 2008 Elections,” a federal election guide for the horse industry. The guide stemmed from the program at the AHC’s National Issues Forum in Washington explaining how the horse industry could take advantage of the 2008 federal elections to get more involved with their elected representatives.
“The 2008 elections are a great opportunity for horse associations, businesses and individuals to step up and be heard by the candidates, incumbents and those running for the first time,” said AHC Chairman Nick Nicholson. “Remember, they want to hear from you, they want your help and most of all they want your votes. This is an opportunity to educate them about the issues important to the horse community and show them your votes are important.” The AHC 2008 election guide explains how to do this.
The guide discusses why the horse industry should get involved in the upcoming elections and ways individuals and organizations can go about doing so. It includes sections on why candidates care about the horse community, being able to communicate issues of importance to the horse industry, getting to know the candidates, volunteering and fundraising, as well as knowing the laws governing political activities.
“I believe this guide will be an important resource for all members of the horse community who wish to play a greater role in the democratic process,” said AHC President Jay Hickey.
Copies of “Getting Involved in the 2008 Elections” can be obtained by contacting the AHC at (202)296-4031 or by email at ahc@horsecouncil.org.
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on July 30th, 2008
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Good advice from MyHorse.com:
While vaccinating horses against the mosquito-borne West Nile Virus has greatly reduced the number of equine deaths from WNV in the past few years, it’s still cause for concern.
Both horses and humans should be protected from mosquito bites as much as possible.
In Massachusetts, state health officials are expecting a record number of disease carrying pests this year, while a child in the Salt Lake City area came down with the first human case of the disease in Utah this year. Human and horse cases have been reported in New Mexico, California and the Northeast.
Although your horses may be vaccinated and protected, you aren’t. When you’re working outside with your horses, remember to wear long sleeves and long pants, use a DEET or lemon eucalyptus repellant, avoid dusk and dawn, remove or turn over containers that have standing water and regularly scrub water troughs to remove algae. It has been shown that bug zappers and some natural fly and insect repellents do not work against mosquitoes.
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on July 29th, 2008
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Equestrian Aid Foundation Exceeds $1 Million in Donations
Industry News
(7/24/2008)
More than $1 million has been raised and distributed by the Equestrian Aid Foundation (EAF) to support equestrians with life-threatening illnesses or catastrophic injuries. The 12-year-old nonprofit provides funding for medical, healthcare, rehabilitation and essential expenses such as housing and food, to its grant recipients throughout their time of need.
“This milestone is so much more than a number. It represents all the people who have needed the Equestrian Aid Foundation to get through a really tough time, as well as all the donors who understood the responsibility we have as equestrians to take care of our own,” said R. Scot Evans, president of the EAF and one of its several founders. “Thanks to our many donors over the years, the Equestrian Aid Foundation has been able to make a monumental difference in the lives of so many that share our passion for horses and horse sports.”
Established in 1996 as the Equestrian AIDS Foundation, financially assisting those in the equestrian community with HIV/AIDS, the organization expanded its mission in 2006 to provide assistance to those suffering from a catastrophic accident, injury or illness and changed its name to the Equestrian Aid Foundation. Applicants for aid have increased with its new mission, creating a need for more funding. Last year the EAF began offering multi-level yearly memberships and monthly donor programs to ensure a consistent income of support for its recipients. Since support from the horse world has become critical to achieving this new mission, the EAF has also expanded into corporate and association sponsorships.
In March the EAF made international headline news when one of its board of governors also became a recipient after a fall in competition. While former Olympic eventer Darren Chiacchia is recognized around the world, most of the EAF’s recipients remain in relative anonymity. Recipients have few similarities, other than a need for assistance and their love of horses. They come from all walks of life—riders (professional and amateur), farriers, show organizers, trainers and managers; diverse disciplines—both Western and English; well-known competitors and pleasure riders; ages ranging from 14 to 56; and living in all parts of the country—both urban and rural.
“Our recipients are mostly ordinary people with an extraordinary love of horses,” said Janise Gray, director of grant recipient services for the EAF and one of its former executive directors. As an integral part of the EAF since its inception, Gray added, “in many cases, I am the only person in the organization who knows a recipients’ identity. I am privileged and honored to know them as I do. They have changed my life with their indomitable spirit, spirituality and love—of life and horses.
“Our many generous benefactors enable EAF to give its recipients the dignity, quality of life and the most fundamental—hope—they deserve.” Gray concluded, “The ride for hope is more than a motto for those involved with the EAF—it’s also the ride for life.”
To learn more about the EAF and its memberships, donations and corporate sponsorships, visit www.equestrianaidfoundation.org.
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on July 24th, 2008
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I just had to reprint this from MyHorse.com, as it speaks volumes. Happy reading!
July 23, 2008
by Maureen Gallatin
We were saddened last week to hear that Tony Snow, the newscaster, then presidential spokesperson, passed away. I didn’t know him personally, but he influenced my world when I saw him on TV. His smile and positive manner exuded confidence and a love of life. His fellow broadcasters all talked about Tony’s upbeat manner, decency as a person, and cheerfulness even when under pressure.
A long time ago I learned that there are people who drain your batteries and people who charge them. After a difficult experience with someone who drained my batteries, I made up my mind to be a battery charger – to leave people a little better off than when I found them. Often just a kind word or a smile will do it. But sometimes I have to bite my tongue so I don’t say something that may drain their batteries.
That’s not to suggest that I think everyone should be blindly optimistic. But it is to say that we should be aware that even small interactions have an effect on people. I’m always intrigued by the attitude of grocery store checkers. In our town, there’s one checker who is a delight. She is always “in the moment.” She pays attention to what she’s doing and has a pleasant manner. There’s another who I avoid. She has a put-upon expression, and clearly the customers are an annoyance to her. I’m sure she wants the paycheck, but she doesn’t want the job.
What the sour gal doesn’t know is that her day would go a lot better if she was nice to people. Her attitude drains her batteries as well as the batteries of the people she checks out.
When batteries run low, confidence does too. But when we encounter a cheery attitude, confidence builds, like when your horse hears the crunch of a carrot. He perks up, and we do too. Maybe smiles are like carrots.
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on July 9th, 2008
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Parelli: Zero to Hero Episode 2
As the pressure built, Pat Parelli knew he must find a way to live according to his mentors’ principles or the life he was living might just kill him.
Discovering the secret truths about horses, Pat realized where his destiny lay, but what sort of man would he have to become to change the world…?
It is time for you to decide: has Pat Parelli become a rebel or a visionary?
Do not miss this opportunity to see the amazing and moving conclusion to Pat’s life story- Parelli: Zero to Hero.
This is must see, event TV!
WATCH ON SATURDAY: JULY 12th RFD-TV
(DISH Channel 231 and DirecTV Channel 379)
1pm EST / 10am PST
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on July 1st, 2008
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From MyHorse.com:
Are the trails where you ride in danger of being developed? Consider forming a trail-preservation club with your riding buddies. Having an official name, website, and an army of help can facilitate a dialogue with your local government authorities about sponsoring and maintaining the trails you frequent.
Post fliers for an initial club meeting at your favorite trailheads and/or in your area’s tack and feed stores, with the owners’ permission. Send meeting dates and times to your regional horse publication for its community-events section. You’ll find out just how many people are using the trails you’d like to save.
After you’ve assembled a core group, find out how you can help conserve trails by contacting your state’s horse council, your county extension office, and the Equestrian Land Conservation Resource (815/858-3501; www.elcr.org).
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!
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Administrator on June 23rd, 2008
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Industry News
(6/19/2008)
A three-day event will be held Oct. 24-26 in Sedalia, Mo. that is geared toward women involved in the horse industry. The event is a celebration of Women and Horses. It is aimed at horsewomen, whether they are first-time horse owners, long-time horse owners, horse enthusiasts, professional horsewomen or horse-related business owners.
The concept for this event came out of the Women and Horses Mind, Spirit and Body seminars that are conducted by Cheryl Childs and her staff. The seminars deal with assisting women in overcoming fears and bad experiences that may be stopping them from enjoying their horses.
“It’s about how women relate differently to their horses, and to problems with their horses, than most men do,” Childs explained. Out of that came the concept for an event aimed at horsewomen.
“Women are just going crazy over this event,” said Childs, owner of New Visions Marketing & Promotions, an equine advertising/marketing business that is co-producing the event. “We are getting calls from all over the country from women wanting to attend, participate and be vendors,” she said. “We have had women call and say they heard about the event while they were riding with friends.”
It appears that horsewomen are willing to support this event in every way they can—whether it’s attending, participating in breed or discipline demonstrations, being vendors, presenting, or lecturing. Women represent 80 percent of the market and want to be recognized as the driving force in the horse industry by companies that they patronize.
Along with a trade show featuring the latest and most innovative products for horses and their owners, there will be breed demonstrations, a stallion showcase, stallion parades, and a daily parade of breeds. An Equine Art contest and a Women and Horses “Stall of Fame” honoring horsewomen and their accomplishments are being planned for the run of the expo. There will be a host of speakers and lecturers presenting a wide variety of topics.
Julie Goodnight, of RFD-TV’s Horse Master television show, will be presenting several times during the event. Singer/songwriter Templeton Thompson will perform with her horse Jane. Imagine a Horse will entertain and inform with enlightened trick training. Cheryl Childs of Women and Horses, Mind, Spirit and body will speak during the event. Claudia Misner, who is a German trained dressage rider and judge, will perform dressage demonstrations at beginner and advanced levels and Lyn Walker of Lynwood Equine will be joined by other guest speakers. Gary Norris of Quarter Ridge trailers will present “Trailer Safety and Backing” demonstrations (men are welcome). The Royal Friesians of Kansas City, an all-Friesian, all-woman drill team, will perform daily.
Find more information at www.WomenandHorsesExpo.com.
Please take a few minutes and visit us at www.savvysportsaddle.com for a look at our Bob Marshall treeless saddles and Sensation Ride treeless saddles, as well as a wealth of other products for horse riders, horse owners, and horse lovers of all disciplines! Great equestrian products at great prices!