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1,400,000 Hits for May

3rd September, 2007

Hope to be back on line today. We shall see

Many people are contacting Horse SA and the racing industry querying why racing has been allowed but equestrian events have not.

The two racing zones involved have been gazetted as Quarantine Zones by an act of parliament. This means that FULL quarantine measures are in place at these venues, including permit only entrance, disinfectant stations, clothing worn at the site to be removed and placed in plastic bags before leaving, etc. In effect, all quarantine measures that are provided for under legislation.

As well as this, the racing industry has the power to fine for breaches of the requirements to a maximum of $75,000 and suspend licenses. The recreational horse industry cannot match this.

Please refrain from calling these bodies to express disappointment without the full facts.
Also, every effort is being made to keep the web site as up to date as possible. Sp please check www.sa.equestrian.org.au for updates.

If we are all responsible and take this short term disappointment in a positive manner we can work through this outbreak and foster a strong equestrian community for the future.

Angela Yeend ANIA
Executive Officer
Equestrian Federation of Australia (SA Branch) Inc PO Box 1177
MARLESTON SA 5033
Ph (08) 8234 2700
Fax (08) 8234 2672
Mobile 0429 888 003
Email: manager@efasa.com.au
Web: www.sa.equestrian.org.au

 

 

1st September, 2007

Still without internet and struggling to do the right thing. If I miss any emails or stuff anything up, I am sorry. We shall see what happens on Monday when it is promised to be fixed

Well, the first day of Spring for us and I suppose, Autumn for EU and other places.

QUEENSLAND CLINIC

That will have to be put on hold until things settle down with the Horse Virus. Not possible to plan anything any more.

VIRUS UPDATE

The Royal Adelaide and Gawler Agricultural Shows will be without horses for the first time in History. I think I mentioned this last week but the current Horse Virus problems, as terrible as it is, is having some very important spin offs in terms of raising the profile of horses, not only within the Public eye and consciousness but very importantly and largely for the first time in the modern era, would be waking the Politicians up to the importance of it to the National economy and employment generally. That will do them the world of good as horses never really come to their minds and they are notorious in their non support for us/ The Liberal Party, because of it's roots, does a bit but the Labor Party, never. I saw a meeting of State Primary Industries Ministers today and guess who was in amongst them? Yep, Julie Fiedler of Horsesa. Great. Top story on all the news services here tonight, horses. Great. So as hard as it is, good will come from it. As always/

Officers have been stationed on major highways to stop any Horse people who want to flout the Law!!!

LETTERS OF THE DAY

Hi John and Linda...I attended the clinic in Perth last week and thoroughly enjoyed my day.Your methods certainly work and seeing the horses going from the round yard to being worked under saddle is a great way of putting the picture together...a lot of people get a fragmented view of what fits where and it certainly helps to clarify the matter.

I spend a lot of time dealing with wild horses; trapping; transporting and relocating. There are very few trainers I would trust with these animals but Fred Watkins is one of them.
He has an inate understanding of the nature of horses...these wild ones are a clean slate mentally and the wrong handling can take a lifetime to reverse.He has turned the most terrified of individuals in to relaxed trustworthy partners for their owners. I would recommend him to anyone.

The interesting thing for myself; having spent hours now observing wild horses in their natural habitat...is that all the problems you are frequently presented with are man made. From management strategies to handling techniques and feeding regimes we often end up as far away as we can from the natural order of things. I am not infering that it is always possible to keep horses in a herd situation etc but do realise that the closer we get to normal ; the less problems there will be..in terms of behaviour; health and general wellbeing.

I suppose Pat Parrelli got it right when he said most horses are 'overfed; overbred and underexercised'!............and owned by women who are..'over forty; flabby and fearfull'!
The combination of the two will see you never out of work!

So; come along girls...see how much of the above you can reverse and things will improve! {ps...I am no hero either; don't worry!]

So thanks once again and keep up the good work...cheers Sheila Greenwell MRCVS; BVMS
ps...anybody wanting a wildie let me know...pics on
www.brianstone.com.au/wildhorses/

Aha, the Fred fan Club no less :) Don't worry, I'm a wake up :) Would you believe I didn't even have his surname lol? Here is the problem. 'Young Fred' is still to find a permanent home base and if I came out and full on promoted him prematurely, he wouldn't handle the work and people would be disappointed. That wouldn't do anyone any good. When he is set up and hopefully when I catch up to him in person to pass on some other secrets, I will do the right thing :) You are a very brave girl :) but I do agree with Uncle Pat and you

Thought I would just let you know how much we enjoyed the Saturday in Perth, myself and the owner of Mooney the Stock Horse Stallion.

I have been reading how hard it is to find a good breaker in Western Australia and I’m with you Pam, FRED is the man ! Fred and his offsider Rachael have helped me so much as Ive never had anything to do with a Stallion before . Yes I was the one holding his head to tight when leading him but hey am very open to learning and have fixed the problem thanks to Fred who came to Mooney’s home and helped me, as I realized I needed help as I didn’t want to wreck this beautiful horses wonderful nature, funny thing about it Ive never done that before but cause hes a stallion it just sort of happened ! ….Since that day I have not had a problem !.The beautiful thing about Fred is he is not judgemental and doesn’t make you feel stupid !

It was wonderful for Fred to be able to show his work with Mooney to you John as he thinks of you as the best but we would of liked to of seen you or Linda ride him as we felt Fred could ride him anytime back at home, it would have been nice to of had an opinion from someone else that is all. Just felt very flat about it..

Yes, I can understand your feelings but it is not easy in the space of an hour and without my own saddle. Remember that I had never see or met 'young fred; and knew that I was expected to recommend him. I had to assess him and see him ride and Fred felt he needed to perform the 'join up' on the horse to be more prepared. Remember, this horse had come along with a pretty big reputation, both bucking and rearing. Not easy to do all the ground work, wee Fred ride, suss him out, the horse, the re-breaking of the horse and so on. The main thing to remember is that the horse did very little wrong. I was actually going to use him on the Sunday, as my assistant. Anyhow, it would appear that he is a nice Boy, none of it is his fault, lovely temperament, even the Western Boys were perving on him :) It would appear that he can't buck to save himself and so Fred would want to work out why in fact he is putting the head down in a feeble attempt. That is my only concern because there doesn't seem much need for him to be doing that so why is he???? He may be telling us something???? Anyhow, he needs to be far away from Round Pens and the arena. I would get him straight out in Company and let him have some fun whilst taking his mind off the past. He needs to be galloping with other horses or at least one. Forget he is a Stallion. No more join up, lunging, nothing. Just get on and go. Regards

My daughter learnt sooooooooo much from your lovely wife, she is just like poetry in motion, Good on you Linda you are a beautiful rider and a delight to watch !

Fred and Rachael are based in Margaret River and I would recommend there work to anyone, will be very sad to lose them to Perth…………..Lucky Perth.

Thanks for your kind support to the young bloke.

FLOATING


This is not the typical trailering issue. We are purchasing a POA mare who has been trailered all over the USA for shows. She is a 4 time world champion. The problem is she went blind from cataracs about 18 months ago. Soon after becoming blind, she started to freak out when trailering. She loads easy, but when the trailer starts to move, she literally climbs into the feeder. She then gets stuck with her front legs up in the feeder of the trailer. We are considering using hobbles to keep her from climbing. I don't want her to feel more contrained and panic plus this trailer requires her to step up, so the hobbles would have to be attached once she loads. She is a completely docile horse in every other way, but the movement of the trailer is too much for her. Do you think it's just due to the blindness or possible other reasons? She is about 100 miles from us and we are trying to figure a way to trailer her to us.
Thanks for any ideas you can offer.
Deanne

Firstly Deanne, you should take a friend for her. Then, you must stop her getting off the ground. Front hobbles will not stop that and as you said, no good for loading but you could have installed them after she is in. NOT WITHOUT TRAINING HOWEVER. This is what you must do and it works a treat. No safety knots necessary and no slack but no pressure either. I remember, 3 weeks ago. I warned a young Lady who was about to drive out of our property. She hadn't thought of it and yet she knew of it. I installed it. She only got 5 metres and I saved her horse :)

very much agreed with everything you said about how you tow a float - I do exactly the same things. Three other suggestions I can make are 1/ we put additional brake lights up high at the back of the float so other drivers cannot miss seeing them (this we did after a car nearly ran up our backside once) 2/ we always float with the headlights on and 3/ at most traffic lights there is a white line that starts so many meters from the lights - I slow down enough that by the time I reach the start of that line I can stop smoothly if lights turn red, if lights still are green I know I am ok to start accelerating again.

Good and correct advice Tracey. Regards to the Family.

Hello

I am emailing you in almost desperation but after reading your article on handling the rearing horse I am sure you will say my problem is not the worst you have had to deal with.

3 months ago I brought a beautiful 16.1hh, 9 year old, thoroughbred cross gelding. He is the perfect horse. He is a fantastic jumper and never refuses, he works hard on the school with his flatwork even thought his outline is not that good and he is a bit lazy (i do ride in spurs), he is lovely in the stable and excellent to turn out to the field and bring in. He doesn't kick, bite or buck but since I have had him when I take him onto the roads for a hack if he is in the lead for too long he will nap and rear with me to evade going forwards. He will only go forwards if another horse or person on foot carries on leading him past. He will hack beautifully if he is behind another horse or next to another horse.

I spoke to the lady who broke him and sold him at 6 years old and she said he was a lovely horse and never reared. however the young, novice girl who she sold him to said he had done it with her a couple of times. I said to her how did you get him to go forwards after and she said with 'force' which makes me think she has whipped him as he is very sensitive to the whip. The young girl also said that he reared once with her at a horse show because 2 horses had got loose and were cantering towards him and she fell off him.
After this she said that she always hacked out with another horse(s) and kept him in the middle.

I have done alot of reading on rearing and i obviously read your article. i am alreay so attached to my horse and love him so much that i want to have faith that i can cure this problem. my trainer who is very experienced says that there is nothing you can do this is in him and you will be wasting your money trying to stop him as he is 9 now and set in his ways.

He has never reared on the school with me. I have not personally taken him to a horse show yet so do not know whether he will rear at shows. I did go to take him to a locally show and i lead him to the event in his bridle with a lead rope and he reared got lose from me and cantered all the way home (30m down road). so what you say in your article i found very true that he is much stronger when i am on the floor.

I am a gently rider and knowing that he is sensitive to the whip have not used is apart from the odd tap on the shoulder. I am not a novice rider but i am not experienced either. i still have a lot to learn. i want to have faith that i can stop him from doing this but am slowly losing it. i do not make a big deal of his rearing problem on the road and always hack out in company to prevent him from rearing at all to try and keep him happy. i have also put him on a magnesium calming supplement to see if that helps his behaviour.

If you can help me i would love to hear from you or if you know of anyone in the UK that could help as i live in england, UK i would really appreciate it. thank you for taking the time to read my email.

Yours sincerely

Laura

REARING, GENTLY RIDERS' AND SENSITIVE TO WHIPS

Hi Laura, well we meet these basically every week and in fact, virtually every young horse we ride will think about such evasive behaviour when you first ride them out alone and they are confronted with having to lead themselves. Because we are strong and assertive Riders', they never succeed and the thought is stamped from their minds forward. A strong and bold Rider makes a Bold horse!! They are looking for our leadership and when it doesn't come, they take matters into their own hands because we are telling them that they should dam well be frightened because we are showing weakness and hesitancy so they should believe their minds imaginations of the 'prey animals' Now, on the subject of sensitive to whips. I think if I hear that much more in my life I am going to slit my wrists :) I hear it endlessly and in fact, one of the horses at my Clinic the other day came with that description when in fact he was 'confused with whips' not sensitive to them. Your other key word was 'gently Rider' and of course you are now getting the gist why you have little chance of succeeding in this area and with this horse and so you should stay with Company. On the subject of can the horse be fixed or not? Would take me about 5 minutes and then a few good rides out to complete the new 'boldness process' The other thing I must point out to you is this. I am looked on as a 'naughty Boy' here in Australia because I often criticize Pony Club and because you are from England I can let you in on the fact that I qualify my remarks by saying that our Pony Club system was handed down from the BHS, which is why it lacks a thing called 'HORSEMANSHIP" Therein lies the fact that your Trainers' think this is all too hard when in fact it is simple as. The other problem you have and again from the BHS is that hitting horses in the shoulder is totally and completely anti productive and confusing to a horse. It achieves nothing but make horses spin to the opposite direction to the whip. Why would one ever hit a horse in the shoulder when we want the horse to go directly straight forward and not to the left or right????????. So, this is as clear as. Your horse started it with the previous Rider, the rearing incident at the Show only comes from a non bold Rider and I bet anything that she leaned forward and went into the 'feotel position' which in my description equals 'readiness to be the Human Javelin" and there you have it. Another negative learning incident, thus making the horse more nervous than it was before. She should have simply flexed the horse to her boot and taken all chance of run or escape from it until the danger had passed however, I must warn you here however. Don't you try that at this stage as your horse would need to be re-mouthed first!!!!! Regards. I wish I were down the road.

 

Thankyou John
I received the DVD's today and eagerly opened them, seeing that you are from the south, felt that it was safe to do so... sorry to those north of victoria and further north of the riverina! The EI is sending me barmy, my skin is dry and my hair is fuzzy and it's not a fashion statement..LoL I'm a little over washing and disenfectant, but as you know essential at the moment... I am frustrated at the moment and have no sympathy for the lady from centinal park... stuck at parks and those who had travelled from centinial park to maitland, as I know and have many mates stuck away from home, at that includes only an hour away.... The selfishness of not only the thoroughbred industry for not having AI and insisting on northern and southern hemisphere live mating and those who do not heed whispers and warnings have only themselves to blame! also to those who don't read papers and watch the news or even listen to the radio or just ignore the whole thing...! ignorant SOB's
I have said my piece and I am on a new mission to rid the area of stray cats! since the dog problem is now non existant...
cheers
Nikki

It is certainly a wake up call Nikki. I don't believe that there are people these days who never hear the News. Got me. The Chief Steward of the SA Jockey Club said tonight that the systems at Centenial Park were obviously breeched and were not good enough. I thought that was a bold thing to say so there you go. He agrees. There must be an investigation though and when they talk about Compensation, they had better stop just talking about the Racing Industry.  I hope you learn one thing from the DVD's.

Hi John
Any thoughts on my horse who is 9 years old and whom I have owned since 18mths, who weaves on the float? She is an excellent floater i.e. is a very well behaved horse and will happily walk onto the float with the rope over her back. Very relaxed. She started this about two years ago. She mostly only does it when we're on the way home - otherwise I would think maybe the float. I have had 3 floats and I'm very fussy. I have gradually upgraded but all have been very safe secure floats. She started it in my second float which was quiet and well balanced. My new one has more storage room and is more solid. Both floats have sealed rubber floors. She has plenty of room and the float sits well on the road - I have travelled in it and it is quiet and smooth. We live in flat country and travel on sealed roads. She really gets a swing on and I worry about her damaging herself. I tie her with about half my arm length to try and keep her head in the centre because if she can get too far, she really can swing! I have tried most things including tying the divider to one side to give her more room, putting her on the other side, giving her hay, not giving her hay (don't want choke!), covering half the windows (has 3 large tinted ones), having them bare, covering them right up. I have front pads but no side ones so am getting some made. As for my driving - I follow your rules - I try to be very careful. And she doesn't do it when I'm going somewhere, only when we go home or she knows she's close to home. Just excitement? There's no sweating, stress - anything like that. She doesn't weave at home or out EVER. lol any thoughts? She's such a good girl and I don't want her to hurt herself because she could as she gets such a swing on. Incidentally the float does not rock when she weaves which tells me it is well balanced. Anyway, ANY ideas would be great thank you!!
Glenys

These mental triggered problems are very difficult Glenys. It is interesting that she started it in the second float. Can you send me a photo of your float inside from the rear with the back down and side on? You could try putting a second division in the float and moving the other one so that the horse stands dead centre and has one on each side of it, nice and snug so she cannot rock and roll the body. That would probably re-educate her mind but I suspect that it is something else, which I will comment on when I see the photos.

Hey John,
I think I need some words of wisdom. Comet Got gelded 3 weeks ago so his all healed but his gotten his cheeknes back.I've started to try and work with him (mouthing etc) and since he got gelded he started to try and nip me while im leading him. When he gets his head close enough to me he will act like his gonna nip. Get him up to the house work with him say try and send him in a circle he will get shitty stamp his foot, might chuck in a mini rear and if close enough act like his gonna bite (he gave me a love bite on my boob the other day :( no blood but yah). When I get him to back up as well head up in the air ears back and if shitty enough stamp, mini rear. Dad sent him around today (his always trying to tell me what to do and take over) and tried to really make him lunge and he threatened to kick out in his direction.

He will do everything like will lead, tie his head around was giving his head fully in one day, the next day he started side stepping to the direction he really wanted to go(was stop turn to the direction take 3 steps or so forward before he had to follow his head then repeat) and even put his head down in a frame like manner being cheeky(with one side), use the mouthing system the head comes around easy (although he wasnt going that fast). Put the stockmans hobbles on his front legs cause he was pawing a second before walk away and he stand there like his gonna fall asleep. (havent done the back legs).

I just locked him up today seeing as he always thinks he can bolt down to the paddock with the other horses. I admit his came out of his box a bit and learnt it when he was a colt but it seems the things i do to try and give him an attitude adjustment he takes in his stride and knows exactly when to be naughty but also doing the right thing at the same time?

The only thing I can think of is to up the pressure and make him feel warn out or something some how, pull the back legs up(being half arab). The mouth seems to be there (with a couple more days to be sure I think). But the attitude he has right now from when he was a colt seems to be "when im annoyed/confused/frustrated, paw/mini rear/bite or cow kick". The cow kick hardly happens and has only been a threat so far, but i actually seem to trust his ass end at the moment better than his mouth hah. The stop seems to be there (its hard to get the full turn with the mouthing system) but he is kinda responding to voice to half finish it on occasions. Sorry, not good enough and probably is the comment that exposes your attitude Jesskah. Half good isn't good enough. Get after the horse, do it properly, follow the dvd , get on him and go riding. Get after him under saddle and treat him like you own him. He is too cockey for his own good that one and looking for direction like a lot of them. Time to step up to the mark. Go out today and do the join up with him and a stockwhip. When you have his back leg up, stock whip train him while you are at it. He needs some pressure.

Anyway wont make this any longer seeing as you've got internet probs and stuff, would just like your thoughts on this boy thats too smart for his own good. I know all this is definitly my fault, guess we gotta make mistakes with our first foal, will get Pebble's one started earlier, due next month or so. Would apreciate your thoughts. There's always NSW if you're bored haha, Upper Hunter = Thoroughbred Country ROFL.

Sincerely,
Jesskah

I'm not coming up there :) Too many viruses :)

Hi

Just read your article on horses rearing. I have 2 problems:

My daughters horse bites her in the stable or if you try and walk up to him and when you try to get on him. He always has to be tied up when working with him.
He's a good horse while she on him and she is improving leading him on the ground which took awhile for her to get her confidence. I am in a bit of a mood today Kellie so forgive me. There is no allowed time to get 'CONFIDENCE" around horses. The longer it takes the more they get disrespectful and this is another reason why the plague of disrespectful horses out there. Put a rod up the Kids back, teach her the 7 Games, get her sending the horse left right and centre and taking control and above all, re-gaining respect. This Generation are having increasingly more trouble with horses and often due to today's upbringing of a lot of them. Yes I know, I am not speaking specifically to you, just generally and increasing. It is now coming from the Adults and being handed down. Bosses are becoming gutless wonders who won't confront problems with Workers, allowing things to fester around them with personality clashes amongst staff and so on and letting the employee burn out, leave the Company rather than show some guts and sort the problems out. Remember the Pat Parelli Quote on here last night? Something about out of control horses being owned by over 40, fat owners with over fed horses or something like that. Can't find it now. A lot of those people now form the Generation who are teaching the youth. Therein lies why horses are following the same behavioral patterns as Society. Direct Link. You would struggle to find an incident like these nipping horses 30 years ago.

The other is my younger daughter Pony (mare) kicks at other horses which makes it very difficult at shows and Pony club and tries to bolt when she on her in an open area.

Any suggestions have to fix this problem.

Kind Regards
Kellie

Once again Kellie, disrespect and how dare the Pony. Get after it. Show it that this is not an option. Excuse my frustration. All Horse Trainers feel it and just lately, I have read a bit too much of it. Tune the Pony up and don't cop such behaviour!!!!!!!!!! 2 minute job. Oh, around the ass end, not the shoulder lololol. Sorry and I would be re-mouthing that one and teaching your daughter how to do the one rein stop to take control in all situations. Again, sorry.

 

31st August, 2007

Well the Ozone Layer crisis hit us today and I felt very sorry for the Farmers here, watching their reasonable crops being cooked and blown to destruction. The hottest day in history for August, 30.8 but 33.something out on the wheat belt. I hate to think where this is going to end.

HORSE VIRUS

Lady seen driving a car and float through Golden Grove the other night and get this, with the lights off. What a 'tripper'

Ban extended for another 3 days in SA. The Royal Show is going on at this stage with South Australian Horses only. Here is the catch. If any suspect horse is found during the Royal, all horses will be quarantined in the Show grounds. Wouldn't that be just wonderful and not a risk that we will be stupid enough to take.

The advise is that the germs will live on your clothes or tools for 24 hours and then die. BUT!!!! It will stay in your water troughs for 22 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Equine Flu
Equine Influenza is being detected at widespread locations in NSW and QLD, due to movements of horses, people or equipment before the standstill was imposed. In view of this, all veterinarians, farriers, equine dentists and other paraveterinarians are advised to keep all visits to horse establishments to an absolute minimum, for emergencies only, and particularly to avoid sequential visits on the same day.

All Victorian EFA, PCAV and HRCAV events scheduled for September 1 and 2 have been cancelled.  

Only essential and emergency visits should be undertaken for the next ten days, while the true extent of the disease is established.

Hygiene and biosecurity guidelines for veterinarians and industry are posted on the NSW DPI website at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/livestock/horse/influenza and other specialist guidelines will also be placed there as they are developed. 

Equine Flu Information
People should check the website of their respective Department of Primary Industry. The web addresses are:

· NSW: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
· Queensland: www.dpi.qld.gov.au
· Victoria: www.dpi.vic.gov.au
· Tasmania: www.dpiw.tas.gov.au
· South Australia: www.pir.sa.gov.au
· Western Australia: www.agric.wa.gov.au
· Northern Territory: www.primaryindustry.nt.gov.au

For general information and links to other sources of information, visit the Australian Horse Industry Council (AHIC) web http://www.horsecouncil.org.au.

Biosecurity Guidelines to all equine service providers (including Coaches)
Please read the Biosecurity information carefully, it applies to YOU. Access to the link can be made from the EFA National website or by clicking here http://www.equestrian.org.au/?Page=15149

You should also consider registering on their database, so that AHIC can contact you in emergency situations. You can do this on their web http://www.horsecouncil.org.au.

 

http://www.horseproblems.com.au/Problem%20Horses%20on%20Pasture%20Management.htm

 

Finally got some pics of Perth

Some of the lovely facilities at Sunninghill Equestrian Centre

I was one of the fence sitters at your Perth Clinic and would like to thank you both for a very interesting and informative day, unfortunately the Sunday being cancelled due to circumstances out of our control. I was very much looking forward to another day of problem solving by yourself and young Fred and some more beautiful riding by Linda. Whilst there I did hear quite a few people complaining that we have nobody in WA to help us with your methods of mouthing and breaking and I would just like to say that Fred has dealt with two of my young horses and given me a wealth of advice on how to handle problems as they arise and he has done a marvellous job. I can highly recommend him if people are looking for a breaker in Western Australia as can many people in an around Margaret River that have already used him. Fred and Rachel are looking to move closer to Perth (our loss) to continue working with horses full time and we wish this lovely dedicated horse loving couple the very best of luck.

Pam

Thanks for that Pam. It is hard when one lives so long away from a young Breaker who is becoming one of my 'clones' I think Rachael called it lol. I had not met him before and was assessing him closely. My honest opinion at the end of the day was this. He has the 'right stuff', he has the right attitude, approach and empathy. Horses like him (a major plus), he has a thirst for knowledge, he has proven and tested himself with wild horses and he is taking Dressage Lessons with one of your Grand Prix Riders' over there. That shows initiative and seriousness. When he finds a new home, I will advise. Regards

 

and we stayed here, www.tortoiseshellfarm.com where you can take your horse on holidays with you. A dream paradise, built with the bear hands of  husband and wife who own it. The timber is Jarrah of course.

 

 

I HAVE BEEN PROMISED WE WILL BE BACK ONLINE MONDAY. FIX THEN. Meanwhile, all give me the direct banking details.

We are goin Equitana. Not home :) Thanks Kel

 

LETTERS OF THE DAY

WEIGHT AND HORSE TRAINING

I AM ABOUT TO BREAK IN MY FIRST HORSE A 3 YEAR OLD QUARTER HORSE GEILDING. And i want what your talking about i was wondering if i could buy a dvd off you or something? As i am really a person who understands better seeing then reading. Yes im thick and i havent had a great deal to with training horses, its just simple i picked up the horse cheap cause of the drought and cause hes umbroken. But at least he doesnt have bad habits. And i get upset cause people say im too heavy for the horses too i weigh 85kg and im 5 foot tall(size 16 ) Hopefully working with horses again instead of being a broodmare myself will help me drop that weight.? I just want your opinion am i too heavy to break in a solid 15hand quarter horse? And what do i tell the dentist when i first get his teeth prepared for this? And do you have any dvds for sale on this subject. As i would love a horse that doesnt pigroot buck rear or BOLT id love a soft lateral mouth and the horse that can bend enough to sniff his own tail. And disengadge his hindquarters in a nice fluent row. Please help me i have just purchased a lunge roller and dont know how to use it. That is how i found your site i was hunting imfo on mouthing with a lunge roller. IF I HAD THE MONEY ID PAY YOU TO TRAVEL TO ME AND DO THE HORSE FOR ME BUT IM NOT RICH IF I WAS I WOULDN'T OF BROUGHT A UNBROKEN HORSE. Please write back but be kind cause the horse people in this town are not kind to me. IAM WILLING TO TRY THIS AND LEARN I JUST REALLY WANT TO PROVE TO MYSELF I CAN DO IT AND OWN MY DREAM HORSE.I am only a rider who taught myself nothing great very average but, also nervy in bad situations. I LIVE IN A CRAPPY TOWN WHERE HORSES NEED TO BE BOMBPROOF TO SURVIVE fastcars and trucks with rocks spraying air horns musical horns waterbombs backfires tin cans just full on dickheads i need my horse to handle all this can i do it i will gladly pay you for your help. I dont want this to be another failure in my life i want to do this and properly. thanks cheryl:-) xxx

Hi Cheryl, I do feel for you but as I said the other night, when it comes to horse riding or training, we are at a severe disadvantage and increased danger, if we do start to 'put on the pud' as they say. :) If I had not worked on my own weight increase problems of late, I could have quite possibly been badly injured or killed in Perth because we must remember, we are trying to move fast in thick sand, not solid going. There is no doubt that the QH is the born weight carrier and they have little difficulty with 85kg but unless there is a misprint in your letter re your height, such a weight versus the height signals major worries re your balance and athleticism. That equals danger of course but again, quiet Breed so never rule anything out. Best of Luck.

 

RELATIONSHIPS

Hi,

I just thought I would let you know I agree with Bridget in Soap Box in regards to old horses. I still have my old horse Piccolo who I have had from birth to now 30 years on! He has been the best horse, I broke him in myself, and done everything with him - from shows, pony club, trail riding, you name it he's done it. Pic and I have had a partnership spanning 30 years, I would never consider selling him on now after all the years of pleasure he has given me, he deserves his retirement now and I could not imagine him spending it anywhere else except with me - he is my best mate - thank you Meriel

Good on you Meriel. You always deserved each other by the sound of it and you have a special relationship no doubt. I often think about this subject as we Professionals miss out on the nicer things of life because we never have the time to put into such things. I am often proud of the small advances I make with some of my Breakers' but to have a horse for so long sure must be fun. Last time we were away from home, some of our agistees' commented to Mrs. HP that her Mare had become depressed. This time, they saw it again and when we returned home, we saw her jump to attention as she spotted the Boss through the Dining window, from 40 metres away. I do have a special relationship with her Stallion however as I have been spending some time with him of late and we are good Mates. Nothing better ey?

 

 

30th August, 2007

SORRY ABOUT THIS BUT I AM OFF THE AIR UNTIL AT LEAST NEXT MONDAY.

HELLSTRA ARE BEING OBSTRUCTIONIST WITH MY PROVIDER DURING THE CHANGE OVER TO BROADBAND 2 WHICH WAS SUPPOSED TO HAPPEN WHILE WE WERE AWAY BUT DIDN'T.

I said yesterday that I couldn't handle letters but I now can. Sorry for misleading you.

 

PERTH CLINIC

REFUNDS

We got home today and am waiting for the list of the people who missed out on the Sunday so that we can refund you. That will be $120 per horse after deducting $50 for fence sitter if you don't mind.

 Young Fred working with the ASH Stallion that had been bucking and rearing. He re-educated the horse the first time and obviously did a nice job. The horse warmed to Fred and I and was good on the day, a turn around from what had been happening.

other photos when I get online

Dear John and Mrs Hp

 

www.tortoiseshellfarm.com

where you can take your horse on Holidays is a hand built magnificent place built from nothing by the lovely Hosts. Bush at it's best, wildlife abounds, views and natural timber everywhere. Check it out!!

Hi Linda & John. We had a rather eventful 6.5 hour trip home on Sunday. People in cars at Perth traffic lights were waiving us down and telling us we “shouldn’t be floating that horse” blah blah blah…. Then the Truckies, OMG, I’m sure they were continuously on their CB’s to each other whinging and bitching about the silly people coming along with the horse float. Each truck we passed for a good while, gave us the finger or forks etc. waived their arms out the windows at us etc. If only they knew. We had permission to leave that day and go home!!!! We passed 4 police cars and they didn’t even notice us! Anyway, just wanted to say a HUGE THANKYOU to both of you for going the extra mile and taking me on at 6.00 after a full days hard work. If Linda doesn’t read these letters, you have to pass on my Special thanks to her for the lesson with my SB Lucy. The poor girl was so unsettled in the new environment, then I gave her a “spastic ride” in the ‘mirrored’ arena (Mrs. HP told me I had a spastic left arm)…., kind of walk, canter, pace, oh then try and trot ride…. Linda gave me the confidence that I can go a long way with Lucy. She said she is the perfect horse for me and my family, and that she was a quick learner, but it was the rider (being me), who has to learn to sit correctly in the saddle and BALANCE!!!!!! Tell her my ankles and calves are still hurting after trying to stand in the stirrups. But I will do it. I am a determined girl, and one day I will send you a video of Lucy and I riding correctly. It won’t happen over night, but it will happen! Also, did anyone leave a dressage whip behind at the clinic. My helping husband for the weekend, picked one up thinking it was mine and brought it home! I’m happy to pass it on if I can find out whos’ it is. Thank you also to Kelly, Tracey, Shannon, Rachel, Nikki, Fred, Tim, Steff and anyone I have forgotten for your friendship on the weekend. You were all such lovely people. Obviously, we were all there with similar interests, i.e. correcting our problems with our horses and have that in common. Everyone got along so well and Brian and Rae were just lovely and so welcoming. One more thank you…..to Nikki. Nikki had Trey who behaved beautifully for Mrs. HP on Saturday. Nikki took notes for me when I was riding with Linda, and at the end of my ride, handed them to me with the heading “Lisa’s Homework”. I appreciate that sooooo much. What a great group of people. I will come again. You guys are the best and I bow to you both again as I sign off! (Hey I noticed I even managed to inspire one of your readers that came along to the clinic as well)……Fantastic!

See you next time.
Lisa. Geraldton

That's why we do it Lisa. That's what it's all about. We all suffered from the virus but none more than you of course. We all benefited, we all learnt and we all had a new and first experience in life, one that will benefit us into the future, how to handle disease. I have always found that from my life's biggest disasters, the best lessons have come. Well done Lisa.

Hi John & Linda

Thank you both so much for imparting such wonderful information on the horses at the clinic that not only we owners can use but that those watching can go away with and utalise as well if any of those tools are needed. Your method for testing and profiling horses is amazing and the synergy between you both in working with the horses is beyond belief – bless you both for the sake of the horses (and people) you work with.

Okay, my horse exhibited some fairly psychotic behaviour and that is what we were there for to see what would come out under pressure. But there were some things I had been able to do with Benny in the short time I have had him that did produce good results; improve his mouth using the method from the Mouthing DVD and Saving the OTTB, create a lateral mouth that leads to an effective one rein stop, back up, teach Benny to leg yield using the method on the Leg Yield DVD (it is so easy its ridiculous). I know when Linda rode him with the tension he had it was not there but today with him relaxed it was without a doubt improved, thanks Linda your tha bomb!!

In fact Linda, Benny was just amazing today, great tempo, flexion to the inside was so much better (when I first started riding in July he was so badly flexed off) and it was great to ride a circle with him really between the aids. No tension or smart allecy behaviour just a good solid ride.

My daughter and I had also spent the first five weeks doing join up and ground work to improve manners. We had not done join up before so it was a real eye opener particularly when it works and you have this beautiful big horse just working free with you. Motioning towards the quarters to come around, move over, back up, come forward and lead all with no halter. I coupled all this with lunging in draw reins and doing the re mouthing work. I will continue do more lunge work as I can see he is not as giving as he should be and it is taking a lot of work to achieve.
After our chat John, I better understand the squealing, kicking out and rolling. And all of that behavior seemed so contradictory to the spineless week minded box weaving and fence walking he was displaying earlier!! Go figure!!

As you did not get to do the leg restraint work on the Sunday I will be doing it. Watched the Leg Restraint DVD (thank you), twice, thirteen more time to go….but I feel that I should be able to accomplish this task also. Having seen this work at the clinic was a bonus. I will seek for someone to supervise as I feel it might not be pretty. I feel very sure I will have him improved for the farrier in fact I can see other areas that will improve also.

Your DVD’s are sooooo easy to follow and implement, particularly in our case, retraining of these beautiful horses. Benny has been great to try out all of these methods on as they really do work and make it all so much easier. And as difficult as Benny may have demonstrated on Saturday he really has improved so much from when he first came to us. So patients, perseverance and a plan really do make a difference and empower you to get the job done in the best possible way that benefits the horse the most. And if you listen the horse does tell you.
Thank you both, so much, for your generosity of imparting your combined knowledge and in your free spirit in giving.

We sure hope to see you in the west again as soon as possible.

Big hug,

Cheers

Tracy

Our thanks to you and Kelly Tracy, the best little Clinic organizers we have ever had I did admire your receptiveness to the frankness about your horse, something that I wish I could see more of and for which you will benefit from. It never ceases to amaze me how 30 minutes with the Boss can be felt the next day by the owner. How smart are horses where he was petrified throughout, having a brain snap and yet, you could feel the difference. Go figure that? x


Hi John and Linda,

Just wanted to add my thanks and appreciation for the time and effort you put into the Perth clinic  It was fantastic to see everything you discuss on your website put into practice. On the subject of coaches behaving badly, I was extremely heartened that everything Linda focussed on in my lesson was in the same vein as my regular coaches, and delivered in the same encouraging and enlightening manner. So fret not, Perth people, there are decent coaches out there!

I’m not sure if you want to put names on your site, but in the interest of helping your readers: Stephen Johnson (used to teach at Brookleigh before they gave up on the horses) is fantastic for all aspects of riding and Ron Paterson (based in QLD, I think, but comes over every few months for clinics) is a good dressage coach. Possibly not so suited to some of the “problem” horses, but definitely a good place to start. And they won’t make you cry!!!

Thanks again

Hellen

I love to see recommended Coaches on this site Hellen so no problems. Just to finish our effort to assist you to the best of our ability, Mrs. HP, who has read these letters, did say to me that you may want to examine the cause why your horse wasn't into the bridle and over the back just quite enough and then you will have truly taken the quantum step. Regards and congratulations on the rig again.

LETTERS OF THE DAY

Hi again, John, I understand and have used hobbles and sidelines, the biggest problem is not when I am unmounted it is when I am riding her,and another horse comes up behind her. Regards Maria

We/I use side liners and have for many years here in Australia. I do not accept your hypothosis that they are as"dangerous as hell". Firstly it is very important to understand the fundermentals of sidelines and in particular know how to estimate the length of them before fitting to the horse. ( check out his stride, conformation and temperment) Don't be frightened of them as they work a treat used inteligently. I have a real good old fashioned "Ausie" pattern and if you like I could send you !

Thanks there for your kind offer. I do have them but if I can explain that when recommending things to the General Public, I have to very careful that horses are not put at risk which is why I don't recommend them. The degree of difficulty and risk is too high to be pushing their use through cyberspace. Even when I have rarely used them (but have) I go to lengths to prepare horses well due to the undeniable fact that a horse can go off with them and if they do, too much swing and snap can be motorized, thus exposing a horse to superficial injuries. Something that I never get. Thanks.

Hey John.
Thanks for the advice re the feeding thing the other day. I DID realise Mia and I were breaking your rule and not following your training exactly, we just wanted to knock the bolshiness on the head straight away and not let her get away with it for one more day . We haven't had to do anything again. However, from the time I first saw your clip, I never quite got the bit about unjustness. Ponies move each other off their feeds all the time - there's no concept of fairness there - they just do it because (it seems to me) they can and to prove/establish dominance. I've got the bit about risking the training message, but I have a number of people who listen to me as if I know what I'm talking about (scary) that I want to make sure I've got as much straight as I can. There is one pony where I agist that is pretty horrible to the other horses and to people around feed time, and I've got it so that when I have to approach her, she moves immediately off her feed as this helps to keep me safe whilst feeding out. Am I missing a big point here - pleeeease identify?

By the way, I now have quite a number of friends whose relationships with their horses have been turned around by your video clip (and we did it correctly according to JO'. lol). So, thank you yet again.
lotslove
Glenys

Haha Glenys. I find and I know other Trainers' do too that it is better to not risk fate and to keep the integrity of established training systems in place. One never knows what is beneath the surface with such horses  or how far they are prepared to go. I feel that it is especially important for Professionals to recommend systems that the Amatuer can have the best chance of success with. My Dad always says, "Little Fish are sweet" :) Dominant, sour, nasty or aggressive horses will always understand the message and back off when the Rules are changed but can go away and think about it and rebel if they deem the Prey Animal is turning into one of them, can 'up the anty', thus negating the gains made that would have probably remained in tact if the 'Justice' ingredient. Regards

Hi John,

I am sure that you are going to get a fair bit of flack on this one, but as a very overweight (clinically obese) person I must say that I cannot agree more.

I have not ridden for the last two years due to my weight, as I realise that it is a danger to my horse, although I believe that I am still a good rider. However, I do feel that my weight impedes my ability to react quickly to any problems when riding, and raises my fear of falling off, because I just know I will hit the ground hard! This in turn makes me more tense, and compounds the mixed message problems for the horse.

I do hope that your article generates some really useful debate, rather than the bitch fight that I think will ensue!!

I have recently joined a friend at Weight Watchers, and my current goal is to lose 50kilos, with the hope that if I reach my correct weight I can then ride again - before old age makes it totally out of the question!!

Cheers

Lynn

Thanks Lynn. You are to be congratulated for your attitude. I had a block of Cadburys the night after the Clinic, some lovely cheese and a Berlina but I am back on it tomorrow. :) Not easy but we have to do it for the horses, our Families, the Tax Payer and to live an extra 25 years because that is the bottom line.  I think the days of taking out and lynching anyone who ever comments on weight are over. That attitude was part of the problem and complete denial. Regards

 

Hi John,

In answer to Sarah's letter about her friends horse having swollen legs. We have just had a considerable amount of rain in a few days up here in Queensland, as you may well be aware, and most of the horses have got swollen legs and especially the back legs. It is from standing in one spot for so long in the wet. The best cure is to walk them for at least an hour a day. It is best to keep an eye on the horses for Greasy Heel as well.


Thanks


Sue

Looking forward to the October Clinic. (Hopefully the standstill will be over by then!)

Very obvious and true Sue. Thanks.

But John,,,,,,,,you're so wrong!!!! :-)) Lucky you didn't bet your house. I received it loud and clear and have been enthralled with the content - my eyes hurt I spent so long reading! Being a hard working and ethical employee of the organisation many (yourself included!) love to hate, I could be offended and hurt. But I've heard worse :-)) believe me. I do understand some of your frustrations - I've seen things go horribly wrong but I've also seen things go spectacularly right!! If only I was running the company......... :-)) hehehe.

Anyhow, I'd much rather talk about horses! Thanks to both you and Linda for a great day Saturday - a top effort and you both must have been shattered that night. Unfortunate about the "flu" situation but that would have affected the clinic wherever you were I guess. I hope you are not financially disadvantaged by the exercise and if so, then I hope you will get more DVD orders like mine to soften the blow. Personally, I think it would be churlish for anyone to accept a refund under the circumstances.

Thanks again and this may not be the last you hear from me. I plan to use the DVD, in conjunction with my instructor, to re-mouth my recently purchased QH/TB cross so I may have to join the multitudes who call on you for advice every day! Obtaining the appropriate and safe gear may be an issue so your advice would be appreciated - eg the correct roller (non-Asian poorly made), running reins and ropes etc.

Considering I'm using my work e-mail address, I'd appreciate you not publishing this letter if that's OK?


Kind Regards and best wishes,
Betty.

Well Betty, you now know it works but so you should be right but I think you will find there is no equipment but mine that will handle the work. I detect you mustn't be aware that I have it on this site. Saddlery Sales off the Home Page. Best of Luck with it. Regards

Hi again, John, I understand and have used hobbles and sidelines, the biggest problem is not when I am unmounted it is when I am riding her,and another horse comes up behind her. Regards Maria


That comes down to discipline Maria, warning the horse that such behaviour will not be tolerated in your presence. Reading, timing and action. Warn with the voice if you like. Regards

 

29th August, 2007

LETTERS OF THE DAY

PERTH CLINIC

COACHING

I listen to everyone but never make my mind up until I get significant samples but during the week here in Perth, I had continually heard comment about the quality of Coaching and in particular about Coaches yelling at Pupils and bringing them down. Putting them down. Blaming them. Bringing Pupils to tears. I have of course seen this first hand in various places and wondered why! What does it say about the Coach? Their ability? There personality, their training, the system. I wonder why.....I think about it.....

If a Coach has to distress a Rider, then they shouldn't be let near a horse because 'blind Freddie' knows that an upset Rider cannot train a horse anyhow and it is grossly unfair on the horse, seriously affecting it's mental health and performance. I am aware that there are Coaches at the highest level, around this Country, who regularly reduce Pupils to blithering messes and some even treat their Wives' like Dog's as I have heard it alleged here in WA and seen personally at Dressage with the Stars....and yet they are often worshipped by those on high. What is that? Is that why the system falls so short? Any Coach who acts like that should be boycotted, disciplined and surely never given the privilege of getting near a horse. As for the 'Code of Ethics' of the EFA? Perhaps they should think more deeply about that.

Hello Linda and John

What a great day you put on in Perth – (thanks to the organizes too).

I thought one of the best bits was watching Linda transform that lovely standardbred at 6:00 at night! after an 8:00am start! – what an inspirational lady (yep, you were pretty good too). I was so pleased for the owner to see what her horse could do under Linda’s guidance and I’m sure with some good coaching she’ll be dead keen to achieve the same. Linda is the most outstanding coach – all Perth coaches should take note – you can be an even better coach when you are kind and encouraging and focus on fixing an issue instead of shouting and blaming…

And if the owner reads you site, I would like her to know I thought she was fantastic too and so brave… perhaps not been riding for long – and she just got in there and did a great job – and inspired me to be a bit braver next time too. Thank you.

I have to say I came away from the clinic with the impression that there were a few over-indulged horses out there - with fairly over-inflated opinions of themselves – I don’t know if that’s correct, but it appeared to me that once you established a bit of respect from a few of the culprits – playing up was the last thing on their mind! – I hope I’m not offending anyone – it was actually like looking in the mirror at myself – most revealing indeed! - Oh no, my horse doesn’t walk all over me at all!! J

Kindest regards to you all, looking forward to your return already!

Natalie

I am sure that the young Lady who had driven 6 hours to come to this Clinic will take great heart from your words Natalie. You are correct in your assessment about some of the horses and I am sure the owners now know that. Thanks.

Hi Hp

Attended your Perth clinic, very inspiring, shame about the Sunday, learnt sooooooo much, It was amazing to see the difference you and mrs Hp made to the horses and the help given to their owners. It inspired me to do some training on myself with my appy. I have trouble getting him 'on the bit" a problem of mine not his, which bought me to borrow a friends market harbour, great piece of gear, gave me a better feel, only on the first marker, Which is what i want to ask is, he gives to it but then will bring his head up again after a while, does that mean I need to take him to the next mark? and how long or often should I use it for. Did watch the clip with mrs Hp using one but my pc had a prob and I could only watch 1/2 of it. Jo.

I was approached by a lovely Lady during the Clinic and she was concerned about one aspect of us recommending this piece of equipment to some people. The problem where people will use it too long and will not get off the training wheels. I promised to rectify that confusion, although we have never promoted longevity. People should use it properly, ensure and insist that the horse gives to the 'soft place', which is normally with a perpendicular head set or behind the vertical and never in front of it but to then experience the feel with their own proper contact when the equipment disengages, learning and stopping the use of it as soon as possible. NOT using it as a crutch forever. Prolonged use of it can also be detrimental and a sign that the Rider has not taken up the opportunity to advance and learn. Regards Jo

I just want to say a very very big thankyou to yourself and Linda for the improvement you have made to my horse Nemo (8am lesson at Perth Clinic). I cant believe the difference an hour or so can make to a horse. I went out this afternoon to practice want I learnt from you both and I have to tell you there was no sign of the naughty behaviour he was
dishing out to me prior to the clinic. On the ground he kept well out of my space, no pushiness at all. I rode him with more assertiveness as advised by Linda and he went beautifully. He was soft, flexed, forward and more to the point obedient. He didnt show any signs of resistance at all. I hope we can continue to go forward from here. Once again a huge thankyou to you both.

Terri and Nemo

That is most satisfying Terri. Lovely horse and you had done well in your breaking in of him. I liked him very much....once we got to know each other :)

Hi John,
I was just reading your site about the horse flu, which I'm very sorry to read about, I know only too well how devastating infectious diseases can be to horses.

I'm wondering if you know anything about Strangles?

I had a pony in the UK (years ago) who was diagnosed by the vet as having Strangles.
The agistment manager made me remove the pony from the yard, I took her home to live in my back garden for her recovery well away from other horses.
The whole stable yard was disinfected with Dettol and bedding burnt.
I wasn't allowed to visit any other stables people were very aware and anal about it - and rightly so.
The pony's symptoms were:-
A 'sick look' about her, like she wasn't particularly interested in her surroundings, she was off her food and hung her head in a droopy way like it was too heavy to lift.
She had a cough, a runny nose with thick green mucus in both nostrils, her breathing was heavy, sweat under her mane and forlock and swollen glands around the throat.

I immediately called the vet of course who diagnosed and gave me injections for her.

Within a week the first lump under the throat had burst and green/yellow pus oozed from the hole that was about the thickness of a pencil.
They didn't burst and go SPLAT like a shot gun blast, more like a thin continuous stream like someone had tipped an egg cup full of coloured water from her neck. A couple of times I was alerted to it by hearing the splat noise as it hit the ground.
Definately noticable!
Then the hole closed up and a red/blood skin would form over the hole, but the lump would still be visible.
Within a week that lump would disappear and another form a few inches from the last which would also burst. It was like a never ending cycle of "lump > pus > scabs" from gullet to chin.
The bursting pus stage lasted about 2 months, the cough continued for over a year.

About 15 months ago I purchased a pony in a malnourished condition, he had a cough as soon as he arrived. Within a week he had green mucus coming from his nose and I found the familiar lumps under his throat.
I immediately called the local vet who arrived within the hour.
The vet diagnosed the pony as having Strangles and while she was there she checked the other ponies in the same paddock and found 2 more yearlings with early stages of lumps developing.
Within 2 days the other 2 ponies also had green mucus coming from their noses.
I asked the vet to do a swab to make sure it was Strangles, but she said she was SO CERTAIN it was Strangles Quote: "It can't be anything else" Unquote, that a swab wasn't necessary.

I checked the ponies hourly, I was so worried about their health, especially being so young.
I kept expecting the lumps to burst, but they never did.
Within 10 days the green mucus had cleared up, and after waiting a whole month for the lumps to burst I called the vet back again to have another look.
The vet arrived that afternoon and felt each pony's throat, the lumps were still there, but nothing had burst.
She was now as confused as I was?
I again asked her to take swabs so we could identify what the ponies had?
She didn't have any swabbing equipment with her, aparently they 'go off' if left in the medical case and as there was no longer any sign of the mucus there wasn't anything to take a swab of?
Within 6 months the lumps and coughs had gone.
Do New Zealand ponies get a different type of Strangles to English ponies?
What would you suspect they had?
Have you ever heard of Strangles only 1/2 developing?
Would be interested to know.
Cheers,
Sarah.

Anything is possible Sarah but no. I don't doubt that is what it was though and that is why we vaccinate all of our horses, commencing with our foals at 3 months of age and throughout their lives. Our Adult horses too of course. Tetanus and Strangles. It is highly contagious and should be treated the same as the Equine Virus. cheers

Hi

Not sure if you can help but I have a friend who has a thoroughbred mare around 10yrs of age. She has recently gone to a new paddock (2 weeks ago) and 2 days ago had a sudden onset of joint swelling and stiffness - all legs but more swollen on back legs. She also had a hypersensitivity when her back was touched but that seems to have eased. She is walking with a stiff gait and lifting one of her hind legs. The weather had been torrential rain for 2 days and whilst the paddock was not flooded - it was soggy but not sure if that has any bearing on things?? I have been trying to do some research on the internet and so far have only found a couple of articles about Lyme Disease via tick bites which gives some similar symptoms - can't find out if this is prevalent in Australia or not. Any other suggestions?? She has not had any previous problems with arthiritis or swollen joints that her owner is aware of.
Would be most appreciative of any help.
Sarah

It is quite ironic that you should mention that little known disease here in Australia. It attacks Humans and is contracted from ticks which are disturbed from the floor of the Woods. The same Woods that we were bike Riding through in Holland and the same Woods that Mrs. HP's Auntie who was escorting us, contracted the disease herself. Not good. You need to contact the Veterinary Officers at the DPI to ascertain if those ticks reside here in Australia or get your Vet to investigate that. Nothing can be ruled out Sarah.


 
Hi, I hope you can help me, as I have purchased a horse to play polocrosse on and have discovered she has a bad kicking problem.She is about 9 years old, quiet to handle,[but a bit nervous] good to shoe and has an excellent mouth, she can stop and spin on a dime, a really nice mare to have around, untll another horse is behind her,without warning she will kick out at it, either at the standstill or at a fast canter, both barrels or cowkicks.We were even travelling home in our truck, with 4 horses on it [and we have learnt on previous trips to have her at the back along side the horse she normally runs in the paddock with] and she just lost the plot and started double barreling the side of the truck, by the time we had stopped the truck she had managed to swing around and was kicking at the other horses heads [we load them all the same way], we unloaded her on the side of the road and calmed her and the others down, then reloaded her, but as soon as she got back on she started kicking again.We unloaded her again and my husband started to ride her home, while I took the other horses home and returned to pick him up,she then loaded on and travelled the rest of the trip without any trouble. I do hope there is a solution for this problem as I don't really want to send her to the knackery. Thanks Maria

This is one of the situations where clearly, leg restraints are necessary Maria. It is also why I recommend them in many cases where horses are in danger of being sent to their death. In that situation, all options should be used. I simply would not accept that and I would properly train that horse to the use of a wide range of them, as prior preparation right up to the use of the sideline, which may be necessary with this Mare, however back leg hobbles may do the trick. I do not use the sideline as a general rule and don't recommend it but would with this horse but only after complete training as I said. People should be armed with all the information which is why I blatantly say that I have produced a DVD on the subject. Regards
 

27th August, 2007

HORSE FLUE

To Gainsborough

No farriers allowed on our property!!!

FOR INFORMATION OF SOUTH AUSTRALIANS

PIRSA urgently requests support from horse owners and facility operators to report any horse movements into SA from any interstate location since 8/8/07



Ø Centennial Park (equestrian) centre

Ø Warwick 3D event Qld

Ø Tamworth Ag Show NSW

Ø Wentworth Ag Show NSW

Ø Maitland Showjumping Gymkhana (Hunter Valley) NSW

Ø Nowra NSW

Ø Parkes NSW

Ø Toowoomba Qld



to report those movements to the Emergency hotline on 1800 675 888. It is vitally important that horses are not moved from their current location, for any reason, without approval as fines and/or imprisonment may be imposed. Movement ban is legally enforceable and Police are monitoring any movements and will stop all horse transports People violating the ban (owner are liable to prosecution).



For general information on Influenza please ring 1800 234 002. Also, follow the guidelines below for horse contact as this virus can live for some 36 hours on equipment, clothing etc, but is susceptible to good hygiene and chlorine based bleaches.



Dr. Vince Roche and others have prepared an guide for horse owners to help prevent the spread of horse flu.



Please read this carefully and follow the instructions.



1. Keep your horse(s) at home or wherever they are currently situated. Do not take your horse out on trails or on the road. Even if your horses are well and you do not think they could have horse flu, do not attempt to move them even if you think there is a safer, a better or a more convenient place to keep them.



2. Look after your own horse(s) but avoid visiting horses at other places, even if they belong to friends and even if you think the other horses are well and not at risk of having horse flu. The greatest risk of spread is horse people visiting other horse people and / or horses!



3. Likewise, until the epidemic is over, don’t allow other people to visit your horses.



4. If you have absolutely no alternative to visiting other horses venues or horses (eg you work there or need to feed someone else’s horses) please shower and wash carefully and put on a completely fresh set of clothes (including shoes) after contact with your own horses and before you go to the other horses. Please repeat the process when you leave the other horses before you come home to your own horses. Do not put discarded clothes on again before washing them. Wash your clothes in a full wash cycle and scrub your shoes with a disinfectant, (dettol, white king, betadine or any chlorine based product).



5. Horse equipment (saddles, bridles, rugs, feed bins, farrier tools, horse dentist equipment, vet equipment etc) are very difficult to disinfect and should only be used within one horse establishment / farm.



6. Horse flu is so infectious that you can safely assume that if one horse in your stables / farm has the disease, all the horses will get it. Precautions within your stables / farm are not necessary – but it is crucial that we cease the contact between horses in different stables / farms until the epidemic dies down.



7. If you suspect that your horse has horse flu (coughing, especially a deep hacking cough is the main symptom, but horses may have a temperature [normal horse temperature is 37.5 degrees to 38.5 degrees], a runny nose or be unwell) please contact your local vet. It is possible that your vet may be unable to attend your horses due to the scale of the epidemic – if so please ring the Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.



8. Stay up to date on the epidemic by regularly (each day at least) visiting your horse organisation website or the Australian Horse Industry Council Website www.horsecouncil.org.au <http://www.horsecouncil.org.au/>. If you register on the Horse Emergency Contact Database (HECD) at www.horsecouncil.org.au <http://www.horsecouncil.org.au/> <http://www.horsecouncil.org.au/> you will receive updates by email.



9. Please note that horses may become very ill if they contract horse flu, but usually recover well over time as long as secondary infections are not present. Please do not give your horse any strenuous exercise before you are absolutely sure it has not contracted horse flu. Please seek veterinary advice before resuming exercise after horse flu
 

OBESITY AND HORSE TRAINING

Believe me, I know how hard it is, especially as you get older like myself so I sympathize with those who struggle with their weight and I wouldn't be mentioning this subject at all if it were not in the context of Horse Training.

Fat people cannot train horses to the best of their ability. We do not do justice to our horses, we put ourselves in far more danger of injury because we lack athleticism, we cannot be Professional or seen to be Professional and we risk the physical soundness of every horse we ride.

I have been on a stringent diet for a month, preparing for our Perth Clinic. I have missed out on all of the nice things in foods but horses must come first. Being over weight can and does confuse horses. Horses flinch when a fly lands on them. If I were 100kg and had love handles upon love handles, my horses will be feeling 'after shocks' on downward transitions and so on, thus confusing them and seriously diminishing the effectiveness of training. Think of the horses.

In terms of soundness and Veterinary problems, there is no doubt that there is a connected correlation. I have noticed over the years, subtle changes to possible future windgall on the legs of young horses, if I have been up a little in weight or depending upon the size and maturity of the horse. The Trainer, cannot be Professional if they are over weight. Sorry, cannot happen and they also cannot be effective enough. We can protest all we like and how dare he say such things in this Politically correct age but facts are facts, it cannot be argued. It is unfair and just doesn't work. Show me the over weight high level competitors in Horse Sports.

So yes, I can imagine, "how dare he?" but think about the horses, think about your responsibilities to them, if Professional, think about the horses and your responsibilities to the owner who is paying money but are obviously not receiving the best value  and outcomes......which brings me to my next wanderings of the mind....

QUALITY OF TRAINERS

My day to day feedback and particularly here in Perth for some reason, shows some frustration with the availability of quality Trainers, Coaches and in fact, horses. We all know that us Humans can be very judgmental upon Professionals in the Industry and that a lot of it can be unfair and incorrect but more than one comment by people here in Perth, that they cannot find quality horses, as in training and without problems, makes me wonder.

Is there a shortage of Trainers and Coaches? Is there a shortage of quality Trainers and Coaches, which is it? I don't know but I do know that it is the fault of the systems in this Country that at least, I do not know. A possible indicator to a shortage of either is certainly a lack of quality trained horses because obviously if there were more great Trainers, there would be many more great horses out there. I don't know but I do know that if I were in charge of the systems in this Country, I would make some enormous changes in a big hurry. I would possibly register Breakers or at least know who the Hell they are and where they are. There should be lists of them, readily available to all and listed in the EFA Magazines for one. I would make many other changes however. There would be workshops for Breakers, the old Fullas would be milked for the benefit of the young, something never done in History. They die with their knowledge. Breakers need to be taught many other things along the lines of Professionalism. Facilities quality and safety, Dress, equipment, Risk Management, Horse Welfare and keep and the list would go on and on. They should be broken out of the moulds of getting locked into and becoming clones of any one particular system and taught to take the best from every system ever invented and above all, to open their hearts and minds to being taught by the horses, not necessarily people. They are the best teachers of all.

Then there are the Coaches. I do not know about WA but the Coaching Training systems have been a disaster in the past and clearly have not done the job. Big changes need to be made and I don't doubt people here when they relate their views that they struggle to get quality Coaching. It is the system that is deficient, not the people. The Curriculums, the lack of open mindedness, the closed shops often run by 'old biddies' who were stable hands and not Riders and who clamp the 'young guns' in case they rise to their paper levels. Until those systems change at EFA Head Office, not much will change. I often talk about Pony Club being too heavily linked to the British Horse Society and Military, well the EFA is also too stuck there from what I have seen over the years and unfortunately, still today.

AUSTRALIAN TUNA

Thanks to Kelly here for gaining this valuable knowledge and I do hope that people support the Australian Tuna Industry. If you value your health, you will. I do still want to know however, why John West Cans have 'Made in Thailand" on them when perhaps it could be "Made in Australia from local and imported Products" That doubt needs to be negated. I shall let you know as I have written the Company.

Further to your recent comments regarding the lack of Australian tuna on our supermarket shelves, I made some enquiries of my own and was fortunate to receive this reply from Port Lincoln Tuna Processors.
Hope this is helpful.

Best wishes
Kelly

Thankyou for taking the time to send your concerns.
Port Lincoln Tuna Processor's is the last remaining cannery in Australia and co-packs 100g John West Tuna Tempters (excluding 95g JW Tuna in Olive Oil) and some 95g John West Pink Salmon variants. I have listed below which John West variants PLTP manufacture. The tuna packed by PLTP is caught in Australian, Western and South Pacific Oceans under dolphin safe practices. Unfortunately the Australian fishing fleet does not catch enough tuna to support the factory and hence PLTP is forced to import tuna to meet production requirements. Any imported tuna is purchased under stringent quality specifications. PLTP employs approximately 280 workers and manufactures over 40 million cans of tuna per year.
I hope that this information is helpful and if you have any concerns please do not hesitate to contact me. We are hoping that with aware consumers (such as yourself) Australia will not lose its last tuna cannery. Please feel free to circulate this e-mail so your friends and family are also aware that all other brands and products not listed below are IMPORTED.
Kind Regards
Lea Traeger
General Manager


John West Tuna Tempters
100g John West Light Springwater with Lemon Tuna
100g John West Tuna Spread
100g John West Light Springwater Tuna
100g John West Chilli Tuna
100g John West Light Chilli Tuna
100g John West Lemon Pepper Tuna
100g John West Light Lemon Pepper Tuna
100g John West Tomato Basil Tuna
100g John West Light Tomato Basil Tuna
100g John West Tuna and Onion in Savoury Sauce
100g John West Light Tuna and Onion in Savoury Sauce
100g John West Vinaigrette Tuna
100g John West Capsicum Chilli Tuna
100g John West Spicy Tomato Tuna
100g John West Indian Curry Tuna
100g John West Smoked Tuna
100g John West Seeded Mustard Tuna
100g John West Salsa Tuna
100g John West Mango Chilli Tuna
100g John West Light Sweet Chilli Tuna
John West Pink Salmon Tempters
95g John West Salmon Smoked
95g John West Salmon Chilli
95g John West Salmon Sweet Chilli
95g John West Salmon Lemon Pepper
95g John West Salmon Tomato & Onion

Hi Leigh,

I am the culprit for the enquiry you received from Kelly Crombie, on the Tuna.
I want to clear the matter for my 56,000 readers per day.
What then are the John West Cans marked “Made in Thailand” and not “Made in Australia from local and imported products” or similar????
Thanks and congratulations.

 

Dear John,

Prior to January 2007, Port Lincoln Tuna Processors was co-manufacturing 425g Tuna, 185g Tuna and 100g Tuna Tempters for the John West brand. Unfortunately after this date PLTP could no longer compete with the price of imported canned 425g & 185g Tuna and the brand owners decided to source these sizes off shore. Hence the need for these sizes to now have a "Made in Thailand" statement.

As stated in my response to Tom and Kelly, if we are unable to source enough tuna from Australian caught boats we need to source tuna from Thailand, hence the need for the "Made in Australia from local and imported producs". PLTP is doing its best to source as much locally caught tuna as possible but there is a reluctance for boats to catch skipjack tuna when the bigger money is with the southern bluefin tuna (export markets-sashimi).

Hopefully I have not confused the issue too much so to generalise:
*"Made in Thailand" statement - 100% Manufactured in Thailand and Imported to Australia
*"Made in Australia from local and imported products" statement - 100% Manufactured in Australia but may contain some raw materials which have been imported

I would welcome a phone conversation with you to clarify any concerns that you or your readers are uncertain of and I hope that you can support the only remaining tuna cannery in Australia.

Best Regards

Lea
 

LETTERS OF THE DAY

Hi John and Linda,


I just wanted to say how grateful I am that you both came over to Perth to hold your first ever clinic, it was so fantastic, I learned lots and was rivetted for the whole day, I am so disappointed and sorry that with the circumstances of the Equine Flu happening that we missed out on attending the Sunday. That must have been heartbreaking for you and the WA organizers, I felt so awful for you all, just something that was so unexpected and out the blue, very unfortunate timing!!! Please don’t let that put you off for coming here again, I can tell you, you had a great turnout for WA and next time I am sure you will have even more people attend through word of mouth, everyone I spoke to really enjoyed it and the word will be spread.


John – It was amazing to see you work with the various horses, you have a nice gentle way about all you do with them, even though I had tears in my eyes a few times to see a horse hop around on 3 legs or be hobbled, they all improved so much, you did it in such a humane way and I understand that they needed it doing to help them get re educated, I admire your skill and feeling for the horses you worked with.


Linda – what an amazing instructor and rider you are, you are also as firm as you need to be but also have a very gentle way about you, your instruction is fantastic and soooooooo well explained and to watch you ride is lovely, I hope one day I can ride as well as that, very inspiring and again was awesome to see the improvements you made to every horse you rode, well done to both of you and thanks for sharing your knowledge with us all and being so honest in all your assessments of the horses.
It was great to see all the horses improved between both you and Linda working with them and as usual sad to see that all the problems they had were caused by humans, but hopefully their owners will keep up with the things you showed them and advised them to do and that they will have happy horses on their hands in a short time.

Have a safe trip home and fingers crossed this flu is under control and no horses in SA or WA will be affected.
Until next time, happy riding and hope to see you here again very soon.

Kind regards,

Emma

My pleasure Emma. It was a mighty big day. I fell into bed. :) We have committed to come back here due to the circumstances. Regards

Hi John,

Hope you can help me – we are in the process of selling a horse (after the flu restrictions are settled). The potential purchasers want to take the horse on a 3 week trial. They are planning on having a vet check etc.
I have been searching for a pro-forma disclaimer/contract to keep all this above board and in writing to prevent any problems. Do you have any knowledge of such a thing??

Thanks

Julie

The EFA have those forms for you Julie.

Regards

Hi John & Linda

I was a spectator at the Perth clinic (I have the mare who leans on the farrier) and want to say how much I enjoyed it. It was very disappointing that the 2nd day was cancelled, but of course totally understandable. I am particularly interested in th