Conformation photos: Tips and tricks

This warmblood is for sale online for more than $10,000. The photo is pretty in its own way, but it isn't likely to help sell this horse. At this distance, this angle, and in this lighting it's a shadowy specter of a horse. Anyone looking to spend that kind of money won't be inspired by an image which reveals so little. If the ad had claimed he was a feral mustang, I wouldn't bat an eye. Photos can be terribly misleading, and it can work for you or against you. Whether you're showing off your best broodmare, selling a riding horse, or just capturing your on beloved horse on film, invest some time into getting a great picture.



This from Flying Change Photography. The horse in this photo is stunning, but the photographer has given him every advantage. The lighting, the background, the positioning of the animal are all pretty much ideal (although the tree in the background obscures him a bit). Just as important, the horse has been captured in a good moment--alert, unafraid but keenly interested in something out of the picture. I love that the tail is behind the hock so that the hind leg can be evaluated.


So how do you take a good conformation shot?

This advice is geared to folks interested in conformation shots, although I suppose some of principles apply to other types of shots. As is often the case, this advice has been compiled from the resources listed at the bottom--I'm not a photographer myself.

1. Select the site.

• Choose an uncluttered area -- no cars, equipment, etc.
  
• Choose a site with a "contrasting" background, e.g., don't stand up a palamino in a sand ring.
  
• The area directly behind the horse should be more or less the came color or intensity throughout.
  
• Find a site with level ground. If you can, identify a reference point (such as a fence or groundline) to gauge horizontal balance.

2. Pick a good day and time of day.

• Best times of day are about an hour or two after sunrise or before sunset. The light at this time will add a "glow."
  
• If you want more sharpness, shoot in the late AM or early PM (e.g. 10 am or 2 pm).
  
• Shoot with the sun behind your shoulder and slightly from the rear of the horse.
  
• For most horses, a bright overcast day is best. Overcast light is more evenly distributed, with fewer harsh shadows.
  
• For black, grey, or white horses, pick a more overcast day or low angled sun. They require a lot of side lighting to show the detail in their muscles as they move.
  
• When shooting in bright daylight, use a flash to eliminate shadows.

3. Prepare your horse.

• Your horse should be immaculately clean.
  
• Braid your horse if he has a nice neck.
  
• Shoeing should be recent, hooves polished.
  
• Use a leather halter/lead or bridle (cleaned, polished).
  
• Get your horse used to the tripod and other equipment. 4.Ask two friends to help.
  
• Have them block out a few hours.
  
• One will hold the horse, and one will get the horse's attention.

4. Position your horse.

• Set up the horse in the designated location.
  
• The height of the camera should be the middle of the barrel.
  
• The camera should be positioned directly across from the girth area.
  
• The camera should be at a distance so that the horse "fills up" the frame.
  
• The cannon bones of the legs nearest the viewer should be vertical; the far feet should angle slightly inward so that all four feet are visible. The horse should cover a lot of ground, but should not be "parked out."
  
• Turn the horse's head slightly toward the camera.
  
• For a dressage prospect, the neck should be slightly elevated; hunters should be stretched out and down.
  
• The horse should look alert and curious, with the neck arched.

5. Take the photos!

• Walk the horse forward into the standing postion. Do not back them into it.
  
• One assistant should hold the animal, the other should stand 20 feet in front with a bag, some grain, or a lunge whip to get the horse's attention.
  
• The session could last 1-2 hours, giving the horse frequent breaks.
  
• Try different "distractors" -- grain, lunge whip, etc.
  
• Take many, many photos.

RESOURCES There is a WONDERFUl thread on the COTH list. Take a look for some super examples and advice from folks who know their stuff! Improving your horse photography by Susan Sexton, from Equisearch Equine Photography 101 From Florida Owner-Breeder blog Taking perfect conformation photos from the Stallions of Canada Photographing your horse from NewRider.com Photographing horses from Photo Knowhow Photographing horses: How to Capture the Perfect Equine Image (a book on Overstock.com) Conformation photos: Tips and tricks from FHOTD discussion list Conformation photos and tips for taking them from the Horse forum Shooting horses: tips for equine photography from Associated Content

Conformation clinic #1: Everybody's a critic!

Let's make this a group exercise. I'm not an expert, and would like to see lots of contributing comments for this entry!!!

This is a a "borrowed" photo (don't ask, don't tell) of a three year old warmblood filly. The angle of the camera almost looks a little low, like we're looking up at her. She may be standing with her hind legs situation at a lower point of the ground--she may be a little more downhill than she looks here?

The overall picture is one of good, harmonious proportions. She has a lovely feminine head with a delicate muzzle. Her eye is big and kind. I see a nice throatlatch, and well-shaped neck that could be a bit longer. It ties in nicely to the wither, neither low nor high.

I like her shoulder, too, it has some angle and length. At 3, her spine and wither have more growing to do, so her wither should get better defined as she matures. Her front legs are a bit more "underneath" her and it's hard for me to evaluate her knee. Her pasterns have a nice angle (wouldn't want more than that) and length.

I have trouble judging the hindquarter, but here goes. Her loin connection seems really good. Her hindquarter looks good to me, although a little more length in the croup would be ideal. The gaskins look long and thin--kind of weak, and when I see them I think she must be more downhill than this picture suggests. Her hock seems to be a nice angle.

Ok, what say you all? I would hate for my assessment to stand alone, so please comment!

Vaccinating your horse: A primer

Harv, my older horse, has a "vaccination routine" which varies only slightly. He's a been there done that kind of horse with a lot of built-up immunity. My other horse Riley is at a tender age, and getting some vaccinations for the first time. I really have to think about what he needs and understand the risks. Another learning opportunity, a new set of google searches, and another blog entry! Here is a summary of the most popular vaccines, the diseases they prevent, and some indications for use.

Coincidentally, the AAEP updated its vaccine guidelines, and the 2008 revised AAEP guidelines are now online. In addition to helpful background information on vaccinations, there are two lists of guidelines: core (all horses should have) and risk-based guidelines (depending on region, age, use (pleasure vs. competition), and other factors.

AAEP CORE VACCINATIONS

• Equine Viral Encephalomyelitis. Initial series, then every spring (or spring/fall for southern climes). Killed virus, usually combined with tetanus. Also called sleeping sickness, insects transmit this viral disease of rodents, birds, horses and man. Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (WEE) is nationwide, Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE) is in the east and southeast. Infected horses have severe depression, weakness, incoordination, ataxia, stiffness, fever, difficulty eating, and abnormal behavior. About 25-50% of horse infected with WEE die, and the death rate is 70 to 90% of animals infected with EEE. For more information see the EEE/WEE article in The Horse.
  
• Tetanus. Initial series, plus annual. Must be kept up annually or need to re-administer the initial series. An infection from a toxin produced by the bacterium clostridium tetani which is found in the soil. Can occur wherever skin is broken. The vaccination is a modified toxin that stimulates an immune response. Symptoms include muscle stiffness and rigidity, flared nostrils, hypersensitivity, and the legs stiffly held in a sawhorse stance. As the disease progresses, muscles in the jaw and face stiffen, preventing the animal from eating or drinking. More than 80 percent of affected horses die. See The Horse article on Tetanus, rabies, and botulism.
  
• West Nile Virus. Initial series plus spring booster. Spread by mosquitos, 40% mortality rate in horses. Early symptoms include twitching in nose; after paralysis starts prognosis is poor. Fatality rate is 33%. For more information see the West Nile Virus article in The Horse.
  
• Rabies. Initial series, then annual, spring. Killed virus. Rabies is transmitted through bites of skunks and raccoons--on horses bites usually occur on face or legs. Clinical signs include weakness in the limbs, loss of neurologic control of limbs, loss of ability to swallow, profound depression, or furious states where the animal aggressively attacks objects or people. It affects the central nervous system and is always fatal. Also transmissible to humans. See this University of Kentucky publication Rabies in Horses for more info.

RISK BASED VACCINES

• Botulism. Initial series then annual. This is a bacterial neurologic disease causing paralysis. Can be caused when the horse eats an animal carcass, but it has been found in newly disturbed earth and in alfalfa hay. For more information see this special report in The Horse.
  
• EPM. Initial series, then annual. Parasitic infection that affects the spinal cord and nerves. It is transmitted through possums and possibly birds. Clinical signs can include weakness, lameness, incoordination, inability to move correctly (especially in the hindquarters) or to stand up, seizures, weight loss, blindness, loss of balance, disuse of a single limb, and/or inappropriate sweating. Lack of treatment can lead to permanent nerve damage and death. For advice on the vaccination see this article from the Horse Channel.
  
• Influenza. Killed virus, usually combined as "flu-rhino". Initial series, then every 3-4 months for horses that show or travel. A highly contagious viral respiratory disease that can be transmitted from horse to horse through coughing/sneezing -- over distances as far as 30 yards. It is not usually fatal but there is no real treatment and horses can be laid up awhile, plus the disease predisposes horses to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - heaves. Symptoms include nasal discharge, fever, loss of appetite, Horses can be vaccinated according to exposure and need. Viral strains change constantly so frequent boosters are needed. For more information see the Merck Manual chapter on Equine Influenza.
  
• Potomac Horse fever. Initial series, with a spring booster. A parasitic disease causing fever, severe diarrhea, colic, and often founder. High fatality. Most common on the east coast. See article Potomac horse fever more dangerous than West Nile Virus? from vetcontact.com.
  
• Rhinopneumonitis. Killed virus, usually combined as "flu-rhino". Initial series, then every 3-4 months for horses that show or travel. This disease is caused by a herpesvirus similar to the human cold. There are two viruses involved in this disease: equine herpesvirus-1 which protects horses against abortion and possibly the paralysis form. EHV-4 protects horses against the respiratory form. The disease is not usually fatal but can cause prolonged illness. Vaccination does not guarantee protection, but symptoms in vaccinated horses are milder. Also see the rhinopneumonitis article in The Horse.
  
• Strangles. Initial series, then annual, spring. This highly contagious bacterial disease generally appears in the summer. Horses aged 1-5 are most susceptible. Symptoms for this respiratory disease are swollen glands and nasal discharge, fever, depression, inappetance. Internal abscesses are called "bastard strangles." Not usually fatal if treated. See the strangles article in The Horse for details.

RESOURCES

AAEP vaccination recommendations
EQUUS' Vaccination Download
Twelve part vaccination series in The Horse
Equine Vaccination programs from Oklahoma State University

Avoiding "I told you so" (can you keep a secret?)

Tuesday night I pulled out the camcorder that Bob and I jointly own. I wanted to upload Riley's hanoverian inspection footage to a new high-definition video site, www.vimeo.com. I was able to do this successfully, and you can see the hi-def version of Riley's best run at the inspection below:

Riley's hanoverian inspection 2006 (run 2) from Stacey Kimmel-Smith on Vimeo.

Now on to my tale of woe...

Bob has a distinct sense of ownership of this camera, and periodically he tells me that every other pixel is his. He tends to bond with his electronics and he's spent a lot of time with this particular one, at horse shows and videotaping me and Harv. He knows it, it is familiar to him, and he is vested in it. He's noted on more than one occasion that I can be a little slapdash with the cam, carrying it around without the lens cover on, etc. I've gotten a few lectures on proper care of expensive equipment.

Well, it happened. I broke it. There I was, trying to download the footage from cam to PC. I plugged in the USB cable, clicked "capture from device" on MovieMaker,and voila. Device not found. Huh? I powered down, I rebooted, tried everything that has worked in the past. The connector on the cam side did feel a little sticky, and when I peered into the plug it looked crunched. I can't recall any casual disregard or misuse, but I'm the only one downloading stuff; it has to be my fault.

Telling Bob is not an option -- at least not yet. With my husband and my boss at work, I try to delay giving bad news until a workable resolution is in place. My options...

• Buy a new cam. I wouldn't buy this model again, and a new model would necessitate "coming clean," plus there would be the endless kvetching about having to learn a new cam.
• I called Sony, they want $211 to fix it. We paid $250 new, so no thanks.
• I can buy a firewire cable and card for under $100. However, my laptop won't support it and if I put it in Bob's PC I'll have to tell him.
  
• Another option: buy a firewire cable and a 4 gig flash drive, and use the firewire connector to download video. This means lugging the cam to work and using the publicly available Macs to download to the 4 gig flash drive. Total cost? $50. Okay, I'll take that one.

On the plus side, the quality of my videos will increase dramatically. On the down side, I now have a secret from my husband. Guilt, guilt, guilt, plus the dreadful feeling that soon I will have to acknowledge that at least some of the time he is right. Remember that song from Carousel? Nothing so bad for a woman as a man who thinks he's good.

Okay Bob you were right. Dammit. Next time I'll be more careful, I promise!

Behind the bit Filmfest: Dressage video humor

Well, since last Monday I've had "a bit of a cold." Everything is a learning experience. Last week I learned that if you blow your nose too hard, you can pass out. There is a pretty benign reason for it, according to Google sources, but who knew?

So here is a little comic relief. This really terrific commercial is several years old but I'm not sure that many people ever saw it. The acting, the "setup," the punchline are all executed beautifully.

Enjoy!

Breeches as an object of torture

One of my favorite bloggers recently offered some commentary on consumer product design failures -- check out her article "My co-worker farted." She describes household items with unexpected and damning "side effects." Sure, in retrospect the ideas were goofy, but I could at least imagine why someone in corporate America, desperate for a new angle on a mundane consumer product, might test the waters with something like an "ultra-strong" version of Charmin.


Breech by M. de Sade?
But I ask you, can you imagine anyone, anywhere, rider or not, thinking all leather riding breeches are a good idea? Had no one seen the "leather pants" episode of Friends? Forget breathability! Forget thermal conductivity! Forget chafing and UTIs! They're engaging in a sport, but let's encase their lower body in leather. I noticed these breeches are on sale. Shocker.

And the hot new breech concept, F.I.T.S. breeches? I know some people love them. They have perforated deerskin patches (for breathability) and "double surface Performax^tm fabric that camouflages figure challenges." Sounded great, and I admit I fantasized about finding a discounted pair (they're normally $200 plus). But when I actually found them at a tack shop, I knew the the "advanced fabric technology" by its former name. It's a girdle -- what my grandmother used to call a "standing girdle." The fabric has the super-structure of a support garment. The sales clerk assured me that I would love them, so I tried a pair on. Getting them on was fairly easy. Removing them was another matter. The process didn't so much resemble undressing as it did molting. And it took about as long.

For manufacturers of breeches, I offer a few suggestions...

• Use fabric that is neither so light that it displays my cellulite in high definition, nor so stiff that I cannot articulate my lower limbs.
  
• I don't want a waistband that falls just below my armpits, nor will I succomb to the low-rise trend--they're just as unflattering as their predecessor, the hip-hugger.
  
• Alternatives to pricey leather patches on the breeches are fine. But marketing a product as "Griptek™ synthetic leather fullseat" does not mask the fact that it's RUBBER. Your slogan "Don't freak at the squeak" is not reassuring.
  
• When I was a chubby pre-teen, I actually had nightmares of going to school, removing my coat, and discovering that my lower body was clad only in tights. Breeches and hose are the only two pieces of apparel that I can put on and conclude that I look better naked. I choose light-absorbing colors like black, charcoal, and navy. If you must make a plaid, paisely,or leopard patterned breech, sell them in small and extra small only, as a service to mankind.
  

BTW. My favorite breech company is Tropical Rider. I love their products and the customer service is fantastic. Great company!!! There is also a great article on breeches at http://equestrian-info2.blogspot.com/2007/07/guide-to-full-seat-equestrian-breeches.html

Equine rescues: Which ones are reputable?

Many thanks to Dressagemom for this article suggestion. This is a long one!! The first section is an executive summary (what I gleaned from researching the topic), but you can skip to the lists of Web resources for Choosing an equine rescue and for Evaluating a charity.

The pictures on the right depict the remarkable recovery of a young horse at the Equine Rescue League in Leesburg, VA. Equine rescues are doing important work and they deserve our support. Unfortunately, not all operations that call themselves equine rescues are reputable. Frauds and scams are reported regularly in equine news sources. The Fugly Horse of the Day (FOTD) blog reports some of the unscrupulous practices in disreputable rescues (adult language warning!), such as breeding rescued horses or horse trading.

AN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The IRS lists 109 tax-exempt equine rescues. Many more are privately owned. If you want to donate to an equine rescue, what should you look for? There are numerous articles on the Web that give specific advice for evaluating a rescue operation. Here is a not-so-concise summary of advice from Web resources I found...

• What type of organization is it? Check on the tax exempt status and/or non profit 501(c)(3) status, review the IRS Form 990 for the rescue, and read any bylaws and articles of incorporation.
  
• The rescue should share financial information, which should show them to be in solid standing. For examples of helpful financial reporting, see this Exceller Fund page and Blue Bonnet Equine Humane Society.
  
• Have they applied for (and been awarded) grants? Most grant awarding agencies thoroughly vet out their recipients as part of the application/review process.
  
• The rescue should have solid standards for horse care. The AAEP has published guidelines (see resource list) for equine rescue operation care and facilities. Visit the rescue--several times if possible.
  
• Horses should have regular vet, dental, and farrier care. Records should be available. Ask about any sick, injured, or lame horses on the property.
  
• Check out their reputation. Do they partner with county and local law enforcement? How are they viewed in their local community? Ask a local veterinarian about the organization.
  
• How long have they been in operation? Three to five years is a good benchmark. Do they lease or own their property? You want to see evidence of stability/longevity.
  
• Are the volunteers well-trained? Is the morale good?
  
• The operation should have sound adoption policies in the interest of the animal. Some agencies retain ownership of the horse. In many cases adoptive owners will need to agree to site visits or monitoring. If the horse is to be sold, the agency may have first right of refusal.
  
• Check references.
  
• Is it run by a family or is it a single person? What are their qualifications? A board of directors is often desireable.
  
• Adoption fees are usually below the value of the animal on the open market.
  
• A reputable organization will interview you about your intended use of the horse and will direct you to a suitable animal.
  
• How many horses are taken in/adopted out each year? Where do they get their horses?
  

ANECDOTAL STUFF
In addition to what researching web sites and articles, I also polled a few bulletin boards, including the Chronicle of the Horse and The Manure Pile. There are some knowledgable folks out there with good advice from the trenches. Here are some of their observations...

• Rescue operations should not breed their animals. Some posters went so far as to say rescues should not also operate a breeding farm. If they do, the stallions and mares had better be darn nice. Responsible rescues should know better than anyone that there are already too many horses brought into the world that aren't wanted.
• You might also be wary of rescues that board horses or buy/sell/breed horses on the same property. Why? Because at minimum, it could create the appearance of impropriety. If someone donates hay, for example, how can the donor be sure the hay is used only for the rescue animals? The manager should be able to demonstrate that the two operations are managed separately (depending on their tax status, they may have to do it for the IRS anyway).
• Be wary of a rescue that is always "on the brink," or that makes emotional, urgent appeals for donations (e.g., "We'll lose our farm unless..."). You want to donate to operations that are fiscally sound and well-managed. You want the directors/managers to be successful in other aspects of their life--in a current or previous career, for example.
• Beware of adoption agencies that have high adoption fees, that do not screen their adopting owners, and that do no follow up or check up on the animal after adoption. Rescues usually retain some rights to the animal after adoption. Some "rescuers" are horse traders or worse.
• Beware of organizations that take in more animals than they can support. Look for evidence of overcrowding or a tendency in the managers to "collect" horses. Like the ladies with 99 cats, these folks may be well-meaning, but if their judgement is "off," the animials suffer.
• Be wary of operations that are beset by controversy or problems.
• A good rescue will use good judgement in deciding when to euthanize, considering an animal's quality of life.
  
• The FHOTD blogger outlines her definition of a rescue--worth reading.
  
• If you want to keep it simple, the single most important rule is that the horses come first. If you see or learn of practices not in their best interest, give it a pass.

A GOOD EXAMPLE
Finally, here's a Web site that appears to meet all the specs from above. Take a look at the Blue Bonnet Equine Humane Society of Rosharon, Texas. Their super Web site that includes information about the rescue animals, the mission, finances, and policies. They have ties to the commumnity, longevity, and a professional tone. As a potential donor I see nearly everything I should see before I give.

WEB RESOURCES: CHOOSING AN EQUINE RESCUE

Choose an equine rescue from Equine Rescue Community
This is a summary of the Equus Magazine article titled "Reliable Rescue or Shamless Scam?" published Oct. 2004. Author is by Jennifer Williams, PhD.

Choosing and equine rescue from the Horse Channel
This article offers some unique and stringent criteria to find a reputable rescue, such as having a board of directors. Some interesting suggestions include asking at local feed stores, talking to employees, previous adopters, and other donors.


AAEP Published Guidelines for Rescues and Retirement Facilities
Outlines standards and best practices for rescue/retirement facilities. Chapters include: health management, nutrition, hoof care, geriatric care, shelter/stalls/facilities, pastures and paddocks, and euthanasia.

Basic guidelines for operating an equine rescue or retirement facility from the Animal Welfare Institute
Similar to the AAEP guidelines, but it does include to useful appendices: determining a horse's body condition and nutrition for the starved horse.

Current Status of Rescue AAEP Article written by BlueBonnet Rescue
This excellent article offers definitions of important rescue terms such as the difference between tax exempt and non-profit. Includes questions to ask when screening rescues and documentation you should review.

Equine rescues from Horse Protection Society
Article poses and answers the question, "How can I tell if I am dealing with a reputable organization?"

More horses, fewer donors challenge equine rescue groups
Recently featured in the Wall Street Journal

Unwanted Horse Coalition
Under the auspices of the American Horse Coucil, this coalition has been featured in major newspapers. Their resources and publications are a good introduction to the problem of the unwanted horse.

Fugly horse of the day blog
For anecdotal evidence that not every horse rescue is what it seems.

WEB RESOURCES: GENERAL GUIDES ON EVALUATING CHARITIES

Charity Navigator
This site rates charitable organizations and you can search the ratings by keyword. It also has a great list of tips for evaluating a charity. For an critique of their evaluation methods, check out Tacticalphilanthropy.com's article.

Charities: Information for Consumers
Nasconet is the National Association of State Charity Officials. Contact them to learn about charities operating in your home state, plus they maintain a list of all U.S. charity offices. Pennsylvania's Web site includes a searchable database of PA charities. You could also contact to see if complaints have been registered against a charity you are considering.

American Institute of Philanthropy
This organization rates charities and assigns them grades A-F based on a financial and performance measurements. They cover a rather selective list of charities but the web site is packed with information on being an informed donor. Measures of performance such as cost to raise $100 and percent spent on charitable purpose are described. This may be a lot to ask from a small rescue operation, but it gives a sense of the importance of an efficient, organized operation.

Charitable Gift Fund
Provides a list of resources for evaluating charities

Guidestar Charity Ratings
Searchable database of charities -- it offers free registration to view the reports for each charity, but once I registered the really helpful info was available only to "premium subscription members." Still, it lists of basic information like year founded, tax forms filed, and number of volunteers.

Annual Report Library
This site offers some insights to interpreting financial statements of charities.
http://charitywatch.org/criteria.html

Better Business Bureau Charity page
Find out if complaints have been registered against your charity, see if it is listed in the National Charity Reports Index, or register a complaint.

Ten reasons I wear a helmet

I found this on a Web page. I don't know the lady, I'm sure she is very nice. The dressage community's denial of the risks of the sport is astonishing. Do they think they're immortal?

The helmetless Olympic rider Anky VG gets dumped. It does happen.

CORRECTION: Someone on COTH sent me a link to a better video, which shows that Anky is INDEED wearing a helmet. Way to go, Anky! She is shown helmet-less in a lot of videos, but maybe in a moment of clairvoyance she elected to wear one this time.

Ten reasons I wear a helmet

1. I enjoy being ambulatory. It is fun to move my limbs about freely.
   
2. I already have trouble remembering things.
   
3. The new helmets come in great colors, they're light, and they work.
   
4. I don't want to re-learn how to feed myself.
   
5. Riding bare-headed is not cool.
   
6. Longevity is cool.
   
7. I don't have a living will.
   
8. I like having fine motor skills more than having coiffed hair.
   
9. I want to support therapeutic riders, not be one.
   
10. Harvey is afraid of wheelchairs.
    

The inspiration for this article
Monday morning of this week, I received a call from Bev--a lady that has been riding Harvey. She had fallen off Harvey, and was taken to the hospital with a concussion. As part of the horse-sharing arrangement, she had agreed to wear a helmet when riding Harvey. She had skipped a helmet that day, she said, because Harvey had been "so quiet." Observers said that Harv "went up like a Lipazzaner" when she asked him to canter. I would never have dreamed that my 21 year old would behave this way. Bev reports that she is fine, and even said "this isn't my first concussion from riding." I'm so thankful that Bev is okay. She continues to ride without a helmet.


RESOURCES ON RIDING INJURIES
Injury During Contact With Horses from Southern Medical Journal
Summary statement for this article is "it appears from our data and the published worldwide experience that prevention of death due to horse-related injury is synonymous with prevention of fatal head injury."

American Academy of Pediatricians policy on riding and head injuries

American Medical Equestrian Association
Mid-Year 2004 report includes the Pony Club accident report.

Current Trends Injuries Associated with Horseback Riding --United States, 1987 and 1988

Spinal injuries resulting from horse riding accidents , Spinal Cord, June 2002, 40(6): 264-271

Harveys BFF: The social behavior of horses

Disclaimer: Okay, this is a little sappy. It's okay to skip to the resource links.

I love horses, but at times they do seem kind of dumb. They dance away from blowing plastic bags. They won't allow the clippers near their ears. They refuse to jump the flowerbox. As predators, humans have trouble understanding the world of a flight animal. They are not smart the way we are smart (well, some of us). I think their intelligence expresses itself in their social interactions. Their body language is complex and subtle, and it reflects each members place in a social hierarchy. Their herd is their family, and within this group they form attachments.

Bajeera, Harv's BFF
I bought Harv in 1997 in North Carolina. At the time he was the "alpha dude" in a heard of about eight horses. He routinely bullied herd members, making scary faces and chasing them if they got too close. He had one BFF, though. Bajeera, a gray thoroughbred, was his right hand man. Bajeera was an old event horse, and he was a good match for his owner Peg. Peg was a tough cookie; she had been a steeplechase rider in her youth. When I met her she was a married mother of two, and she taught school part time. Peg had long red hair that she wore in a thick braid down her back. We became friends when Harvey had sinus surgery. The surgeons had opened a quarter-sized hole in his face to improve drainage, and Peg helped me do post-op care for this incredibly yucky wound. The other boarders could barely look at Harvey, but Peg looked at this ghoulish hole and exclaimed, "Ew, cool!" She helped me to keep it clean/open, and afterward she peered into his sinus with a flashlight.

I stayed in NC about a after I bought Harv, but then I got a new job and moved to Pennsylvania. Of course Harv came with me. My last communication with Peg was when I returned her shipping boots, which I'd borrowed for the trip. In Pennsylvania, Harvey and I competed in dressage, and in 2003 we qualified for the BLM Finals in Lexington, VA. I drove Harv down alone in a borrowed trailer. We got to the fairgrounds safely and I unloaded Harvey, and as I walked him toward the stable area I heard a distinctive voice. Looking around I saw a familiar long braid of red hair. It was Peg, and along side her was Bajeera. They were a welcome sight after a lonely, stressful trip. We moved our horses over to a grassy area where we could talk. As Peg and I talked, Harvey and Bajeera touched noses. There was no mistake that they remembered one another. Their eyes were soft and content, their bodies relaxed. We led them over to grass and dropped the lead lines. They fell in side by side and began to graze, faces together. Of course they hadn't forgotten. For a herd animal, that sort of memory has survival value, but it doesn't matter how you explain it. They were friends.

A Black Beauty Moment
Peg and I talked for about an hour, frankly long after we normally would have. We kept looking over at our horses; it was hard to break up this pair after they'd been apart so long. They looked so happy to have found a friend in this strange place. You've all read Black Beauty, right? Black Beauty never forgot his friends Ginger and Merrylegs, and doggone it Harv had not forgotten Bajeera. They're not like us in so many ways, but they do form attachments. If they don't experience love exactly the way we do, they feel something not far from it. Horses love things that are familiar and safe. In that capacity, I think they love humans too.

RESOURCES ON EQUINE SOCIAL BEHAVIOR

Pecking Order: Horse Herd Hierarchy from Equisearch
A quick, basic summary.

Relationships and Communication in Socially Natural Horse Herds from University of Pennsylvania.

Sigurjónsdóttir, Hrefna. Social relationships in a group of horses without a mature stallion , Behavior, Volume 140, Number 6 / June, 2003
Study of Icelandic horses, abstract only, in English (thank god).

Dr. Paul McGreevy on Horse Behavior, RIRDC Equine News, March 1996.
Interview with researcher who studies feral horses. Questions center around differences between feral and domestic horses.

Goodwin, D. The Importance of Ethology in Understanding the Behaviour of the Horse. Equine Veterinary Journal, 28, 15-19.

Van Dierendonck, M. Social contact in horses: implications for interactions with humans in de Jong, F. & van den Bos, R. (Eds.) The human-animal relationship. Assen, Netherlands: Royal Van Gorcum, 2005.

Horse Behaviour from the Natural Horse Network

Equine behavior: Prey vs. predator, horse vs. human. Utah State University extension publication, July 2005
Dierendonck, M. The Importance Of Social Relationships In Horses. 2006. Proefschrift Universiteit Utrecht? 2006.
A dissertation from the Netherlands.

Hanggi, E. Thinking horse: cognition and perception AAEP Proceedings, 2005, v. 51., p. 246-255.

Horse psychology and the language of horses
Basic introduction to herd behavior from Julie Goodnight.

Equine Vision and Its Effect on Behavior. Utah State University extension publication, July 2005.

Chapter 1 Horse Behavior: Evolution, domestication, and feralization from The Welfare of Horses by Natalie Waran. Springer publications, 2002.
Available through Google books. This book describes the development of horse behaviour, and the way in which the management of horses today affects their welfare.

Horse behavior by George Waring, William Andrew, Inc. 2003.
Mostly full text.

The need for companionship and an active social life, in Understanding Horse Behavior: An Innovative Approach by Leslie Skipper, Skyhorse Publications, 2007.

Social behavior of horses in Social behavior of farm animals, by Linda J. Keeling, CABI Publishing, 2002. Sorry, chapter is not in full text.

Hausberger, M. A review of the human–horse relationship. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 109, Issue 1, Pages 1-24.

Lawrence, E. Hoofbeats and society: studies of human-horse interactions. Indiana University press, 1986.
Sorry, no full text.

Hay is for horses: Selecting hay

There is nothing so beautiful as a green, soft, fragrant bale of hay. When I lived in North Carolina, Harv was at a coop barn. I joined with a few other boarders in buying our hay in Southern Pines at a place called Gourmet Hay. For $9, I could get an 80 lb bale of timothy hay so gorgeous I would happily consume it myself with a little ranch dressing. As a one-horse owner in a very economical boarding situation, I could afford to buy really nice hay. Harvey was as sleek and fat as a seal and loving life.

That was in 1998. Hay is a touchy subject now. Regional droughts and the incentives for producing corn for biofuel have led to hay shortages and high prices. To buy hay now, you have to make compromises. Most of us can spot obvious problems like mold, foreign matter, stemminess, etc. But it never hurts to know more, not only about buying it, but about growing it. Below are some articles on selecting, growing, and harvesting hay.


Selecting horse hay

Choosing good hay from Today's Horse
A "bulleted-list" style summary of the characteristics of good and bad hay -- sight, smell, weight, etc.

Selecting and Storing Horse Hay from University of Minnesota Extension Service
Looks at content/species, touch, moisture, maturity, smell, cutting, color, mold, bale type, rain, and bale type.

Horse hay and selection: Sorting out truth from fiction
Debunks myths about feeding hay, such as most horses can't eat round bale hay and that horses shouldn't get alfalfa hay.

Evaluating hay quality from University of Maryland Cooperative Extension
Discusses stage of maturity at harvest, leafiness, color, foreign material, and odor/condition.

Choosing hay for horses from the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension
Topics covered include: clean hay, nutrient value of hay, matching hay type to horse type, is hay a balanced diet?, and a list of common questions and answers.

Selecting quality hay for horses from Purdue University Extension
Similar to other extension publications but with unique sections on forms of harvested forage, methods of testing hay, and interpreting test results.

Evaluating hay for horses: Myths and realities from University of California Davis.
Concise and readable.

Choose the best forage option for your horse from University of Minnesota
Discusses options for extending hay, including cubes, beet pulp, complete feeds, and older hay.

Drought feeding of horses from North Carolina State University
Discusses alternative forages such as legume forages, wheat middlings, soyhulls, peanut hulls and beet pulp. Forage with an acid detergent fiber (ADF) less than 32% adf (indigestible fiber) may be safely fed to horses.

Ten tips for choosing hay from Equisearch (tips from AAEP)
Ten things to consider when visually inspecting horse hay.

Equine Nutrition: Forages from Utah State University
Discusses the types of forage and how the equine digestive system handles forage.

Deciphering hay quality from Equinenews
Discusses the methods of lab testing hay and how to interpret the results.

Trends in horse hay from UC-Davis
Discusses nutritional content and particularly a trend toward low carbohydrate hay.

Safegrass.org
Go to this Web site if only to see the horse-cow graphic. It's about feeding laminitic/insulin resistant horses. I don't know a lot about this organization but the author is a consultant who has some articles published in reviewed journals.



A few resources on harvesting hay
Harvesting alfalfa hay from the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension
This article is definitely geared toward the farmer, but if you want to feel knowledgable about alfalfa, it's worth reading. Well written and interesting

Harvest Management for high qualty alfalfa hay
White paper by a UMass faculty member. Again, geared to the farmer but interesting non-the-less.

Chapter 8: Hay and Pasture Management from the Online Agronomy Handbook (University of Illinois Dept of Crop Sciences)
Sixty six pages, and frankly beyond the needs of the average horse owner. Sections on evaluating older hay and hay quality are good reads.

Pasture and Hay for horses from Penn State
Covers hay and pasture management in Pennsylvania.

Bob's Aunt Ethyl: A Remembrance

Hi Readers: This is only slightly horse-related, but I hope you'll read it anyway.

About two years into our relationship, my husband Bob told me that it was time to meet Uncle Danny and Aunt Ethyl--the tribal elders of the Crowley clan. Dan and Ethyl had been married for about 60 years, and both of them were octogenarians --and then some. Arrangements were made, and one Saturday we made the two hour trek to their home in Berlin, NJ. As a veteran of many large Kimmel family reunions, I had expectations of a pleasant but slightly dull visit. Trying to think of things to "do" with an old couple, I brought a selection of photos -- some Florida vacation photos and pictures of Bob's two sons. Bob recalled that Ethyl loved horses and had ridden in her youth. He suggested that I also bring some pictures of Harvey, my thoroughbred.

Our visit was anything but dull. Danny and Ethyl turned out to be movers and shakers of their tidy neighborhood, which consisted mostly of elderly couples. While physically fragile, both of them were great conversationalists. Danny, a World War II veteran and Wharton School graduate, was widely read, and we shared a love of the Sunday New York Times. He had an interest in politics, and the topic du jour was immigration reform. Aunt Ethyl, a chain smoker, was no slouch herself. She had a sharp wit and droll manner that you don't normally encounter in folks of that age. Conversation flowed easily, and apparently I passed muster where others before me had not. At lunch she leaned across the table to share small confidences. In a a stage whisper she regaled me with unflattering stories of Bob's other girlfriends. You can't imagine how much I enjoyed this. Bob speaks highly of his ex-girlfriends, and it is a deeply annoying trait.

Toward the end of the visit, I recalled the photos in my bag and I pulled them out. The old couple perused through them, and Ethyl took particular interest in the the photos of Harvey. She asked about his racing record, his age, where he was bred, and she remarked on his good looks. I assumed that she was being polite but was pleased anyway. Later as we were getting ready to leave, Bob asked Ethyl if she would like to keep any of the 20-odd photos. Ethyl shuffled through the family photos, and to our surprise she selected the two photos of Harvey. I was touched.

Ethyl's health declined quite a bit in the next year. When I last saw her, she was in the hospital with her family. While she was feeling good that morning the prognosis was poor. The mood was somber. Ethyl must have wanted to liven things up, because she turned to me asked in a bright voice, "So what's new in the horse world?" Surprised, I stammered out a answer. I'd read in the paper that morning that a record number of thoroughbred foals had been born that year in New Jersey. She smiled at that. From then on, whenever anyone entered the room, she exclaimed "Tell me something new. And I already know about the baby horses."

Ethyl was later moved to a convalescent unit of their community. A few months after her hospital stay, she passed away, with Danny at her side. Danny celebrated his 90th birthday in January of this year. For his present, the family asked me to scan some family photos into a digital picture frame. I was given nearly 100 family pictures spanning her lifetime. I had only known her for a brief period of time as an old woman whose face was worn haggard by time and smoking. In person, as well as in the recent photos, her sorrowful expression was oddly incongruent with the Ethyl I knew. Even in poor health, she was upbeat and resilient, always ready with a comeback.

When I received a packet of the photos of her youth, I had a revelation about Ethyl. "She was "a hottie!" I said to Bob. There is something so poignant in seeing a glimpse of Ethyl at a tender age, with her lovely gamine face and petite figure. How limited my view of Ethyl was! Of course all old women were young once--but these beautiful images made it real to me.

This new perspective on Ethyl led me to ask the family about her. She was a remarkable woman. A Brooklyn native, Ethyl led an unconventional life for her time. She was an independent spirit and loved outdoor activities--including horseback riding and horse racing. She was capable and outgoing. In an era where women were homemakers and mothers, she had a successful career with the Department of Defense. She met Danny through her job, and she continued to work after marriage--they had no children. At work and at home, they were always together. Even in the short time I knew them, I could tell that they were soulmates. "You couldn't imagine one without the other," Bob's sister Laura later told me. I wish I had known Ethyl back then. She was a very special lady.

An open letter to HillyBilly Farms

Sometimes when I can't sleep at night, I compose letters (well, email) in my head.

To get closure with an old boyfriend? No.
To revisit a childhood injustice with my mom or dad? No.
To cuss out a co-worker who richly deserves a dressing down? No.

My letter to HillBilly Farms
Hi guys. I don't know you, and know little about you other than what I read on your site. I'm writing to let you know that I'm a fan. Who knew that the equestrian community had a counter-culture? Just had to say, thanks for offering a counterpoint to a sport that takes itself pretty seriously. And keep it up.

Readers, may I direct your attention to the Hillbilly Farms parody at Jumping Clinic with George Morris. I wish I'd written that!



If you want to see their Web site, which has some good stuff (hunter Mad Libs, famous instructor quotes), not the least of which is 3 of the best corporate sponsors on the Web. Go to http://members.surfbest.net/hillbilly@surfbest.net/index.html.

Miss Mannerisms on Barn Etiquette

Dear Miss Mannerisms:
The barn workers where I ride are a pain. They act like they own the barn with their big, noisy tractor. They complain if I leave my horse cross-tied in the aisle -- as if it's their business. What's their problem?

Clueless in Cleveland


Miss Mannerisms feels that to understand the problem, one must first grasp the nature and the essence (so to speak) of barn work. In its purest form, barn work is simple. Progress is measured in discrete units -- by the quart, by the flake, for example, or in certain other tasks (pictured left), by the pound. Sadly, barn work does not take place in a vaccum, but in that hotbed of drama and intrigue, the boarding stable. Barn workers must navigate this social world with a cumbersome tractor and spreader. Miss Mannerisms will elaborate...

• The workers use a tractor with spreader in tow to empty the stalls of, er, detritus. The tractor/spreader must progress forward down the aisle as each stall is completed.
• The boarder has a horse that must be tethered. Cross ties are accoutrements used to hold the horse stationary in the aisle. The horse cannot move beyond the confines of the cross ties. To do so would break the ties, which is naughty.
  
• Boarders who do not grasp the forward-moving nature of the tractor/spreader may cross-tie a horse directly in its path. This positioning is sufficient to halt all progress of said tractor/spreader. The deposit of tack boxes and equipment next to the horse creates an additional impediment to forward motion.
  
• This next part is essential to understanding the fundamental issue, Clueless. It is the death blow to barn productivity. The owner/boarder vanishes from sight, while the horse remains stationed at the cross ties.
• With the boarder nowhere to be found, barn workers must cease their work. They have three choices. They may wait, which is inherently annoying. Secondarily, they may seek out the missing boarder and request that they move the horse. Usually the boarder can be found
  1. speaking or texting on a cellphone.
  2. arguing with one or both parents.
  3. sulking in the car or the bathroom.
  4. smoking behind the tool shed.
  5. gossiping with another boarder about the trainer.
  6. gossiping with the trainer about another boarder.
  Thirdly, the worker may attempt to remove the horse and equipment. Boarder reactions to this are uniformly negative. Permission has not been given to touch their horse. Unless it is to put on or remove bellboots. Or change blankets. Or dab antibiotic cream on a scrape. And oh, yeah, could you apply fly spray to his sheath before turnout? And could you bring him in early so that.... Oh, never mind.

Stated succinctly: Give the tractor in the aisle the right of way. People have work to do, on behalf of your horse. Make it easy for them.

Dressage Queen in the White House 2012?

Disclaimer: I have no political motivations for featuring Ann Romney (wife of Mitt Romney). It sounds like he's out of the race, at least this go-round, but perhaps in 2012. As it happens, he's not my political cup of tea.

Ann's dressage dream
If you don't already know, Mitt Romney's wife Anne is a dressage rider. She was diagnosed with a debilitating illness -- multiple sclerosis -- in the late 1990s. When the disease was under control, she decided to pursue her childhood dream to learn dressage. Ann threw her leg over her first dressage horse at age 50. Now, at age 58, she is now competing at the Grand Prix level, having achieved her silver and gold USDF medals. She rides with Jan Ebeling and she has taken on the role of sponsor, buying several horses from Europe for him to compete internationally.


Dressage on the campaign trail
George W. Bush was able to use Texas cowboy imagery to appeal to the average American. As for dressage, I'm not sure that it will play in Peoria. The word "dressage" elicits a narrow range of responses in my non-horsey social circles: a) blank stares, b) references to watching paint dry/grass grow, or most often, c) "Isn't that very expensive????" The New York Times Dec 16, 2007 article on Romney made a few pointed observations on Ann's riding:

"Dressage is a sport of seven-figure horses and four-figure saddles. The monthly boarding costs are more than most people’s rent. Asked how many dressage horses she owns, Mrs. Romney laughed. 'Mitt doesn’t even know the answer to that,' she said. 'I’m not going to tell you!'"

It would have been easier if she hadn't picked a sport that was so--well, European. The Dallas Morning News described Ann Romney's dressage demonstration ride at a Salt Lake City rodeo.

[Mitt Romney's] wife, Ann, is a competitor in dressage, the equestrian event that features a variety of often-indistinguishable trots, canters and walks. She and two others demonstrated the sport, dressed in traditional dressage breeches and riding horses with names like Gucci. It's more Rodeo Drive than rodeo. The audience applauded politely. 'I guess the fancy horses get to be in the Olympics, but the working horses don't," said Tom Corrin of Salt Lake City.'"

And then there are two comments on the New York Times Blog. In response to an article on Ann Romney's bio, two posters offer their impressions of dressage:

"Dressage is just fancy horse riding. Jumping gracefully over fences and stuff like that." — Posted by Patricia B.
"Thank you Patricia. I thought it was a fashion thing." — Posted by thebigmancat

Dressage is misunderstood, or at least misinterpreted. If Mitt makes it past the primaries, Ann will have to overcome some negative perceptions, fueled by her wealthy background and her "frivolous" horse hobby. And then there is the Stepford Wife thing, and the Mormon thing, and for folks like me, the fact that she can sit the trot with her heels down. Wow, that's a lot. But from what I've read about her, she's up to the task. She doesn't shrink from her background or who she is. She handles the press gracefully and her sense of humor is front and center in every interview.

Entirely too accomplished?
What should we think of Ann Romney? Yes, getting to grand prix is an accomplishment by any measure, although money does give one a leg up. She has young prospects and schoolmasters and ample access to training. She battles MS, but she has the time and resources to and time to explore pricey alternative therapies in addition to all modern medicine has to offer. She rubs elbows with dressage luminaries (Jan Ebeling rides her horse Liberte, left). Part of me wants to dislike her because she is living the life I dream about. She leads a life of privilege.

But then again, by a lot of standards, so do I. My parents paid for my undergrad education. I've never lacked health insurance (unless you count a one year period when I was too dumb to realize I needed it). I have two horses and take riding lessons. My husband and I live comfortably, and if we live in a dumpy half twin, at least it's paid for. I can buy beaded/jeweled browbands and goofy pink bits.

Down to earth diva?
So I'm cutting Ann some slack. You can't really fault her for having good fortune, or for loving a sport that we know all too well is pretty expensive. And she certainly has done her share of good works. The tough crowd on the Chronicle of the Horse bulletin board has given her a thumbs up--she's considered a nice person, good rider, self-deprecating, and most endearingly, totally in love with her old schoolmaster, Baron. In a sort of backhanded compliment, one COTH poster suggested that we not vote for Mitt so that Ann can get back to her riding :-).

What the heck. Forget Mitt, go, Ann! Here are some articles about Ann and her dressage journey.

Dressage Helps Romney Cope with Multiple Sclerosis from the May 2004 issue of Dressage Today magazine.

Eldridge, A. Dressage Makes Ann Romney's Soul Sing. Chronicle of the Horse. January 4, 2008

Ready for ROLEX!

I think this video was posted on the Chronicle of the Horse. Wish the name of the horse and rider were provided. Talk about guts and determination! Not being a risk-taker myself, eventing gives me a chance to live vicariously. Enjoy!

Update: Thanks to Tysongirl for IDing the rider, Karen O'Connor. I could hear the announcer say "Karen" but I don't think he used her last name. Also, the COTH just did an article on Teddy -- Karen and Teddy have set their sites on Rolex 2008.

"Contains no fruit or creme" (or, equine nutraceuticals)

I love yogurt, and I eat a lot of it. One day I was shopping at a grocery, and picked up a few tubs of banana creme pie yogurt (pictured right). A few nights later, I went to the fridge and grabbed a tub of yogurt. As I spooned it into my mouth, I casually glanced at the container. On the side, there was a notice: "contains no fruit, creme, or crust." A yogurt called banana creme pie contains NONE of its defining attributes. We also have a can of soup in our cupboard. The manufacturer's label proudly declares "made with real ingredients." I ask you, what on earth are we eating?

Nutraceuticals: Made with real ingredients
Well, as it turns out, ingredients are also a big question mark in the equine nutraceuticals industry. It's scary, especially for someone like me. I know the problems, and yet I buy a lot of them. I'm on a first name basis with the Smartpak phone reps, and I study their joint supplement chart so carefully you'd think it foretold my future. Harvey is always on one or two or three supplements. When he finishes his evening repast, his muzzle is covered with an thick crust of expensive powders. I'm not even sure how much he gets; he flings it out of his feed tub to floor of his stall. Our horses' lips are smeared with Nimble Ultra(tm) for the same reason cosmetics enjoy brisk sales -- because hope springs eternal. If we're going to buy these supplements, we should be aware that the nutraceutical industry is plagued by quality issues.

Joint supplements
The hottest of equine nutraceuticals are the joint supplements, which contain ingredients like chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and the glucosamine. The literature on equine nutraceuticals presents some sobering facts. Yes, there is a large body of research showing the effectiveness of these ingredients in humans, rats, dogs, and cats -- but only a handful of studies on horses. While some studies that show that oral joint supplements help, others are inconclusive. My vet says that different horses seem to respond differently -- joint supplements work for some, not for others.

An unregulated industry
Veterinary nutraceuticals are not regulated by the FDA, so there are few guarantees for product quality. Research on commercial supplement content has elicited concern:

• Studies have revealed that many manufacturers of human and veterinary nutraceuticals do not meet their stated ingredient claims. In a study of products for humans, deviation from label claims ranged from 0% to more than 115%.
  
• Many products recommend sub-optimal doses of their products. While there are no standard daily doses, a minimum daily dose of most joint supplements (e.g., Glu/Chon) is 20 grams/day.
  
• Animal nutraceuticals may be contaminated by harmful components, such as heavy metals and pesticides, or by other ingredients during the manufacturing process.

Of the articles I have read, the main talking points for consumers are:

• Read the label. The Smartpak Web site has some great comparison charts.
  
• Call the company. Ask for documentation of product claims and safety (published peer-reviewed research).
  
• Look for North American supplement Council seal. This group tries to oversee the supplement industry, and companies that join must complete a rigorous audit of their facility and manufacturing practices. The NASC seal is considered a quality certification.
  
• Feed the supplement for at least 8 weeks -- the time needed to see clinical improvement for a lot of these supplements.
  

NUTRACEUTICAL ARTICLES THAT ARE ENCOURAGING The scoop on joint supplements from Equusource Upbeat article on joint supplements. Overviews the major ingredients and how they're supposed to work. Concludes there is a growing body of evidence that oral joint supplements are helpful to horses. Forsyth RK, Brigden CV, Northrop AJ. Double blind investigation of the effects of oral supplementation of combined glucosamine hydrochloride (GHCL) and chondroitin sulphate (CS) on stride characteristics of veteran horses. Equine Vet J Suppl. 2006 Aug;(36). p.622-5. Study showing improvement in gait of horses on oral GHCL. 20 horses showed improvmeent in stride length and duration, range of motion in elbow, stifle, and hind fetlock. Differences noticed at week 8 of the 12 week treatment. Harman, Joyce. Joint supplements: Should you believe the hype? Practical Horseman. Mar 2001. 29(3) pg. 106. Great illustrations and detailed discussion of nutraceuticals, their physiological effect, and the nutraceutical industry. Concludes that in the absence of conclusive studies, horse owners need to "try them out." New generation joint products from Horse Journal Reviews new products and provides anecdotal case studies to support their efficacy. Oral hyaluronan gel reduces post operative effusion in the yearling thoroughbred. Equine veterinary journal 2006, 38(4), p. 375. A study of 48 yearlings. After OCD surgery, HA reduced postoperative swelling. The scoop on joint supplements from Equusource Upbeat article on joint supplements. Overviews the major ingredients and how they're supposed to work. Concludes there is a growing body of evidence that oral joint supplements are helpful to horses. Soya-avocado nutraceutical shown to benefit equine osteoarthritis Colorado State Unversith newsletter on Equine orthopedics. Another supplement! See page 2 for an article on soya-avocado, a nutraceutical shown to benefit osteoarthritis. Rutgers University advice column on joint supplements Concise summary that helps owners answer the question "should I or shouldn't I?" Marcella, Kenneth. Exploring the supplement jungle. DVM. Jun 1999. 30(6) pg. 1E. Older article but summarizes the types of nutraceuticals and offers advice for reading labels. AAEP 2002: One joint nutraceutical's effect on hock lameness from The Horse magazine. Brief report on a study of eight horses. Signficant improvement in range of motion, tarsal joint energy, and symmetry of gait. Product used was Corta-flx. Something extra for joints. Thoroughbred Times, July 2005. Well-researched article concluding that nutraceuticals bring clear benefits to horses with joint pain. Equine Joint Nutraceuticals in November issue of Horse Journal. I'm including this one because it's current. McIlwraith, C.W. Effectively diagnosing, treating equine degenerative joint disease. DVM News. Nov. 1, 2003. This survey of treatment options includes oral supplements. Platt, David. Feed supplements that claim to improve equine joint function remain a controversial subject but there is evidence to support their use in horses. Aha! This is a librarian critical thinking skills test! Look at this article that I googled. He has lots of letters after his name, but there is no institutional affiliation or context for this oh-so-white paper. The Web address looks vaguely commercial and it turns out this is a nutraceutical manufacturer. Platt makes unsupported statements about a product and heartily endorses it. A little research reveals he's an advisor for Cortalfex, and he's probably on their payroll. I'm throwing this one out as an example of an article NOT to fall for, hook/line/sinker. ARTICLES THAT ARE SKEPTICAL White, Gary W. Using glycosaminoglycans for treating equine joint diseases. DVM. Nov 2003. p. 8 Author concludes that there is no evidence supporting the efficacy of oral supplements. Richardson, DW. An evidence-based approach to selected joint therapies in horses. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract. 2007 Aug;23(2). p. 443-60. "Most of the claims made by nearly all purveyors of arthritis medications in such media are largely unsubstantiated." Pascoe, Elain. Joint Supplements: Buyer Beware. Practical Horseman. Oct 2006. Vol. 34, Iss. 10; pg. 18. Discusses the (lack of) federal regulation of nutraceuticals and the NASC. The kinds of studies that must be conducted to be FDA approved as too expensive to be realistic for most comapnies. Is Corta-Flx Mislabelled? A reprint from a 1999 issue of The Horse Journal Perhaps it's old news, but it is interesting to read the "buzz" about product labelling. It gives you a taste of the issues at hand. Oral Joint Supplements from The Horse magazine. "Low bioavailability of oral glucosamine chondroitin sulfate, poor product quality, label-prescribed doses that are below veterinarian-recommended levels, and a lack of scientific evidence supporting efficacy of popular oral joint supplements are major concerns." Article concludes "talk to your vet" and look for the NASC seal. Trumble, T. The Use of Nutraceuticals for Osteoarthritis in Horses. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 21(3), p. 575-597. "This article attempts to define a nut5raceutical, identifies areas that need to be considered when these products are used, and describes the known scientific effects of the most common compounds contained in currently available equine nutraceuticals." Oral Joint Supplements: Do They Work? from The Horse magazine, July 2007 Outlines problems with the nutraceutical industry. Excellent skeptical article. Nutraceuticals: What are they and do they work? Kentucky Equine Research. Very science-y article, discusses chemical components and their actions on humans. Makes the point that in the absence of studies, our own horses become the experimental subjects. Oral Joint supplements: Panacea or expensive fad? Kentucky Equine Research. Discusses the problems and stresses of the equine athlete and the potential of joint supplements. Concludes that scientific evidence of their benefit is lacking, although there is anecdotal evidence. Rodgers, Martha. Effect of oral glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates supplementation on intra-articular therapy of the horse tarsus. Study of ten horses over the course of eight years. Author reports a notable drop in frequency of joint injections when oral supplement is used. Nutraceuticals: Why every pony clubber should read labels Great discussion on the implications of nutraceuticals for the horse show competitor. Links to lists of forbidden substances for various horse show organizations--USEA, USPC, and USEF.