Bits and Pieces
Horse Show Happenings
Reminder to all Walking Horse Owners ’ exhibitors , even if the WHOA Show is a “ casual dress ” show the exhibitor must wear a collared shirt , long pants , and boots ! We have had several instances of rule violations ; therefore we are putting this information out to the WHOA members one more time so that you do not get disqualified at your next show . We welcome your entries and realize it is hot – we are also hot – but that is the rule so be prepared .
Also in pleasure driving or flat shod driving the cart must be a two wheeled show cart not a jogging or work cart . Rules change over the years and we just want to keep our members up on the current rules as we certainly do not wish to disqualify nor embarrass any exhibitor .
A note of encouragement to spotted walking horses ; this year the WHOA Horse Shows are having more “ color ” in their classes and these horses are placing very well . Always admirer of “ bling ,” it is interesting to notice this trend . I would like to invite any owner of a spotted walking horse to come to the WHOA Shows and participate . WHOA is providing a place to show your sound spotted horse at a very affordable price . You may show your SSH registered horse in the versatility classes , model classes and all day pleasure classes . The admission is free at our shows and the entry fee is $ 20 per class OR a $ 60 all day fee for one horse / one rider team . Load up and come join the fun . You will be welcome and enjoy the camaraderie . The shows are listed on the Walking Horse Owners Association website . www . walkinghorseowners . com .
Please notice that the WHOA Membership fees will increase after May 31 , 2016 . If you have not joined , or renewed your membership and would like to take advantage of the lower fee please email , fax or call the WHOA office today . Memberships are required at the WHOA International or , WHOA HIO affiliated shows .
– Sis Osborne
Back to Basics
Tips To Keep Horses Healthy And Comfortable In Hot Weather
By Lynn Barber
Your horse ’ s health may be more at risk in oppressive heat than excessive cold . As heat and humidity begin to crank up follow these tips to keep your horse happy and healthy . Use this formula to determine if it is safe to work your horse :
Temperature ( degrees F ) + Humidity (%) - Wind speed ( MPH .) Example : 90 ( degrees ) + 70 ( percent ) - 12 ( MPH ) = 148
If the result is close to , or above 150 , too much work could put your horse ’ s health in jeopardy . Learn how to monitor your horse ’ s heart and respiration rates . Also become familiar with his normal sweating pattern .
Water The most important element of equine health in hot
weather is plenty of clean , cool water . No matter what 4 • Walking On type of watering system you use check it at least once daily . Automatic waterers can quit , water lines break , horses sometimes confuse their water bucket with the manure bucket , and playful horses knock over barrels and tanks leaving everyone without water .
If you horse goes off his feed , the first thing to check is the quality of the water . There are three things you need to check when evaluating your horse ’ s water supply :
• Quantity - is the bucket or barrel full ?
• Smell - does the water smell clean ?
• Taste - If the water passes the smell test , go ahead and dip your finger in the water and taste it . If you don ’ t like it neither will your horse .