Forget the financial crisis - read this!

Phew - all this financial mayhem is depressing isn't it? I'm a simple guy and can't understand why the fiscal immorality of some has such an disastrous effect on the savings of ordinary people like us.

Anyway, it's great to see local shows back on the calendar including the horse events at last. We're all a bit depressed here though, we've very reluctantly had to pull out of sponsorship of the Royal Easter Show next year. The EI epidemic flattened our grooming products business so much that we just can't afford it. I'm sure that we'll be back there in 2010 though.

Have a look at this - my friend Patricia Reszetylo has developed a virtual 'Parade Of Breeds' at her web site and they're looking at the world of the American Drum Horse. Now I'd not heard of this breed but I'm going to have a good look. You can too here

Houdini Horses that can escape from just anywhere. It will give you a laugh and perhaps remind you of some of your experiences?

Did you know that horses and rabbits share an important feature? Both can see almost as well backwards as forwards. All this from a blog about Jesse Beery a famous US horse trainer from the turn of the 19th century. You can read about some of his methods here but we can save you heaps on the Jesse Beery course rather than buying there so have a look here

Here's a good clininc - EquiSearch's Ask the Vet: Diagnosing Lameness

Jodi has proudly told us of her new horse - I don't normally advertise like this but a purebred Pecheron is a rare breed in Australia. He is "Kamilaroi Gendarme" by Lasswade Olum out of Kamilaroi Xeres and he carries the bloodlines of the French import "Hermes". He is 8 months old and although currently black he is likely to go a dark grey. He will be standing at stud to selected TB mares and registered Percheron Warmbloods or Purebred Percherons in the 2010 season with a view to breeding quality Hunter/Eventer types. You may like to know that the following horses have Percheron Blood Peppermint Grove - Gillian Rolton, Charisma - Mark Todd, & Merlins Masterpiece (originally registered Kamilaroi Talisman)

Any enquiries can be directed to the website

Horses offer women a reprieve - Despite financial and emotional commitment, women's interest in horses is increasing. Nice article

Are North American mustangs similar to our Brumbies? This Horse Trainers article showcases the value of Mustangs

In your tack box you may have yellow ointment, purple ointment, green ointment or whatever but you'll never get a better treatment for scratches, cuts, bruises and grazes than H10 ointment. If you don't believe me than have a look at what other users have said then you can have 2 for 1 here

It's our wedding anniversary on Thursday - 38 years. Better not forget eh?
Have a great week.

Ever Seen Donkey Basketball?

Hi there,
Spent the morning glumly looking at my dwindling super fund. Last September I wanted to sell it all and invest the cash - my paid 'advisor' told me that wasn't a good thing. If I could reach him I think I'd shoot him.

Whether you need to know how much dewormer to give your horse or how much you should feed him, knowing how to estimate his weight is helpful. Use Practical Horseman's handy online weight calculator to do the maths for you.
http://tinyurl.com/4cdhgb

Here's a new 'thing' from Equisearch. Use their Click 'n Learn stop-action sequence to see top trainer Cleve Wells demonstrate the type of Western pleasure jog he strives for in his training program.
http://tinyurl.com/3uuob7

Ten tips on how to take good photos while riding your horse - I've never considered this but it makes perfect sense.
http://tinyurl.com/4alycp

Ever seen Donkey Basketball? I kid you not.......this is even better than wheelchair rugby.
http://tinyurl.com/3v94fb

Laying down your horse? - here's how to do it. If you want the full story then have a look at Jesse Beery's training CD on the H10 web site .
http://tinyurl.com/4r5rnj

Here's the latest Horse health newsletter - it talks about the use of glucosamine for joint disease. Dunno about horses but it works for me.
http://tinyurl.com/3zmt3e

You've seen the Christmas decs in the shops already? Well, we'll have a wishlist of horsey books next week that will make great Christmas gifts. In the meantime, in preparation for Spring & Summer you should get your horse some H10 ointment. There's nothing better for cuts, grazes, ringworm (and even mud fever). There's also a great offer on it too.
http://tinyurl.com/3nncee

Have a great warm week.

How A Horse Helped A Man With Autism

Just been looking at the master plan for the development of our area here on the Mid North Coast. You know, if you don't go and look for these things, no-one will tell you about them and then one day you'll find the bulldozers at the back fence. Beware. This time they'll be building on a marshland. Good luck if you buy one.

Here's a great riding lesson courtesy of Equisearch and the USA's Al Dunning
http://tinyurl.com/4yzoxq

Use these simple checks to evaluate and monitor the state of your horse's vital stimuli and responses.
http://tinyurl.com/4l49ob

Here's a lovely story of how a horse helped a man with autism
http://tinyurl.com/4knkcq

Here's an article for those of us that love to watch Dressage...but don't quite understand what we are seeing sometimes.
http://tinyurl.com/3nk6ba

'If Your Horse Could Talk' has been educating horse owners to a more natural approach to their horses since 1999. Here you can listen to some audio to introduce the concept. No charge of course but scroll down the page to get the full listing
http://tinyurl.com/48aegl

Grooming Jetter - A Horse Story About a Stallion. By Mary Smith-Dinsmore. Nice read too.
http://tinyurl.com/3qw6qc

Horse Rescued From Ravine After Falling 40 Feet - thanks goodness for firefighters and SES.
http://tinyurl.com/4y4r5x

Here's the latest edition of The Horse health newsletter.
http://tinyurl.com/445rp8

Let Emil Spadone on show you how to ride Oxers and Spread Fences. A You Tube video.
http://tinyurl.com/4kkljl

Thunderstorms here this week - makes a great light show especially when the power goes off!!

Have a good week.

Your Horse & Your Personal Space

I'm a little earlier this week because the rellies are here and I'm on taxi and sightseeing duty. Lovely to see Spring arrive though AND a new Liberal leader both at the same time. What joy!Have you been watching the Paralympics wheelchair rugby? Aus is in the final tonight versus you-know-who (The USA) Time for a gold at last I think.

Here's a great clinic from Clinton Anderson on How To Teach Your Horse To Respect Your Personal Space. My horse was always invading my space. She was just being friendly but you have to let them know who's boss or you'll just get sat on.
http://tinyurl.com/674f3e

Horseshoes are expensive. What keeps horseshoes on, what makes them lose their grip and how to ensure that your horse's footwear stays where it belongs.
http://tinyurl.com/5jfdq3

I've never been to the Western Horseman site before but here's a good article from them. From the moment you enter the corral or pasture, you’re sending your horse messages. Set the tone for a successful training session with clinician Tammy Pate’s advice on catching your horse. Nice.
http://tinyurl.com/574olk

We had mixed results in the Paralympic Equestrian comps - 2 bronze medals I think but we're sure to be building a great future base with such a mix of experience and debutantes.

Horse Care - Boots Vs. Bandages? Lydia Kelly gives us her view.
http://tinyurl.com/6avw2w

Prosthetic limb offers a new life to injured horse - and yes, it's really true. http://tinyurl.com/5bjakg

Practice like you mean it - Simulate competition at home to improve your nerves and your horse’s reactions.
http://tinyurl.com/6o32rj

I've still one copy of the Braiding Manes & Tails book. Someone please buy it?
www.h10.com.au

Here's a view on Aus from Andy Curry, a well known US horse trainer: "Being American, I'm out of the loop when it comes to knowing various things about countries outside the U.S. Take Kangaroos for instance. You probably already know this, but when the explorers asked the natives what that animal was, they replied... Kangaroo' so the explorers were telling everyone else, 'Hey...that's a kangaroo.' Before long, everyone thought the animal was called a Kangaroo. Trouble is, Kangaroo means 'I don't understand.' In other words, when the natives were asked what the name of that animal is they were saying 'I don't understand what you're asking me'.
True or not? What's it got to do with horses? Search me!

Aus team doing well at the Paralympics but no medals as yet - the Brits got all of them. Plenty of time left though.

What are 'Thumps In Horses' - well, there best described in human terms as hiccups. Does your horse get them?
http://www.practicalhorsekeeping.com/Thumps.html

If you're training youngsters, then this could be very useful for you. A healthy horse check list.
http://horseguardians.com/blog/?p=44

Again, I've emphasised that horses are big and not always friendly- like some people are in the morning! Here are some Safety Rules for Kids Around Horses.
http://tinyurl.com/5em3un

Do your homework before you sell so that you'll know what's a fair price for your foals. Evaluating your foals by Tom Reed.
http://tinyurl.com/64bnqr

I always thought that giving my horse dewormer was just that. Then I read this. Um.
'How To Give Horse Dewormer'
http://www.practicalhorsekeeping.com/HorseDewormer.html

Here's this week's edition of The Horse newsletter with the ongoing debate about joint injections and cartilage health.
http://www.thehorse.com/enews/992008.html

We've just ONE copy of 'Braiding Manes and Tails' by Charni Lewis. It's at the usual 20% H10 discount and it's lonely, needing a good home. Please don't disappoint it.
http://www.h-10.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=96

Have a great week - it's getting warmer thank goodness.Geoff

Australian Equestrians At The Paralympics

I've a good friend who plays 'Murder Ball', otherwise known as wheelchair rugby, for Australia and of course he's now in Beijing for the 2008 Paralympic Games. I've just sent him some emails and also noticed that Aus has sent a 5 strong Equestrian Team too. The five riders selected are: Grace Bowman (Moonta, SA), Georgia Bruce (Kuranda, QLD), Sharon Jarvis (Donnybrook, WA), Nicole Kullen (Rock Forest, NSW) and Jan Pike (Winston Hills, NSW).
I'll keep this newsletter updated with their acheivements and you can follow their progress:
http://tinyurl.com/6zojgb

The always useful latest edition of The Horse newsletter is http://tinyurl.com/6prfj2

Here's a Personal Blog with a list of 33 useful things about horses, some of which I didn't know about either. I can heartily agree with this fact though "It is not wise to argue with something that outweighs you by 1,000 pounds" http://tinyurl.com/6kzacs

For Girls Only: Tail Care for Mares. Mares have some specific tail-cleaning needs. Get pro-level advice http://tinyurl.com/6rmttd

EquiSearch's Ask the Vet: Horse Welts
Dr. Joyce Harman offers several causes and remedies for welts and hives in this Ask the Vet column on EquiSearch.com. This is particulary relevant with Spring now here and the warmer weather on the way. http://tinyurl.com/6x2wwm

If you've youngsters who are mad about horses then this computer game Let's Ride - Silver Buckle Stables may be just what you, and they, need with school holidays not far away. Create the horse of your dreams from hundreds of combinations - Choose their coats, manes, saddles, bridles, blankets and more then head to the practice corral to prepare you and your horse, then head to the big barrel racing competition to compete in 13 events. http://tinyurl.com/6pnnf2

Finally - we still have a great offer on Elegance Red Shampoo for you.... and your horses. Buy 1 litre and get a 500 ml for no extra charge. A great shampoo and great value too.
http://tinyurl.com/6hvmsx

Now off to plant veggie seeds and pray the warm weather continues.
Have a great week
Geoff

Latest On EI In Australia

I just got this from Jodi on the EI epidemic and an upcoming important meeting you may want to know about:

AHIC is concerned about comments reported today from Minister Ian McDonald in NSW in support of compulsory vaccination for competition horses.
There is to be a national summit in Sydney on 25 September to discuss future options for Equine Influenza management in Australia. The Minister's comments (if accurate) seem premature, given that the summit has not yet taken place. AHIC surveys and other feedback clearly indicate that the majority of participants in the Australian horse industry, including the racing sector, do not favour ongoing vaccination against Equine Influenza.
EI has been eradicated from Australia by the very successful emergency response to the August 2007 incursion.
You can express your views directly to Minister McDonald at macdonald.office@macdonald.minister.nsw.gov.au

Thanks Jodi

My friend Roger Bourdon has some excellent tips on his blog for hoof care and also for looking after an older horse. HERE

US Asthorities are considering slaughtering thousands of wild horses - it's a budget issue as much as anything else they say. Can't say that I agree with this but have a look for yourself HERE.

Here's a very sensible blog with all sorts of useful info on Practical Horse Care and Horse First Aid. Worth a read. HERE

'Should We Send Our Horses To Slaughter? Why? Well, a 2007 estimate by the American Association of Equine Practitioners showed that there are about 170,000 documented unwanted horses in the U.S. each year'. The great American debate goes on but this article is sensible reading for anyone with a horse HERE .

What's Your Horse's Favorite Flavour? Researchers set out to identify which flavors horses like best. Courtesy of Equisearch. HERE

Quarantine lifted on Brisbane's 'Hendra' clinic. The latest in this disturbing story HERE.

Some good news though. You can now buy at the H10 web site and pay with a cheque, Money Order or Bank Deposit. To celebrate we're giving away a 500 ml bottle of Elegance Red Label Shampoo with every purchase of a 1 Litre size bottle.
Go over and have a look HERE.

It's getting warmer at last. Have a great week.

Geoff

How To Get Corporate Sponsorship

Hi there,
Just one message in the newsletter this week but it's one close to my heart and one everybody should listen to if they can.

Sponsorship is important to the horse industry at all levels from top to bottom. It's how the industry 'gets along' and yet most of us know precious little about requesting sponsorship and going about it in a way that will give us the best results possible.

My good friend Patricia Reszetylo has produced a broadcast interviewing real expert Linda Hollander on getting sponsorship, and she's been kind enough to make it available to us...but for one week only. So, get your skates on and listen to the broadcast and also download the work book that goes with it so that you can make notes and get yourself in shape for future sponsorship requests. Believe me, what Linda doesn't know about getting sponsorship isn't worth knowing.

Here's the link so that you can download the workbook http://www.h10.com.au/documents/sponsors.pdf

And here's the link for the broadcast - don't miss it!!
CLICK HERE
Have a great week

Olympic Magic For Australia

Hi there,
Well is was quite a night and I really thought we had a great chance of beating the Germans but just fell short. Still, the silver must have made up for the medal drought over the past 8 years and when you consider the EI problems etc, it was a great effort. I finally clamboured into bed at an unmentionable hour to be greeted by displeased grunts from 'she who must be obeyed' but it was worth it.

Here's the latest The Horse newsletter for you - with lots of news and some articles on new drug testing techniques.
www.thehorse.com/enews/8122008.html

I found a news Team and Rider newsletter that's full of great tips and training techniques. Well worth a look - no cost of course.
tinyurl.com/5dtckn

For you dressage fans, here's an article from Equisearch and Sally O'Connor - Developing Flying Changes with Counter Canter
tinyurl.com/6xdj6q

Atari has produced an equestrian game to test the knowledge and training techniques of players. The game, for Nintendo DS, is called Equestrian Training, and offers horse and riding fans the chance to learn about the equestrian world and test their knowledge through various exercises and exams. Could be a great training aid for kids and I'll get more details and offer it on the site if I can.
tinyurl.com/6yzswh

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy: Healing Therapy or Just Hype? You be the judge
tinyurl.com/5f9adz

Here's a good article on Navicular Disease and your horse. If you haven't come across it, it's a prime cause of horse lameness and 100% attributable to treatment by owners.
tinyurl.com/6579oj

We've got some great horse books available - the braiding techniques book is almost gone so get in there fast!
tinyurl.com/6kqemq

Finally, for those of you who have asked, I am trying to negotiate for you to source supplies of H10 Gloss with the UK. Should have news soon and sorry for the delay.

Have a great week
Geoff

How A Miniature Horse's Leg Was Saved

Hi there
Bit the bullet and went for my first dragon boat paddling session this week. The aches and pains afterwards reminded me of my early horse riding days when I hadn't quite got the technique. And I haven't quite got the technique. Ouch! The dragons were very nice to me though.I've heard that the import of stallions for 'duty' during the breeding season is in full swing and that they are currently in quarantine. Sounds to me like a prayer or two is warranted!!

The Horse magazine is now publishing 4 new online newsletters. These newsletters will contain articles, news, video links, tips, and links to downloadable information specific to the topics of nutrition, lameness/laminitis, preventive care, and breeding. I already receive 2 and can recommend them. Go here to subscribe:
http://tinyurl.com/67tdap

Here's an article about 2 woman who started a business from their love of horses.
Well didn't most of us? Their basis - "People are cutting back on vacations and we want to make it affordable for backyard horse owners to be able to go on vacation." Read on here:
http://tinyurl.com/5o7jpa

British Para-equestrian dressage rider Lee Pearson is widely regarded as one of the top riders in the world with six Paralympic golds and numerous world and European titles to his name. Here's an article on his preparation for the Paralympics.
Incidentally, we went to the Paras in Sydney in 2000 as we have a friend who plays wheelchair rugby for Australia. Wonderful sport, a wonderful occasion and for me so much more interesting than the 'real thing'. How do these athletes do what they do?
http://tinyurl.com/5rlteq

Human wound care techniques are helping save a miniature horse's leg. It's a lovely story and she's a lovely little horse too.
http://tinyurl.com/6ozfrx

What should you do if your horse keeps getting his tongue over the bit? Dr. Joyce Harman offers bitting advice in this Ask the Vet column on EquiSearch.com
http://tinyurl.com/66obpz

Here's the link to the official Australian Olympic site - equestrian section, where you can read all the news, developments and of course see the medal tally for our equestrians. A word of caution though, the site takes a while to load up.
http://tinyurl.com/552uuz

Finally, I try to grow veggies to help the dollars do further. I was stunned by these examples from the large veggie show in the UK. They'd feed us for a month.

http://www.h10.com.au/images/cabbage.jpg
http://www.h10.com.au/images/pumpkin.jpg
http://www.h10.com.au/images/leek.jpg

Have a great week.
Geoff

The Olympics - Who's Going To Win?

Hi there,

Lost a big filling in one of my molars this week - I'm a man and of course the pain was unbearable. My dentist, god bless her, was on hand to replace said metal with more shiny new stuff and after 45 minutes, some discomfort and the loss of $275 I was cured. On the way out I asked her how much a crown would be if I needed one. After she told me it all went dizzy I 'came to' in the waiting room in the horizontal posotion but was ok after a glass of water. Wish I could make money like that!

Now if you're looking towards the equestrian events at the Olympics, just a week away now, here are some winning predictions from equestrian journalist Nancy Jaffer. Interesting reading.
tinyurl.com/6gyeps

Here's the weekly The Horse Newsletter as usual, a mine of information on all things horsey.
tinyurl.com/5cp7kl

Feet are important whether they are the human kind or the horse type. I found this blog about natural horse hoof trimming and the use of Easy Boots. I'm not advertising them but if you have a problem like this it could help.
tinyurl.com/5t9geh

If you haven't visited Horse Problems - John O'Leary's Australian Site, then you really should. He makes a lots of sense and there's a ton of useful stuff here.
tinyurl.com/qdy2s

Here's an article from the US on reining in the costs of running a horse. Their words and their pun, not mine but there are some good points and it's a view that may well affect us too this coming Spring and Summer.
tinyurl.com/67na48

Accra Race Course Squatters Ejected
About 100 policemen drawn from the Accra Regional Command of the Ghana Police Service yesterday supervised a demolition exercise at the Accra Race Course to pave the way for the construction of a five-star hotel on the site. Sign of the times isn't it?
tinyurl.com/6lpdur

I just read a really great article on grooming by Laurie Pitts in the April 2008 issue of Practical Horseman. Hope you'll find it interesting too - there's a video clip as well.
tinyurl.com/5fr3au

Have a look at this book "100 ways to improve your horse's schooling' by Susan Mcbane. It's available on the H10 site at the usual 20% discount.
tinyurl.com/6bgzof

I'm learning how to be a sweep for the local Dragon Boat crew. So far I don't think they're too impressed so I hopw it can only get better.
Have a great week and keep warm
Geoff

What's Your Horse Worth??

Well, the insulation is in the roof, I'm poorer by several hundred dollars but the place is warmer and just in time by the look of the forecast. Is it a woman's intuituion but the better half has been
busy making and freezing all kinds of soups and stews.
She has long range radar I reckon!!

Here's a new horse orientated blog I found.Some interesting stuff too.
http://crittercarebymarg.com/blog/?cat=4

You'll have probably read about the wild fires (as they call them) currently in the US since some of our fire fighters are helping out there. Well, it's winter here now but it looks to be another dry
summer coming up so perhaps a little bit of preparation could be useful - from my good friend Roger Bourdon.
www.anyhorsebackriding.com/myblog/

Here are some great tips if you are thinking of choosing or employing a horse trainer.
tinyurl.com/6gcqht

Some valuable Q and A's here from The Horse magazine on horse dentistry.
www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=12316

What's Your Horse Worth?
Appraiser Michelle Stalling offers an example of a chart she uses to determine a halter horse's value. You can download the chart too - from Equisearch.
tinyurl.com/vtx5v

Here's the link to the chart
special.equisearch.com/pdfs/appraisalchart.pdf

We support the Australian Stock Horses Society - here's the link to their latest monthly journal
www.ashs.com.au/journal/currentissue.asp

On the Trail Newsletter
Here's the first monthly On the Trail e-newsletter, an online resource to help you enjoy the great outdoors with your horse.
Great idea - and complimentary!!!
special.equisearch.com/newsletters/onthetrail/may08.html

By the way, the H10 competition is still running with some great prizes and the chance to tell us all about your horse!!
www.h-10.com.au/competition.asp

We've got some super new horse books at a great special H10 discount. Limited stock though.
tinyurl.com/6kqemq

Keep warm and have a great week.
Geoff

Brand New Horse Books Now In!

It's been so cold that the better half has demanded that we insulate the roof.
So, dutifully I did the research, went up into the loft, 'scoped the job and ....immediately called the local insulation company!! With the Govt giving a $300 rebate there's no way I'm doing it!

I'm excited this week because I've managed to lay my hands on some choice new books. I've had to wait for these because 'horse books' are hard to get, so I'm told. Anyway, here they are AND of course I split the 40% discount I get, 50:50 with you.

Braiding Manes & Tails by Charni Lewis - if you interested in braiding then this is THE book for you. Easy to follow step by step instructions and great photos.

100 Ways To Improve Your Horse's Schooling - Susan McBane. I love the '100ways' books. So easy to follow with a different topic on each page and fully illustrated.

In the same light is '100 Ways To Improve Your Horse's Behaviour' - Susan McBane.
Um, I've seen some riders recently that could use this for their ill disciplined horses!!

Finally, 'The Horse Training Problem Solver' from Jessica Jahiel. I like her style of teaching and this book is very comprehensive. If you've a problem of any kind with your horse then this might solve it!

I've posted the books and their full descriptions on the H10 web site so that you can read about them more, here:
tinyurl.com/6kqemq

Here's the latest edition of The Horse health newsletter for you:
www.thehorse.com/enews/7152008.html

Winter's a great time to give your tack room a makeover. Here's a guide for you:
tinyurl.com/677ogm

Go on, have a look at those books!! I'm going to be reading them and supervising the roof insulation...from an armchair!!

have a great week

Competition Results!

Made it back from my funereal trip to the UK on Sunday and have been wandering around like a jet lagged zombie ever since! The better half has no sympathy since she's got a lousy cold too!! Anyway, we'll be right for the weekend I hope!

I went to see the 'tame vet' this week and we judged the competition entries for June/July and they were terrific. We had real difficulty choosing the best 'Magic Moments With Your Horse' story but finally agreed on the best from Lynne and Zoe and it's posted on the H10 web site www.h-10.com.au/competition.asp
The prizes each month are pretty good so don't delay and get your entry in!!!

What are the signs of pain caused by the saddle? A horse's physical symptoms, behavior problems and performance issues can all give clues. Here's a great article to help from Equisearch:
http://tinyurl.com/6nu68p

Homemade First-Aid Recipes for Your Horse. Recipes for common horse care first-aid solutions from Horse & Rider magazine - H10 bears no responsibility for these if you use them though!!http://tinyurl.com/5dh5us

My UK friend Roger Bourdon recently posted an article and a video clip on the smallest horse in the world...thought you might be interested:
http://www.anyhorsebackriding.com/myblog/

Jodi, one of our supporters has told us about a new Australian web site for stud stallions...and other things. Take a look:
http://www.studstallions.com.au/index.php

Here's the latest The Horse newsletter, as usual packed with all sorts of interesting articles although I have to say that an article on rattlesnake bites isn't quite relevant to us here:
http://www.thehorse.com/enews/782008.html

If you're interested in history and in particular horse training history then we have a CD of Jesse Beery's training booklets available at a fraction of the cost you'd pay on most online sites. It's a fascinating insight on 'how things were' when the horse was the only mode of transport and makes great reading.Have a look here:
http://www.h-10.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=78
Keep warm and have a great week

Last Blog Entry...For A While Anyway!!

Hi there
I have to make a trip to the UK later this week - a sad event has occured but not one I'm going to dwell upon. At least it's summer there...or so it's rumoured, so there won't be a newsletter for a week or so. Disappointed? I thought so!!!!

'She who must be obeyed' has a birthday tomorrow so it's a restaurant outing for us. Whoopee! First time for ages!

Heaven knows what the wash up will be over the EI report. Class actions will be flying everywhere I suspect and I've already spoken to people who are going to try and get compensation for their losses...who can blame them since it has been only the racing industry that has benefited in any small way so far.

This is NO joke....The first ever successful reverse vasectomy on an endangered species, the Prezewalski horse has been performed at the National Zoo in the USA. Um.
http://tinyurl.com/553yff

Here's The Horse.com front page for you - a wealth of horse info that everyone should read:
http://www.thehorse.com/

There's a brand new horse web site just launched
http://www.goequine.com/
believe me it's worth looking at just for the quality of the pictures on the home page. Wonderful!

Zara Phillips (you know, daughter of Anne, Princess Royal!) has had to withdraw from the Great Britain Olympic three-day event team because of an injury to Toytown, her horse, during training.
Unfortunate and no-one would wish it for her but it may help us there!
http://tinyurl.com/4v96bf

To Show Or Not To Show? Here's a very personal opinion from a dedicated horse lover.
http://tinyurl.com/5yp2ml

Eric Bravo demonstrates leading techniques designed to get your horse to pay attention and respect you. This is a UTube short video.
Interesting. It's the second article down from the top.
http://gentlenaturalhorseman.blogspot.com/

Some of have been lucky enough to have rain so that hay is not a problem...but it isn't the same for all. Here are a few tips if you have to buy the stuff....
http://tinyurl.com/4ceyzr

I will have 2 new dvds to offer very shortly and will let you have full details.
The H10 ointment offer is still on...believe me (and others) when I say that you really shouldn't be without it. http://www.h10.com.au

Dragon Boats, Vitamins for Horsegirls, Washing Tips etc

Went Dragon Boating over the weekend (well, the better half did!)
to support Dragons Abreast, the breast cancer support group. Rained
all day but lots of keen people turned up and it was a great event.
I supported with lots of pictures and put some up on Face Book for
those of you interested:
http://tinyurl.com/5ma5ph

I found a new web site devoted to the care of foals but it has lots
of useful tools for all horses and is well worth a look:
http://www.foalcare.com

Here's a great washing tip courtesy of the current edition of Horse
and Rider.
When you toss your horse's dirty leg wraps into the washer you end
up with a tightly tangled mess. SO, tuck the wraps into a small
lingerie bag before you wash them. If you do more than one set at a
time, use a separate bag for each set. Result? No more tangles and
your sorting will already be done

In the USA, 'show apparel' is a big thing, particularly at Western
meets. Have a lool at some of the fashions for yourself. Click on
the 'apparel by Diane Olsen' link when you get on to this site but
beware, make sure the bank account is topped up.
http://www.showtimeshowclothing.com/apparel/index.html

Girls will be girls...and we love them for it. Here's a new site
with Vitamins by Horsegirls for Horsegirls. Um!
http://www.horsegirlvitamins.com/

Ron Meredith, a well know horse expert has written a short column
worth looking at and aptly entitled 'Training Mythunderstandings':
http://tinyurl.com/3wjga4

According to Heather Sullivan, deputy director of public relations
for the Humane Society of the United States, horse owners
nationwide are limiting or foregoing basic horse care, including
veterinary and farrier services, thanks to overall cost-of-living
increases. As a result, veterinarians are finding ways to help
owners minimize costs without sacrificing basic care:
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=12012
I asked the 'tame' vet about this one...I won't go into details about
his answer...

Lastly, I don't advertise often but with winter coming on now and
horses out and about, scratches, cuts, grazes bumps and bruises can
be a problem particularly if you don't spot them straight away. The
current wet weather in some parts might also see some Mud Fever
outbreaks too so get yourself a tub of H10 ointment.
We have a special this month where we're giving 2 for 1. Have a
look here, http://www.h-10.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=14 but don't just
take my word for it, there are some links there to lots of users
who have written of their great results with H10 ointment.
It's a must for your tack box or stable shelf.

Have a great week...don't forget the competition. We've had some
terrific entries so far.....

Australia's Olympic Equestrian Progress

Hi there
So much rain...it's weird to watch it advancing on the Weather Bureau's internet radar, a massive blue, green and yellow image heading directly for us! Nature has a great way of warning us too...no birds for a day! They seem to know despite not having weather radar or computers!!

There have been some great entries into the new competition we are running and I think we'll have a free disk full of marvellous 'magic moments' when we finally end it. If you haven't entered your 'magic moment' then go to www.h10.com.au/competition.asp

I've ordered some brand new horse book titles including Braiding Manes and Tails by Charni Lewis. This new book has had rave reviews around the horse world and is now just becoming available here in Aus. I'll post more details when it arrives.

Here's a comprehensive 'check list' you might useful before any trips you might make with your horse:
http://tinyurl.com/5p397j

The Draught Horse Competition and Field Day took place on Sunday as part of Beef Week Family Day in casino - this article has a lovely picture of a Clydesdale...beautiful horses!!!
http://tinyurl.com/5ytxbm

Here's a quote from a battling US father of horse loving daughter, "This is my daughter's horse, Artesima. Feed, stable, grooming, transport, showing, freakin shoes and gear for her, priceless. For everything else in our life, there's Mastercard."
Love it!!!

The Horse newsletter this month has some excellent articles on laminitis both acute and chronic:
http://tinyurl.com/5k3k5f

What's your horse thinking? Bestselling author Temple Grandin offers a window on the equine mind, courtesy of Equisearch:
http://tinyurl.com/24pzf3

Finally, I don't often publicise the Aus Olympic team's progress but here's the latest newsletter from the Equestrian Federation outlining the team progress for Olympic selection. Any of you who watched the ABC last night will have seen first hand some of the sacrifices budding members of the team have made during the horse flu epidemic. But then, so have we all.......
http://www.equestrian.org.au/

Have a great week

H10 - New Competition Starts!!

Hi there
Seems like our winter has started early this year...our wattle birds are broody again and I reckon they're are far too well endowed with hormones! Their latest escapade is to try and nest in not just one, but TWO hanging flower baskets on the back deck...all in all about two metres from our outside table! A bird of very little brain I'm thinking!

I've puts lots of new stuff on the web site under the What's New page (where else?!) and this week, at long last we start the NEW COMPETITION!!
It's the idea of Reena who sent in the suggestion that we should run a comp entitled 'Magic Moments'. What we'd like are the magic moments you have shared with your horse. It could be a magic ride you shared, a magic experience, a magic day, a magic result...a magic anything really!!! As before we'll judge the entries monthly and I'm looking forward to the company of the 'tame' vet once again. He's looking forward to the coffee and muffins as usual!

We'll award a great prize to the winner every month and publish the winning entry in this news letter and on the H10 site and H10 blog. Fame at last!!!
We'll also collate the entries and make up an e-book to give away at the end of the competition.
So, don't be shy...give it your best and share your 'Magic Moment' with the hundreds of horse lovers who receive this newsletter!! Here's the link to click on:
http://www.h-10.com.au/competition.asp

Have a great week!
Geoff

Australian Horsemaster Special

Isn't it getting cold?! Since I cycle in the mornings to try and keep fit (don't laugh yet, the joke is yet to come!) the better half got me a new pair of black, lycra sports tights, guaranteed to keep me warm. Well, I was pleasantly surprised since they give me a 'cyclist' look I thought, that is until I saw myself side-on in the mirror the other morning....some 'bodily' improvements are required I think!!

I thought this week that I would give you some Australian horse masters to visit since we have a wealth of talent here outside the usual 'famous 5' or so that everyone quotes.

Wayne Anderson - a free lesson from Eques entitiled 'Handling Horses Softly'.
http://www.eques.com.au/training/previous/softly.htm

Steve Brady - For people who enjoy advancing their horses by educating and improving themselves
http://www.stevebradyhorsemanship.com/

Phil Rodey - here's his website but I couldn't find any up to date info for him there.
http://www.philrodeyhorsemanship.com.au/

The ability to understand life from the horse’s point of view that has made Ross Jacobs and Michèle Jedlicka popular among horse owners who are looking for a willing partnership with their horses.
http://www.goodhorsemanship.com.au/index.html

Here's the latest Horse health E-newsletter - a good read for anyone involved or concerned about horse health topics
http://www.thehorse.com/enews/5202008.html

Next week we start a BRAND NEW Competition with the return of great monthly prizes and the 'tame vet' too. Um!! More details soon!

H10 Horse Lovers Blog - Budget Special!!

Interesting budget wasn't it? Bang goes my new Ferrari with the car tax increases...I wish!! Nothing in it at all for small business though....
I've added a whole raft of small articles to the H10 web site that I hope you'll find useful. I'll be adding a whole lot more in the upcoming weeks. You can view and download them here:
http://www.h-10.com.au/shopcontent.asp?type=News

Here's a useful Equine Body Language Chart - courtesy of Equisearch
Use this body language chart to understand your horse's mood through his physical clues. I like it!!!
http://tinyurl.com/5dlobu

Learn how to manage a pony with laminitis with attention to grass, supplements, hoof trimming and more in this edition of Dr. Joyce Harman's Ask the Vet on EquiSearch.com.
http://tinyurl.com/5q8hd3

What to Look for in a Dressage Horse??
Find out what to look for in a dressage horse and why a big mover might not be your ideal partner:
http://tinyurl.com/6arekr

I met up with my 'tame vet' the other day. Remember him? He used to help me judge our competition entries and asked me why I hadn't been in contact. Could be that we never agreed on the decisions!!! Anyway I said, no competitions recently!
He suggested I get one, fast...I think he just misses the wife's muffins and the great coffee. Seriously though, I'd like to start a new comp so if you have any ideas for one then let me know...there's a nice prize in it for any ideas that we pick and run with and I will of course acknowledge any suggestions.

We've a special on Elegance Red Label high foaming shampoo this month. If you haven't tried it than you should! Have a look:
http://tinyurl.com/6hvmsx

Some Great Articles This Week - Don't Miss Them

Terrible events in Burma that may be the worst since the S E Asia tsunami of a couple of years ago. I can only imagine what's it's like and a Burmese friend of mine hasn't heard from her relatives in a few days...very worrying. This isn't a charity site but if you can help then World Vision is helping there too:
http://www.worldvision.com.au/emergency/myanmarCyclone.asp?isource=64

Fibre in Hay - what's the magic amount? Christy West from The Horse, helps us:
http://tinyurl.com/5kkptd

Managing the Changing Needs of Older Horses
Time takes its toll in predictable ways, providing guidelines for managing the changing needs of older horses. This is a great article in Equisearch from Joanne Meszoly who wrote this after her experiences in WA:
http://tinyurl.com/4dqs72

Trimming Tips for Banded Manes by Patty Brumley. Try these tips for a tip-top mane trim.
http://tinyurl.com/6r3pg3

If you follow eventing, you'll know that there have been a spate of tragedies recently. Here are some discussions on proposed changes to make the sport safer from Nancy Jaffer and Practical Horseman.
http://tinyurl.com/4q4c5t

If you're taking your horse on a trip, then here's a great page of tips from The Horse for before, during, and after your trip to help your horses be safe, comfortable, and healthy.
http://tinyurl.com/3n24sk

We've had lots of interest in a CDROM we have on the site with the famous US horse trainer Jesse Beery's 'mail order horse training course' on it. Worth a look and not expensive either!
http://www.h-10.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=78

The wife is away for the weekend, the beer's in the fridge and the lads will be around later in the week. Who needs a shed?!!!
Hope you have a great weekend too!

Horses Get Dementia Too?!

Almost May already and, as always at this time of the year, I was duly taken out into the garden by the better half to be briefed on the changes she expects over the winter gardening period. I won't bore you with the list since it covers a whole A4 page but it looks like I'm going to be busy!!

I never thought about the prospect of dementia in elderly horses but it happens! Here's an interesting article from Equisearch on caring for the condition
http://tinyurl.com/43ukpu

The Perfect Stop For Your Horse. How to master your stopping cues to stay in-sync with your horse, and up your chances of a 'dynamite' showmanship pattern.
http://tinyurl.com/4um8tj

My UK friend Roger Bourdon has just published the final part of his series on 'Training To Load' your horse. The programmes come from a new dvd from Sue Gardner in the UK and if any of you would like further details just drop me a reply and I'll send them to you.
http://www.anyhorsebackriding.com/myblog/

Here's a great article from Karen Briggs on Horse.com on whether you can influence hoof growth and what form that might take. Incidentally, if you haven't registered for this site then you really should. It costs nothing and it's a mine of info for horse lovers.
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=3297

Before you decide on signing up for horse training classes, ask yourself the following questions to determine whether this is the right track for you - from Heidi Edris http://articlepower.org/blog/?p=15398

Looks like sunshine for the next week - don't forget to rug the horses for the cold nights though!

Winter Here Already?!

Feels like winter here!!

The better half has joined the Dragon Boating fraternity in the newly formed local Dragons Abreast team -they are all breast cancer survivors and supporters and it's a great cause. She gets up at an ungodly hour to go to paddling practice though!!!
We've some great articles for you this week...a real 'cornucopia'(means 'mix' I think!)

Find out how to tell if your horse has an ulcer and how to treat it in this EquiSearch.com 'Ask the Vet' column by Dr. Joyce Harman: http://tinyurl.com/5xmzns

In some cases it's best to fit a horse with shoes fresh off a forge. By Laurie Bonner for EQUUS magazine:http://tinyurl.com/6gue2s

Here's a great practical grooming demo clip from top hunter/jumper groom Laurie Pitts. It's a YouTube video so will load quickly...well worth a look: http://tinyurl.com/5cpyyk

Basic training - Balancing Correction & Praise. Here's a great article from trainer Ron Petracek outlining the common mistakes horse owners make in thinking that affection is the only way to handle your horse. http://tinyurl.com/49ju9p

Clinton Anderson offers training tips on how to make the most of moments you do have to spend with your horse. Courtesy ofEquisearch:http://tinyurl.com/65z7yr

I'm not sure if you knew that ponies had been used in coal mines in years gone by. Here's a fascinating review from a Welsh source where pit ponies were used exclusively before the advent of electrical machinery. The last pony retired as late as 1999!: http://tinyurl.com/5xcwpm

There are still a few books left in the H10 book sale. www.h10.com.au
Finally, Wendy asks this "I cannot find a ring to splice on the end of the rope, (I think it's a neck rope in the Kel Jeffrey training style). Years ago we would have had stuff lying around in the shed. I've looked at halter rings, but they don't look very substantial. Any clues where I could source one?"
If you can help. Drop me a reply.
Have a great weekend!

Enough Rain...Enough!!

Hi there
There's been so much rain that we've got a whole flock of different birds cowering on the deck sheltering from the 'great wet'! I've never seen so many different breeds together actually behaving themselves...they all look soggy & pathetic!!!

Just a couple of interesting links for you this week because the big news is that we have a BIG BOOK sale on now. We're clearing out stock for new books and we're selling the current stock off at 50% discount or more! There are some great titles!
We've attached a price list for you and you can read all the book details and descriptions on the web site at http://www.h10.com.au/.
Please use the attached list or download one from the front page of the site if you'd like to order, or you can use the site and I'll adjust the postage for you but hurry we don't have much stock left!!

Here's a couple of great links:

In the April 2008 issue of Horse & Rider magazine, bareback genius and reining freestyle phenom Stacy Westfall teaches you how to use saddleless riding to boost your balance and fine-tune your cueing. Use othe super-fun Click 'n Learn stop-action sequence to see exactly how she maintains her bareback position during a rollback.
http://tinyurl.com/3gl44g

You'll remember that we talked about the world's biggest horse last week. Well, sad news comes from New Zealand that the world's tallest horse died recently.
http://tinyurl.com/5zrg7n

I also found this site http://www.thehorse.com/ although you may well already know of it. Very comprehensive and very good on all aspects of equine care.
Well, the sun's out (a monir miracle) and the birds have flown. Don't forget the book sale

H10 At The Royal Easter Show

Hi there
Well, The Easter Show was fun and there were lots of Aussie Stock Horses there which was good to see. We gave away some well-earned prizes and I'm glad to report that Jackie Long, one of our sponsored riders, managed to bag Reserve Champion Ridden Australian Stock Horse Hack.

I missed the Dagwood Dogs (shame!) and most of the funfair rides and the show was pretty packed....this year it cost about $70 and more for a family of 4 just to get in! Add the showbags and the other 'necessities' and it's a big hole in the pocket!!

Did you know that Australia holds the record for the larget horse in the world? The giant five-year-old, from Pakenham, S.E Australia, measures a staggering 20.1 hands, or 2.057m tall. He weighs over 1.3 tonnes (1300kg), about the same as a small car - and is still growing!!
There's a pic of him here:
http://www.anyhorsebackriding.com/myblog/

Is it a Bruise, Strain or Sprain? Here's a complimentary chart from Equus that you might find useful when trying to decide:

http://tinyurl.com/ypl3dw

Many horse lovers are spending more time shoe shopping these days--for their animals. Technology is presenting them with the choice of two different replacements for the old horseshoe:

http://tinyurl.com/3bzdhy

Here's some recent news on Canberra paralympic hopeful Rob Oakley. He says he is confident of making the fifth and final spot in the Australian equestrian team.
http://tinyurl.com/39mdd3

Jan sent me a good horsey (and very irreverent!) blog that you might have a wander over to:
http://www.fuglyhorseoftheday.blogspot.com/

Plenty of bargains on the H10 web site - go on, have a look! http://www.h10.com.au/

Have a great weekend
Best wishes
Geoff

The Summer We Never Had??!

Hi there,
Phew - here's the summer we never had!! It's hit some of the trees so badly that they've lost their leaves through 'stress'. Have to say that the fig tree now looks weird with all the plastic snakes I placed in the leaves to keep the birds away....now, no leaves and lots of snakes!!

I read this amusing blog entry about 'The Dressage Ladies'. It made me smile and I thought you might enjoy it too!
http://tinyurl.com/2pfaap

Most of us remember the shortage of good hay caused by our long running drought. It was trucked from state to state but it appears that we were not the last country to suffer.....here's another!!
http://tinyurl.com/2yev43

I found this great guide to photographing your horse to get the best possible results. It's on a blog that deals with water filtration safety for kids....don't ask me how or why but it's worth a read if you want to get good results.
http://tinyurl.com/ypt97g

Did you know that your horse's endocrine system works in wondrous yet little known ways? Neither did I but I got some clues here.
http://tinyurl.com/2kkoj2

Married with Horses: Another Lame Story, is an on going diary of people running an agistment. It's funny, true to life and certainly worth a look!!
http://tinyurl.com/25a4mc

We are out of stock of Coat Gloss...sorry. The UK has fouled up an order. We have lots of great H10 shampoo though and at a great price........ you won't find quality like this anywhere else. We're often asked how we can do it for the price. Call it generous or whatever...we believe in value for money!!
http://www.h10.com.au/

Have a great weekend!

Stall Fires Are Dangerous

I lost the fight over the fig tree in my backyard that I mentioned last week. A flock of very large black birds descended and basically cleared the tree....I hope that they suffered severe gut-ache and the 'other' inevitable consequence of consuming figs in quantity!!
.....'nuff said!

Here's a safety article from my good friend Roger Bourdon on the risks, perils and prevention of fire in the stables
http://www.anyhorsebackriding.com/articles/horsestall.html
and the methods to use if you're ever in that perilous situation:
http://www.anyhorsebackriding.com/articles/fire.html

Reiki for horses? Well, if you don't know what it is it's certainly worth a read!!
http://greyhorsematters.blogspot.com/2008/02/reiki-for-horses.html

A growing contingent of hoof-care experts says yes, barefoot is better. Here's what the natural-foot movement could mean for your horse:
http://tinyurl.com/23fxof

If any of you are interested, the World Games 2010 Foundation has announced the launch of a recruitment website to manage volunteers for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky.
http://tinyurl.com/273ckf

We have a brand new training dvd from the UK showing the Australian Kel Jeffrey training method being used to start English wild horses!!
They think it's really effective and a growing number of horse professionals are adopting it. More news next week and a clip for you to view too.
Last chance for H10 grooming products at cost!!! http://www.h10.com.au/

...And The Rain Pours Down!!!

What a week! Firstly the the hard drive in one of our computers decided to quit. Ah, the importance of backing up your info!! If you don't as yet then I can really recommend it! Saves a lot of time and heartache and is definitely good for a marriage....and I have been christened 'Grumpy Old 'Git' because I couldn't find theback up copies!
Second, the rain continues to drop and I hate grey skies.
Third, good news, the Sydney Royal Show has some horse events reinstated and I've attached the link for the show schedule for anyone interested!
http://tinyurl.com/2n4t3e
And finally, the fig tree has ripened and it's me against the birds. I'm using plastic snakes and shiny CDs to keep them off and so far failed miserably! Any ideas??

Here's a timely article from Cyberhorse on getting your horse fit after a lay off - sorry about some of the feed ads in it but the info is pretty sound:
http://tinyurl.com/2fhbxu

Here's how to tell if your horse is fat!! Um, might try it myself!!
http://tinyurl.com/2d9foc

Dr. Joyce Harman explains how to fit a treeless saddle for different types of horses and riders - I didn't know much about this but it's an interesting article:
http://tinyurl.com/2r8s9y

Watch video clips from George Morris' Lessons in Horsemanship DVD as he guides eight young riders through a special training session - these are all U Tube videos so they might take a little time to load if you don't have broadband...worth a look though!
http://tinyurl.com/yrdfor

Thanks to Equisearch for the last 3 article links.
This is your LAST chance for H10 grooming products at COST price...closing soon so stock up for the upcoming seasons:http://www.h10.com.au/

And with the rain thundering down I'll bid you a very good week!

Top Tips For 2008

Hi there ,
It's hard levering yourself into work in the New Year...all our neighbours are on holiday (most in Queensland....um!!, might be wet there!) and it's strangely quiet!! "Experts" tell us that this is the time to take stock of things for the year and get fit! Urgh! No Thanks! So at the risk of being boring, here's something that's nothing to do with horses...and concerns your financial fitness and not your physical fitness. It's NOT an ad but a guide you might just find useful:http://tinyurl.com/yuyyd5

There's a risk of 'overriding' in all horse disciplines. Here's a good article from David Collins on the risks and looking for the warning signs:http://tinyurl.com/ys6sf5

Pro Joan Schroeder shares her technique for keeping her horses' tails tangle-free--and bagless. You'd use H10 Gloss and detangler for the very best results of course!!http://tinyurl.com/yt998r

Ever heard of the American Cream Horse? No? Neither had I and I didn't know that it was the only American Draft Horse breed to have originated in the US. Here's a short article...lovely looking horses too!
http://tinyurl.com/3xtkvw

Learn how to spot balance in a horse--and how it can affect athleticism by Bob Avila. Nice article with helpful illustrations too.
http://tinyurl.com/2u9l7e

The 'buy it at cost' H10 grooming sale will end at the end of Jan so get in for a real bargain at http://www.h10.com.au/

Have a great weekend and keep dry if you can!!

2008 - A Better Year For Us All??

Hello - and Happy New Year!!

Let's hope that 2008 will be a better year for us horse lovers than last year was...wouldn't be that hard would it!?

We had 'The Hotel' open for visitors from all over the place and have only just recovered. The veggies from the garden were a huge hit but my wife tells me that the freezer contents are devastated, there's no washing powder left, and the lawn needs mowing!! This could be a short newsletter!!

Firstly, a cry from the heart from Jill. I'm no vet but if any vet or expert can help with this, then just drop me a reply and I'll forward it.

'I have a 5yo standardbred with a chronic parrot mouth, knock knees and the most beautifull temprament. I have noticed in the last few hot days that he is dehydrated, despite having unlimited access to good water. If I do a pinch test it takes up to three seconds for the skin to go back down. I have never had this problem with any other horse and I am at a bit of a loss. How can I help him??? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.'

For those of you into holistic medicine, here's a good article on Flower Essences and Reiki for your horse:
http://tinyurl.com/2uz7xa

Horse Alcohol Consumption!? No, seriously, this is not only topical but also important!!:
http://tinyurl.com/ytbfxb

Here's an interesting article from Dr Temple Grandin on a Window Into the Equine Mind:
http://tinyurl.com/24pzf3

Thanks to Equisearch for the articles

We've kept the H10 grooming products 'at cost' sale going for January. At these great prices, it's certainly worth a look. You can go to www.h10.com.au and look for yourself.

Phew, we're soaking here on the Mid North Coast and everything is growing wild...how I'm starting to hate lawns!!

Geoff

Royal Easter Show Showjumping Cancelled

Hi there
Very sad news about Canberra Show horses being cancelled and this morning they cancelled the Royal Easter Show showjumping. Like me, you'll be disappointed and I just hope the remainder of the horses at Royal Easter will carry on. I get to give prizes there and I loved it this year seeing so many worthy winners. It will be a great shame if we can't all go.

What type of stall flooring is best for your horse? Dr. Joyce Harman outlines what works in this post courtesy of EquiSearch.com.http://tinyurl.com/2rqvda

Look, I rarely advertise very much but My Horse & Me, the very first horse riding video game to be officially licensed by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), will be available in stores for Wii, PC and Nintendo DS early in 2008!If you are interested, there's already a demo you can download here: http://tinyurl.com/3xbpeo

I'm quite sure that ALL our readers are generous souls but here's a timely reminder for all of us this Christmas...particularly in this difficult time.http://tinyurl.com/33nj2r

It's summer and of course we are all advised to slip, slop, slap but our horses can be prone to
sunburn as well. here's an article on causes http://tinyurl.com/2a9exa and prevention
http://tinyurl.com/2w97l6and finally, remedies http://tinyurl.com/39m2fq
All courtesy of Alphahorse.com.

Great gooming product bargains (at cost!!) and lots of other goodies at http://www.h-10.com.au/
Keep on shopping!!

H10 Blog - Santa Wants To Hear From You!!

Last year you might remember we gave you details of a 'Write toSanta' site. It was very popular and the feedback from kids and adults alike was really good. They all loved the 'Santa replies'!!The site will be up again this year to accept email letters from DEC 10th (not before though!) and it costs nothing! Every letter gets a reply from the great man himself. Here's the address: http://thereindeerbarn.com/ (there's no WWW inthe address.)

Christmas coming soon and most of us have been out of the saddle for a while and maybe we're a bit rusty? Try these Balimo exercises from a top sports physiologist. http://tinyurl.com/2tmqv7

Into Dressage? - here's view from a top competitor on the importance of Turnout for dressage horses http://tinyurl.com/2oafek

Your horse's homeopathic first aid kit. If you are a keen believer then this is just the thing for you. http://tinyurl.com/2ab2tv

Finally, if you haven't got your Horse Tips article from the H10 website then you should. Over 100 tips from an all Australian audience...no cost of course. Go to www.h-10.com.au/documents/horsehealthwellnesstips.pdf

Needless to say, our great AT COST sale continues - great Christmas gifts at http://www.h10.com.au/ Go on, have a look!

Equine Flu - Support Update

A very short message this week concerning the EI epidemic affecting us all.
In case you were wondering what's happening outside of the racing industry with the EI epidemic (and why not!), here's an important message of support. There is a body working for us and making some progress and I've attached a small text message with their initial committee report. Here's the web link to their initial meeting withthe Qld premier: http://www.qld.equestrian.org.au/?Page=15748

Next week we will have the full list of all the horse care tips we received from you during our last competition - complimentary of course!!!

AND, H10 will be having a sale...a BIG one. Don't neglect grooming your horse...take advantage of this one-off opportunity when we'll be selling for a limited time at COST!!
More details soon

Return From Broome!!

I took the other half up to Broome for a few days last week. Phew, it was hot but Cable Beach is a lovely spot . We hired a 50cc motorscooter to get around on...buzzy but fun! Must admit that I didn't see one horse there but did see a lot of camels!! Good old Qantas cancelled our flight back from Perth without telling us...panic ensued! Anyway we finally got some sense out of them and we were put up at the Sheraton at their expense for the night. Very nice too!

I have a special for you this week - my good friend Roger Bourdon has just republished his fully revised ebook 'How To Stay Safe On Horseback'.
He normally sells this to his clients but has let me have it as a complimentary download for all of you. It's 41 pages of good common sense and is useful for both inexperienced and experienced riders and if you train or instruct then it's a must!
You'll find it on this link here on the H10 site 'What's New' pagehttp://www.h-10.com.au/shopcontent.asp?type=News
It's at the BOTTOM of the page - it's in Adobe .pdf format and if you have any difficulty with it just drop me an email.

H10 Newsletter - Equine Flu etc

Just back from a visit to the UK - daughter and new grand-daughter are doing fine but I couldn't live there any more. It's nice to visit but it isn't Australia.......and besides, it's far too crowded and cold!!

I returned to read the EI news one month on so to speak. I've signed and sent on all the petitions sent to me and thanks to all of you who sent them. Seems that the racing industry is getting all the care and attention from our State Government. Now isn't that a surprise?! The rest of us wait in the wings for support and it could be quite a wait! EI has certainly decimated the whole equine market. For instance I know of retailers whose turnover has been hit hard. I haven't sold a unit of grooming product in 5 weeks!

At least the inquiry has started and already seems to have some firm direction as to where the whole sorry mess started. I'll follow it with some interest.
Time to remove the gloom for a while though.....

The London police are now using horse whispering techniques to soothe their charges after a hard day on the 'mean streets'! A vet commented "We hear a lot about these alternative therapies and I am afraid one gets a bit sceptical." http://tinyurl.com/2yl8zf

Dental problems in horses are often blamed for poor performance, but a recent study in Canada has found that floating the teeth of dressage horses appeared to have no effect on how they performed. http://tinyurl.com/2cw3fy

Here's a link to a video clip showing the training of a 4 year old quarterhorse - it's amusing and fascinating too!! Well worth a look. http://tinyurl.com/ysj3qk

Even horses who receive the best of care may develop the occasional skin problem. There's just no avoiding the host of bacteria, fungi, viruses and insects that can lead to lumps and bumps. This chart, however, may help you spot some of the most common equine skin troubles. Courtsey of Equus magazine. http://tinyurl.com/2qfhdo

Phew, that'll do for now. I feel another episode of jet lag coming on!! We have a new complimantary gift for you shortly....more news soon.

Horse Flu....

Well, if you own a horse, or even part of one and you live in NSWor Queensland then it's been a pretty terrible week. My heart goes out to all the horse lovers who make a living or a wage from the racing and stud business because the immediate future looks a little bleak. Thank goodness the other states are clear and let's hope it remains like that!! Now of course there will be a hunt as to how it all happened...if we didn't have horse 'flu before then it must have been imported somehow I guess!?

One of our readers was caught up in it all and Julie sent this to us:
"Yes I have been caught up in the horse flu, my twin sister and I were on our way to Lochinvar and we received a call 10 mins awayfrom Lochinvar! Well we drove right into it and there was nothing we could do about it except leave our horses there and drive home, it was awful for us both! Our sensibility told us to think about the safety of our horses and not about ourselves even though we are missing them so much. My sister lives in Sydney and I live in Tamworth so its not 5 mins away to visit. The costs are mounting up but we know they are in the best of care so we are more fortunate than some other people stranded at showgrounds!Just wanted to share my story with you, hope you don't mind...."
Although a bad situation, Julie's was better than some we heard of.
To cheer us all up, we got lovely pic from Kaylene of her polo cross horses

Look, I'm a bit 'truncated this week because I'm off, courtesy of Korean Airways, to the UK to do a bit of business and share some ideas with my friends at H10 UK, and of course to see my daughter & grandchildren (and her husband of course!!). I'll be away for 3 weeks or so and the better half will miss me like mad!!!
Before I sign off, here's a great story from Jeremy Law, a horse lover in the US who runs a 'horse farm'. It will make you laugh but there's a good moral to the story too. Hope you enjoy it:
http://tinyurl.com/2sgjfu
We've got just 10 bottles of Elegance Blue shampoo left - at $8 a litre for something so good it's a steal - have a look:http://tinyurl.com/y4rtxj

Have a great weekend...and don't forget your Dad!!!

H10 Sponsored Riders Success!!!

I don't like to boast....well actually I do..again!

Many congratulations to our two sponsored riders who did extremely well at the recent Royal Brisbane EKKA Show.
Jackie Long took out Supreme ASH and 1st led & ridden ANSA stallion with HezaStar. 'Time to Celebrate' took out Champion ANSA stallion and Colt Sheza Barbie ( owned by Jane Davies ) won Champion Buskskin. A good friend of ours, TJ Moore also won Champion Quarter Horse gelding.

Kim Durante continued her remarkable success run taking out Champion Queensland Hack again. That's 3 years in a row!! And, for good measure, she also collected Champion Galloway Show Hunter.All our sponsored riders prepare their horses with H10 grooming products, of course!!

It pays to back the best, and to use the best!!!

New Horse training DVD/Book Package

Firstly - thanks to all of you who sent their best wishes...it's much appreciated and I'm now back on my bike again!! Doesn't compare with a horse of course but then my back gave up horses a while ago!!!!
Trolling around the net this week for interesting stuff has been frustrating!! Thank goodness for Equisearch!! Heard a lot on the ABC Country Hour yesterday about the changes in equine dentistry and the consequences of that to all horse owners. It's a concern since it looks as if horse dentistry is about to get a lot more expensive. I'll be looking into that and writing a separatepiece for you.

Follow these five simple rules to increase your horse's chance of living to a ripe old age. http://tinyurl.com/2rusp6

Weaning your horse is always a worrying period. Do you get it right? Here are some tips for a stress free time!! http://tinyurl.com/2moert

I may have mentioned Alphahorse before but it's a great free resource for all sorts of training tips: http://tinyurl.com/2yjmfr

My good friend Roger Bourdon has a newsletter that's always interesting - and aimed squarely at horse lovers. Go on, have a look: http://www.anyhorsebackriding.com/horsesource/070816.html

Finally, we are proud to announce that we have the Des Kirk DVD & Book Package now available!! The dvd shows Des teaching the gentle Kel Jeffrey horse training method and is backed up by his 64 page book fully illustrating and explaining all the techniques used in the dvd. The perfect handbook and a great package at a great price!! Have a look here: http://www.h-10.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=91

From The Heart...So To Speak!

It's been a copule of very interesting weeks for me but I won't bore you with the details....suffice to say that I've had multiple bits of metal called stents stuck into various heart blood vessels!! Still here, replumbed and ready to go!!! Have to say it gives you a new outlook on life though!!
Everything is looking to Spring at the moment with the birds going mad, the local magpies as pesky as they usually are this time of the year and of course, all our horses one year older then last month!!.

Here's a good article on the Health Problems of Young Horses in Training - worth a read as it may apply to your horses as much as to anyone else in the training game: http://tinyurl.com/yszrp3

Here's an article from the UK on Dawn Savage, a well known horse problem solver. The article wrongly quotes Monty Roberts as being the first 'horse whisperer' which is nonsense of course. http://tinyurl.com/2grxvq

Here in Aus, Kel Jeffrey predated Monty's techniques by years but didn't have quite the commercial success!! You can see a small clip of Kel's techniques here: http://tinyurl.com/2kjy6m

You might remember in an earlier letter I outlined an upcoming event, "Women Luv Horses", a three-day celebration of the special relationship between women and horses. Well, by all reports the event was a great success and you can read a great article on it here: http://tinyurl.com/38dzyr

The Right Start for a Young Horse? Doug Payne is making a name for himself as a great trainer for problem horses and at 25, he's got everything going for him. Here's a great piece on how he tackles a problem horse. http://tinyurl.com/25sg9a

John O'Leary has just updated his Horseproblems Australia web site. John's an Australian legend in the horse business and it's well worth taking a look:http://tinyurl.com/qdy2s

We've still PLENTY OF BOOKS AT 20% Discount on the H10 web site and a DVD SALE too. Have a look - http://www.h10.com.au/There's a new competition coming soon with the usual great monthly PRIZES......more soon.

Fruitpicking and things.....!

Doing my best to finish this before I get hauled into the kitchen! The better half has raided the citrus trees and so it's juice, marmalade, chutney and jam time. Guess who gets roped in for the peeling etc!!
Horse-enthusiasts may be excited to learn that Atari have secured an exclusive worldwide license from the International Equestrian Federation and are now working on a game entitled My Horse and Me, a horseback riding and equestrian lifestyle video game or PC, Wii and Nintendo DS.http://tinyurl.com/2scxxs

Whilst we're on the subject of games, why not try Howrse, the most complete and powerful horses and ponies breeding game! Create your horses, breed them and make them the best! Take responsibilities and manage an equestrian center! By the way, best of all it costs nothing and is great fun!http://www.howrse.com/

There are some good horse mags out there that provide great info...better still when it costs nothing! here's one for you:http://www.equestrianmag.com/

and, while we're on the subject, the new issue of Australia's HorsePower mag is now available. here's a preview for you...and no, I don't get rewarded for the plug!!!http://www.horsepower.net.au/winter07.html

In time for the Spring and Summer we know is coming soon (I wish!!). When you're really serious about keeping flies OFF of your horse, fly sheets can protect him with new types of fabric and innovations that improve fit to help sheets stay put. A sheet may not safeguard every square inch of your horse--though some come close--but it can banish insects from large tracts of skin, enabling you to use fly repellent more selectively on what remains exposed. This courtesy of Equus Magazine:http://tinyurl.com/ysezqf

Now here's a statistic for you....A recent American Horse Council study finds that the horse show industry has a $28.8 billion effect on the U.S. Gross Domestic Product. Given that the USA has a population of 300 million and we have 21 million then in Australia we should be adding roughly $2 billion US or 2.35 billion Aus. That's a lot on money! It's a fascinating article too....http://tinyurl.com/282ydc

We've had great interest in the new 'Des Kirk teaches the Kel Jeffrey Horse training method' dvd. If you've ever 'started' a horse or are interested in it then you should have a look at this gentle horse starting method...all Australian of course!!! There's a clip for you to look at too (but not the same quality as the dvd of course!). http://tinyurl.com/38999a
Have a great weekend and enjoy the warmer weather. Next month it's the Royal Brisbane Show or EKKA! A great show for horses so if you can get there, then get there!!

Cold Horses & Warm Remedies

Can't believe the cold snap we're having. She who must be obeyed (the wife) has made me buy a new electric blanket with 2 controls since she likes the bed warmer on her side than I do!! I think the weather has made me forgetful too because the tame vet phoned me (on his brand new 3G mobile, paid for by the practice of course) from his holiday in sunny Cairns to remind me to do the competition results. Forgotten,what me?!
Have to say that we could do with some more monthly entries guys.....please!! The prizes are well worth it!!! Anyway, Nerida won this month with a very topical winter tip and, since I'm a fan of garlic (hadn't you noticed!!) I think it was a cracker and even the tame vet agreed, not that he could spend more then 2 minutes helping me judge this month....'too expensive on this phone' he whined. Yeh, right!

Here's Nerida's tip:
A few years ago my horse had a cold virus from travelling interstate. I called the vet in and for 2 weeks he was given antibiotics and the penicillin. Neither cleared it up and he was miserable....just like a human!! I went to see the natropath and she made up a mixture that she would give to humans. She made up a large bottle and said I should administer 10ml mixed with hot water, lemon juice, spoon of honey and lots of real garlic. The mixture stank a bit when added to food but he was hungry so ate it up. The virus cleared after 2 days and the vet was amazed at the results. If you can put up with the smell of the horse sweating garlic out then I suggest it to anyone. After that I have kept up garlic coming into winter. This beats the amount of mucus and also the thought of giving injections. Nerida gets a GREAT prize!!

Here are a few links from Equus this month - I'm sure you'll find them interesting:
Here are the vital statistics on the must-have vitamins that fuel a variety of your horse's body functions. Useful for the cold! http://tinyurl.com/2bwlam

What was thought to be a calm and peaceful day turned into a chaotic scene as a agistment owner welcomes his picky new boarders and their high-maintenance horses. Had to put this one in because I've always treated my horses as working animals...not pampered pets. Agree or disagree, you'll find this amusing!!!http://tinyurl.com/yoay3j

Evaluate and place these 3- and 4-year-old Quarter Horse geldings in your order of preference. Then see how your choices compare to the expert judges opinions.http://tinyurl.com/273jj8

The 'Des Kirk Shows Kel Jeffrey's Training Method' is now available. A great dvd showing this, probably the gentlest horse training you'll see!! It's at http://www.h10.com.au/ Just go to the dvd page - you'll see dvd's on the nav bar on the left.

ALSO...we've got a new dvd on Gymkhanas and all you need to know about them. This is a USA dvd but very comprehensive and suitable for riders, experienced or not AND clubs wanting to set up mounted games. The out-takes are good too and postage is included in the price!!! http://tinyurl.com/2csdv4
Keep warm won't you!

Newsletter and A Brand New DVD

Well - it's throwing it down here today and is likely to for the rest of the week. Wish I had a pipeline to west of the Great Divide and we could export the stuff!! It's so cold that we've had a veritable cross section of Australian native birds all sitting under the roof of our deck keeping dry. Can you believe there's not a fight, squabble or complaint from any of them!! Even the lorikeets are quiet!!

Map My Ride - is a new service that enables you to map your favourite rides - and it can be used for us horse riders too!! Imagine strapping the GPS to the saddle and hitting the 'random' button!! You could go anywhere on any ride you'd plugged in to the machine!!!
http://tinyurl.com/278gh8

Horse Sitter Checklist
If you plan to leave your horse in the hands of a sitter, you'll need to equip him or her to handle any situation that might come up, so you can enjoy your trip worry-free. Use this countdown checklist from Equisearch to make sure you remember every detail.
http://tinyurl.com/334qk2

NEWS...we have a new dvd on gymkhana riding available soon with hints on how to ride the games, follow the rules etc, etc.
At Last - we have the Des Kirk horse training dvd available. You can read the details and view a clip of the dvd here: http://tinyurl.com/2hqbs6
We think it's a great programme and shows Des, one of Australia's best horse trainers, at work with a trainee and an unbroken horse. His blend of expertise and knowledge is second to non and his use of the gentle Kel Jeffrey method is superb. The programme is at a price that won't break the bank either!!
http://tinyurl.com/278gh8

We Sponsor Ivery Park - and we're proud of it!!

Jackie Long of Ivery PArk stud is one of the leading ASH breeders and competitors in Australia. We support them and their horses - they always look splendid because they're groomed with H10 products!! Here's a picture of their two beautiful stallions and if you need to call on their services then you have all the details!!!

Jesse Beery Horse Training Video

We got a new package recently that tunrs Screen presentations into videos so we thought we'd tell you about Jesse Beery - the famous US horse trainer.
We made this video...have a look and if you've any comments we'd be glad to hear them!!

H10 Horselovers Blog - Weird Week Articles!!

Hi there,
What a weird week - we were just on the edge of the east coast weather system and so got rain but no real storms. Now it's threatening all over again this week. Keep the fingers crossed!!Our thanks to Equus for some of these articles.

Here's a great little article on preparing for the Show....anyshow! http://tinyurl.com/23wjh9

Trail riding is an important recreation...it's also a great holiday activity AND provides an income to many. Here are a few timely tips for creating a trail riding survival kit. http://tinyurl.com/35wdgd

Thrush, a fungal disease, can be a real problem in your horse's feet...and elsewhere too. Here are some good vet tips for you.http://tinyurl.com/3a3nvc We'd also suggest that if your horse gets thrush (frogs, mud fever,rain scald) you might try H10 ointment or H10 spray if a larger area is involved. http://tinyurl.com/2gb8zr

Some of you might have Arab horses so here's a short guide from a keen Arabian owner 'blogger' on how to clip Arab feet for the show circuit.http://tinyurl.com/yoawa5

Mounted police DO have different training techniques for their horses. You might not be able to get along to this demo but you can read a little more about their methods here:http://tinyurl.com/36usjs

As a SPECIAL offer this week, we have reduced the series of John Pinnell horse training dvds to half price! Yes, that's 50% off AND with free shipping. Here's the link for youhttp://tinyurl.com/lr43x and remember, you don't have to give us your credit card details on line - just fill in the online order form and we'll contact you if you'd prefer. By the way, we still have 50% off Elegance Blue shampoo but the stocks are going fast. Get your hands on a great bargain!

Heza Star - Ivery Park Stud Champion ASH

Here's a great picture of Heza Star - one of Jackie Long's Champion stallions from Ivery Park Stud. Heza Star took out the High Point Horse of the Show sponsored by RM Williams and Denis Jackson Saddler award at the recent ASH Nationals.

This beautiful animal is of course groomed with H10 grooming products and I have to admit that they make a superb horse like this, look even better....don't you agree!!!

H10 Blog Post for June 4th 2007

There's no doubt that winter's arrived in a rush and we've even had a touch of frost here on the coast. At least I won't have to mow the lawns for a while!!

Here's a story about Scrooge the police horse who retires after 16 years as a police mount. Hope he'll get a generous state pension because he'll have earned it! http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2007/05/091.shtml

A French study over the last four years has identified nine simple tests on young horses to assess their temperament in later life.Could be useful?! Have a look: http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2007/01/021.shtml

If you fancy horse training with Capt. Mark Phillips, ex husband of HRH Princess Anne and now Chef D'Equipe for the US 3 day event team then here's your chance. Price is a bit steep though. Even so, you get a private dinner with him complete with bagpiper (that's a matter of taste I suppose). I met HRH Anne once at Badminton (a big 3 day event in the UK). We bumped into each other in a saddlery tent and I have to say in the flesh she was quite something....then the 'minders' stepped in so I didn't have a chance to get her phone number! Pity. http://tinyurl.com/yv4lds
Should a horseowner be concerned when her gelding mounts her mare? Read for yourself: http://tinyurl.com/32uzfu