About Horses Dying During Chuckwagon Races

As of July 12 a total of four horses have died as the result of chuckwagon racing during the Calgary Stampede, including a three year old horse.  I live in Alberta and have many chuckwagon families in the area, but want to tell the full story of chuckwagon racing and the risk to the horses.

I saw many comments to posts on Facebook and most of these comments contained some errors in thinking that I wanted to clear up as well.

First of all chuckwagon races are not really based on cowboy history but were created specifically for entertainment; the first race was held in 1923 at the Calgary Stampede.  In a race the chuckwagons are pulled by four horses, and each chuckwagon racing team also has two outriders (it used to be four outriders) who load the wagon before the driver takes it on a course, the riders then mount their horses and race too.  As such each "team" consists of 3 people and 6 horses.

Since 1986 at least 50 horses have died (or been euthanized) in relationship to the chuckwagon races.

2009 chuckwagon race at the Calgary Stampede

On the Facebook post following the most recent death one of the most common comments was people saying "Horses break legs running in the wild too".  I want to point out that this is true, but there is really no comparison.  In the wild horses rarely run at full speed.  They are more likely to walk, trot, or canter.  They are not forced to run in the situation that they are presented with during any type of race.  Wild horses tend to be extremely surefooted and because they are outside all the time their bone density is much better than most domestic horses, particularly those that are stabled a lot.

I have also seen comments about the fact that the horses are having fun and doing what they were bred to do.  Yes this is true to some extent, but horses at play (having fun) do not race each other as they do when they are being exploited purely for human entertainment.

Another comment was that the media loves it when there are crashes and injuries to horses in chuckwagon races but why don't they also show crashes at Spruce Meadows (a popular show jumping facility also in Calgary).  In truth they do show crashes that occur in show jumping events during the broadcast of that event, but the news rarely covers these crashes because typically no horses are killed (although the crashes can be spectacular to watch).  Show jumping horses suffer fewer injuries because they are not running at full speed, only one horse is on the course at a time, and these horses are not often ridden until they are 4 years of age, as such their legs are not subjected to stress early on.  

As for the care of the chuckwagon horses in general, I will say that most are cared for better than your typical thoroughbred race horse.  Most thoroughbred race horses (in North America) are kept stabled for weeks at a time, with only an hour or two out of their stalls every day, this causes bone density problems which makes a leg break more likely.  Chuckwagon horses are stabled a lot while at the track but most have time outdoors when back at their farms.

Do the owners of chuckwagon horses love their horses?  Yes, probably more so than the owners of most thoroughbred race horses for whom the horse is not really a part of their life in general but something they own to show off and have fun with.  Many thoroughbred race horse owners could not even pick their horse out from a group of horses in the field.  They do not know how to clean a hoof, and do not really have much contact with their horses.  Chuckwagon drivers, on the other hand, are usually actual horsemen that have a passion for equine sport.  To them the horses are part of their lives, but not necessarily "pets". 

In some cases the chuckwagon horses are horses that were rejected from the regular racetrack and would have been sent to slaughter had the chuckwagon drivers not purchased them.

For sure I do feel these races are putting horses at risk, and certainly the risk is greater than they would face in the wild, or if they were just pleasure riding horses.  I think it is ignorant to deny that there is a risk.   Horse racing in general is very risky as it pushes horses to their extremes.  You can decide for yourself if you want to watch these races or not.

Please note as well that when a horse breaks its leg it is not a simple fix.  They can recover but only with a lot of time and high expense, for most owners the expense is just too high for a horse that might not race again. 

The 2013 Telus Battle of the Breeds, Jeopardy Jumping

On September 5, 2013, attended the Spruce Meadows “Masters”, a horse show of international acclaim. Typically held the week after the September Labor Day long weekend there is plenty to see and do, and horse shows all day long.

One of the events was the Battle of the Breeds. This is where different breeds compete against each other in different events, earning points by proving their versatility. One of the classes was Jeopardy Jumping. In Jeopardy Jumping the riders direct their horse around a course of jumps, but unlike regular jumping events there are 2 jump choices, a lower one and a higher one. Each one is assigned points according to difficulty. If the jump is cleared the horse earns those points, if not no penalty is given.

Arabian, PA Sebastion

Immediately after completing the course the rider was given the option of attempting the Telus bonus jump, worth 100 points if successfully jumped, and penalized -100 if not. Most riders did not attempt this jump and of those who did only a few went clear. The jump was a vertical but had phone booths on either side and I think the reflection in the plastic walls might have distracted the horses.

Quarter Horse, Little Boy Blue

It was a real treat to watch and to see the different breeds compete. The small Shetland ponies proved how brave and hardy they were. While some of the larger breeds, such as the Friesian and Gypsy Vanner struggled.

The results for the Jeopardy Jumping event declared team Appaloosa as the winner, and team Arabian as second.

Pet Safety in the Dark

Pet safety in the dark is always something people should consider. One of the leading causes of pet death is accidents and many accidents happen at night when cars hit pets. Pet owners sometimes assume that drivers will see their pet, but pets are fast moving and being short, they are usually below where most drivers focus their eyes.

Never assume that because your pet has never been hit by a car that it won't be hit in the future. At night a LED product can save your pet's life.

If you ride a bike and walk your dog at the same time having a LED light on your pet can help drivers take notice of the animal. A LED light on your bike is a good idea as well.

People who ride their horses in the evening may find clipping a small LED light (such as the LED collar light) on the bridle adds extra safety – as sometimes it can get darker faster than you might expect. Another safety tip when riding near roads is to ride in the direction of the oncoming traffic.

Rural people, or those who do not have fenced yards, may find that a light on their dog is a great way to see where it is when they let it out in the evening.

Nite Ize is an online supplier of LED safety lighting and other similar products (including light up pet toys), but in particular their products for pet safety are excellent.



Pick from:

• LED Collar
• LED Collar cover (turns a regular collar into a light up collar)
• LED Collar Light (red or white)
• LED Leash
• LED Flying disc (toy)
• LED Ball (toy)

Click here to see their Pet Collection

Free Shipping on orders over $45 with code FSCJ213 valid through 2/28/13


Nite Ize also sells batteries for their LED pet safety products. Nite Ize is located in the United States and most products are available to be shipped internationally. They have a 30 day return policy on all unopened products.

Great Online Pet Product Deals for January

Are you looking for great online deals for pet products for January?

Hello pet lovers, and pet owners.  If you have been following along, the December deals are over and we move into some deals and coupons for pet products for the New Year.

These are all reputable companies  that provide good quality products for your pets.

To use the coupons (where codes are needed) just make a note of the code I have given you.  When you are done shopping and go to the checkout you will see a box where it asks for your Promotion, or Coupon, Code, put the code in and click the APPLY button and your total price will be recalculated.

Happy Shopping!

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Dog.com

Dog.com is offering a great January Deal, from now until January 21, 2013 you can get 10% off your purchase if the total is over $75.  This means a savings of at least $7.50 on fantastic products for your dog.

Get 10% off $75 or More at Dog.com! - Use code: CJDWEEK2 - Ends 1/21/2013

Ferret.com

Ferret.com is offering $5 Off orders over $75.  They have a great range of products for ferrets, from food to hammocks. 

Save $5 on orders of $75 or More at Ferret.com! - Use code: CJFWEEK2 - Ends 1/21/2013

Here is an article covering some of the basic ferret supplies offered at ferret.com.

Horse.com

Horse.com is offering two great deals.  From now until January 31 it is their big blanket blow out.
Winter Blanket Blowout! Save up to 45% Turnout Blankets and Sheets at Horse.com! - Use code: CJHWEEK
Another great promotion to help horse owners save money is this deal for $10 off orders over $100.

Save $10 on orders of $100 or more at Horse.com! - Use code: CJHWEEK2 - Ends 1/21/2013>

StatelineTack.com

And of course Statline Tack also has some fantastic January shopping deals.
They also offer a savings of $10 for purchases more than $100.

Save $10 on Orders of $100 or More at StateLineTack.com! - Use code: CJSWEEK2 - Ends 1/21/2013

Pet Care RX

Pet Care RX has great savings on pet supplies and medications and you can get free shipping right up until March, 2013.

Save up to 50% every day on Discount Pet Supplies at PetCareRx.com Pharmacy! Find pet meds for dogs, cats, and more! Enjoy FREE SHIPPING on orders over $49!

Only Natural Pet Store

Clicking on the ad will take you to the site where you will enjoy great savings, just make a note of the coupon code to get the discount on all your pet food, treats and supplies.

Supplies Needed for Owning a Miniature Horse or Pony

If you are considering getting a miniature horse or pony you might be wondering what supplies you need. Or perhaps you know somebody who owns a miniature horse or pony and are looking for gift ideas.

Halters and Lead Shanks

Normally a horse or pony is sold with a halter and lead shank, but not always, and sometimes it is just a good idea to have a spare halter and a few lead shanks If you intend to show your miniature horse or pony in conformation or halter classes you will also need a more decorative halter and shank for these reasons.

Grooming Supplies

There are many grooming supplies you need for brushing your miniature horse or pony. You will want a curry comb and dandy brush, as well as a mane and tail comb and hoof pick. There are other brushes and grooming tools that can be purchased later, including horse shampoo and conditioner. You may want to get a grooming kit to carry around your supplies in.

Medications and Wormers

Miniature horses and ponies should be wormed once a year if they have a large pasture with only a few horses, twice a year is better if there are many equines in the same space.

Pretty much those are all the things you really need to buy for your miniature horse or pony unless you want to ride it, but do note that only the larger miniature horses are suitable for riding, the smaller ones are normally only suited as “pets” or for driving and should not be ridden.

If you are thinking of riding your miniature horse or pony the other supplies you will want are as follows.

Bridle and Bit

Bridles come in many styles, if your pony is already broke to ride you should know what type of bridle and bit were being used on it before you bought it and should stick with the same type. Inexperienced riders should use snaffle bits rather than curb bits as a jerk on the reins with a curb bit can really hurt a horse's mouth. There are many different types of snaffle, some being more severe than others. Click here to learn more about bits and how they work.

Saddle and Saddle Pad

Saddles need to fit the horse and rider. If your pony has high withers and a narrow build be sure to select a saddle to fit it, the same applies to fatter, wider ponies. Saddle pads are also required and go under the saddle. You will also require a girth, or cinch, to keep the saddle on the horse. You can also buy bareback pads to make bareback riding more comfortable.

Boots, Helmets, and other Riding Apparel.

Boots with a heel are a must as they prevent the rider's foot from going through the stirrup. Helmets are also an essential. Even a fall from a short horse can be dangerous if your head hits the wall or is stepped on by the horse. 

Shop a great selection of Riding Apparel at StateLineTack.com PLUS $5.99 Flat Shipping!

Other Bonus Supplies for Owners of Miniature Horses or Ponies

You may also want to buy toys for horses, such as balls they can play with in their pasture. Toys are particularly important for horses or ponies that live alone. Toys help relieve boredom and may prevent problem behavior such as weaving or cribbing.

You may also want to consider supplements and treats. These help an owner to bond with their equine. Generally miniature horses and ponies do not need a lot of rich feed (and can founder if overfed a grain ration) but supplements can be used to improve the quality of their coat and herbal remedies can help with some behavior problems (such as moody mares).

For a new owner a book on horse and pony care might also be a good gift idea.

Take 5% OFF ANY SIZE ORDER at Statelinetack.com. Use coupon code CJSL5OFF at checkout.

Where is the Environmentally Friendly Transportation

I remember as a kid (I was born in the 1960's) being told that one day soon gas and oil would run out. While many people lived in fear of this day, I was excited! I looked forward to the day when we would return to the horse and buggy. That day has still not arrived and cars are becoming slightly more efficient (although, as mentioned, still not as efficient as one would think). 

Well, time has passed and we are using cars (oil, and gas) more than ever. In fact, when I was young it was usually one car per family, now many families have two, or more, cars. It does not look like we will be going back to the horse and buggy anytime soon. 

Horses are very environmentally friendly (more so than cattle). They are a renewable resource. They need only grass (hay) and water. If worked hard some need oats or other grain too. While people often replace their car every 6 to 10 years, a well cared for horse can last much longer. Their waste is good for the soil. If you want to be blunt about it their remains can be used too, either as pet food, or to return to nature in a natural way to fertilize the soil.

On the other hand, horses were not always treated particularly well when they served exclusively as forms of transportation.  It was seeing cruelty to horses (and other humans) that inspired Anna Sewell to write her famous book "Black Beauty".  Even now improvements could be made to how carriage horses are treated when used to pull tourists around various cities.

What do you think, are horses the environmentally friendly transportation of the future?  Do you think there will be a time when we go back to the horse and buggy?

Peruvian Pasos, Exotic Horses

For as long as I can remember I have been a horse crazy girl. Neither of my parents were horse people so it was rather hard to convince them to buy me a horse, however I did manage to convince them to get me riding lessons. The riding lessons were your typical English riding lessons, done in groups on lesson horses.

 

One year the stable, which was in Edmonton, hosted a showcase of different horse breeds. One of the breeds that attended were Peruvian Pasos. While horses are not really “exotic pets” the Peruvian Paso certainly qualifies as an exotic type of horse.

The Peruvian Paso not only looks exotic but has two very unique gaits for which it was bred. These gaits are the Paso Llano and the Sobreando. Both are four beat lateral gaits, left hind, left front, right hind, right front. The Sobreando is slightly faster with a pause between the second and third step.

At the showcase of the breeds there were a few Peruvians, the one I remember best (this was almost 30 years ago) was a Palomino named Gato del Sol, cat of the sun. I remember him because I actually got to ride him. As part of the breed showcase people were allowed to ride some of the horses. I rode him (this being only for a few minutes) but wow I can honestly say he was smooth like silk. He also had a beautiful thick mane and tail; characteristics of the breed. They do not even cut a bridal path.

photo source - The gaits of the Peruvian Paso are natural and foals perform them from a young age, it almost looks like a trot here, but is not.

All in all these are very showy, beautiful, horses which, I think, qualifies them as exotic!

Peruvian Pasos are fairly rare, with less than 30,000 worldwide. Peruvian Paso horses originated in Peru but there are several breeders in the States and Canada (at least two breeders right here in Alberta). Some breeders have been criticized for trying to change the breed. Horses should stand between 14.1 and 15.2 hands but some people want to make them taller, others try to make them faster and have altered the gait too much in the opinion of other purist breeders. If you are looking for a Peruvian Paso try to familiarize yourself with the breed and only buy from a breeder who is sticking with correct breed standard.

To see more pictures and learn more about the Peruvian Paso, Read Here.

If you are a kid and want to try to convince your parents to buy you a horse (good luck) you can Read Here.

Mules, Donkeys, Burros, and Horses

Horses, Donkeys, and Mules have so many things the same, but are actually very different when you get right down to it. 

Most people only think of the ears, donkeys have big ears, horses have relatively small ears, and mules have ears that are in between.  There are many other differences between horses, donkeys, and mules... which you can read about by following the link at the bottom of the page.

Oh wait, did we forget to mention Burros?  Not Really!  Burro is just another name for a donkey.  In some places "Burro" is the term  used for the smaller donkeys.  Just as horses come in different sizes, including miniatures and ponies, so too do donkeys, from the large, mammoth donkeys, to the smaller, miniature donkeys.

A mule is a cross between a male donkey, a jack, and a female horse, a mare.  Mules are hybrid animals and they have an odd number of chromosomes (63) and as such they are typically sterile, although a few female mules (jennys) have been known to have foals, it is very rare.

Horses on the left, a standard donkey on the right.

One of the reasons why people breed horses and donkeys together to make mules is because while horses are strong, they do not have the endurance of a donkey and require more food.  Donkeys are smarter than horses and will be safer when travelling on dangerous ground.  Mules make excellent work animals as a result of this combination.

Read More (and see more pictures) about the Differences between Horses, Donkeys, and Mules.

Read More about Pet Donkeys.

Teacup and Miniature Pets

Many people think it is cute to have a miniature pet, these are also known as “teacup” pets. Sadly this trend is generally considered cruel, the pets are stunted through poor nutrition, poor genetics, and generally have shorter lifespans riddled with health problems.

Many people who own “teacup” pets become defensive, insisting that their pet is in the best of health. In truth they do not know what is going on with their pet internally (liver and heart problems are common) and many health problems related to being stunted do not show up until later in life – and most owners simply attribute these problems to old age, rather than poor breeding or a lack of proper nutrition in the animals growing stages.

As mentioned teacup pets are intentionally stunted in many ways, breeding genetically small animals, to genetically small animals, is one of these ways, as well many unscrupulous breeders cheat on feeding, giving the growing animals less food than they should have, and often wean the animals early to sell them extra young.

Buyers should be aware that buying extremely stunted animals supports these cruel practices, and may leave them with a pet that has huge veterinarian bills later in life.

“Teacup” dogs are probably the best example of this breeding practice, but it does occur in the exotic pet industry too, most often with pigs. Many people are fooled, unaware that pigs grow slowly, and their stunted animal will still get quite large.

photo source - These miniature horses are at a show, they are not as small as some breeders are striving for - and are being shown to prove they are healthy and worthy of being bred.  The extremely stunted miniature animals would never be able to win a ribbon in a conformation class (most have leg deformities).

Miniature horses have been so grossly stunted that many die when foaling (giving birth) and many cannot give birth without human help.

photo source - In contrast to the miniature horses further above, we see Thumbelina - and by looking at her you can see the deformities in her joints, and head.  Thankfully her owners are not planning on breeding her. She is actually a dwarf as opposed to being a miniature.

In general it is advisable to stay away from anyone marketing or selling “teacup” pets of any variety. If you want a small pet – get a hamster! 

Further Reading

Creatures Great and Small - breeding to extremes - a list of health problems

What Color are Zebras?

Sometimes we will hear somebody ask if Zebras are black with white stripes or white with black stripes.  The trick to answering this is to look at their skin color, which we can see on their muzzle area.  The skin of the zebra is black, as such we can see that the Zebra is a black animal with white stripes. 

By American Library of Congress (http://www.dinosoria.com/mammifere/zebre_100.jpg) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Lots of horse loving girls (and boys) think owning a Zebra would be pretty cool, however these animals are not commonly kept as "pets" simply because they are hard to domesticate, or tame.  In the photo a team of four zebras is actually three zebras and a more tame - horse!

Zebras can be kept as pets in some areas, permits are required and they need to have sufficient space.  These are not pets suitable for everyone, and should only be kept by those interested in zebras as an animal - not for the sake of getting attention by having an unusual equine!


You may be interested to know that there are many different kinds of zebra each with its on unique traits.  Feel free to read some more interesting facts about these amazing animals, click here.