This is My Trail Horse: Johnny B Good

Becky Pearman Photohraphy

Johnny B Good, Rocky Mountain Horse 
By Laura Hark-Plumley

Johnny B Good and I currently rank 3rd in the nation in Open, I am over run with joy! Johnny and I are new to each other as I just purchased him the end of March 2013, he no prior experience with ACTHA or any type of obstacle competition. His breeder had introduced obstacles on her farm with him when he was younger, that had been several years ago though. When I tried Johnny out I knew, he was the future ACTHA horse I had been looking for(I had already tried out other Rocky Mountains at other farms and knew after 5 minutes in the saddle, they were not what I was wanting). When we are not competing I ride on trails near my farm with my dogs. I also haul and ride with friends or have friends come here and we all ride. Johnny just needs 6 more points for his bronze medal, I am hoping we can earn that before winter. Johnny truly enjoys the challenge of the obstacles at the competitions. I have had Johnny to 7 ACTHA rides since May, placing at everyone and winning first place at 4 of them. One was a tie and due to my entry number being second to the person I tied with, we are marked as a second place or we would have even more points!

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Johnny B Good will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA Facebook by leaving your story with a photo in the private message box of the ACTHA Facebook page or by emailing facebook@actha.us.

Old Horses, New Friends - Part 4/4

Barbara Hackney and Lady

A couple hours into the trip, Della’s husband pulled into a rest area to let Bubba out of the trailer, take his blanket and boots off, and let him walk around the rest area and eat fresh grass. In seven months, Bubba was down some four hundred pounds, he had rain rot in the form of painful sores over his body, his hair had no glow and his feet were rotted and in terrible condition. Not even making a stop at the house, Bubba was taken directly to their veterinarian. Bubba’s feet were x-rayed, his teeth floated, and he received shots for worms following a thorough exam. Bubba had nutrition rings indicating colic from where he had been turned out in a pasture of alfalfa following a lifetime of hay and grain. Bubba’s heels had been trimmed to where he walked on his bulbs. The vet had Della’s farrier join her to develop a plan to rebuild Bubba’s hooves. Getting Bubba back turned out to be a rescue mission, and Bubba went through two years of recovery.

Bubba was with Della’s husband in Arizona and the hot dry sandy climate and soil were exactly what Bubba needed. The Texas farrier worked with an Arizona farrier to coordinate the plan to make feet for him. The horse could barely walk. The ride home had to have been extremely painful, but that horse was so happy to be back with his family, he must had just endured the pain knowing he would end up back in his old pasture. Bubba’s road to recovery included silicone hooves, acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, and the warm dry Arizona climate healed his rotten feet and skin.

When Della returned from Iraq she took Bubba back to Texas. Della and Bubba went right back into the show pen and had a successful show career, usually winning high point at most horse shows they went to. In 2006, Della deployed to Iraq for 15 months. When she returned this time from Iraq, she took a lengthy rest from the show pen and started doing ACTHA CTCs. She and Bubba enjoy the trail rides so much; she decided not to go back to the show pen. Bubba, now a 23 year old still ambles along the trails and has not slowed down at all. He rules the pasture no matter how big Della’s other horse is. 

It is very important to take care of our horses at any age. Like with anything, the better you care for it, the longer it will last. Older horses still have lots of miles left in them, and many make a perfect mount for riders of all ages. ACTHA CTCs and AOCs are perfect outlets to ride an older horse for fun and exercise and to meet great people like Barbara and Diana, and their older horses.

This is last of the Four Part series story. Check in next week for a new member story! We welcome all members' stories! Everyone has a special story to share about their horses and experiences.

We would love to hear yours! Each published submission will receive a hat from TechNiche Cooling Products (while supplies last)! You can send stories to Debbie@actha.us. Please also include a couple of good quality photos!

Members of the Week: Dawn and Charlie Spangler

Introducing this weeks Members of the Week, Dawn and Charlie Spangler! It's not often we have an exemplary couple to win this honor, so let's celebrate their dedication and devotion to not only each other, but ACTHA as well...

"Dawn has been an ACTHA member since early on and I am not sure of her Account Number but it is a pretty low number. :) She has traveled all over Texas to attend rides and I want to go on record saying her husband Charlie has been to every single one and drove her to and fro and often volunteers as Judge's Assistant. While Dawn and Charlie never had children their beloved gelding Hondo has carried Dawn through every ACTHA ride she attended. Now I don't want to state Dawn's age but she has some years on most of us and the amount of try and determination she puts forth with the the support and encouragement of Charlie is a special love most of us are in awe of. While Dawn does not do Facebook. She does however have email addresses to every Ride host, Event Host, Seminar held in Texas and you can bet if you want to know when or where one is being held Dawn can tell you! Her friends all love her to death and while she does go into her "training mode" a lil more more often that the rest of us on the trails (snickering) we would not change her for a thing or her big hearted hubby that is always by her side and sitting at the LQ waiting for his beloved to get back off the trails...She has even advanced to Open at her age, and I think has put in more time and training than any of us."

Congratulations to Dawn and Charlie Spangler of Texas, for being this week's Members of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com 

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF . Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to alex@actha.us , or via private message on the Facebook page.

Charity of the Week: Joy Ranch

Hello, my name is Tucker. I was donated to Joy Ranch, a Christian Home for Children in Woodlawn, Virginia by my kind owner.  She knew I needed a very special job to do.  I've gone by "Spots" for years, but the kids at the Ranch renamed me, saying I looked like a "Tucker."  I am an Appaloosa gelding about 16 years old.  I used to be a show horse, and lived on a farm where I was a pasture mate for younger horses in training.

Though I only came here in the Spring, I was in time for the wonderful Equine Program that took place this summer.  I'm pretty laid back and I try to get along with all the horses.  I'm not the newest guy here; Buddy and General came after I did.  Everyone gets excited when a new horse is adopted.

I've been around kids a lot!  I babysit inexperienced riders because I'm so cool at what I do.  With the help of Ms. Brooke, Ms. Glenna, and Ms. Mary, the children at Joy Ranch learned to brush my coat, pick up my feet, and saddle and bridle me.  Except for the occasional backwards bridle and saddle pad, it's been a pretty good experience.  They say I'm very patient and I teach the children to be patient with themselves and each other.

Though I enjoy the attention from all of the Joy Ranch children, Aaron is my special friend.  We just have a way of understanding each other.  Aaron says I'm a good horse who's easy to ride, and he trusts me.  I was the first horse he had ever ridden.  He says that riding me makes him feel good about himself.  Aaron and I especially enjoy the trail rides!

I am looking forward to spending the rest of my life here at Joy Ranch.  Whether walking around the riding ring or out on the trail, I enjoy the children of Joy Ranch and hope to make a difference in their lives.  They sure have made a difference in mine.

Blessings,

Glenna H. Cox

What can Sox do for your horse?

The beginning...

Equine Pastern Dermatitis, aka Scratches is one of the most difficult conditions to heal on equine legs.  As summer has progressed this condition not only has reared its ugly head but presented equine owners with a frustrating condition that will often not resolve until long into the winter months.  By the time you have it conquered, a wet, warm, spring and the return of the biting insects, the process of controlling this condition begins again.  

“Scratches” is a term to describe a number of inflammatory leg skin problems that are a combination of bacteria and internal parasite driven conditions.  Bob Brusie, DVM, West Palm Beach Equine Medical Center, explained “Up to 5 years ago, oral Ivermectin was very effective in treating the internal parasites involved, but now the parasites have evolved and built a resistance to this treatment.”  Steve Soule, DVM, West Palm Beach Equine Medical Center describes the condition as “epidemic.” but further went on to explain that “the greatest enemy to healing is the constant re-infection caused by insects and the dirt in the environment. If you can protect the area from the flies and dirt, while allowing the surface of the skin to get air, we can get something done to handle these conditions. Summer Whinnys™ can offer all three of our protection needs.”

After only 5 days with Summer Whinnys™.

Summer Whinnys™ incorporate the most advanced fiber science to bring your equine the highest level of leg protection.  Embedded antimicrobial copper and silver ions in the fiber of the yarn inhibit the grown of bacteria, fungi and mold in the socks.

While Summer Whinnys™ don’t heal conditions on the legs; they maintain a clean environment useful for allowing necessary air to reach the skin, while reducing dirt, debris, and bacteria near any pre-existing wounds or sores.  When flies are prevented from spreading bacteria from other infected animals to your equine, your veterinarian, good “nursing” and the healthy immune system of your horse can get the healing done.

Photos speak 1000 words, but the science of the antimicrobial fiber utilized in Summer Whinnys™ is darned cool stuff. The antimicrobial agent itself is a unique variation of silver element that produces a chemical species known as hydroxyl radicals.  These hydroxyl radicals attack microorganisms along several parallel pathways - simultaneously degrading the cell’s protective biofilm, rupturing the cellular membrane, and disrupting the biological processes within the cell, providing multiple mechanisms of action.  This is how the clean environment around the leg is maintained.

Wicking fibers help keep the surface of the skin dry and a dry environment is an enemy

of fungal issues. Equine Pastern Dermatitis can be further irritated by the UV-light of the sun and Summer Whinnys™ provide a nice double layer of protection from sunlight.

“So far, I’ve had unanimous success in alleviating every problem I’ve applied the socks to.” Steve Soule, DVM, USET Veterinarian, West Palm Beach Equine Medical Center.

Not just for horses, great for any four legged hoofed friend!

Summer Whinnys™ belong in your barn all year around when critical protection may be needed. Wash them again and again without weakening the antimicrobial qualities of the fiber.  If you want, wash your horse and the socks while they are still on the legs and get two jobs done at once.  Moisture activates the copper and silver ions in the fiber so wet socks can simply be left on the legs to dry.

Sox For Horses, Inc. is a proud sponsor of the ACHTA.  They offer our members a 15% -25% discount on their summer or winter protection socks; Whinny Warmersâ, that are made to offer warmth and comfort to the horses that suffer from circulation impairing conditions and arthritis.   They are also active in supporting horse rescue groups so we think they are a good fit with ACHTA. 

This is My Trail Horse: Bella

By Jolie Clark

This is my trail horse, Bella. I have owned her since she was three. We have ridden all over the trails in Western Colorado. We don't do endurance but some of the rides we have been on have been pretty tough. We ride for fun and she is the love of my life and shares all good and bad. She is 15, I broke her to ride myself. Her spirit is sweet and kind. A memorable ride was last year on a camping/pack trip with friends. We began in the West Elk Wilderness at Horse Ranch Park and rode over Beckwith Pass, it begins in the slide rock and tops out into beautiful green full of trees and grass, then we went over Swampy pass past majestic blue ponds, wild flowers up a snaking trail to our camp site for the night. Then over Castle Pass where the tops of the mountains had castle like rock formations on them and when the sun shown through one of them it went clear through. Breathtaking. We rode on into Horse Ranch Park just as where we began. Happy and content. 

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Bella will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA  by leaving your story with a photo in the private message box of the ACTHA Facebook page or by emailing alex@actha.us.

Old Horses, New Friends: Part 3 of 4

By Della St Louis

Lady has a tremendous admiration for Barbara, and allows Barbara to rub her belly. To show her appreciation, Lady stretches her head out and shakes it up and down, indicating to Barbara she hit the right spot. Not long in the tooth, but missing a few, Lady often lets her tongue hang from the location of the missing teeth. This gives Lady a somewhat humorous look that attracts the attention of many riders. More than one rider has commented to Barbara about the drunken look effect which gives Barbara something to chuckle about, and makes her day as it always gets the conversation started. If there is nothing to talk about on the ride, the hanging tongue always gets fifteen minutes of fame.

Looking back over the 20+ years the gal pals have hung together, Barbara is truly content riding this old gal. After Team Penning, Drill Teams and Rodeos, Barbara just wants to enjoy Lady, the wilderness and other riders. Whether she is riding in Arizona, or California with the Mounted Patrol, in Nevada with the Wild Horse Association or in Texas, she knows she is safe on her trusted old gal pal. Barbara joined the ACTHA in October 2010, and moved to the Lone Star State in September 2012. Barbara and her best friend Lady now travel throughout the Lone Star State enjoying ACTHA rides and wilderness trails, and meeting amazing riders whom she has something in common with, many of whom ride older horses of 20+ years of age. Although so far Barbara has not met up with anyone with a horse older then Lady, perhaps there are others. One thing is for sure; when and if Barbara and Lady meet up with them, they will have much to converse about. Some topics sure to be discussed include love your older horse for the time you have left with them, keep your older horse limbered up, exercise is a key factor to a long life, learn from them, an old horse can learn new tricks, and so can their owner.

Della St. Louis’s horse, Sidewinder Skip, aka “Bubba”, was not always a trail horse, and Della did not set out to buy a Quarter Horse. In 1993 when she returned from two tours in Germany, she chanced upon the stables at Fort Rucker, AL. She became friends with the owners of a handsome sorrel gelding named Bubba. Della ended up owning him after only a few months of negotiating a sale price.
Della and Bubba set out on a long journey of show pens and military installations from Michigan to Florida, New Mexico to Georgia, and back again. Over the twenty plus years of ownership, Della and Bubba had a successful show career despite all the military moves, deployments, climates and terrain changes. Bubba managed to fit in wherever he was stabled.

Bubba was sold in 2003. Both Della and her husband were departing to military locations that did not allow them to keep and care for their horses so both horses were sold and shipped away; Bubba to his new owner on the east coast, their other horse went west. Surprisingly only after seven months, Bubba’s current owner no longer wanted him and offered to sell him back. Arriving on the east coast farm were Bubba was stalled, Della’s husband went directly to Bubba’s stall, led by Della’s Beagles who seemed to know exactly what stall Bubba was in. Bubba was in deplorable condition. He had been kept in a very small dark wet stall with standing manure. Bubba looked as though there was no life in him left. As soon as Bubba saw the dogs and Della’s husband, Bubba immediately became full of life. Bubba almost loaded himself in the trailer. The lady was paid, and back to Texas they went.

This is Part Three of a Four Part series story. Check in next week for Part Four! We welcome all members' stories! Everyone has a special story to share about their horses and experiences.
We would love to hear yours! Each published submission will receive a hat from TechNiche Cooling Products (while supplies last)! You can send stories to Debbie@actha.us.
Please also include a couple of good quality photos!

Charity of the Week: Horses for Healing

By Anthony D. Rabak

In 2000, while Valerie and I were living in Elk Grove, I finally got a confirmed name for the strange neurological sensations I’d been experiencing: RRMS, a disorder called Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis.  I was looking for ways to deal with my new medical acquisition and I learned about equine therapy. Turns out, horse riding is something beneficial when dealing with a disability. Enjoyable therapy? I had to learn more. Why a horse? These majestic creatures, being a dynamic living animal, provide a unique multi-sensory means of therapy: the shape of their backs provides a perfect platform. Their pelvis is like ours in that it has a three-dimensional movement (up, down, and side to side). Their gait simulates our walking and the repeating motion helps a rider improve muscle tone, strength, posture, flexibility and balance. A horse’s natural rhythm gently moves muscles and the spine. Sitting on a horse can stretch hip joints reducing pain and spasticity in the legs. Many restricted to wheelchairs, braces or crutches can feel mobile again when riding a horse. On the outside you may just see a body riding a horse, inside it’s actually a spirit soaring.

Besides physical benefit, horse riding improves social and communication skills, self-esteem, self-awareness and self-achievement. I weigh 115 pounds with two weak legs, yet I successfully control an 1100 pound animal with four strong ones.  An empowering, goal-oriented and enjoyable therapy. Trained instructors needed volunteers and, of course, the horses all make this possible.

After diagnosis, I found a local program, but they had a long waiting list. It was two years before I received my call offering a riding spot. Unfortunately, it came when packing the last boxes to start our new life in Grass Valley. Once we moved, I was  blessed to find an organization that answered my prayers to ride: Horses for Healing. I rode a couple of years before I had a paralyzing set-back that kept me out of the saddle for a year. Fortunately, with physical therapy and faith, I regained my ability to walk with crutches. Over the last 2 years, I’m riding tall again! (When you’re under 5’2”, that’s a big thing!)

Some believe angels have two wings, I’ve learned that some have four legs!

“There’s something about the outside of a horse that’s is good for the inside of a man.”

Teddy Roosevelt

This is especially true of the benefits of therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs, the disabled, the autistic, as well as troubled teens.

Member of the Week: Nickie Johnson!

Introducing this week's Member of the Week, Nickie Johnson of Texas! 

"Nickie Johnson has been a lover of all things equine since the first time she laid eyes on a horse. This love was fostered by her uncle Wencel Mull and his daughter Janey who helped Nickie get her first horse Queenie- from there, she never looked back. Nickie has competed in many events including barrel racing, ranch sorting, team penning (qualifying for the Quarter Horse World Show at least 5 times), Stock Horse of Texas, America's Most Beautiful Horse, and now, ACTHA competitive trail. She enjoys the unique challenges and sense of comradely that come with ACTHA competitions. She and her husband Mark Johnson recently moved to a ranch in Cranfills Gap, TX where they have seven horses. Nickie is a retired registered nurse and has two children and one four-legged child, a Jack Russel named Tilly, who can be found by Nickie's side at any ACTHA event."

Congratulations to Nickie Johnson of Texas, for being this week's Member of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF. Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to alex@actha.us

This is My Trail Horse: Rocket

My horse, Rocket Lady's Dream (aka Rocket) is quite the horse. Rocket is a 16.1 hand chestnut dream of a Tennessee Walking horse gelding - and he means the world to me for more than one reason. Here is his story.

I came from a home where owning a horse was not an option. Being a completely horse-obsessed girl, this was difficult. When I was 15 I discovered a local equine-based 4H group where members were not required to own a horse. I was hooked. The club's leader, Connie Henley, was truly a God-send. She taught me to ride and after a few short classes, decided I was ready for my first horse show. I spent many years and many hours in Connie's barn riding and showing her horses, as well as a lot of time getting to know Connie. She became my best friend and I hers. We spent countless hours together riding, showing and just talking horses - something a horse crazy kid would kill for!

Several years later, when I was in college pursuing my dream of becoming a veterinarian, Connie became very sick with lung cancer. Being in college, I was not able to see her as much as I would have liked, but I did what I could. Connie was very sick but was determined to ride as it made her so happy. Since she was on portable oxygen and was very weak, her mount had to be a special one. That's when we found Rocket.

When I went with Connie to look at him the first time I was not impressed. He was very thin, had hair matted to his skin, and was infested with worms. Connie, however, had that special knack of being able to see through all of that to what was underneath. A truly special horse. She decided to buy him.

Over the next several months Connie's health declined rapidly, but she was able to ride Rocket as he was safe, sane, and smooth. He never disappointed. During her illness, Connie confided in me that once she was gone, she wanted Rocket to be mine. She wanted him to have a home where she knew he would be safe and loved without measure for the rest of his days. I told her that I would do it, although I had never owned a horse of my own before. Then, about a year and a half later, Connie's cancer took her life.

Rocket is mine now, and has been for about a year. He continues to be a blessing to me every day. We trail ride nearly every weekend when the weather is good and are thinking about trying an ACTHA ride for the first time soon. He is a continued reminder, every day, of a very special woman who changed my life forever.

Thank you for allowing me to share our story.

Tiffany Propst, DVM

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Rocket will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA  by leaving your story with a photo in the private message box of the ACTHA Facebook page or by emailing alex@actha.us.

Old Horses, New Friends

By Della St Louis

Diana got the riding bug in 2012 when she got involved in the Extreme Cowboy Challenge and American Horse Challenge riding programs. This is when Maverick’s training really went into over drive. The Extreme Cowboy Challenge, although still timed like ACTHA, is a harder and longer ride. Diana found it best to use an Aussie saddle on her short/dropped horse. This kept the saddle from jamming in to the withers and from hitting his hip area, as standard western saddles were too long for him. Usually riding in English, Diana never experienced having a saddle to long for a horse. Diana will admit, Maverick may look a little different with the Aussie saddle, but he is happy!

Maverick and Diana have added to their equestrian discipline by doing the American Horse Challenge (AHCA), but continue to compete in the Extreme Cowboy Association (EXCA) and American Competitive Trail Challenge (ACTC). Diana is always surprised with every ride at the heart and willingness that Maverick displays. Last year Maverick was top ten in AHCA taking Diana to Reserve in Legends at the Finals in Abilene, TX, Top 5 in EXCA finals in Hamilton, TX, and won his Silver medal in ACTHA. Diana continues to rack in the awards, winning her silver Elite for riders over 55, and Diana says “Bless his heart, he has won several buckles and spurs this past year”.

Growing up, Diana rode Hunters and Jumpers; she stated that the 17year olds always seemed so much more steady and willing. Her daughter Robin, as a child rode a 20 year old Spanish Gal to win Western Riding and high points in her division. Old does not mean going to the rocking chair for horses or people. Better to be ridden, live and be happy than be left in a pasture and forgotten. Diana will always have glorious memories of Maverick, but expressed that it will be a very sad day when he is gone and there will always be a glow in her heart for the “Old Man”.

Not everyone favors a gelding. Barbara Hackney has a fondness for mares, and she has been riding Lady for over 20 years. Lady celebrated her 28th birthday at the ACTHA Freedom Horse Ride. When we were told how old Lady was, Lady showed absolutely no signs of slowing down, is muscle toned and other then one slightly grayed hair, she easily passes for 10.

Born 9 April 1985, puts Lady at just about the oldest horse riding the ACTHA CTCs. Perhaps that she was born in Colorado at the John Smart Ranch, a place known for hearty horses able to survive the Colorado winters, is the reason she holds together so well, or, she is just one tough Ol’ Gal.
Definitely an all-around horse, Lady started her early days doing western pleasure and halter horse. Back “in the day” halter horses did not need to be 16+ hands as they are today. Built like a Ford Truck, Lady was the perfect Halter fit. Lady went into training for Working Cow Horse, with a low center of balance, and excelled in this event as well.

Living in Nevada at the time and looking for something to do, Barbara set out to find a gal pal. That’s how she ended up with Lady, 1 August 1993, the two became gal pals. Lady too must have been ready for a new owner. The two bonded, and in no time Lady was willing to allow Barbara to guide her through daily routine rides. Lady was very acceptable to trying new things, again allowing Barbara to pick something new to do, and go for it.

Owning the same horse for an extended period of time does have its advantages. Lady loves water and enjoys playing in it. Barbara is always prepared to fight lady at the hose, knows the water trough will be about empty, or will have dirt in it from Lady playing in it. Occasional Lady will get water in her ears from dunking her head in the water, and sometimes there are items in the water that Lady has put there just so she can pull them back out. Lady always talks to Barbara, so she expects that, and that is handy. If Lady ever stops talking, Barbara will know there is something wrong.

This is Part Two of a Four Part series story. Check in next week for Part Three! We welcome all members' stories! Everyone has a special story to share about their horses and experiences.

We would love to hear yours! You can send stories to Debbie@actha.us.
Please also include a couple of good quality photos!

Charity of the Week: Mustang Spirit Rescue

By Tania Bennett

In 2001, after an injury I was told by my doctor that I would never go back to work. After several hours of crying my husband asked me what I wanted to do. My reply was "sell the house (we lived in the city) and move to the desert so we can have horses"! 60 days later we were packed up and on our way to our new home. In April 2002 Mustang-Spirit was created and we opened our gates to all breeds of horses in need. Since that day we have assisted in rehabbing and/or re-homing over 600 precious lives, mostly equine, however that rather large list also includes macaws, cockatoos, chickens, ducks, steer, goats, sheep, pot belly pigs and the occasional dog.

On Aug 7th 2010 I responded to a craigslist ad which read "QH mare, in foal, bad knee, first $50 takes her". I explained I was hauling a horse to San Diego and there was no way I could make it that day but if they held on to her till the next morning I would give them $100. After promising to take her "no matter what" I was given directions. The next morning one of my volunteers and I arrived to pick up this mare. 1/2 hour later we had the mare "Red" on the trailer and were headed home. The knee looked bad and I feared the worst. Had the vet out who said she would need to be sedated and several x-rays would need to be done but since she was so far along and it was obviously an old injury we should wait till after she foaled.

On Dec 3, 2010 at about 8:30 a.m. Red, now renamed Crimson went into labor. Everything seemed to be progressing well until baby's shoulders were almost out and Crimson just stopped pushing and the baby had started to go back inside. Did I happen to mention that Crimson was still only 2 years old at this time? Who would do that to such a young mare? Anyway, the vet was more than an hour away, so as I snapped picture after picture while I assured my husband he could deliver this baby. He waited for the next contraction and then started to help mom...we soon had a beautiful little carbon copy of Crimson on the ground trying to stand up. We named her Clover and we did all the normal imprinting stuff...she soon became a favorite at the rescue.

When baby was 4 days old we loaded Crimson & Clover into the trailer and hauled them to the vet for x-rays. The news was worse than expected. The vet said if it were not for the foal he would suggest she be put down right away, but since she obviously wanted to be a mom to this precious little one, he suggested we wait till she told us she was done. He said we would be lucky if she hung on for another 60 days.

When Clover was 87 days old mom just couldn't do it any longer, she refused to stand up and you could tell she had given up. The very hard, but obvious decision was made to humanly euthanize her as we could hear her still very young and still needing to nursing filly calling from the other side of the ranch. Luckily for this sweet baby, the paint mare (who was a retired brood mare) I mentioned above had taken an interest in this baby so we put them together so she could be her surrogate mother. Clover was already eating hay and junior and being with her new mom she got over losing her mother much faster than we expected. The following day we noticed that she was trying to nurse, but my paint mare did not have milk, then to our surprise, one of our wild mustang mares started calling Clover to the shared fence line and Clover start to nurse on this wild mustang (who by the way had not had a foal any time recently). The mare did not want to be with Clover, but she was willing to allow her to nurse for a few weeks at least a few times a day. Horses are just amazing!!

Clover continued to grow and be handled and at 5 months she was adopted by one of our younger volunteers. She was moved to the young ladies fathers home and she just seemed to thrive there. Unfortunately dad had to move out of state suddenly and Clover was moved to a stable. She was returned just before her 1 yr birthday. At the time of her return we found she required a minor surgery, and was put on some supplements to take care of her epiphysitis from being fed incorrectly, after she recovered from her surgery, her training was restarted.

Clover is now 2 1/2 years old, she clips, ties, trailers, tacks up easy, bathes, ponies, stands for farrier, lounges, is easy to catch and totally in your pocket, she has been to several adoption events with us including a Halloween event last year where she stood all day dressed up (in the wind) with large fairy wings flapping...she is just so easy going and so used to us doing silly things with her that she is going to just be such a great horse. We have not ridden her yet, but she has had someone on her back once and was totally unphased.

Clover had a really rough start in her life and has gone through so much with losing her mom to being returned at such a young age. She really needs someone who is willing to commit to being her person, who will continue to teach her, love her and give her a home for the rest of her life! She stands 14hh now and is still growing (mom was 14.2 not sure about dad). This little girl is a pleasure to be around and really wants her own person soon!

Member of the Week Kathy Haulbrook

Introducing this week's Member of the Week, Kathy Haulbrook of Florida!

"Kathy is an amazing rider. She always comes out and does her very best on her sturdy little Halflinger pony. Kathy never worries about competing, she's just in it for the fun and love of riding out on the trail. She is a remarkable lady who is always kind and ready to ride. I hope that when I'm her age, I'm still able to get out there and ride!"

Congratulations to Kathy Haulbrook & her haflinger of Florida, for being this week's Member of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com Photo credit goes to Photographs by Smooch, thank you for allowing publication.

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF. Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to facebook@actha.us, or via private message on the Facebook page.

This is My Trail Horse: Riding on Faith

By Nicole Matuza

"My horse found me after we lost our 15 year old son Anthony. I was looking on line at a horse for a friend when I stumbled on a 6 month old filly named Anthony's Faith Beleiv'n. She was born the day after our son was buried. We bought her and raised her and she came in 2nd place at a recent ACTHA ride sponseed by Rosemary Farm upstate NY. I had no idea what an awesome horse she would turn out to be. We are going on our second ACTHA ride on September 28 2013. Thank you for recognizing the "trail" horses for how truly special they are." Thank you for sharing such an amazing story with us, Nicole! The Lord works in mysterious ways.

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Faith will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA Facebook by leaving your story with a photo in the private message box of the ACTHA Facebook page or by emailing facebook@actha.us.

Old Horses, New Friends (Part 1)

By Della St Louis

We believe in riding older horses.  This summer, the delightful ladies in this article, happen to all ride horses over 20 years of age, all met while riding the ACTHA Freedom Horse Ride.  We were drawn to each other and formed a bond because of our admiration for our older mounts.  A topic of discussion was our response when asked to help people find a beginner horse for a family member; we most often suggest they consider an older horse.  This is often met with a frown and “No thanks, older horses always have problems”.  We disagree and these are the stories of Diana Wingfield and Maverick, Barbara Hackney and Perky Lucky Lady “Lady”, and Della St. Louis and Sidewinder Skip “Bubba”.

Diana Wingfield rides Maverick, a stunning black gelding with a very bright star in the middle of his head.  He is not big in statue and stands at only 14-2 hands, but he gets Diana around and she has the utmost faith that wherever they ride, he will take care of her.  At 21 years of age, Maverick shows no signs of slowing down.

Maverick was donated to Diana for the Therapeutic riding program she started in Texas.  He was four at the time and came with some “Old Indian Way” training, but Diana felt he would be a good fit for her program.  Maverick’s first trailer ride was a bit overwhelming, but he survived and Diana was happy to have him.  Maverick was only asked to be kind to his riders; a task he succeeded at hooves down.

Diana’s number one helper for her riding program was her daughter Robin.  Life is not always fair.  Robin acquired an illness and unfortunately became disabled and sadly the Therapeutic Riding School had to be closed.  With Maverick out of a job, he soon became a transport for Diana’s grand kids, who she would see crawling up his back, bareback and with no bridle or halter.  Maverick, unfazed with the grand kids crawling over him, seemed content to amble round his pen with the grand kids in tow.  Diana rode him, but only occasionally just to keep the joints limbered and only on the property.  The only time Maverick ever left the farm was for his yearly trek to the vet.

Maverick had been such a trooper while serving as a therapeutic horse, Diana knew he would be perfect as her mount for the ACTHA CTCs.  When Diana heard about the ACTHA, she loaded up, saddled up and down the trails they went.  Maverick has been such an inspiration for her and others who ride with Diana; a strong team and hard to beat on the ACTHA CTCs.

As with some horses, Maverick has his faults.  Unfortunately he does not like to be away from his buddy Bailey and does not like man-made water obstacles.  He opens unlocked stall doors; this is not one of his positive assets.  Diana refers to Maverick as “The Old Man” but he is young at heart and accepts every path, trail, hilltop or valley that Diana points him to.  He is becoming more trusting of water after putting a white bath tub in his stall with balls floating. The shine of the water seems to be the problem.  Maverick is a little dropped in his back now and sometimes has issues breathing when it is dusty.  Thinking back to when she first got him as a four year old, Diana would have preferred she had taken more time with him, but having several others horses at the time, and playing coach, chauffeur and all about grandma to her grandson doing Special Olympics Equestrian events, she did not have the dedicated time for just one horse.

This is Part One of a Four Part series story. Check in next week for Part Two! We welcome all members' stories! Everyone has a special story to share about their horses and experiences. We would love to hear yours! You can send stories to Debbie@actha.us. Please also include a couple of good quality photos!

Member of the Week Kay Moore

Introducing this week's Member of the Week, Kay Moore of Texas!

"Kay Moore and her Arab, Buddy are truly amazing.  Kay has risen to the upper ranks of the Texas standings with grit and determination aboard her gorgeous gelding.  I won’t give up the secret of Kay’s age, but she is one of the most Senior riders in Texas!  Never say never! What is most impressive about Kay is that she always has a positive, edifying word to say to every rider, every host and every volunteer.  You never hear any griping, complaining or whining from Kay -- only sincere encouragement and praise. Kay, her husband and dog started out ACTHA rides with a cot in the back of their two-horse trailer.  Surgery mid-way for her husband slowed them down only slightly.  Rain?  Snow?  No problem!  They are an amazing couple and her husband supports her horse addiction with enthusiasm. Kay seems to have an instinct for when a person needs an encouraging word, off horse and on.  You’ll often see her “adopt” new ACTHA riders and teach them the ropes.  Kay’s first blue ribbon on Buddy at the Bunker Hill Freedom Horses ride was one of happy tears for virtually the whole rider crew that day.  Knowing how hard Kay and Buddy had worked to become a great team, we all enjoyed her first blue! Kay’s beautiful spirit encourages all of us to be just a little bit better people, to love each other, have grace with each other.  We wish her tremendous success in the 2013-2014 season as a new OPEN rider!"

Congratulations to Kay Moore & Buddy of Texas,  for being this week's Member of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here:http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF. Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to facebook@actha.us, or via private message on the Facebook page.

This is My Trail Horse: Two American Quarter Horses Who Love the Trail

By Gucci and Sweetsie

And Edited by our people

Maria Sorgie & Tara Langella

Hi everyone, I would like to introduce us to you.  I am Gucci and my sister horse is Sweetsie.  We are both quarter horses.  I do eventing and trail riding and Sweetsie aka” Baby Sweets “is a professional barrel racer.  Our people are both sisters also.  Mine is Maria and Sweetsie’s is Tara. 

We are lucky horses to have such great people to care for us and to take us trail riding.  Our people understand that it’s important for us horses to trail ride as much as possible.  It is good for our souls and there is no better way to learn to trust our people!!!  And wait till you hear this trail story.

One beautiful spring day our people tacked us up and headed for the trail.  We took a swim across the river and up up up a steep hill into the wilderness.  Sweetsie and I were very excited and happy to be spending our time with our people and the great outdoors.  We galloped across the paths and helped our people deal with all of the hikers, bikers, and fellow critters that kept sharing our path. Don’t worry everyone, we are brave trail horses and accustomed to such things since our people take us exploring on a steady basis. Our people chatted and pat us and assured us that everything was great.  (Why do you people have such nervous talk, we got this).  

Anyway, suddenly Sweetsie heard Tara say, “UH OH, there is a nest of baby eggs.” Suddenly from out of the sky a black and white large animal squawked and attacked us.  It swooped at my head, I did the brave act and decided to run the other way, Sweetsie attacked it, such a good big sister.  Then she turned and ran with me.  We weren’t scared, everyone, we knew we had to get our people to safety.  They hung on, which was a good thing.  I heard a nervous whoa from my person and Sweetsie heard it too, we stopped and walked our people back down the path and headed for home.  They let us swim all the way down the river.  And gallop up all the hills.  I like to hear our people tell us good things, and hear their happy chatter, and enjoy our adventures together.  Hope you enjoyed my little adventure.  And a great big thanks to ACTHA for recognizing us trail horses and all of our extended family that may need some help.  And to all our people out there who know how important trail riding is for us horses.  Happy Trails, America.  And watch out for those geese!!!!

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Gucci & Sweetsie will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA Facebook by leaving your story with a photo in the private message box of the ACTHA Facebook page or by emailing facebook@actha.us.