Colleen Peachey

EN TRENDS:

Latest Articles Written

Product Review: Equisafety Aspey Jacket

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 31, 2014 9:00 am -

Welcome to EN’s Product Review series! Who doesn’t love shopping, especially when the object of your search is new gear for yourself or your horse? As an enthusiast of all products equine, I LOVE trying out new gear. Please join me as I narrate my personal journey of trying out all of the products featured. While I will make no recommendations, I hope you have fun reading about my many adventures of trying new products, and that hearing about my personal experiences helps you on your own quest for new gear. Go Shopping.

One of the other aspects that I personally like are the areas with reflective detailing – which basically span all sides – this includes a silver Equisafey logo on the left sleeve – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

Have you ever walked into a room and felt like everyone was staring right at you? It’s at point that I wonder if I put together that awesome of an outfit…or if I’ve gone a bit overboard from a flashy perspective. Like maybe those sparky shoes or bold pattern mixing that I tried was a little too much. But hopefully it’s the former. And that I’m rocking that outfit.

I’m totally not someone who likes a lot of attention…well, most of the time. I do tend to gravitate towards BRIGHT colors. And I like adding a (little) bit of sparkle, or dare I say bling, to my outfits. Just something to make things a little more interesting.

So while I don’t like to stand out like a sore thumb, I do like the feeling of being an original. Which means living by my own sense of style, rather than just copying other trends.

There are occasions when I absolutely want to be SEEN though. And hacking out is one of those times–especially when hunting season is starting up. One of the things that I love about our farm is that deer usually seem to frequently hang out in the hay fields and woods. Which is really neat when you get to go through the year watching the little spotted fawns frolicking around the fields from the Spring grow up.

And while no one actually hunts on the farm, I always get a little nervous when this time of year rolls around, and folks are out hunting for Bambi. While I’m nervous for Bambi, I’m also very safety conscious for myself and my horses. Because I feel like I can never go overboard when it comes to safety!

I found that the orange of the Aspey Jacket was almost florescent in my opinion–and I personally LOVED it – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

The biggest concern on my mind is making sure that I am VISIBLE when I’m riding. Which means that I try to wear something bright, and maybe just grab my red saddle pad when I’m heading out to ride. But I don’t feel that many of my brightest colored pieces from my wardrobe are enough sometimes. And buying men’s construction or work high visibility gear might be safer, it just did not seem as though it would be very flattering.

Which is why my ears perked up the first time I heard about the brand Equisafety – since they make outerwear for riders that is highly visible and fashionable. And that keeps me from having to shop for men’s outerwear, for which I am eternally grateful.

I was beyond thrilled to have the chance to try out Equisafety’s Aspey Jacket for the season – firstly, because it’s been getting chilly outside, but mostly because I have no doubt that people SEE me when I ride.

After looking at the photos of the Aspey Jacket online, I was expecting it to be brightly colored when it arrived. But when I actually pulled it out of the packaging, I found that the orange was almost florescent in my opinion–and I personally LOVED it. Because when I’m riding this time of year, I want to make sure that I am visible. So visible, it’s like getting smacked across the face.

But one feature of the Aspey that I really like is the fact that once I zip up the coat, I have two flaps that lay over top of, and velcro shut over the zipper (so that it is not exposed to the elements) – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

I was pleasantly suprised when I first tried on the Aspey Jacket, because it is heavy enough that I will be able wear even colder of Winter – though I’ve found it to be a nice weight to wear during the Fall season as well.

The zipper running up the front of the coat feels sturdy to me. But what I really like is the fact that once I zip up the coat, I have two flaps that lay over top of, and velcro shut over the zipper (so that it is not exposed to the elements). What a cool little detail!

I also found that I like that the Aspey Jacket is styled for women, so that I don’t have to feel like I’m wearing something baggy. While I like some clothes with a relaxed fit, baggy clothing always makes me feel frumpy. But the Aspey coat feels like the angles are cut to fit quite nicely, and I think that it lends a very flattering appearance when I’m wearing it.

One of the other aspects that I personally like are the areas with reflective detailing – which basically span all sides. Silver colored reflective bands span across the front and back of the jacket, as well as around the arms and wrist areas.

Also, the black areas of the coat are trimmed out with silver reflective piping – and the Equisafety logo on the left sleeve also appears in a silver reflective coloring. So between the bright coloring of the jacket, coupled with the reflective detailing, I feel covered.

I’m told that I’m very easy to SEE, even when hacking out in the back of the farm from up at the barn when I’m rocking the Aspey in all of it’s bright orange glory – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

Adding to the function of the Aspey Jacket are two zipper vents in the rear, which can be unzipped when I’m ready to ride for an improved fit in the saddle. And, I also find the sleeves to be functional, as the openings combine both elastic with a Velcro pull strap, which help me to get a snug fit. This helps to prevent air and unwanted hay from going up my sleeves. Finally, the Aspey also features two side zip pockets, as well as a hidden pocket on the inner right chest that has a Velcro closure.

Another pretty cool feature – for riders who want to wear their high visibility gear while riding near a road, there is also a triangle that you can attach to the back of the Aspey Jacket that reads ‘Pass Wide and Slow’. The triangle is easy to attach or detach – you simply attach the top to Velcro hidden under the neckline, and then the two bottom corners attach to what look like belt loops on the coat.

Wearing the Aspey Jacket to ride in has provided me with the right combination of comfort and warmth…and VISIBILITY. I find that the zipper pockets are large enough to store my large smartphone in it’s Otterbox, among other items.

And for riders who want to wear their high visibility gear while riding near a road, there is also a triangle that you can attach to the back of the Aspey Jacket that reads ‘Pass Wide and Slow’ – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

The jacket also remains comfortable during riding, and doesn’t make too much noise, or bunch up in any weird places. I also like how soft and smooth the inside lining feels against my skin as well. And I’m told that I’m very easy to SEE, even when hacking out in the back of the farm from up at the barn when I’m rocking the Aspey in all of it’s bright orange glory.

I also wear the Aspey Jacket outside for barn work in the hours before dawn and after dusk – and the comment that I get from others is that they can see me even in the dark, because of the reflective piping.

The Aspey Jacket is available through High Visibility Sportswear in North America (and there is also a site for riders located in the UK) – it comes in three different (but VISIBLE) colors, including orange, pink and yellow. While I really gravitated towards the pink, I wear the equally lovely orange. Because I couldn’t ride my geldings around while wearing pink. The Aspey Jacket has a retail price of $115.00.

Go Style and VISIBLE Outerwear. Go Equisafety & High Visibility Sportswear. Go Eventing.

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 29, 2014 1:30 pm -

My boys are going to spend a lot of time in here over the winter.

This past weekend was one filled with work here around the farm. With winter on the way, the goal is to get several projects finished up before the cold and mud take over. Painting the barn and run-in shed. Installing new rubber stall mats. And getting some stone dust down in the paddock to help with footing. All projects that need to wrap up — and soon.

My horses spend a good portion of the winter season confined to their large paddock, simply so they do not completely track up their pastures. And when confined to the paddock, they tend to spend even more time hanging out in their large run-in shed. It’s not an uncommon site to find the three of them gathered inside mid-day for group “nap time” — must be nice!

I often wonder if there are cases where we as horse owners over provide for our horses. Personally, I think my own horses are very happy wearing their blankets in the cold. And standing in their run-in when it is windy.

But there are many differing viewpoints on what horses actually require to live healthy lives. Check out a recent commentary article over at The Horse that discusses the topic of providing access to a man-made shelter for your horse.

And then take a look at some of the other headlines from this week in Horse Health News:

Citrus Pulp in Horse Feed: How much do you know about what is in your horse’s feed? In some parts of the world, citrus pulp is now being used as an ingredient in concentrated horse feeds due to its availability and economic feasibility. A group of researchers from the University of Sao Paulo and Middle Tennessee State University have determined that it is safe for horses to ingest when included up to a level of 28 percent in their concentrated feed. [Horsetalk]

What Horse Owners Should Know About Roundworms: While no one really wants to think about a squeamish topic like worms, roundworms are the topic of the day. Four to six inches long. White or gray in color. Able to lay up to 200,000 eggs a day. And most commonly found in horses under the age of 2 that have not yet developed an immunity to the larva. Read up to learn about roundworm management for your horses. [EquiMed]

Researchers Study Equine Influenza Vaccination Schedules: Did you know that there is no globally recognized standard on the interval between influenza vaccinations? Recently, researchers from the Virology Unit at the Irish Equine Centre in Johnstown, Ireland, have worked to evaluate how efficient three different vaccination schedules are — hopefully to gather information in order to establish a global standard. [The Horse]

Survival Chances of Seriously Ill Foals: American researchers have put together a system in order to be able to determine the chances of survival for seriously ill foals. The system uses a list of six different variables to provide the likelihood of a positive outcome for a foal that has been hospitalized. [HorseTalk]

New Bolton Center to Host Equine Sports Medicine Lecture: The University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center will host a lecture on equine sports medicine at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 4, at 382 West Street Road, Kennett Square. Both Elizabeth Davidson and Liz Arbittier will speak on topics such as evaluating equine lameness. Due to limited seating, those interested in attending should contact Barbara Belt at [email protected]. [The Horse]

Product Review: Asmar Equestrian Hunter Jacket

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 23, 2014 11:44 pm -

Noel Asmar Equestrian badge on sleeve of the Hunter Jacket – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

It’s a totally true statement to say that while I have a number of strengths, I also have weaknesses. And that’s ok with me. Because it just means that I’m human. I think it’s a pretty fair assertion that most people have things that they are totally rocking awesome at. And then other things….well, not so much.

Have you ever known someone who just seemed to be good at everything they do though? It can be slightly intimidating when you meet someone who appears to be That. Good. At. Everything. Kindof like they don’t even have to try – they can’t help but seem to excel in all their endeavors.

As for me, I like to see little idiosyncrasies and flaws – because I feel like it makes people more real. No matter how insanely together people appear to be, we all have little individual quirks. And I just feel like it’s those little quirks and differences that help make everybody have some awesome-ness in them.

Now usually when I’m shopping for new clothing or gear, it’s hard to find my perfect match. I seem to get a picture in my head of what I’m looking for. And then I tend to be very particular. So particular in fact, that I will hold out for years until I find exactly what I want. Which is probably why I just bought some new living room furniture after about 2 years of sporadic shopping trips, looking for just the right pieces.

And after I find the said ‘holy grail’ of whatever it is I’ve been diligently shopping for, know what I do? I latch onto said item(s) with a ninja kung-fu grip like you wouldn’t believe. I think that Chinch would have to try gnawing off my hand to get me to let go. Just saying.

The neutral color of my Hunter Jacket – the camel color with the brown plaid elbow patches Goes. With. Anything. – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

So when I say that I’ve found my jacket to start off the season right, you can understand that it’s a statement that I don’t make lightly. Back in August when I attended the AETA trade show, I made a pit stop on Monday…aka ‘cash & carry day’. Or you could just call it a day of being tempted to buy pretty things to bring home. If it was a test, I had an Epic. Fail.

When I stopped at the Asmar Equestrian booth, there was no shortage of fabulous pieces to choose from. After spending a bit of time agonizing over what to get (because there were just too many styles and colors to pick from), I walked away with a stylish orange tote. Because I was the proud owner of not one, but two new pieces to add to my personal outerwear collection.

The first piece was the Asmar Hunter Jacket–and the second piece…well, you’ll just have to wait until later to find out. When I first pulled on the camel-colored Hunter jacket, I just got that feeling. I had already tried on several other pieces, but after zipping up and taking a look in the mirror, I knew I was taking it home. Cue ninja grip.

When I’m ready to head out for a ride in my Hunter Jacket, I usually start by unzipping the back skirt – which stays hidden until I need to let it out to spend some time in the saddle – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

So what really drew me to the Hunter Jacket? First and foremost, I loved the cut – the lines of the jacket were quite flattering when paired with my hourglass figure, and hugged my curves in all of the right ways. The cut narrows at the waist, and flares out subtly at the bottom. The bottom hem lines also dips downwards in the front and back of the jacket, and cut up on the sides–which looks terrific, and helps to downplay my (slightly) curvy hips.

I also found that the brown plaid elbow patches look extremely sharp. They are such a simple detail, yet really just add an air of elegance to the Hunter Jacket’s appearance. The jacket zips up, and also has three pockets on the front–two on either side, and one on the chest.

The fabric of the Hunter Jacket feels like a lovely soft shell – it features two way stretch technology, as well as a Dintex membrane. This technology helps to protect from the elements (such as rain and wind), without compromising breathability. But something that makes the Hunter Jacket extra special in my mind are all of the little details that help it to easily be able to transition from being out on the town to heading out for a ride.

When I’m ready to head out for a ride in my Hunter Jacket, I usually start by unzipping the back skirt – which stays hidden until I need to let it out to spend some time in the saddle. Next, I move on to unzip the gussets on the sleeve cuffs, to allow myself extra room. Which works especially well when I go to tuck gloves under the cuffs.

I consider the Hunter Jacket to be my ultimate neutral piece, because I can get away with pairing it with pretty much everything from my closet, because it Goes. With. Anything. – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

Once I un-zipped to prepare for a ride, I just hopped up and off I went. And the Hunter Jacket was both stretchy feeling and comfortable to wear while riding. Plus, even on cooler days, the fleece lining of the jacket helped to keep me warm – and the Dintex membrane of the fabric does a really nice job at blocking the air on windy days

Even back at the barn, I was not disappointed. Hay doesn’t stick to the soft shell fabric, and the insides of the sleeves actually have cuffs to keep hay OUT of the insides of the sleeves. Which I like. A lot. Because no one likes to be itchy.

While the Hunter Jacket does a superb job around the barn, I also find myself wearing it other places as well. As in, all of the place. Everywhere and anywhere, really. I would really consider it to be a staple of my wardrobe, for several reasons. Firstly, the neutral color – the camel with the brown plaid elbow patches and black accented zippers Goes. With. Anything. I consider it to be my ultimate neutral piece, because I can get away with pairing it with anything.

Plus, even on cooler days, the fleece lining of the jacket helped to keep me warm – and the Dintex membrane of the fabric does a really nice job at blocking the air on windy days – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

Secondly, the Hunter Jacket is really pretty versatile – I’ve worn it in temperatures up to about 60 degrees comfortably. But can also wear it when the temperatures dip lower, thanks the fleece lining. Rain and wind are also no problem at all, because the Dintex membrane helps to keep me warm and dry even on dreary days.

Plus, while I personally think that the hood really adds to the look of the jacket, it is also very useful to pull up while I’m out and about in the rain. And it is even removable if you prefer the appearance of the jacket without it.

So I guess that I feel that while the Hunter Jacket is certainly functional in the saddle and elegant looking out on the town, it is more than just that. I identify with it as being a stylish and iconic piece that represents my own personal style. I feel like it represents my personality, and I feel confident and great while I’m wearing it, because I know that it looks fabulous. And who doesn’t like to feel great?

The Hunter Jacket from Asmar Equestrian retails for $210.00 – an investment piece? Yes. But one that will have a home in my wardrobe for many years to come.

Go Looking & Feeling Fab (because who doesn’t love elbow patches?). Go Asmar Equestrian. Go Eventing.

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 23, 2014 4:30 pm -

Better not eat too many cookies. You've got to watch your figure, Mister.

Owning an easy keeper can be a blessing … or a complete and total curse, because sometimes keeping the weight off can be a real challenge. It’s akin to trying to get all of the values right in one of those crazy algebra equations (so just save the letters for the dressage ring). And variables such as the time of year, the amount of pasture access your horse has and how heavy their workload is can complicate things even more.

As the proud owner of a good ol’ American Quarter Horse, I’ve got an easy keeper of my own. I’m a bit fanatical about monitoring his weight and making slight adjustments to his feed as needed, so I was pretty excited to see an article over on The Horse.com that gives some great tips on feeding easy keepers. I’m a little bit proud to say that I already practice four out of the five tips … because Ripley just doesn’t do grazing muzzles. Head on over to check out the article here.

And then check out some of the other highlights found in horse health news this week:

Managing and Preventing Transport-Associated Fever: Do you ever worry about your horse spiking a fever while on the road? The topic of transportation-related fevers was on tap last month at the British Equine Veterinary Association Congress, and horse owners were given tips on management and prevention of this type of situation. Poor ventilation and dehydration are often the biggest culprits in these types of fevers. [Blood Horse]

Lethal Red Maple Leaves: While the colors of fall are wonderful, this season also means that leaves will be falling aplenty. And if you have any red maple trees around the farm, be aware that ingesting even a small amount of the leaves can prove disastrous for your horse. Less than a pound of dry red maple leaves can prove to be fatal for a pony. [The Horse]

EPM Webinar on Oct. 30: Looking to learn more about EPM? Check out the webinar that Bayer and EQUUS Magazine are hosting with veterinarians Steve Reed and James Little over at EquiMed. Visit this link to register for the webinar. But don’t worry if you can’t make it — the recorded webinar will be posted on EQUUSmagazine.com too.

Pumpkin Treats for Horses? Since everything comes in pumpkin flavor this time of year, why not treats for your horse too — or is it safe for them to consume this kind of yummy treat? Head over to check out an article that talks about how to safely recycle your pumpkins by turning them into horse treats once Halloween has passed us by. [HorseChannel]

Researchers Examine Fatal Lumbar Vertebral Fractures: Severe limb fractures are not the only type of life-threatening fracture that racehorses can experience. The University of California recently conducted a study of catastrophic lumbar vertebral fractures on California racetracks. During the study period, a total of 67 Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racehorses experienced this type of fracture. Through the study, researchers hope to be able to recognize early warning signs so that racetrack breakdowns of this nature can be prevented. [The Horse]

Product Review: Professional’s Choice Gina Miles Under Pad

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 22, 2014 4:30 pm -

Professional’s Choice logo found on the spine of the Gina Miles Under Pad. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

With the holidays coming up, it’s a time when I like to reminisce about holidays past and spending time with my extended family. Since it just doesn’t happen all that often, every time the majority of my extended family gathers together, it’s always a super entertaining time. Every. Single. Time.

I specifically remember eating many a Thanksgiving or Christmas meal sitting at the kids’ table of some variety — since I’m one of the youngest members of my extended family on both sides. Sometimes I was at a card table with folding chairs. Or sometimes I got lucky enough to get a “big person” chair, complete with cushion.

Which was great — except for when my feet struggled to reach the floor at that age; I was left trying to sit on said wooden chair with a tie-on cushion. When that was the case, I was sliding all over the chair every time I reached for another Grand’s biscuit. Not. Fun. And there was no way that I wasn’t going back for ~~a second~~ ~~a third~~ more biscuits.

I feel the same way about my saddle — it should stay in place right where I put it. I think it’s a safe assumption to make that I’m not alone with this particular mentality. And there are really a lot of different ways to keep your saddle in place. When I think back to the years I spent riding with only a quilted saddle pad, it’s no wonder that I usually had to stop in the middle of my jump lessons to reposition my saddle and tighten the girth.

Gina Miles and Chanel. Photo by Bill Olson.

I’ve used a number of different types of pads with non-slip properties that have all seemed to do a really nice job for me. A lot of times, I also like to pair my non-slip pad of the day with a breastplate as well, because I feel like it gives a little extra stability, and I just like the appearance that it lends. And most recently, I’ve had the opportunity to try out the Gina Miles Under Pad from Professional’s Choice.

At first glance, the Gina Miles Under Pad from Professional’s Choice looked like a type of non-slip half pad to me in photos that I had seen. But I was excited for it to arrive so that I could check it out in person. Once it did, I pulled it out so that I could look it over — and I was definitely surprised when I did. I found that the Under Pad has defined channels running down the length of the pad. And when I picked up the pad, I could feel that the channels felt firm enough to lend support and a bit of a cushion for the saddle.

Gina was kind enough to chat with me about the design of the Under Pad and discuss the benefits that it can provide for both the horse and the rider. A product by the name of Brach (also can be called Air Ride) is used within the Under Pad — this particular material has been used by Professional’s Choice in their western pads, as well as pads for pack mules.

The Brach (or Air Ride) is actually blown into the channels of the Under Pad and is contained in the individual bubbles that are visible from the outside. So the pad actually contains impact prevention, as well as non-slip properties.

I could not visually tell that I was using the Under Pad underneath my saddle and regular pad - well, after I got Chinch to move so that I could finish tacking up, that is - Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

Chinch, you’re going to have to move at some point so that the product testing can begin. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

Another great feature of the Under Pad are the air channels. Gina explained to me that “the air channels help so the horse’s back doesn’t get hot” while it is in use. Because of the channels, air is able to circulate while you are riding, so that heat is not trapped under the saddle.

Gina also commented that “obviously everyone wants their saddle to fit perfectly” and mentioned that the Under Pad can also help with saddle fit as well, especially in the case of high-withered horses, when the Under Pad can help to provide some lift to improve the fit of the saddle.

And according to Gina, you can “just hose it off at the end of the day — it’s easy to clean.” Not only that, but Gina went on to tell me about the normal under pads that she has used in the past and how they end up wearing down over time. Gina said that she now uses the Under Pad under pretty much all of her jumping saddles, and sometimes even under her dressage saddles, and the pad “keeps it shape nicely over time.”

As for me, I’ve found that the Under Pad has been both easy and effective for me to use. I simply place it in my horse’s back and then put a regular pad down before positioning the saddle. Of course, I have to make sure that Chinch is out of the way first — since he seems to have a tendency to want to occasionally jump in to help out with product testing these days.

I could not visually tell that I was using the Under Pad underneath my saddle and regular pad - Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

I could not visibly tell that I was using the Under Pad underneath my saddle and regular pad. Photo by. Lorraine Peachey.

Once I positioned my saddle, I noticed that the Under Pad just seemed to create a nice cushioned area for it to sit on. And after tightening my girth, I also found that I could not visibly tell that I was using the Under Pad underneath my saddle and regular pad. I opted not to use a breastplate during the time that I was testing out the Under Pad so I could really get a good feel for how it really functioned from a non-slip perspective.

And I was not disappointed. While in the saddle, I did not feel as though I had saddle slippage when using the Gina Miles Under Pad. Even during more lengthy rides or hard(er) working sessions, I found that the pad helped my saddle always stay in place quite nicely and even provided impact protection as well.

After riding, I was also happy to see the that channels of the pad did their job well and allowed air to circulate while I was riding, so my horse did NOT have a a slicked up, sweat soaked “under the pad” area on his back either. Which is definitely helpful, because when I’m racing against daylight at this point in the year, the last thing that I need after a ride is to have to try getting a sweaty patch to dry off before the sun goes down and I have to worry about my horse getting a chill.

My horse still got a little sweaty on the shoulders, sides and some under the saddle area (he is growing his winter coat and has not yet been clipped for the season).

Plus, the Gina Miles Under Pad really is THAT easy to clean. If there’s any hair or a little bit of sweat, it will rinse right off with a good hose down. And if there is anything that I can appreciate, it’s easy clean up.

The Gina Miles Under Pad from Professional’s Choice has a retail price of $89.95. And don’t forget — Professional’s Choice offers a 30-day money back guarantee and a six month warranty on their products!

Go Non-Slip Pads (with Air Circulation). Go Professional’s Choice AND Gina Miles. Go Eventing.

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 18, 2014 3:35 pm -

While falling leaves may look pretty, a pasture is definitely not the best place for them to land. Photo used under Creative Commons License.

I love observing the leaves changing color this time of year – though after a brief, albeit brilliant, showing of colors, the leaves all finally fall to the ground. I’m pretty laid back about having leaves sit in my yard (what, it’s recycling at it’s finest – simply run them over with a mower, and you’ve just mulched your yard). But I take leaves dropping into my pasture very seriously.

While colorful leaves scattered around a pasture might look like the fit right in with the season, I cringe when I see them. Because with the growth of the grass slowing down, ingesting fallen leaves can seem like a great idea to horses. And while equines may want to chow down on some colorful leaves, unfortunately it can lead to them compacting in their digestive system, possibly leading to colic.

A recent article over on EquiMed provides a list of suggestions to help horse owners to take steps to make their Fall pastures safe for their horses. By taking preventative steps, such as removing leaves and poisonous plants, pastures can be made safer. Which can help your horse to have a healthy autumn season. Head over to check out the article here.

And also make sure to check out some of the other highlights from this week in horse health news:

Noncribbing Cribbers have High Cortisol Levels – A recent study conducted by a team of Swiss researchers supports the claim that horses that crib should be allowed to crib. Tests show that cribbers who opted not to crib during observation had high levels of stress. [The Horse]

Effectiveness of Grazing Muzzles Studied in US – A research team from the University of Minnesota has found that the use of grazing muzzles can help reduce the grass intake of horses by an average of 30%. The observations were made during a four-hour period, and there has been no noticeable impact caused by the type of grass a horse is grazing on. [HorseTalk]

Safe Horse Handling for Vet Techs – Have you noticed that even the most quiet horses have a bad day now and again? A recent article on The Horse gives some pointers on how vet techs can handle horses to ensure successful and SAFE vet visits for all parties involved. [The Horse]

Drug Testing System Has Serious Flaws (for the Thoroughbred Industry) – According to research conducted by The Jockey Club, the current ‘state-by-state’ approach to drug testing standards has been problematic. While a number of states have embraced the National Uniform Medication Program, the uniformity does not carry over into testing, due to the contracts that states have with independent testing facilities. [Blood-Horse]

Mycotoxin Feed Contamination Appears to be on the Rise – According to specialist Professor Trevor Smith (of the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada), it appears that the frequency of mycotoxin contamination in feeds is trending upwards. Mycotoxins are produced from molds, and when ingested by horses, have the potential to cause liver damage or cancer. [HorseTalk]

In case you missed it, also check out the recent review of Absorbine’s Fungasol system of products–which can help combat equine skin funk in wet and muddy Fall conditions!

Product Review: MDC ‘S’ Model Stirrup Irons

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 18, 2014 2:00 pm -

MDC Sport Logo on front side of Sport Classic model Irons – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I’m someone who prides myself on being an original – my preferences on movies, music, food & fashion can sometimes be ~~a little~~ a lot varied, and slightly eclectic. What can I say though, other then I like finding awesomeness in places that are often overlooked or underappreciated. Maybe I like the feeling of being unique. Or just finding things that could be considered the ‘best kept secrets’ of…well, fill in the blank here.

So maybe that’s one of the reasons why I like being able to try so many unique products. I never get tired of trying out something that breaks from the norm, and finding out that the concept just works so entirely well for me personally. And when I find a super cool product that works for me personally, I literally CAN’T wait to share the experience with anyone (and everyone) who is interested in hearing about it.

But I’m also a traditionalist. In some ways, I feel like a stereotype – if you asked me what some of my favorite things of here and now are, I would have to answer honestly. My brain flashes through a series of images, including (but not limited to) a Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino, pumpkin ~~scones, cake, pie, cookies, a milkshake, …~~ anything, cozy sweaters, super cute boots, and riding in the fall foliage. You know, typical fall horse girl stuff.

Tradition can be a good thing though – in fashion and in riding. I never tire of are classic tweeds, plaids, and houndstooth patterns. Some things just never go out of style. Though they can be improved upon.

Check out the difference between the profiles: (from left to right) the MDC ‘S’ Flex, the MDC Patented Adjustable Top Super Sport, and a my (old) traditional pair of irons – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Recently, I wrote about my experience trying out MDC Intelligent Stirrup Irons. And I’ll let you in on a little secret – since I switched over to riding in MDC Irons, I have not ridden in any other kind. Though I have been experimenting a little by switching back and forth between MDC’s Adjustable Patented Top irons, and their brand new ‘S’ Model irons as well.

So what exactly is the difference between the MDC Patented Adjustable Top irons and the ‘S’ Model irons? The answer is pretty simple – if you read about my experience trying the MDC Patented Adjustable Top irons, you might recall that they are the very first kind of irons that allow the rider to select the angle at which they want to ride. Riders can choose from 3 pre-set options of 0 degrees (acting as a traditional stirrup), 45 degrees, or 90 degrees.

The ‘S’ Model on the other hand require no adjustment – because the design of the top keeps them set at a 45 degree angle at all times. With this particular model of stirrup, there is a designated left and right iron. The great thing though is that along with the ‘S’ Model irons, an easy-to-follow instruction sheet arrived as well. Which allowed me to easily switch the irons in to use with my saddle.

The MDC Sport Classic sitting at a traditional 45 degree angle – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

But what really makes the ‘S’ Model different? Well, I’ll tell you – while the rider is able to benefit from the 45 degree angle of the ‘S’ Model irons, they also can still keep the appearance of a using a traditional iron. No joke. If you take a look down at a pair of ‘S’ Model irons, you will see that they look like an ‘S’ shape (or a backwards ‘S’ shape, depending on whether you are looking at the left or right iron).

I tried out two different pairs of MDC ‘S’ Model irons – one was the ‘S’ Classic (with a narrow tread), and the ‘S’ Flex (with a wide tread). And I began first with the ‘S’ Classic irons, which I used with my dressage saddle. Again, by following the instructions that came with the irons, they were easy to thread on the leathers properly.

As I had with the Adjustable Patented Top irons, I also found that after mounting up to ride with the ‘S’ Model irons, that it was easier to pick up my offside iron before starting forward. Though it was nice not having to pause a few moments to set my irons before riding, since the ‘S’ Model irons are already preset at a 45 degree angle.

While schooling dressage, I found that I continued to like the aluminum tread versus a more traditional rubber tread. Also, with the ‘S’ Classic irons, I did find that I preferred the narrow tread at first – reason being is that I felt as though it was easier for me to keep my heels down and legs in position with the narrow tread.

Notice the ‘S’ shape of the top of the MDC ‘S’ Classic model irons – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

With the ‘S’ Model irons, I continued to feel many of the same benefits that I observed with the Adjustable Patented Top irons – such as me noticing the relief of the pressure on my leg, when I compare to the way that regular old irons felt. And the crazy thing is, before trying MDC irons–I had absolutely no idea that my stirrup leathers were creating tension across my shins…until it wasn’t there anymore!

One of the other benefits that I noticed with the ‘S’ Model irons is the ability to more easily pick up a dropped stirrup. As I did with the Patented Adjustable Top irons, I also intentionally dropped my stirrups while riding, so that I could attempt to pick them back up again. What I’ve found is that the ‘S’ Model irons allow me to more easily get my toe back into place, versus traditional irons. Instead of having to ‘flip’ the irons outwards with my toe in order to pick it back up (as I would have to do with a traditional pair of stirrups), I simply just have to find the opening that is already there.

And while the ‘S’ Classic irons with the narrow tread don’t include the 45 degree landing ramp on the back side – the ‘S’ Flex irons with the wide tread DO! After a chat with Martin Cohen, the founder and brains behind MDC Intelligent Stirrups Irons, I found myself pondering. Martin posed a question to me–do I prefer riding with the narrow or wide treads for dressage, and why? My immediate reply was narrow treads, because it was easier to keep my heels down.

While I am able to benefit from the 45 degree angle of the ‘S’ Model irons, I also get to keep the appearance of a using a traditional pair of irons – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

The interesting thing was that Martin commented to me that some dressage riders actually prefer using the wider tread irons. So, I decided that I also had to try the ‘S’ Flex with the wider treads them while I schooled dressage. And what I found, was that I actually found that I also came to appreciate practicing my dressage while using the wider tread as well – because I like the extra stability that the wider tread gives my foot. Plus, I enjoy the shock absorption that the Multi-Pivot Point flexible sides bring to the table too.

So the moral of this story? I find that MDC Intelligent Stirrup Irons work for me. Period. I enjoy the fact that the offset angle relieves the pressure that I used to feel on my shins. And that I feel like that they are safer, because I think that my own foot is less likely to get caught if I fall. I also like the security and stability that I have with a wider tread, especially because of the 45 degree ‘landing ramp’. And the tread itself is something that I much prefer to a regular rubber pad.

And the nice thing is, there are a number of different style options to pick from. With the Patented Adjustable Top irons, riders have the freedom to choose their angle of offset – yet with the ‘S’ Model irons, riders can feel the benefit of a 45 degree offset and keep the look of a traditional pair of irons. And in other news – the MDC ‘S’ irons will also be available soon in an ‘S’ Pony Classic model!

The MDC ‘S’ Classic irons are available with a retail price of $149.95, and the ‘S’ Flex irons are also available, retailing for $169.95.

Go Adjustable AND Traditional Looking Irons. Go MDC Stirrups. Go Eventing.

Product Review: E.A. Mattes Gold Collection Correction Half Pad

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 14, 2014 4:30 pm -

World Equestrian Brand logo on the Mattes Gold Collection Correction Half Pad. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

I’ll admit it … I would consider myself to be a fairly particular person. I tend to like things to be just so, especially when it comes to my wardrobe. I can be choosy about the clothes that I pick out on any given day, because I feel like my style is a part of my identity, and it’s a chance for me to convey my mood without uttering a single word.

While I’m concerned about the appearance and style of my clothes, I also like them to fit comfortably. Clothes and footwear that fit well tend to make me feel good about stepping out of the door. And it might just put a little swagger in my step. But in all seriousness, an ill-fitting shirt or pair of jeans just tend to throw me off of my game. And don’t even get me started on uncomfortable shoes. That’s a whole other monkey wrench in my day.

Slightly melodramatic? Maybe. Maybe not. I have yet to meet a person who loved wearing shoes just because they did not fit properly and hurt their feet. I think horses are of a similar mind set on some level. When I ask my horses to work, I want to make sure that their tack is properly fitted so that it does not cause them any discomfort or pain.

The Mattes Gold Collection Correction Half Pad looked so plush that Chinch felt the need to jump in on the product testing. Photo by: Lorraine Peachey.

I’ve definitely had experiences in the past with saddles not fitting a horse “just so” and have seen the problems that can result. A few years back, Mark started his training under saddle. After being ridden four to give days a week under my saddle that did not fit “just so,” I ended up with a gigantic horse with a sore back that needed frequent chiropractor visits. And while the chiropractic treatments seemed to help, I was still left with a grouchy horse, who had gotten a rather sour attitude towards work. Considering the discomfort that he was in, who could blame him?

I place a high level of importance on making sure that my tack fits properly. While it is not feasible to own a different saddle for every horse, I’ve learned to use padding and shims to help get the fit that my horse’s need. Recently, I’ve been using the E.A. Mattes Gold Collection Correction Pad from World Equestrian Brands to help customize my saddle’s fit for my horses.

The Gold Collection was a more recent innovative line introduced by Mattes. Gold Collection Pads have the same design and high quality materials that can be found in the Platinum Collection Pads, but with one main difference. Instead of full sheepskin panels, the Gold Collection features dense, soft wool panels on the underside of the pad; the wool is 1 1/4″ thick and is woven to a fabric backing, rather than remaining attached to a hide back (so the sheep providing the wool should be happy!).

Mattes Gold Collection pads features dense, soft wool panels on the underside of the pad; the wool is 1 1/4″ thick and is woven to a fabric backing. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

The front and rear trim of the Gold Collection Pads are still crafted of sheepskin. Why is this so important, you ask? Because the Gold Collection Pads are trimmed with sheepskin, which can still be dyed — whereas the high-loft wool cannot be. That means riders have the ability to order a Gold Collection Pad in all of the colors that are available in the Mattes Couture Collection. The front and rear trim would arrive in the rider’s selected color, though the high-loft wool panels would remain their natural color.

When I pulled the Gold Collection Correction Half Pad out of the box it arrived in, I paused to appreciate the handy storage bag that it came in. Once I removed the pad from the storage bag to take a look, the initial impression that I got of the pad was that I could just feel the quality of the craftsmanship. The quilting of the pad felt nice, and the sheepskin of the front and back trim was nothing short of luxurious to the touch.

The Gold Collection Pad also features Spine-Free, an anatomically correct topline that is designed to allow for optimal clearance along the length of the spine. And the spine of the pad also has a lovely design that displays the Mattes and World Equestrian Brand logos on it. The Correction Half Pad is shimmable — and it includes four pockets (two front and two rear) to insert shims in order to optimize saddle fit.

At only 5mm thick each, the super thin profile of the Mattes Poly-Flex Shims have allowed me to really be able to fine tune and really customize the fit of my saddle. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

Included with the Gold Collection Correction Half Pad are the Mattes Poly-Flex Shims. When I pulled the Poly-Flex Shims out to take a look, I was struck by how thin and flexible they seemed to be. Each insert is only 5mm thick — which are the thinnest shims that I’ve personally seen. And riders have the ability to stack up to 5 shims in order to get just the right fit. The super thin profile of the Poly-Flex Shims have allowed me to really fine tune and customize the fit of my saddle.

Inserting the shims went pretty easily for me. I simply unfastened the Velcro holding each pocket shut and pulled up the Velcro flaps inside so that I could easily slide the Poly-Flex shims in. Once the shims were in place in the pocket of the pad, I simply allowed the inner Velcro flaps return to laying flat, and then I fastened the pocket shut again.

Once I have the Gold Collection Correction Pad in place on my horse, and I place the saddle on it, I usually tend to pause to appreciate how attractive the pad looks. I find that it is great to be able to add or remove the Poly-Flex Shims as needed since I have three horses — each with a slightly different build then the others. Switching shims in or out does not take much time at all. And again, once the pad in in place, it does look quite elegant (especially when the rear trim option is included).

The Mattes Gold Collection Half Pad with Rear Trim looks fabulous under both of my saddles. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

The Correction Half Pad does its job extremely well for me. I find that the combination of the Poly-Flex Shims and the pad itself helps me to be able to attain the fit that I am looking for with my saddle. And I also like that it is easy to add or remove shims as needed in order to use the pad to help with saddle fit for my multiple horses. Plus, the pad also provides a nice amount of extra cushion while I’m working my horses.

After using the half pad, I do not notice that there is much heat trapped underneath it when I remove it after my ride. And I’ve been using a size L pad, which is sized to work with 18″ saddles. My all-purpose saddle is a 17.5″, and my dressage saddle is an 18″. The size L half pad that I’ve been using looks as though it fits properly and is attractive when used with either of my saddles.

And since the Gold Collection Pads still contain some sheepskin, the recommendation is that they still should be washed using MELP cleaner. Pads may be machine washed (using MELP) and then set out to air dry. Make sure to remove the Poly-Flex shims prior to washing!

The Mattes Gold Collection Correction Half Pad with Rear Trim is available for a retail price of $255 from World Equestrian Brands.

Go Half Pads that Fit (Just-So). Go World Equestrian Brands. Go Eventing.

Product Review: Absorbine Fungasol System

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 10, 2014 4:30 pm -

Label on the bottle of Fungasol Shampoo. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

There are a lot of things that I love about fall, but the imminent return of the muddy season is definitely not one of them. Here in good ‘ol Pennsylvania, paddocks become a place to “go mudding.” While I wouldn’t consider myself to be especially prissy, I just get tired of walking around in a sloppy mess all of the time. And sliding. And falling.

Many days, I just cringe when I look at my horses — squishing and sliding around in the giant mud pit that is my paddock. As I stare at them, I imagine myself Jedi-mind tricking them into wandering out into the (slightly) less muddy pasture.

These are the days that I resign myself to wearing muck boots that look eternally brown. And I take my place on the front lines of the neverending battle to keep my horses’ legs clean. Because funky stuff always seems to happen on mud-caked legs.

Fungasol is a complete system of products, which is available in shampoo, spray and ointment forms. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Even though we’ve been lucky to have pretty dry conditions this season (thus far), Ripley’s still been experiencing some “skin funk.” Yup, poor Ripley — he seems to have developed what appears to be a bit of rain rot on the front sides of his hind legs.

To treat Ripley’s oh-so lovely skin funk, I’ve been using Fungasol products from Absorbine. Fungasol is a complete system of products, which is available in shampoo, spray and ointment forms. Each of the three forms can be used topically on your horse in order to clean, treat and protect them from fungal and bacterial skin conditions.

Fungasol contains Biopolysan booster, which has been derived from coconuts. The Biopolysan is actually a patented technology, which has been shown to increase the effectiveness of Fungasol products. Also included in the formula is soothing tea tree oil, which gives all of the products a light & lovely menthol-esque scent to them. Pleasant, but not overpowering.

After using a sponge to lather up Ripley’s leg with Fungasol shampoo, I left it sit for 20 minutes, and then thoroughly rinsed it off. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

The Fungasol system can be used to treat horses with rain rot, scratches, girth itch and/or tail rubbing, which are definitely some issues that tend to want to crop up during our lovely muddy season!

I’ve been treating Ripley by using Fungasol in each of its three forms. First, I started out by using the shampoo form. I began by getting Ripley’s legs wet, and then simply followed the instructions on the bottle. I squeezed some of the shampoo out onto a wet sponge, and then lathered up the affected area. After leaving it sit for 20 minutes, I thoroughly rinsed the shampoo off of Ripley’s leg.

After using the shampoo, I moved on to apply a generous coating of the Fungasol spray, which can be used once daily. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

Then, I moved on to applying the Fungasol spray to the affected area. The spray bottle was easy to use, and I generously spritzed it on Ripley’s legs. Fungasol spray is recommended to be applied once per day until the skin condition clears up.

Since the initial time when I used the Fungasol shampoo and spray on Ripley’s leg, I’ve been using a combination of the spray and ointment to continue treatment. Fungasol ointment comes in a handy canister, and it is easy to apply — I just applied a generous coating to the affected area.

Fungasol ointment can be applied twice daily, and is easy to apply. AND, hands feel clean after only a single washing, without any sticky film leftover. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Another great thing — after only a single hand washing, my hands felt clean, without any sticky leftover film from using the ointment. The ointment form of Fungasol is recommended to be used twice daily on and around the affected area.

After just a few days, the area on Ripley’s legs started to look much better than they did prior to using Fungasol. I continued treatment until the skin funk looked at though it was gone! And before I forget to mention, Fungasol is MADE IN THE USA (which I always love to see)!

The Fungasol system of products from Absorbine is available in a 20 fl. oz. shampoo, which retails for around $13.95; a 22 fl. oz. spray bottle, which retails for around $17.95; and a 13oz. ointment, which retails for around$14.95.

Go Healthy & Funk-Free Skin. Go Absorbine. Go Eventing.

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 8, 2014 6:00 pm -

Excessive drooling could be a sign of something much more serious. Photo used under Creative Commons License.

Have you ever had that moment when you’ve walked into the barn and found your horse drooling? And I mean really drooling. Like that adorable, yet super slobbery Mastiff that you (regrettably) stopped to pat while out for a walk? Slobber, drool or saliva is always pretty gross to have to deal with because it inevitably seems to end up on me at some point.

While seeing your horse drool buckets is not exactly something that is commonplace, many times it can be dismissed as a horse “just eating too much clover.” But excessive salivation could be a sign of something much more serious. Head on over to The Horse to check out an article on the topic, which discusses a wide array of potential root causes of your horse being excessively drool-ey. Check it out here.

And while you’re at it, here are some other headlines in horse health news to check out:

Herbal Alternatives to Phenylbutazone: Interested in natural alternatives to using bute as a pain reliever or fever reducer in your horses? And article over at Horsetalk examines the “bute debate” among horse owners and take a look at some alternatives to the drug. [Horsetalk]

Recurrent Colic Risk Factors Identified: Horses with a history of colic are less likely to colic again if they are turned out for long periods of time in a field, a recent study showed. A number of other factors were identified as being contributors to repeat cases of colic. [The Horse]

Prevention Better than the Cure with Bowed Tendons: While there have been advances in the treatment of tendon injuries through the use of stem cells, it turns out that many horse owners would prefer injury prevention over the treatment. Currently diagnosing a tendon injury prior to a rupture can be challenging, and finding a way to be able to identify problems early would be very beneficial to equine athletes. [Horsetalk]

Equine Multiple Congenital Ocular Anomalies Syndrome: Learn about multiple congential ocular anomalies (MCOA) syndrome over at The Horse. MCOA is a non-progressive and non-painful condition that is caused through gene mutation — and many horses who are affected mildly can still have normal vision. [The Horse]

The Importance of Massage Therapy for Horses: Why is it so important for your horse to maintain their proper range of motion, and what can you do in order to help promote the muscular health of your equine? An article over on Horsetalk discusses uses of massage therapy in identifying potential injuries and for injury rehabilitation. [Horsetalk]

Fat Soluble Vitamins 101: Want to learn more about those teeny tiny organic compounds otherwise known as vitamins? Since vitamins can have a sizable impact on the overall health of your horse, it may help to familiarize yourself with them. Head over to The Horse to get the 411 on fat soluble vitamins, including their function and sources, as well as ways that you can tell if your horse is deficient (or at levels of toxicity) of each. [The Horse]

Boyd Bucks: The Currency of the Future?

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 8, 2014 2:00 pm -

Yes, that really is Boyd Martin on the front of 'Boyd Bucks' - Photo from Boyd & Silva Martin's Blog

The next time that you reach into your wallet to pull out a five-spot to buy a pumpkin-spiced latte, pause just a moment to appreciate the history that went into the piece of green paper that you’re preparing to fork over. Paper currency in the US of A is a venue to represent some of the our country’s most influential founding fathers. You’ve got Washington, Lincoln, Franklin…and Boyd Martin?

Go ahead, rub your eyes. But when you go back and re-read, you’ll see that there was no typo. That’s right folks – Boyd has now gone green. As in “show me the money” green. And while I may not be talking about actual legal tender here, this topic might just be more exciting for horse owners that are local to the Chester County, PA area.

A promotion just started up this month at my local feed store, Oxford Feed & Lumber, in which ‘Purina Bucks’ are being given to customers for any purchase of branded Purina products. From October 1st through November 30th, I’ll be saving up my bucks…while my horses are chowing down. And the exciting part? I just have to wait until December 10th, so that I can show up to bid on awesome swag at an event hosted by Oxford Feed.

The beginning of my own Purina Bucks collection – let the hoarding begin!

Now what does any of this have to do with Boyd Martin’s face appearing on currency? So glad you asked–‘Boyd’ Bucks are a fun part of Oxford Feed’s promotion. Anyone who attends the upcoming Schooling Stadium Show at Windurra USA on Thursday, October 9th (check out the details here) can stop and visit the folks from Oxford Feed & Lumber in attendance to grab their own Boyd Bucks. Which can be traded in at Oxford Feed & Lumber for official Purina Bucks to use at what I like to call the Cash In Party on December 10th.

The only question remains is…how many of the Boyd Bucks distributed will be cashed in? And how many will be saved as collector’s items – after all, an eventer. On currency? Sure, it’s fake money, but come one people–this is freaking awesome.

So what’s next – Philly D Bucks? Sally Bucks? Hawley Bucks? How about some Chinch Bucks? I know that I’d like to see some Buck Bucks. I think I see a themed Monopoly game in the future here people…

And here’s a big shout out to the team at Oxford Feed & Lumber – my own local feed store. My only question is…will my favorite team member be present at Windurra’s Schooling Stadium Show? That would be Otis – Oxford’s awesome resident feline (who keeps watch over all of the bags of feed and has the tough job of doing a quality check on the in-stock pet beds).

Product Review: Dublin Harrowed Boots

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 7, 2014 11:00 am -

Logo accompanied by stylish bronze rivets on Dublin Harrowed Boots - Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

It’s one of my very favorite times of the year–the beginning of fall. The leaves are just starting to turn, and pretty soon the trees will boast vibrant shades of red, orange and gold. I’m not going to pretend that I’m looking forward to the cold weather that winter will bring, when she follows on the heels of fall. But darn it, I’m going to enjoy the brisk and oh-so lovely days of autumn for as long as they last.

There are many things that I love about this time of year in general–hacking out in the gorgeous Chester County countryside. Being able to find anything (and everything) that is pumpkin-spice flavored. The fact that it’s just cool enough to start up drinking peppermint hot chocolate again. And, being able to start wearing sweaters and boots – some of my favorite cold weather wardrobe essentials.

If I could, I’d probably live in boots for half of the year–the cooler half, that is. I’m what you would call a boot loyalist. That is to say, I keep coming back to my favorite pairs year after year. After year. After year.

Suffice to say that I have high expectations for my boots. They should be stylish, in my opinion. I would identify my personal style as being a fusion of a timeless ‘outdoor chic’ look, that is functional and elegant. But just as (if not more) important then style, is that my boots are comfortable AND functional as well. Meaning that my closet will not be home to a pair of stiletto boots any time soon.

My feet have stayed dry and comfortable when I’m out in wet weather, thanks to the Harrowed boot’s HBR waterproof and breathable membrane – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

While it’s hard to put aside any of my favorite pairs of boots, I find that I still get ~~a little too~~ very excited when I have a new pair to wear. One pair of boots that I’ve been wearing this season have been Dublin’s Harrowed Boots. Or lately, it would perhaps be more accurate to say that I feel like I’ve been living in them.

When the Harrowed Boots arrived, I was eager to pull them out of their box to look them over. Pulling them out of their box, I was not surprisingly hit with the lovely aroma of leather (which just never seems to get old to me). While the boots felt sturdy, I didn’t get the impression of them being overly heavy. And, the Redskin nubuck leather that the upper part of the boots were crafted out of felt surprisingly soft to the touch, yet durable.

The two tones of brown of the Harrowed Boots blend together quite nicely. I also found that I really like the lace design on the outer side of each boot, as it lends a unique appearance to the country boots.

The lace design on the side of the Harrowed Boots is more then just a ‘pretty face’…I can loosen of tighten them in order to get a customized fit for my leg – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

Once I slipped into the boots, I pulled the laces tight, and then proceeded to fasten the side strap (using the velcro). So while the laces help the boots to look stylish, they are also functional as well—I can loosen of tighten the laces in order to get a customized fit for my leg.

I’ve now worn the Harrowed Boots in a number of conditions…including on rainy days, while walking through both puddles and mud. My feet have stayed dry and comfortable when I’m out in wet weather, thanks to the boot’s HBR waterproof and breathable membrane—which reaches 160mm in height, from the sole of the boot.

The Harrowed Boots have also been spending time in my stirrups. Yup—I like riding in them as well. While I do not typically ride in lifestyle boots, I was pretty interested to see how the Positive Traction Grip (PTG) system of the boots worked for me. The PTG, along with a durable rubber outsole are meant to help provide traction across the terrain, for either walking or riding.

I felt as though I was able to keep my feet in a good position in the stirrup irons while wearing the Harrowed Boots, thanks to the Positive Traction Grip System – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

In the saddle, the Harrowed Boots felt quite comfortable to wear – I felt as though I was able to keep my feet in a good position in the stirrup irons (even during times that I decided to go for a nice gallop). And, I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of traction that I was able to get against the saddle with the Redskin nubuck leather of the upper portion of the boot. The boots also do feature spur rests.

While I’ve been around the farm quite a lot on foot while donning the Harrowed Boots, I also wanted to see how my feet felt after wearing them on days when I spent a lot of time on my feet.. In any conditions I could think of. I’ve worn them into the office for work. And out to run errands during the weekend. And I even spent a day walking all around Hershey Park and Chocolate World (side note: Best. Amusement. Park. EVER.).

Thanks to the podiatry designed foot bed of the Harrowed Boots, my feet stayed comfortable All. Day. Long. – Photo by: Lorraine Peachey

And guess what—thanks to the podiatry designed foot bed of the Harrowed Boots, my feet stayed comfortable All. Day. Long. I did not experience any type of rubbing, discomfort, or foot fatigue from the boots. And, I even found myself getting stopped on more than one occasion, by women asking me what kind of boots that I was wearing (that adds style points, right there!).

I guess that I just had not anticipated just how “all-around” the Harrowed Boots would really turn out to be. I can wear them around the barn, or for riding…yet, they are also stylish and comfortable enough that I can also clean them off and wear them to work or out on the town (and get many compliments on them).

Dublin’s Harrowed Boots have a suggested retail price of $249.99.

Go All-Around Boots (with a Customizable Fit). Go Dublin. Go Eventing.

Product Review: Noble Outfitters Amy Short Sleeve Quarter Zip

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 3, 2014 9:00 am -

Reflective Noble logo behind the shoulders on the Amy Quarter Zip Short Sleeve - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I’m in a bit of a fall wardrobe funk at the moment – the time for shorts and tank shirts is pretty much gone for the year, and I’m ready to welcome the season for chunky knit sweaters and boots. Boot season holds it’s very own special place near and dear to my heart.

Yet, we’ve still been having some days here in Pennsylvania that are absolutely gorgeous – Sunny & 75 (not to be confused with one of my favorite Joe Nichols songs…for the mobs of country music fans out there for any country music fans that might be reading this).

While this is my idea of a perfect day, meteorologically speaking, it can be a little challenging picking out an appropriate outfit, when the day starts out at 50 degrees or so.

If I pull on a typical fall outfit for me, I’m usually a little warm around the edges if the day turns out to be a lovely one in the mid-70s. So lately, I’ve been trying to stick with light layers that I can easily pull on or take off. But I’ve already busted out my boots to wear around, and they are so not returning to the back of the closet until next spring.

I’ve been going through a similar transitional period with my riding attire as well. While sleeveless tanks are out, I’ve still found myself wearing a number of my ‘stay cool’ or UV protective type long sleeve riding tops. But I’m always on the lookout for new riding shirts that fit whichever season of the year we happen to be in.

I like that the side seams of the Amy Quarter Zip have a ‘princess cut’—which just means that it hugs the curves of your waistline for a more flattering look – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Just this year, I’ve found that I enjoy wearing the Josie Quarter Zip Mock and the Riley Polo from Noble Outfitters, because the shirts were comfortable, and the fabric felt nice & stretchy. And who can’t use another riding top in their wardrobe? More recently, I’ve found that I have also enjoyed wearing Noble’s Amy Short Sleeve Quarter Zip.

Now I can probably maybe guess what you are thinking – short sleeves on cool fall days in Pennsylvania? Well, one of the first things that I found that I liked about the Amy Quarter Zip is that when I pulled it out of the packaging, I noticed that the ‘short sleeves’ are actually about ‘half sleeves’ on me – which I feel makes it a great top for transitional seasons for me.

The fabric of the Amy Quarter Zip felt very much like that of the Riley Polo to me – it is smooth to the touch, and has a good amount of stretch to it. It also does contain the same Opti-Dry Technology as the Riley, which in my experience, does a really nice job at helping to pull moisture away from the skin. And it also tends to dry pretty quickly for me as well.

Noble Outfitters logo on near bottom hem on front of Amy Quarter Zip – I find the detailing to be stylish, but I also like the concept of having reflective areas on my clothing, since I often ride at dusk during the Fall – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I am also quite fond of the reflective detailing that Noble Outfitters has included on the Amy Quarter Zip – there is an attractive Noble ‘N’ logo (that is larger in size) on the back, between the shoulder blades.

Also, near the bottom hem on the front side of the shirt, there is also a smaller ‘Noble Outfitters’ spelled-out logo in the same reflective detailing. I find the detailing to be stylish, but I also like the concept of having some reflective areas on my clothing, in case I’m out riding at dusk (as is often the case in fall).

The fit of the Amy Quarter Zip worked well for me – this shirt is fairly fitted. I like that the side seams have a ‘princess cut’—which just means that it hugs the curves of your waistline for a more flattering look. I’ve also found it very nice that the seams themselves are flat. Which makes them feel both smooth and comfortable.

The dropped back hem of the Amy Quarter Zip helps it stay in place better with ‘riding up’ when I choose to ride without tucking in my top – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

And, I’ve found that the quarter zip on the front of the shirt is a feature that is both stylish, as well as functional. For a more polished look, I zip the whole way up. But for my more laid back style, I mostly keep the Amy shirt about halfway zipped up. The position of the zipper has also been helpful in regulating my body temperature. On cooler days, zipping all the way up helps provide a little insulation against the elements (and on warmer days, the reverse is true as well).

Time spent in the saddle donning the Amy Quarter Zip top is definitely a comfortable experience. The stretchy fabric feels great, and is not constricting while riding. Plus, I especially like that the dropped back hem of the shirt helps it stay in place better with ‘riding up’ when I choose to ride without tucking in my top.

On warmer days, the Opti-Dry technology works it ‘magic’, and helps to wick away moisture from my skin to keep me comfortable as I ride. But on the flip-side, I find that I really like having the half sleeves of the Amy shirt on cooler-but-not-cold days.

The Amy Short Sleeve Quarter Zip available from Noble Outfitters, and it comes in your choice of three colors—a more conservative ‘White’, a colorfully bright ‘Blue Ribbon’, and fun & funky ‘Blackberry Snakeskin’. All colors come with a retail price of $39.99.

Go Comfortable Gear for Changing Seasons. Go Noble Outfitters. Go Eventing.

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

By Colleen Peachey on Oct 1, 2014 4:30 pm -

Everything the light touches is my kingdom — I mean hay field.

Have you ever grown hay fields past their maturity to make bedding for your horses? That’s a topic currently up for discussion over on The Horse. While hay harvested past maturity makes low-quality forage for horses, it’s an economical option for horse owners looking for a more affordable bedding solution. There are both benefits and drawbacks to this type of decision, which you can read about at The Horse.com.

And check out some other headlines in horse health news:

Mares who experience breech births more likely to do so again: Research included in the latest issue of Equine Science Update has suggested that it is possible to identify how a foal is oriented in a mare through the use of an ultrasound scan. Mares who have carried breech foal in the past are also more likely to do so again. [Horsetalk]

The when and how of castration: Have questions about how to decide what the right time is to geld your colt? There’s a great article over on The Horse that provides information on equine castration, discussing everything from timing, the procedure itself, aftercare and potential complications from the surgery. [The Horse]

New grading system proves worth in treating difficult colic cases: A new approach to responding to cases of equine colic with small intestinal strangulation has the potential to both save the lives of horses and save their owners the cost of surgery. David Freeman of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and his team have developed an approach in which a horse’s intestinal damage is graded. [Horsetalk]

Pigeon fever on rise across the U.S.: Researchers have confirmed that there has been definite increase in the number of cases of pigeon fever in the United States in the past decade, particularly in the years 2011 and 2012. In order to help control existing cases and help to prevent the spread of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, the bacterial organism that causes the basketball sized abscesses evident of pigeon fever, additional studies are needed. [Horsetalk]

Longterm vision possible After equine cataract surgery: Results of a recent study show that 25 percent of horses undergoing cataract surgery still have vision two years later. Because there is currently no known therapy for cataracts, surgery is the typical recommendation for affected equines. In the particular technique used in the study — phacoemulsification — ultrasonic frequencies are used to break up the cataract for removal from the eye. [The Horse]

Product Review: Tredstep Ireland Argenta Breeches

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 30, 2014 9:39 pm -

Tredstep logo embroidered on the Integrated Cuff of the Argenta breeches - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

It is just me, or does the unexpected absolutely always seem to happen when you’re in a rush to get somewhere? There never seems to be enough time in the day for me. From the time that my alarm clock goes off in the morning, I try to go through my morning routine efficiently (well…as much as it can be when I’ve got 3 horses to feed, water & check before turnout).

Once my barn chores are done, the next order of business is to get cleaned up and get dressed to head into the office. Which usually means I’m throw on a top and pair of tailored pants, or maybe a dress—instead of the jeans and a tee that I oh-so prefer.

Then I grab up my bag and travel cup for the drive into work. Everything is going pretty smoothly…until I inevitably have some kind of mini-disaster that involves the travel mug and my outfit.

My klutz-like tendencies can (and do) cause the occasional ‘wardrobe-malfunction’. But being around horses really bumps up the chance of having horse snot or dirt land on your clothes. And on a day when you’re planning to travel to a show, clinic, or even trailer out for a lesson, forget about it.

I very much liked the feel of the Schoeller Prestige fabric (which has the added Nanosphere technology to keep stains OFF) – it was super smooth and soft to the touch – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

If you’re traveling somewhere with your horse, you should probably just face the music. Perhaps try some creative uses for saran wrap – wrapping yourself up might possibly help the situation. But probably not. Because some part of your riding outfit is most likely going to get dirty during the trip.

My money is on the breeches getting it – white or light tan colored breeches always look the absolutely best with a combination of coffee, slobber and grass stains…right? (Um…HECK NO!). So I’ll admit—I know that when some of my breeches have fallen victim to such atrocities in the past, I’ve absolutely felt like crying. Especially if it’s RIGHT before I go into the ring. *smacks forehead*

About a year ago, I saw an absolutely heart-attack inducing demo for the very first time. The demo involved—riders with a sensitive nature may want to stop reading now—no? Ok then. Well, it involved dumping a cup of coffee on a pair of white breeches. Intentionally. I literally flinched.

Until, that is, I saw that the coffee beaded up on the surface of the breeches. And then just rinsed right off when a bit of water was poured over them as well. And this is how I was first introduced to Tredstep Ireland’s breeches, which includes Nanosphere technology (aka – the magic behind the coffee rinsing right off the fabric).

Needless to say, I was head over heels for the concept of fabric that allows things like coffee to be rinsed right off with water. And not leave a mark. So, I’ve been wearing several pairs of breeches from Tredstep’s Symphony collection quite a bit this year – and one of the pairs that I’ve enjoyed riding in is the Tredstep Argenta breeches, in full seat.

The definition waistband is probably one of my favorite features of the Argenta breeches – it allows the waistband to literally feeling like it is hugging against me the whole way around my back – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

From the time that I pulled Tredstep’s Argenta full seat breeches out of the package they arrived in, I simply did not want to sit them down. Once I picked the breeches up, I found that I very much liked the feel of the Schoeller Prestige fabric (which has the added Nanosphere technology to keep stains OFF). It was super smooth and soft to the touch, and I also felt like the four-way stretch fabric had a good amount of give to it.

After looking the Argenta breeches over, I couldn’t wait to try them on for myself. Once I tried them on, I found myself noticing that some of my favorite elements of Tredstep’s Symphony collection have been incorporated into the Argenta breeches. The Motion Fit design of features an integrated cuff, definition waistband and well as an articulated knee patch design.

The definition waistband is probably one of my favorite features of the Argenta breeches – it allows the waistband to literally feeling like it is hugging against me the whole way around my back. This helps to eliminate gapping – which I don’t think anyone likes!

The Argenta breeches have a Mid Rise Waist, and the waistband itself cuts down in a ‘v’, which provides a nice fit and a look that is pleasing to the eye.

The integrated cuff allows the breeches to fit the curve of my calf and ankle very well – I really like the fact that it cuts up the side of my leg (rather than having a seam that runs straight across the leg). This makes them contour to my legs especially well, and it helps to reduce the bunching of the fabric behind my knee as well.

The Argenta breeches also feature two front zip pockets, as well as a silver front button – breeches of Tredstep’s Symphony collection are color coded, and each of the different pairs of breeches in the collection have a different color button. The breeches also have belt loops that are both functional, and pleasing to the eye.

The articulated knee patch has light padding on the upper portion, in order to increase the comfort of the leg against the saddle. And, the lower portion is scalloped, in order to eliminate bulk – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I also like the articulated knee patch is incorporated into the full seat design of the Argenta breeches. The design is made to give rider’s some light padding on the upper portion of the knee patch, in order to increase the comfort of the leg against the saddle. And, the lower portion of the knee patch is scalloped, in order to eliminate bulk. All in all, the breeches lay very nicely underneath tall boots.

The Argenta breeches look especially nice – they have an oh-so lovely tailored appearance, and look as though they are ready to enter the show ring. While they capture an elegant and traditional look, and look like they are ready for special occasions, they also have held well to normal schooling sessions as well.

I’ve also found that the Argenta breeches are quite comfortable to ride in. The features of the Motion Fit design aid in helping the breeches to fit well while I am riding (and look great while I’m doing it).

The four-way stretch helps the breeches have enough ‘give’ to feel comfortable – and I’m also happy to have the Scholler fabric with the Nanosphere technology at my back, so that I don’t have to worry about the unexpected happening to them. Because coffee can just rinse right off.

Tredstep’s Argenta breeches are available in both a Knee Patch and Full Seat version. The Knee Patch version retails for about $219.95, while the Full Seat version retails for about $229.95.

Oh, and have a look at this amazing (and slight panic-inducing) video that shows Nanosphere technology in ACTION:

Go Stylish and Comfortable Breeches (that say NO to stains!). Go Tredstep Ireland. Go Eventing.

Product Review: Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 26, 2014 11:00 am -

Label on the container of Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I always seem to have people randomly comment that my hair is “really long.” I hear this from people that I know and see fairly often (which is pretty funny to me because my hair has been “really long” for quite a while now). Or, I even get the occasional comment from complete and total strangers that happen to walk past me (which is sometimes slightly creepy).

While I adore my long locks, they can be a lot to maintain. The most tiresome things to deal with are the knots and tangles that inevitably find their way into my hair. Owning a Jeep Wrangler doesn’t seem to help that situation much (but I’ll take all the tangles in the world so that I can “go topless” in the good ‘ole Jeep).

Plus, I go through hair products faster than a tray of Dark Horse Chocolate samples disappear at a trade show (who doesn’t love a Peppermint Pony?). I’m not even kidding. The shampoo, conditioner and leave-in treatment bottles are gone in pretty much no time flat. And I’m extremely picky when it comes to hair products — using ones that keep my hair healthy, shiny and breakage free are especially important (since there’s so. much. of. it.)

The (mini) dreaded “before” picture. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

Well, my shiny ponytail pales in comparison to my own horse’s tails. There’s just a whole lotta hair up in there. And I’m notoriously bad for skipping brushing out tails — especially when I’m trying to do just a quick grooming job before tacking up for a ride after work.

The result is usually a tail that has monstrous knots is a little tangled and has a dusty film on it. The fall and winter seasons are even worse, though. When conditions turn muddy, my boys’ tails can end up with a bunch of lovely, mud-caked dreadlocks. And then there’s the funky smell of the “mud” as well (at least, that’s what I tell myself that it is). As you can imagine, is a complete and utter nightmare to clean and detangle.

Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner comes in both a 500ml and 1L sized spray bottle - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner comes in both a 500 milliliter and 1 liter sized spray bottles. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

So, when I came across the Carr & Day & Martin stand at the AETA tradeshow back in August, I was quite interested to learn about their Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner. Someone described it as being a product that does just a phenomenal job at keeping tails shiny and tangle free — so of course, that made me extremely eager to try it out!

I had a lovely conversation with some folks from Carr & Day & Martin; of course we chatted about our own ‘ponies’ and about how they can do such a bang up job at dragging their tails through every mud puddle and type of prickly brush in sight to create quite the mess.

During my chat, I was pleasantly surprised to hear that Carr & Day & Martin is a company with a long standing tradition of offering quality horse care products. In fact, they have been in business since 1765, which means they have been serving horse owners for over 200 years. That’s a really long time. I’m just saying.

During my initial use of Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner, I definitely saturated Ripley’s tail really well. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I was told that for the initial use of Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner, I should feel free to saturate my horse’s tail really well. After the first use, the tail should keep its nice sheen and be tangle free for up to two weeks. Two whole weeks! A silicone detangling agent is used in the Mane & Tail Conditioner in order help hair stay tangle free.

When I went to use the bottle of Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner for the first time, I really let Ripley’s tail have it, because it definitely had some knots and slight dreadlocks in it. I went about giving his tail a good even spritzing all over, paying special attention to get the underside as well. And while spraying the bottle, I noticed that the conditioner has a pleasant aroma to it, as it contains a citronella scent.

I applied the conditioner to Ripley’s tail while it was dry, but it can also be applied to wet tail hair as well. Once his tail had a nice even coat of Canter Mane & Tail applied, it felt fairly damp. I then proceeded to grab up a soft body brush to run through it to start working on those tangles. And then to finish up, I finally combed the entire tail to get those last few tangles out.

After Ripley’s tail was evenly coated with Canter Mane & Tail, it felt very sleek and was quite easy for me to run the soft body brush through. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

I was quite literally amazed at the results that unfolded right before my eyes. Ripley’s tail did feel quite damp once I sprayed on a coating of Canter Mane & Tail. The tail hair felt very sleek at that point, so it was quite easy for me to run both the soft body brush and then the comb through. And then it was time to say buh-bye to the tangles and mini-dreadlocks.

But something more happened than just the tangles coming out. Once the conditioner saturated in and was brushed through, Ripley’s tail felt dry, and it gained a lot of body to it. The result was simply stunning. Ripley’s tail just looked so shiny and fluffy as it cascaded down till it almost touched the ground. And it just made me want to go run my fingers through it (and it felt as smooth and lovely as it looked). I also have been using the conditioner on Ripley’s mane as well, and it is also smooth and shiny.

And the final result … stunning. Photo by Lorraine Peachey.

And the results didn’t just last for a day or two. The Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner kept Ripley’s tail hair looking and feeling great. I like how shiny and free of tangles it has stayed. I have not been able to bring myself to wait two full weeks between applications because I just like to spritz his tail a few times and run a comb through it as part of my regular grooming routine at this point. In fact, I feel like I’ve not put much of a dent in the 1 liter bottle that I’ve been using yet! And since I’ve started using the product, a few spritzes is all it takes to keep the tail looking absolutely fabulous.

Carr & Day & Martin is the leading manufacturer of equine care products in the UK, and they have even held a Royal Warrant since the reign of King George IV. If Carr & Day & Martin products are good enough for use in the British Royal Stables, then they are most certainly good enough for my own horses! The company also manufactures 80 percent of their products in their own plant located in Lytham. And, though there are no manufacturing standards that must be adhered to for equine care products, Carr & Day & Martin has manufactured to pharmaceutical standards for many years.

Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner is available in an easy-to-use spray bottle, in two sizes — a 500 milliliter bottle and a 1 liter bottle. The 500 milliliter bottle retails for around $16.95, and the 1 liter bottle retails for around $29.95. You can check them out here.

Go Tails that Get Their Shine On. Go Carr & Day & Martin. Go Eventing.

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 24, 2014 4:30 pm -

Enough is enough. I finally got tired of picking up soiled hay when mucking stalls and have been happy with the reduce in wasted hay when using a net. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

When I’m mucking stalls, I find myself cringing when I see soiled hay that has been ground down into the bedding. Sometimes it just looks like my horses went buck wild and threw a hay party. Not only is cleaning up soiled hay a total pain, but I always see it as being very wasteful as well. Feeding good, quality hay to horses is an expense, so wasted hay is like leaving money lying around on the ground.

A recent study from the University of Minnesota found that up to 13 percent of hay can be wasted when no feeder is used, and while feeders have shown to result in major reductions in hay waste, they have also been shown to pay for themselves within 12 months. Check out more on Horsetalk.

And here are other headlines in horse health news:

Preventing Fall Founder: A sudden regrowth of rich grass in the fall following a dry summer,is something that could trigger an incident of founder. Dr. Anna O’Brien has made suggestions that aim to help horse owners reduce the risk of founder during the upcoming fall season. [Horse Channel]

Helping Horses Recover from Injury: Proprioceptive stimulation techniques can help horse owners restore the “range of joint motion, muscle activation and muscular coordination and strength” in horses recovering from injury. Check out these three methods, which can be used by to help improve motion limitations. [The Horse]

Potential Probiotic Worming Agent: Equine pathologist Martin Nielsen has garnered support to research a possible new equine worming agent. Nielsen, who is with the Gluck Equine Research Center of the University of Kentucky, is investigating a crystal protein, which is produced by Bacillius thuringiensis, a soil based bacteria. [Horsetalk]

Six Fatal EEE Cases Reported in New York: Officials in the state of New York are advising horse owners to vaccinate their horses against Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), if they haven’t already. This urging comes following the reports of six fatal cases within the state. [Blood Horse]

Infographic on Scratches in Horses: There is a pretty cool visual guide posted over at The Horse, which can help horse owners understand causes of scratches, as well as providing them with prevention tips and ways to treat this frustrating condition. [The Horse]

Product Review: Professional’s Choice VenTECH Leather Open Front Jumping and Ankle Boots

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 23, 2014 6:00 pm -

Professional's Choice logo on the outer side of the VenTECH Leather Open Front Jumping Boots - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

There are some points in time when I feel like I’m just a complete and total klutz. On any given day, it’s quite likely that I can find a bruise on my arm or leg. And I most likely won’t even be able to recall how it got there in the first place. I bump into things. I trip. I elbow the tack room doorway. I even fell into the manure pile (but that was just that one time).

I’ve sometimes found myself wondering if I should maybe just give in and wear my helmet while doing any kind of work around the barn. Maybe it would just help to save me some bumps and scrapes. And heck, while I’m at it, maybe I’ll just throw on my protective vest at the same time. Might this be over the top ridiculous? Abso-friggin-lutely. But at least the thought is entertaining me (just please excuse me for a moment while I get back up off the floor).

In all seriousness though, I’ve talked a number of times about safety and protective gear. And my philosophy is really not very hard to remember, when it comes to safety gear — it’s pretty much just “use it.” I make sure that any safety or protective equipment that I use is the correct size and adjusted properly. And if it buckles, snaps or velcros, I make sure that it is SECURELY fastened.

When I put the VenTECH Leather Open Front Jumping & Ankle boots on Ripley before heading out to school jumps, I find that I really like the way that they contour to fit his legs. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

On activity that I always gear up for is schooling over jumps. And when I say “gear up,” that applies to both myself and my horse, for purposes of safety and injury prevention. Even if I’m only taking Ripley, my mature Quarter Horse, out to school over small jumps, I always shrug on my own safety vest. Plus, I always make sure that my horse has protective leg wear on as well.

So I was totally psyched to have the chance to try out a set of VenTECH Leather Open Front Jumping and Ankle Boots from Professional’s Choice. When I pulled both the jumping and ankle boots out of their packaging, the very first thing I noticed was the lovely aroma of the leather (it’s true, I’m a total sucker for the smell).

When I picked up one of the boots, I couldn’t help but observe how smooth and flexible the French leather felt. The leather feels pretty supple to the touch when I was checking them out — at no point did I get the impression that the leather felt like a hard shell, which made me really like them.

I personally really appreciate the traditional look that the leather outer helped to give the boots — and the good news is that the leather shell is also water resistant. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I also examined the leather outer of both sets of boots and was delighted to notice an eye-catching design on the back sides of them on the leather strike patch. The pattern of ventilation holes coupled with a curving design stitched on the strike area gives the boots an elegant look.

The inside of the VenTECH Jumping and Ankle Boots are lined with a breathable neoprene that is cushion-like to the touch. I also found that I like the two tendon bars that are built into the neoprene lining, which help to keep the boots exactly in place, while providing some extra support for the tendons.

Both sets of boots have elastic straps that come across the front of the legs, and velcro under a tab to secure them—the Jumping boots have two elastic straps, while the Ankle boots have a single strap for closure. The tab also includes a stylish looking Professional’s Choice logo, that is displayed on the outer sides of each of the boots.

When I put the boots on Ripley before heading out to school jumps on any given day, I find that I really like the way that they contour to fit his legs. The combination of the soft neoprene with the supple feeling leather really helps the boots to look like they’ve molded to Ripley’s legs. Plus, I like the way that the extra tendon bars feel like they help to hold the boots in place.

I also appreciate that when I go to pull the boots off, Ripley’s legs feel both dry and cool — even when I use them on warmer days. Photo by Lorraine Peachey

And when I stood back, the set of boots just looked really striking to me. I personally really appreciate the traditional look that the leather outer helped to give the boots — and the good news is that the leather shell is also water resistant.

When I take Ripley out for a ride, I notice that he moves really well on the flat and over fences while wearing the VenTECH Jumping and Ankle Boots. And even after taking adequate time to warm up, schooling over jumps for a bit and then going for a cool-down hack, the boots stayed in place just where they ought to be.

Plus, I also appreciate that when I go to pull the boots off, Ripley’s legs feel both dry and cool — even when I use them on warmer days. The VenTECH technology used in the boots helps to achieve this by allowing both heat and moisture to escape from your horse’s legs during use.

The VenTECH Open Front Jumping and Ankle Boots are available in both brown and black. I gravitated toward the brown due to my personal preference, though the black looks equally lovely. The Open Front Jumping boots retail for $139.95, while the Ankle Boots retail for $109.95. And don’t forget — Professional’s Choice offers a 30-day money back guarantee on their products, as well as a six-month warranty!

Go Jumping Boots that look AND feel cool. Go Professional’s Choice. Go Eventing.

Best. Trade. Fair. Ever. (at Plantation Field, Of Course!)

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 21, 2014 11:39 am -

Best. Trade. Show. Ever.

While spending some time today at Plantation Field International CIC (otherwise known as the Best. Event. Ever.), I found myself drawn to their trade fair like a moth to the flame. It could be my slight shopping addiction. Or it could just be the total awesomeness of the sights (and tastes) around the trade fair.

The entrance to the trade fair itself was an inviting picture of autumn–with a great shopping experience laying just beyond! The shopping experience offered is definitely one that both equestrians and non-equestrians can enjoy, boasting over 50 vendors for both shopping and eating. After starting my trek through the PFHT Vendor Village I went from one booth to the next, finding some pretty cool things along the way…walk with me, por favor!

So many tweeds, so little time. My personal favorites are the Bracken jacket (left), and the Blackthorn Three-Quarter coat (right).

So many tweeds, so little time. My personal favorites are the Bracken Tweed Utility Jacket (left), and the Hawthorn Double Breasted Tweed Coat (right).

But of course I was drawn to the Dubarry booth, because I always love to visit all of the gorgeous boots lined up. There is always the danger of making that unintentional impulse purchase, but I was willing to risk it. Once at the stand, I found that I was able to see some of Dubarry’s Fall and Winter outerwear line. The tweeds were absolutely stunning. I found that some of my favorite pieces included the women’s Hawthorn Double Breasted Tweed Coat (in a NEW tweed color), as well as the Bracken Tweed Utility Jacket (which is available in a number of color options).

C4 Belts just about make me go into a color frenzy. ‘Tis a dangerous thing for me when I can’t make up my mind. Good thing all of the colors look fab…and I’ve got my eye on the limited edition Leopard with the gold colored buckle!

Another stop that I made was at the C4 Belts display. After my recent experience with C4 Belts, I’ve found myself kindof well…with a new shopping addiction. So of course I had to stop by and see all of the different belt and buckle color combinations. There were some pretty cool limited edition belts on display. After the Americana design (which is, of course, my favorite of the limited editions), I found myself lusting after the Leopard print belt, with a golden colored buckle.

Even though I walked away having purchased two belts (and one was a gift!), I think I might just have to place an order for the Leopard. And…I’ve heard chatter that you may be able to glimpse some C4 limited edition belts being sported at the PRO Bareback competition on Sunday…

How ’bout that display of Mattes Correction Half Pads…can you spot the Gold Collection?

At the World Equestrian Brands booth, I found an entire display of Mattes Correction half pads. And what’s so exciting about a whole display of half pads you might ask…well, I’ll tell you. Within the display, I found some of the recent Mattes Gold Collection Correction Half Pads.

The Gold Collection pads have the same design and high quality of materials that can be found in the Platinum Collection pads, with the main difference being that they are made using wool instead of full sheepskin panels. The wool is dense and soft, yet the front and rear trim is still sheepskin, so that it can be ordered in all of the colors available in the Couture Collection.

A custom, self-adhesive poster of a favorite photo from Sarro Signs…yes, please!

And I also made a stop at Sarro Signs, who is a local business located here in good ‘ole Chester County, PA. Not only can they create customized signs for your farm or business…but they also offer trailer lettering, as well as some other cool things as well.

They conveniently offer their trailer lettering services to riders who have their trailers onsite for competition. Something cool that I found there was their customized poster, with an adhesive backing. The posters are for use indoors only, and you can have your favorite photo turned into a poster that can be hung inside your trailer dressing room, or even your tack room.

I was pretty smitten with this shade of electric blue on one of Ariat’s new outerwear pieces, found at the Bit of Britain booth.

While at the Bit of Britain booth, I found quite the display of Ariat outerwear. There were SO MANY jackets to look at, with a number of different styles to pick from. I appreciated the small details that many of the jackets included–such as zipper pulls that were shaped like stirrups. The Ariat Voltaire Jacket that I found was one of my favorite colors – a nice royal blue…definitely eye catching!

Socks…made from alpaca wool?!?! Pretty cool…or warm, actually!

Another cool thing that I came across…alpaca clothing and outwear. Yes, you heard me right, apparel items made out of alpaca wool – which after feeling, I would say is much less itchy than traditional wool. There were actually two booths selling alpaca products–Stone Spring Suri Farm & Grist Mill Farm Alpacas. I found lovely scarves, socks, gloves, and even items of clothing. The socks felt super soft, and were available in a number of nice patterns.

A super cute, equestrian inspired bit necklace I came across at Lorena Jewelry.

I also found a neat booth with a display of equestrian inspired jewelry–Lorena Jewelry featured custom equestrian designs. I found a lovely horse bit necklace, as well as an elegant looking pearl necklace with a horse and rider pendant. So many cute finds!

I found a little bit of everything over at the Omega Alpha Equine stand…

When I wandered up to the Omega Alpha Equine display, located at Top Rail Tack, I found a display of a number of their different all-natural products. Whether looking for a tube of Enduraforce, Chill Ultra or Equisel-BCAA paste, or for a bottle of Respi-Free or Sinew-X, they had you covered!

Best. Water. Ice. Ever. Period.

And no walk through the trade fair would be complete without stopping for a treat. While there were many to be found, I stopped at Dino’s Water Ice & Ice Cream. After tagging along with fellow EN blogger, Maggie Deatrick, to walk the CIC** cross country course, having an Italian ice was the perfect way to cool down on a warm day! There were plenty of flavors to choose from, but I chose a combination of Cherry & Blue Raspberry. One word: Perfection! Best. Trade. Fair. Ever.

Want Boyd Martin’s WEG Helmet? Check Out the Plantation Field Silent Auction

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 21, 2014 9:00 am -

You won’t have to ride in it like you stole it if you are the lucky winner to bring home Boyd Martin’s Charles Owen WEG helmet!

Does the prospect of bidding — and winning — on some swag excite you? Have you ever found yourself wishing you could bring home some gear used by members of the U.S. Eventing Team at an international competition? Or do you just find yourself having an ever-so-slight addiction to shopping (guilty). If you answered YES to any of these questions, and you’ll be attending the Best. Event. Ever. today for cross country, then you have to stop by the silent auction shed.

Have you heard? Boyd Martin’s Charles Owen helmet that was worn during cross country at this year’s World Equestrian Games is being offered as part of PFHT’s silent auction. And, he’s kindly autographed it for the lucky new owner. While Boyd’s helmet most likely does not contain any special magical powers to help you ride cross country like he does — that would be totally awesome though, right? — it does look super awesome.

And you won’t have to ride in it like you stole it because you have the chance to legitimately buy it. Side note: I personally LOVE the USA embroidered on the front of the helmet cover. But that shouldn’t really surprise anyone, should it? #murica

The lucky winner of the Phillip Dutton autographed pad that was used on Trading Aces at the 2014 WEGs may face a dilemma — to use the pad, or not use the pad!

Up next is a non-slip saddle pad used on Trading Aces by Phillip Dutton at the World Equestrian Games. As with Boyd’s helmet, Phillip also quite graciously autographed the saddle pad for its new owner. The pad also features a Land Rover patch, as well as the American flag for all of those riders who are completely “Go Team USA” at heart. Now the lucky new owner of the saddle pad may want to use it or just hang it up to look at. Either way, it’s a pretty awesome looking pad!

A custom bling browband. Who doesn’t love a little extra sparkle, I ask you?

Another cool item up for bid is a custom bling browband, created by Bark n’ Bling, which comes in Plantation Field’s colors of blue and orange. If the lucky winner chooses though, they can request to have different colors used for their own browband. And who doesn’t love a little extra bling on their bridle?

Do you like PINK…this basket from Perri’s leather may have your name on it….well, if you’re at PFHT and write down your bid, that is.

I also spied a Perri’s Leather gift basket available as well. The gift basket is pink-themed, which is perfectly timed for the upcoming Breast Cancer Awareness Month of October, not to mention all your eventers out there who rock pick on cross-country day. I personally like the pretty cool outdoor-themed pink saddle pad included in the basket.

Got a dirty horse? Clean ’em up!

There was also a HUGE gift basket containing Mane ‘n Tail products. Let’s face it — horses. get. dirty. But if you bring home a big ‘ole basket of Mane ‘n Tail, you’ll have many products at your beck and call to scrub and shine your horse up a bit. And with the muddy season coming up, you may need every bit of clean you can get.

What a foxy looking shirt from Middy N’ Me!

A completely lovely Middy N’ Me shirt is also available for purchase. It offers clean, elegant lines, and the inside of the collar and ends of the sleeves have a lovely fox pattern. It could just be a perfect gift for that fox hunter that you know!

So many Nunn Finer bridles to choose from…

Need a new bridle, or even a leather halter? Fear not, because there is a WHOLE ROW of Nunn Finer bridles that are available to bid on. Anything from a blingy dressage bridle to a figure 8 bridle is up for grabs.

The Stubben Zaria saddle is truly a thing of beauty…

Looking for a new cross country saddle? Well, there is a completely gorgeous looking Zaria Optimum saddle with a Biomex Seat from Stubben that is also part of the Silent Auction. This particular saddle retails for over $4,000, and I personally love the contrasting colors of the leather. It looks freaking fantastic. Just saying.

And there’s even some swag for your dog up for grabs!

And, there is a new wheelbarrow that is filled with goodies for your dog — this is such a selfless purchase waiting to be bid on if I’ve ever seen one. A wheelbarrow for farm work, and a bed and many other items to pamper your pup with. Remember — you’re not really buying it for yourself. You’re just trying to spoil your dog a little.

Some of the other awesome swag up for grabs includes things like cross-country schooling for two at Fair Hill, a pair of Dubarry Galway boots, any Charles Owen helmet of your choice (up to a $500 value), Ariat boots, and many, many more items! The silent auction is running all day at Plantation Field, so check it out while you still can!

Plantation Field International CIC & H.T. [Website] [Entry Status] [Times] [Live Scores]

Product Review: Omega Alpha Equine Minereq Vitamin and Mineral Formula

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 19, 2014 2:30 pm -

Label on the canister of Minereq by Omega Alpha Equine - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I’m not the best when it comes to remembering to take any kind of vitamin or mineral supplements. Mostly, I just forget about them entirely. Well, until I start to feel a little under the weather that is. So when I get feeling crummy, of course I remember to pull that bottle of Vitamin C or “daily” Multi-Vitamins off the top shelf of my medicine cabinet. What—I remember to take them every day when I’m sick!

It was definitely easier to remember to take vitamins back when I was a kid. And that’s probably because my vitamins were fun shapes and colors (Flintstones chewables, anyone?…the Dino shaped ones were totally AWESOME!). I mean really – what kid doesn’t get excited to take vitamins that are shaped like cartoon characters. I call it a daily dose of awesome-ness.

But my bottle of Vitamin C’s doesn’t really seem all that interesting. Perhaps that why I forget about them the majority of the time. The good news is that while I’m extremely and hopelessly slightly forgetful about my own vitamins, I’m slightly obsessive when it comes to making sure that my horses are receiving their proper feed and supplement rations.

When it comes to nutrition, I’ve constantly got an eye on my boys’ body conditions. It helps that I am fortunate enough to be able to keep my three geldings at home, so I know what ‘normal’ looks like for them. And if I notice that someone looks like they’ve lost or gained a little weight, I make adjustments to their feed.

The same philosophy applies to supplements at my barn. I keep everyone on supplements that I’ve carefully selected, based on their overall health, the intensity of work that I am asking of them, and to address any health needs that come to light.

Minereq is a complete vitamin and mineral formula, that comes in a convenient powdered form – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Something that I felt a desire to feed was a vitamin supplement, in order to address any nutritional gaps that were in my horses’ diets. Specially, I like to pay special attention to Ripley’s diet. At 24, he would most certainly be categorized as a senior horse by many standards. However, I’m over the moon to be able to say that Ripley has been in excellent physical health, and is still very active. I still school dressage and small jumps with him and one of his favorite things in the world is to cut loose and gallop across the hay field out back.

So, I decided to start including Minereq from Omega Alpha Equine in Ripley’s daily supplement regimen back in the Spring of this year. Minereq is a complete vitamin and mineral formula, that comes in a convenient powdered form. It contains vitamins such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, etc (check out the complete list of ingredients here).

Minereq is available in either 500g (1.1 lb) or 1Kg (2.2 lb) sized canisters – I’ve personally been using the 1Kg (2.2 lb) sized containers, which I just store along with the rest of my supplement canisters. The lid of the Minereq container twists off easily, and the opening is large enough to easily be able to use the scoop to collect the powered vitamin supplement within.

The recommended dose for Minereq is 1-2 scoops a day, I’ve fed Ripley 1 scoop daily along with his grain. The powder is a light tan color, and I always notice what I feel is a pleasant aroma to it while I’m measuring Ripley’s daily dose out.

I always notice that Minereq has a pleasant aroma to it while I’m measuring Ripley’s daily dose out to add into his feed – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

After I swish around Ripley’s grain in order to ensure that his supplements are mixed in nicely, of course I go ahead and feed him (I’m pretty sure he would revolt if I skipped the actual feeding him part). And I’m happy to report that Ripley chows down his grain without any pause whatsoever with the Minereq added in.

Since he’s been on Minereq, Ripley has continued to stay in good health. And I’m glad to know that I’m giving him a vitamin and mineral supplement in order to try to fill any nutritional gaps that he has in his diet.

Minereq, like other Omega Alpha Equine products, is made of all natural ingredients, and is manufactured under stringent GMP standards. This particular vitamin formula is not recommended for mares in foal (which is something that I personally don’t have to worry about, since my barn is basically a ‘boys club’).

Check out the Omega Alpha Equine page to find a retailer near you!

Go Vitamins (Even when they’re not shaped like cartoon characters). Go Omega Alpha. Go Eventing.

Product Review: C4 Skinny and Classic Belts

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 17, 2014 2:00 pm -

C4 logo on the end of my purple colored skinny belt - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I’m always looking for ways to add a little something extra to my outfits. Something to help make them more interesting, or just brighten things up a bit. When I’m thinking about my everyday clothes, this usually means throwing on a sassy pair of shoes or switching out to a stylish handbag. Or, a simpler approach could just involve applying a quick coat or two of a colorful nail polish.

When I’m getting ready for a ride though, my options are much more limited. Sure, colorful polish looks great on nails and toes, but it’s a little hard to see under gloves and boots. And suffice to say, it’s a little silly to try to wear sparkly shoes or jewelry around the barn. And don’t even get me started to carry any sort of handbag around the barn (it inevitably ends up getting chewed up or clawed to shreds, right?).

The plastic case that a C4 belt comes in doubles as a handy storage container for when you are not wearing your belt – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

So I usually end up turning to bright tops, blingy browbands, or even colored saddle pads to make things more interesting. Until recently, that is. When C4 Belts snagged my attention.

I first learned about the C4 Belts brand early this year, and thought that the basic concept of being able to buy colored belts was pretty cool. But it didn’t stop there – I was excited to find out that the belts and buckles can actually be swapped around, so that you can truly get a belt that is YOUR colors!

One of the things that I noticed about C4 Belts is that they come in a nifty plastic case, which is quite sturdy feeling. It’s clear, so that you can see awesome colors right through the case. Plus, the case itself doubles as a handy storage container for when you are not wearing your belt, so that you don’t just have to toss it in a drawer somewhere!

Belts come in a single size, and are generously sized to start out with–and, it is super easy to customize them to fit – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

And once I got around to opening the case, I (finally) pulled out the belt and buckle. I found myself surprised at the smooth and, dare I say soft and flexible feeling of the rubber. But it doesn’t feel too flexible. The material feels like a soft (but again, not too soft) rubber.

C4 offers both their belts in both a Classic and Skinny style. While the Classic style fits threads nicely through the belt loops on my breeches, the Skinny offers a different (but equally stylish) look. Plus, I’ve found that the Skinny also works well on pants that have slim belt loops as well.

Belts come in a single size, and are generously sized to start out with–and, it is super easy to customize them to fit. I’ve found that by simply trying the belt on, I can get a good feel for the right length for me. And then, finishing up is just as simple as taking a pair of scissors and cutting the belt down to the proper size. Afterwards, I just slide the buckle onto the end of the belt and clasp it on. It’s that simple.

Swapping buckles are super easy–I just slide the buckle onto the end of the belt and clasp it on – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Another nice feature is that since the belts are made out of a rubbery material, they do not get ruined when they get wet the way that a leather belt would. Even if they do get wet, they have been designed specifically so they do not bleed color or leave a mark on breeches. So I don’t even have to worry about wearing a colorful C4 belt with a pair of white breeches!

Yet another way to sport some C4 colors is by using a belt as a neck strap for your horse. Just fasten the buckle around your horse’s neck, and off you go (well, hopefully heading off while staying on your horse, should they decide to try some crazy acrobatic antics). You can match your horse’s neck strap to a belt you are wearing exactly, or just choose colors that coordinate.

I found myself absolutely going crazy for the Americana Classic belt. Which I wanted. So I bought it. And, it looks simply terrific as a neckstrap – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Belts are offered not only in solid colors–there are also some awesome limited edition colors available in the classic style belt as well. And for someone who loves all things red, white & blue, or with stars and/or spangles (like myself)–I found myself absolutely going crazy for the Americana Classic belt. Which I wanted. So I bought it. And, it looks simply terrific as a neckstrap!

I find that C4 belts not only wear quite well with breeches–they look great with my everyday wardrobe also. Which is great, because I really like to pieces that can crossover from the barn to the street!

I find that C4 belts not only wear quite well with breeches–they look great with my everyday wardrobe also – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I also like that the name C4 actually stands for ‘Choose your Color, Choose your Cause’ – and with every belt purchase, you can simply scan a barcode included in the packaging with a smartphone, and then choose one of 4 charities (which change each year) for C4 to make a donation to. So when I buy a fab new belt, I can also help to pay it forward at the same time. Talk about a win-win!

C4 belts have a retail price of $29.95, for either the Skinny or the Classic. And, some retailers even sell buckles separately–so if you’re like me, this might help to feed your mix-match color addiction even more. If you visit the C4 website, you can also select your colors, and see what different belt-buckle combinations look like.

Go Color + Function + Supporting a great cause. Go C4 Belts. Go Eventing.

Product Review: Redmond Daily Red Equine Minerals

By Colleen Peachey on Sep 12, 2014 9:00 am -

Redmond Logo on a pouch of Daily Red Equine Minerals - Photo by Lorraine Peachey

During the hot days of Summer, I find it easier to stay hydrated. Particularly on those days when it feels like I am sweating buckets just from walking out the back door and down to the barn – that’s never a good way to start out the day. I just make sure to grab a bottle of water (or two) before heading out the door. And it’s definitely not hard to remember to keep hydrated when it’s so warm that I down half a bottle of water at a time.

When the warm temperatures start to slip away, only to be replaced by the cooler days of Fall, it’s a little more difficult to remember to take a water bottle along. And when freezing cold days arrive (that I’m not even trying to think about right now), I basically have to force myself to keep hydrating while I’m getting my barn work done and riding. At those temperatures, I’m trying to toss away the ice water and pick up a peppermint hot chocolate!

Water is something that is so essential to a properly functioning human body…but also for an equine body as well. Something that you may not know is that a mature horse’s body is comprised of about 65% water. And in order to stay hydrated, an average horse should drink about 5 to 10 gallons of water each day.

Daily Red comes in a 5lb pouch that is re-sealable – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Now, I know that how much water my own horses drink on any given day can vary based on the outside temperature and their activity level, among other things. One practice that I find that I’ve held to is providing salt and/or mineral blocks for my horses–both free range in their pasture, and hanging in their stalls.

Something new that I’ve tried this year is providing Redmond Rocks to my horses. I’m glad to provide them with a traditional Redmond Rock in their pasture, and also with a Redmond Rock-on-a-Rope in each of their stalls. I find that two out of the three of my geldings really seem to enjoy licking (and licking. And licking.) the rocks.

I feel as though I see a correlation between how much my horses lick their mineral rocks and how much they drink–the more they lick, the more they seem to drink. Which is what I want to see.

Daily Red is a granulated form of Redmond Rock, and it contains 60+ trace minerals – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

Unfortunately Mark, my extra large giant of a horse, has never shown much interest in licking any kind of salt block, mineral block or mineral rock. He has been a rather finicky eater since…well, always. When Mark was a foal, he would quite literally take up to an entire hour to eat his grain ration–he would just get distracted and wander around.

So it never surprised me when I found that he stuck his nose up at a traditional white salt block. Or a red mineral block. Or that he didn’t show all that much more interest in a Redmond Rock. I’m not sure if he just has a sensitive tongue, or simply doesn’t like licking a block or rock. Which is why I was really happy to have the chance to try out Redmond Rock’s Daily Red!

When I first heard about Daily Red, I was interested to learn that it is really just a Redmond Rock that is in a granular form. Needless to say (but I’m going to say it anyway), I was pretty excited to find out about Daily Red because it provides me with a way to get Mark to consume the minerals provided by his Rock, without actually having to lick it. Since he never really shows much interest in licking a rock or block, that is.

I just use the scoop that is included to measure out Mark’s daily ration, and then add it into his grain bucket – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

I’ve been using Daily Red as a part of Mark’s daily supplement regiment for over 6 months now. When I first took a look at the package of Daily Red, I was happy to see that the 5lb pouch was re-sealable. And Daily Red really does look like the granulated form of a Redmond Rock that it is– so it gives your horse all of the same 60+ trace minerals that they would get from a traditional Rock.

I’ve found that it’s very simple to just open the pouch of Daily Red each day when I’m getting Mark’s grain ready. I just use the scoop that is included to measure out Mark’s daily ration, and then add it into his grain bucket. And then, it’s super easy to just ‘zip’ the pouch closed afterwards.

Even though Mark is a finicky eater, he does not hesitate to dive right into his grain when the Daily Red is added into his ration. I add Daily Red once a day, into his evening ration of grain. And I have to say, I noticed a difference in Mark’s drinking habits right away after starting him on Daily Red.

My turnout routine is typically that I leave my horses turned out all day, and then bring them into their stalls overnight. So stall-time is when I can really monitor the individual eating and drinking habits of each of my horses. And after starting Mark on Daily Red, I definitely noticed him drinking more water than previously.

I noticed a difference in Mark’s drinking habits right away after starting him on Daily Red – Photo by Lorraine Peachey

The other great thing about a pouch of Daily Red…it seems to last me for a pretty long time! If you give your horse the recommended dosage of 2oz per day, a bag of Daily Red will last you 80 days (for one horse).

And something else that is pretty cool–Daily Red starts by being mined right here in the USA. It a combination of all natural minerals that are mined from a sea bed deposit that is located in Central Utah.

So I feel like I can rest assured that Mark is getting the minerals and electrolytes that he needs, even though he is not a fan of licking a block or rock. And not only is the Daily Red convenient to use (and Mark eats it along with his grain ration)–but it is also affordable. A 5lb pouch of Daily Red has a retail price of $16.24, and it is also available in a 25lb container for $41.18!

Go Equine Hydration. Go Redmond Rock. Go Eventing.

Eventing Nation

Achievements

About Colleen Peachey

Latest Articles Written

Product Review: Equisafety Aspey Jacket

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

Product Review: Asmar Equestrian Hunter Jacket

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

Product Review: Professional’s Choice Gina Miles Under Pad

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

Product Review: MDC ‘S’ Model Stirrup Irons

Product Review: E.A. Mattes Gold Collection Correction Half Pad

Product Review: Absorbine Fungasol System

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

Boyd Bucks: The Currency of the Future?

Product Review: Dublin Harrowed Boots

Product Review: Noble Outfitters Amy Short Sleeve Quarter Zip

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

Product Review: Tredstep Ireland Argenta Breeches

Product Review: Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner

This Week in Horse Health News Presented by Absorbine

Product Review: Professional’s Choice VenTECH Leather Open Front Jumping and Ankle Boots

Best. Trade. Fair. Ever. (at Plantation Field, Of Course!)

Want Boyd Martin’s WEG Helmet? Check Out the Plantation Field Silent Auction

Product Review: Omega Alpha Equine Minereq Vitamin and Mineral Formula

Product Review: C4 Skinny and Classic Belts

Product Review: Redmond Daily Red Equine Minerals

Stable View

Success Equestrian

FutureTrack

Sport Horse Nation

Kentucky Performance Products

Strides for Equality Equestrians

USEA

USEF

FEI