Wednesday News & Notes from SmartPak

Photo courtesy of Kim Keppick. Photo courtesy of Kim Keppick.

There is still so much snow on the ground! We’re still seeing numerous photos of various stages of snow removal, as well as a few of people and their horses out enjoying (is that the right word?) the drifts. EN reader Kim Keppick sent us this “between the ears” shot from Virginia, courtesy of Joey Snider of Hume, Virginia. Keep digging, everyone!

Weekend Preview:

Rocking Horse Winter I HT: [Website] [Entry Status] [Ride Times

Full Gallop Farm January HT: [Website] [Entry Status]

News & Notes:

Did you know it’s a common colic myth that if your horse is passing manure, he’s fine? According to a new article from Kentucky Performance Products, veterinary surgeons are saying this may not necessarily be true. Passing manure does not rule out the possibility of a blockage higher up. [KPP Nutritional Minute]

Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino in Sunland Park, New Mexico has suspended racing after some horses were diagnosed with EHV-1. To date, there have been 12 confirmed cases. The quarantine could have other effects on the track, as the March Sunland Derby is a Derby prep and could be affected. [Sunland Park Has EHV-1 Outbreak]

Uceko, one of Kent Farrington’s top show jumpers, has got to have one of the most adorable faces there is. Don’t let his sweet face fool you though — he’s a fierce competitor in the ring. The Chronicle of the Horse got to know him a little better in their latest Behind the Stall Door installment. [Behind the Stall Door: Uceko]

SmartPak Product of the Day: Traveling down to Florida has been a tricky challenge when it comes to blanketing. I am a bit of an overpacker, so I packed almost every blanket I have for my horse. What has really come in handy the most, though, is my Amigo Jersey Cooler. I picked this up recently and am absolutely IN LOVE with it. The jersey knit is really top-quality and doesn’t give the impression that it will pill or deteriorate. This thin layer provides just enough protection from a slight chill after a good work. At this affordable price, I definitely recommend it! [Amigo Jersey Cooler]

And lastly…

Are Puissance’s with width challenges instead of height the next big thing? This girl is already preparing: