Using simple massage techniques – namely compressions and cross-fibre friction – equine sports massage therapist Pennie Hooper explains that it’s not difficult to give your horse a basic sports massage, given a little practice.

She explains how to recognize problems, through observing your horse on the move and by using your hands on his body. Clear diagrams and photos show where and how to apply the massage techniques to aid specific problems.

Author: Pennie Hooper
Publisher: Trafalgar Square Publishing
ISBN: 1-57076-325-9
Price: $24.95 USD / hard cover / 60 pages
To order: Phone Trafalgar Square Publishing at (802) 457-1911,
write to them at Box 257, Howe Hill Road, North Pomfret,
Vermont, 05053, USA, or visit www.trafalgarsquarebooks.com

Robin, the fourth book in the Morgan Horse Series, introduces the character of Karen Greene and her Morgan, the lovable Robin. An avid horse-lover, Karen is traumatized by a terrifying riding accident. Can Heather, Nicholas, and the horses of Gallant Morgans help Karen overcome her fear so that she can once again enjoy her horse? This story also introduces Robin’s sidekick, the adorable gray and while pinto Miniature horse Rerun, and Champ, the small Dachshund puppy with a big attitude.

Author: Ellen F. Feld
Publisher: Willow Bend Publishing
ISBN: 0-9709002-5-2
Price: $9.95 USD / soft cover / 204 pages
To order: Phone Willow Bend Publishing at (413) 268-3461,
write to them at Box 304, Goshen, MA, 01032, USA, or
visit www.willowbendpublishing.co

From its modest beginnings that, 25 years ago, attracted approximately 60 attendees to a breeder specific meeting prior to the University of Calgary’s two-day horse program, the Horse Breeders and Owners Conference (HBOC) has grown to a world-class event that attracts well over 700 equine enthusiasts each year.

“As I remember, the conference started because those in the breeding business wanted an education program that met their educational needs,” says Bob Coleman, associate professor and extension horse specialist at the University of Kentucky, and one of the original members of the organizing committee.
continue reading "Equine Conference Celebrates 25 years (2006)"

by Terry Bullick

For the Heintz family of High River, cutting horse competitions are more than a sport – they’re a lifestyle. Members from several branches of the family tree attended the 25th annual Wrangler Cutting Horse Futurity in Calgary from October 10 to 16.

Grandfather Roger Heintz, credited for starting the family’s passion for cutting horses, made the final round in the Open Derby category. His son Guy appeared in several professional categories. Guy’s wife Moneca and daughter Maria competed as non-professionals in the futurity.
continue reading "The Heintz family: A Passion for Cutting"

by Michele Brewster

The 2006 Alberta Thoroughbred Summer Yearling Sale was held at the Northlands Sportex in Edmonton.

Returns were higher than last year, and whatever their preference, buyers had a good variety of horses to choose from. Price increases at the top of the market were notable, with aggressive bidding on several quality animals.

Dr. David Reid, Chairman of Horse Racing Alberta, opened the sale with some points that could be well taken in terms of purchasing that special young horse. First, you have to look at pedigree, and an individual that catches your eye.
continue reading "Alberta Thoroughbred Yearling Sale 2006"

by Mary-Lynn Wardle

Peter Campbell recently held a Willing Partners Clinic in Cochrane with a class that included 18 extremely focused individuals. As one of those individuals, I would like to share what I learned:

During groundwork, Campbell illustrated techniques to get our horses to respond with respect. We worked on backing our horses with feel, using “air” to move the horse instead of having to take slack out of the rope until we hit hair, muscle, or bone. We also had the horses “give” to us – mentally and physically – by doing things like lowering their heads to the ground without pulling on them.
continue reading "Cochrane hosts Peter Campbell Clinic"

by Cyndi Rowat

The Stampede Stock Show’s Heavy Horse Show is an event rich in history and high on quality. Sponsored by Dundee Securities Corporation, the three-day show concluded before an appreciative Saddledome audience July 9, 2006.

At this year’s show, some of the winners learned that there truly is a first time for everything.
continue reading "Heavy Horse Highlights 2006"