Shopping Near To Home

The stalls still need to be done, hooves still need to be trimmed, hay put out, buckets scrubbed... Even when it seems the whole world is focused on the negative, we still can count on our fuzzy friends to bring us back to the real world. And, a nice world it is. Many horse families are just that, whole families involved in the horse owning lifestyle. Children are still wishing for a horse or pony, new saddles, new boots. Circle Y prepares for the upcoming spring season this time every year. Though some predictions for retail sales of all kinds are dismal, we are working hard to bring you fresh, new designs, and saddle styles. What hasn't changed is our dedication to make the highest quality saddles at a fair value. Please keep your local tack shop on your shopping list. They have been there at your convenience for saddles and tack, and day to day supplies. We want them to weather this economic storm, and your patronage will help them do so. All here at Circle Y Saddles wish your family, and horses, a very happy holiday, and a brighter new year. We hope your Christmas wishes are coming true.

Bring on the New

I have begun working on the new saddle and tack catalog. Doing the catalogs is one of my favorite projects and it's something that I, and the entire Design Team, put a lot of care into. Our Design department puts a lot of time and thought into the new models we are rolling out hoping that if a potential rider hasn't found exactly what they are looking for, they will this year. It's no secret that times are tough these days with a lot of households having a skinnier Christmas than last year. At Circle Y, we take very seriously offering saddles and tack that are the highest quality, made with the highest level of perfection humanly possible, and with features that are important to riders of many different disciplines. Buying a saddle is an investment so finding that perfect one that suits your riding needs, horse or mule, and price point is a lot to consider. We are here to stay despite the economic downturn, and hope you will order a new catalog mid-January when they are available. We are always open to suggestions and comments and take requests to the design board so e-mail us if you have a request in mind.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I can’t believe it’s already Thanksgiving week. It’s the start of parties, Christmas music, putting up the tree and all that fun stuff. The Marketing department put up a Christmas tree last week at the Yoakum Museum. We had some leather ornaments made special in shapes of a boot, a saddle (of course), a star, and a bucking horse. We used some hardware like the rings, halter loops, dee rings, and curb chains for icicles to give it some sparkle from the lights. Amy and I have a super crafty friend that took a rope and tied some bows with red bandana pieces that we strung around the tree that really added to our look. We got a craftsman to make up a large leather star that was tooled with silver tips for the topper – gorgeous! It was fun and it sure put us in the holiday spirit. I’m headed north to see family to get my bird on. Warm wishes to all and safe traveling.

Change is in the Air

It’s no secret that all across America consumers are cutting back. At Circle Y, preparations have long been made so that we will survive an economic downturn. Rest assured Circle Y is here to stay. We are sorry to hear, however, that some of our competitors are not. A few weeks ago Big Horn Saddlery closed its doors. Even though they were a competitor, we don’t rejoice in people losing their livelihood. It’s an uncertain time and we are weathering this storm like all the other businesses and can’t wait for this hurdle to pass.

For all horse people crunching budgets, it’s still important to support your local tack shop. With on-line shopping on the increase, you can still buy from your local guys when they have a Web site. As a matter of fact, some dealers are adding some great incentives with a saddle purchase such as free tack and free shipping! They do need your business and resist the urge to buy a cheap product somewhere else. With the holiday season quickly approaching, it’s a little unsettling wondering what the new year will bring. With a new president taking office, I sure do hope the change we have constantly been hearing about will be for the better.

Extreme Cowboy Race 8

Last Wednesday and Thursday I had the privilege of attending Craig Cameron's Extreme Cowboy Race 8 competition at his ranch outside Stephenville, Texas. This Race was all female competitors which was an interesting mix. There were riders with all kinds of backgrounds: some women who ride for pleasure, some Miss Rodeos, a professional ranch cowgirl, professional horse trainers, and one competitor was 15! Everyone was cheerful and dressed beautifully for their TV debut.

The obstacles Cameron had set up were creative and difficult. Talk about a test of horsemanship and the ultimate test for trust. You could tell real quick who had a partnership with their horse and those who needed some work. One competitor was there on a Mustang that she only had 120 days on! The challenge is open to any breed of horse and any age rider, the only catch is the horse has to be 10 or younger. The competitors are allowed to walk the course to memorize it but only on foot (memorizing that is a challenge in itself!). Those horses did amazingly well on a course they were being hustled through never having seen it before.

Cameron's ranch is meticulously maintained with not a pile of horse manure to be seen-not even in the paddocks. He and his wife, Dalene, were very nice and welcoming. He had a new intern that was only in week 2 so he got broke in real quick to all the responsibilities. We were all pitching in and I got to do the back up timer for Ryan Dorhn (the other brain who created ECR with Cameron) so that was neat. The extra people helping had to be silent and watch the cameras and get down so you're not blocking the shot. Most of the time I had to huddle in a low area with my timer but that was okay because I could see pretty much everything. After all, I was there to help. I wasn’t expecting the cold front about mid morning Wednesday and it got chilly. The sky turned dark, the wind picked up and we thought it was going to pour down rain but it never did, thank goodness. I miss those cold breezy days-call me crazy but it doesn't get that cold down here around Yoakum.

There were two judges for this event: Lynn Palm and Joy Murray. What fantastic ladies. Both were so nice and willing to talk to you. Not to mention both are legends! Cameron gave the whole speech that he wanted no crying, whining, or pouting if you didn't get good scores and were not advanced to the next round. Not mention, who wants to argue with those judges?!

Everyone seemed excited at the chance of winning a Circle Y XP-HDR4 Frontier All-Around Trail saddle. We sponsor this event so the 4 finalists each go home with a saddle plus some cash. I hope they enjoy riding this saddle and it will serve them well. I can't spoil who won so tune in to RFD-TV in March when it airs. You'll be glad you did!

Leavin' Town!

I can't wait for tomorrow afternoon because Anne, our Marketing Media Director, and I are headed to Stephenville to the next filming of Extreme Cowboy Race hosted by Craig Cameron. What is really neat about this coming show is all the riders are women! These are some of the best horsewomen and I am really looking forward to watching the good horses and gals compete. If you aren't familiar with this competition which is aired on RFD-TV, you can go to Cameron's Web site http://www.craigcameron.com/extreme.shtml to read all the details. It will be at Cameron's Double Horn ranch so it will be neat to see that as well. Circle Y sponsors this show so four finalists will go home with a brand new XP-HDR4 Frontier All-Around Trail saddle. This saddle was designed for Tammy Harty and her horse, Bunny, who was in the top 4 of a previous season of ECR. When I get back I will tell you all about it!

Our First Horse Show

Well I decided it was time to get Buddy away from home and show him the big city! John and I were hauling my 5 yr granddaughter, Kaylee, to Houston to Sienna Stables for her Western Pleasure Lead Line class and I decided to haul Buddy. Sienna Stables has an Adult walk/trot Western Pleasure class and it was perfect to introduce Buddy to an arena and other horses.

Buddy was on his best behavior warming up in the practice arena. Then we got to the show arena they had 12” white pvc pipe at the end of the arena. He didn’t booger but I thought he was so I went ahead and two handed him…then we came to the other rail and there were all these people standing at the fence. He really wanted to talk to everybody. I was able to keep him moving and not visit with everyone. Other than that he went thru his paces wonderfully and even backed when he was asked. The judge told me we would have placed well if I hadn’t two handed him. She was very sweet to take the time to talk to me. I told her that Buddy had only been broke 60 days and only 2 yrs old and that it was his first outing. She told me he did very well and all horses had to start some where. I felt like it was a positive experience. Only problem was Kaylee was very disappointed that I was last place. Kaylee won her class and is still walking on air. And another generation of horse lovers is born!

After Kaylee went home with her Momma and little sister, John and I decided to take advantage of the beautiful riding trails they have at Sienna Stables and went for a trail ride. It is always wonderful to see new scenery and new terrain. We rode thru century old Oak trees and majestic Elm trees down to a 30 foot bluff that dropped off into the Brazos River. We rode up and down the levees that keep the river and bayous from flooding and across the creeks. We came across gorgeous white cranes that flew over us as we rode. It was just so peaceful and beautiful! A perfect ending to a perfect day with family and horses.

Party Time

This past Saturday was my son's first birthday. Naturally, we had to go all out and invite all his friends. It was a swim and sprinkler party so the kids enjoyed jumping from one pool to the other and then to the sprinklers-it's still in the 90s here so it was plenty warm. Copper, my TWH gelding, stays in a several acre paddock that wraps around the house in an L-shape. Being the kinda jumpy guy that he is, he was on the lookout once the kids started playing in the yard and running about. He stood at the fence with ears pricked forward, still as a statue watching all the commotion. Once the kiddos started playing with the balloons, then he was really on guard. He looked so pretty standing there all attentive.

Surprisingly, he only walked off once or twice when the bubble machine/sprinkler started up. I was happily surprised to see he wasn't flying about the pasture with his tail in the air snorting! In no time, there were parents and kids at the fence petting him - which he loved by the way. He loves attention, and Anne that I work with was teaching him how to drink some bottled water out of the bottle. He loves to drink from the hose so this is a skill he can master! It was good for him to see so much activity around his normally peaceful home. He is definitely a friendly horse, and he also got some desensitizing among the festivities.

Breast Cancer Awareness Saddle-Our Privilege

It's always interesting here at Circle Y, but every now and then we get the chance to design a very special saddle for a great cause. This time we designed a Breast Cancer Awareness saddle for the benefit of the Oklahoma University Cancer Institute. It is a group effort. Jud Little Ranch, Shorty's Hattery and the Women's Pro Rodeo Association commissioned the saddle.

The Jud Little Ranch, Ardmore, OK, well known for quality competitive horses and barrel event production, will display the saddle at many events. Showing at Ohio Quarter Horse Congress, Columbus, OH in October, and WPRA Finals, Tulsa, OK in November, it will eventually make its way to the WPRA booth at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, NV late November. Raffle chances are being sold at these events, including the 6th Annual Bar Nothin Barrel Bash, September 24-28 in Ardmore and the Jud Little Ranch Production Sale September 27 in Springer, OK. “We are pleased to team up with Shorty’s for this fight against breast cancer,” said Little.

Shorty Koger, owner of Shorty’s Hattery in Oklahoma City, personally understands the necessity of breast cancer care and research. While her late sister, Shirley Bowman, fought a breast cancer diagnosis, Shorty herself received one. After her recovery and the loss of her sister, Shorty now works with OUCI providing funding to support free nutritional counseling for cancer patients through the Shirley Bowman Nutritional Clinic. The saddle raffle donations go 100% directly towards this program.

One of our best toolers, Carol Marshall, specially created the Breast Cancer Awareness saddle tooling, incorporating the program’s pink ribbon, and continuing the ribbon around the entire saddle. A pink ostrich leather ribbon inlay enhances the seat, and sparkling pink crystals trim the cantle, silver conchos and stirrup hobbles. The WPRA logo, as well as Jud Little and Shorty’s logos, are tooled into the saddle. For information about ticket purchase, contact Phyllis Wells with WPRA 405-850-0898.

The Aftermath

We survived Hurricane Ike. As a matter of fact, we got nothing. I've learned there is a dry side to a hurricane, which is the west, and there is the nasty side, or the east. Fortunately for us here around Yoakum, we were on the dry side and did not get a drop of rain. The wind blew but not bad. For those folks in Galveston and north on up to Houston, they got the pounding. There is a horse rescue operation, Habitat for Horses http://www.habitatforhorses.org/, in Galveston County and it suffered mass devastation. They are still in desperate need of water, hay, feed, and money.

Even though we weren't going to get the big hit of the storm, I made preparations for the worst. The news predicted we would get up to 60 mph winds so I thought of tree limbs falling on the fence and Copper getting out. I ended up using a paint pen to write my phone numbers on Copper's neck and shoulder. I also braided some mane at his withers and wrapped duct tape around it for an additional place for my information. I did not leave his halter on him because I don't have a breakaway one. I decided to leave him out because it seems he goes wild when a storm is brewing.

I got up that Friday morning at 5 to check the computer to see if the hurricane was still heading north of us. Even though we are over an hour from the coast, a hurricane is enough to send me packing - with my family and all my animals of course. Luckily I have a big horse trailer, so we would all fit comfortably. To me, it's just not smart to underestimate a storm like this. And I can't understand people who think they won't be swept away when the news is telling you to evacuate or certain death is imminent. That would be the red flag to get out of dodge pronto. For all those families rebuilding, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Plan for the Worst, Pray for the Best

Well, hurricane Ike seems to be going north of us. Thank God, but I feel so bad for the people and homes that it will consume. We will still get the high winds and rain here and I am not sure yet what I will do with Copper. I have put identification on his halter and will braid identification in his tail just to be safe. I am also seriously considering spray painting my phone numbers on his side. He stays in the pasture, but I do have a 3-sided shelter for him that I can put him up in. He likes it when we have a rain storm and stands at the gate for me to put him up. Our four dogs will be safe in the shop on their doggy beds.

As for me, this hurricane is pretty much all I can think about. I am originally from Oklahoma - born and raised there for 25 years. At least with a tornado, you can watch the sky and see one brewing. Then, you take appropriate steps to ensure your survival pronto. Then, after 30 minutes or so it’s done. With this hurricane, my first one to go through by the way, I’ve had to worry about it all week. I try not to worry and give it to God, but I have to do what’s safest for my son. I don’t know if riding out a hurricane’s outer wrath is the best move or not. It depends on how it’s going to turn by the end of the day.

I have backed up my “brain” on my computer with all my graphic files, pictures, and all the other stuff. It will be locked down in the company safe place. For me, it’s pretty nerve racking to know what’s coming.

Labor Day Ride

Copper and I spent part of our Labor Day holiday in some back woods trail riding. Tina, the purchasing agent here, Anne, Amy and I went to Tina’s place to ride. We “horsepooled” to get there and they all rode perfectly. Copper has never been hauled in a trailer like that and I was a little worried. Fancy, the gray mare he was standing next too, let Copper know real quick to stay out of her personal space when he gave her a little nip on the wither. With a squeal and a swish of her tail, he didn’t so much as look in her direction! Glad that was settled before we headed out.

When we got to the unloading point, it was so peaceful and just gorgeous. We got everyone saddled and headed out to the river even though it’s totally dried up. We are in a drought so the river bed made a perfect place to ride. It was like riding on the beach with all that white sand, plus it makes for a great varied terrain. Copper negotiated those sandy hills and banks like a seasoned trail horse. He was listening to me and went into his ground eating smooth gait. Anne said nothing like the trail to get a gaited horse to square up and that he did. It was great!

Copper is one of those horses that walks like he’s got some place to go. Even though he has been at the bottom of every herd he’s ever been in, he does not like to be the last horse in the trail string. He wants to see where he’s going. I like that about him. I could tell he really enjoyed himself getting to do something different – don’t we all. I can see how people become addicted to trail riding. It is something I don’t do enough of and could easily take off every weekend to go and do.

At the end of the morning, all the horses were tuckered out. Even though it was hot, it was a great way to spend the holiday. I am so pleased that Copper is progressing, listening better, and hopping right up in the trailer. I am looking forward to the cooler weather but not to the short days that come with it.

Hello

Hello Everyone,

This is Martha Josey, I am very excited about getting to speak with everyone. I would like to thank Circle Y for giving me this opportunity to visit with all of you.

Today, we are very busy here at the Ranch getting prepared for the hurricane evacuees that maybe coming this weekend.

Design Ahead

I’m gearing up for catalog time here at Circle Y. Even though the 2009 catalogs won’t be available until the spring, it’s something that is top priority on my list. This year I will be doing four catalogs in all so it’s a huge task but by far one of my favorites.

This is my third year to create the company catalogs. It is something I put a lot of consideration, creativity, and plain hard work to create something that will catch the eye of anyone interested in our brand. My other goal is to create a tool that our dealers are able to use easily in their stores. There are many hours of design and then even more proofing that get's poured into the catalogs. Both Anne, the Marketing Media Manager, and Amy, the Design Manager, also put in a lot of time editing and getting the design just right.

Our best saddle designers and saddle craftsmen work all year long on improvements and innovation for the next year. We are people just like you who expect a saddle or tack to be perfect and built superbly. Our tooling is creative and fresh from our master hand toolers that create art on leather. If you haven’t checked out a new Circle Y saddle lately, I urge you to do so. I mean go to dealer and really give one a look over. If you need help finding a good dealer that's stocked with options, call Customer Service at 800-531-3600 to guide you.

The other fun part of the catalogs is getting to use pictures of employees' horses and our friends' horses. We use all kinds of photos from our professional riders in the Team of Champions but also use our backyard horses. On the cover of the current tack catalog is Amy's gray mare. The Tennessee Walker used in the Trail Gaiter pages and on the tag is my gelding, Copper. We love to get pictures of riders in their CY saddles and tack so if you feel the need, send 'em on over. You might appear in a future catalog! Email me at dloudon@circley.com.

You can download our current catalog off the Web site along with our 87-page tack catalog at http://www.circley.com/. I hope you'll find exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

My Friend Buddy

My name is Tina and I am the Purchasing Agent at Circle Y Saddles. I feel very blessed to be a part of such a wonderful family. I was one of those late learners that didn't figure out where I was supposed to be in life until I was 43 and came to work for Circle Y. I had to give up my horses 12 years ago when I got my divorce after a lifetime of running barrels and roping.

At the first of the this year, I was diagnosed with colon cancer which, believe me, makes you take stock of your life and put your priorities in order. I received a clean bill of health in July so since then I have been on a quest to find the right horse for me. No, I'm not picky just know exactly what I want in a horse which is a ranch horse to rope off of and cut off of in the pens, then go and run barrels on when I want to, and to be a kid's horse for my granddaughter...
Well, last Friday I found my dream horse. His name is Little Bit of Bud. He is a 2-year-old registered Quarter Horse and has the best attitude. He has far exceeded any expectations I ever had for him. Sunday John, my significant other, saddled him and he did so well he got on him!!! Buddy never even bucked, just did anything John asked of him. John rode him every evening this week and then yesterday we went to the arena to meet "the girls" to ride. It took several tries to back Buddy out of the trailer. He didn't like putting his hind foot all the way down. When he finally backed out he behaved beautifully. I ponied him for a while and he behaved, so John went ahead and got on him. I couldn't believe that he did everything John asked of him. At the end of the evening I got on him myself and walked him around the arena...I was in heaven. It was such a wonderful feeling to know that I finally have my horse. I have never had a colt that was so willing to learn and that has such a good attitude. I hope that everyone gets to go ride and have a wonderful weekend.

No Hoof, No Horse!

We rode Tuesday, and I got there early to meet my hoof trimmer, Eddie Drabek (http://www.drabekhoofcare.com/) Eddie is no typical farrier, he's a natural hoof care practitioner. I'm a firm believer in bare feet and the natural trim. I used to trim my own horses, but when I became pregnant, I began searching for a trimmer. I was doing research online and stumbled across Jaime Jackson's website. His research of wild horse behavior, habitat, and physiology built the foundation for the natural "wild horse" trim. Pete Ramey is another well respected natural hoof care practitioner (http://www.hoofrehab.com/). I have been a horse person all my life, read tons of stuff, and majored in equine science in college, but I learned more about the horses hoof than I ever knew after reading Pete's book Making Natural Hoof Care Work for You. I have literally read this book cover to cover at least 20 times, it is so great! It will enlighten you! After reading it, I was determined to find a trimmer near me, and eventually found Eddie. These guys have great websites with tons of information-check them out...

So how does the natural trim differ from a regular trim? I'll try to give you the highlights:
Wild horses travel many miles throughout the day, wearing down and "self trimming" their own feet. But before you pull your horses shoes and vow to never trim again, take note! Domestic horses don't have the environment & uninhibited movement to keep their feet in a naturally perfect state on their own. The goal of natural hoof care is to trim the hoof in a way that mimics the wear of a wild horse hoof. Shoes are a no-no! A horseshoe inhibits the hoof from working the way it was designed-expanding and contracting with contact. Even horseshoers agree that horses benefit from a "break" from shoes. It is important to note that natural hoof care is about a natural lifestyle, not just the way the feet are trimmed. Horses need movement for healthy feet-24 hour turnout is key. The way most people have been trained to feed and care for their horses can be a detriment to their health. Eddie has some great info on natural horsekeeping on his website http://www.drabekhoofcare.com/, and also has lots of links to other sites.

The sole is meant to be thick, hard, and calloused. It is the protection between your horses coffin bone and the earth. With a traditional trim, the old dead sole is pared away each time the horses hoof is trimmed. With the natural trim, there is no old dead sole to pare away. When a horse is maintained barefoot with natural hoof care, the sole, especially the outer band of sole near the hoof wall, will actually pack into denser, calloused material, and the sole becomes thicker and harder. As the sole becomes thicker, it also becomes more concave. No more ouchy, sore, flat footed horses!

The natural trim does not attempt to manipulate hoof angles. Each horse is individual and the hoof is your guide. Heels are meant to be low! Toes are meant to be short! The profile of the hoofwall should be straight (indicating a good connection with the coffin bone) not "dished" which is a tell-tale sign of the the separation of the hoofwall and internal structures and could indicate coffin bone rotation and impending founder. A stretched white line, seedy toe, etc. also are indicative of hoof wall separation. Natural hoof care supports and encourages the integrity of this connection. One of the greatest things being accomplished by natural hoof care is the treatment of laminitis. Horses that traditional medicine had given up on, about to be put down, are being rehabilitated fully to normal use through natural horsekeeping & hoof care. And I mean as USING horses, not pasture ornaments!

One of the hallmarks of the wild hoof is the "mustang roll"-the outer perimeter of the foot is beveled (in contrast to the sharp edge left on a horse that is traditionally trimmed). This bevel keeps the foot from splitting, cracking, etc. The best analogy I have to explain it is from Pete's book. If you imagine stabbing the smooth rounded end of a broomstick into a gravel driveway, the gravel will just wear the broomstick smoother. But if you were to cut the rounded edge off, you have sharp corners. If you stab this repeatedly eventually the wood will start splintering and splitting. The mustang roll does for the hoof what the rounded edge does for the broomstick, preventing the hoof from splitting and chipping.

Here's an interesting fact. Hoof growth is inversely related to hoof wear. If you let your horses hoofs get overgrown before you call the farrier, you have just slowed down his hoof growth AND sent the signal to his hoof to produce a thinner hoof wall. The hoof will try to help itself trim by putting out weaker growth. Conversely, if you keep your horses feet trimmed on a regular schedule and give them lots of exercise and natural wear, they will have stronger, faster hoof growth in order to "keep up" with wear. One of the finishing touches Eddie gives the horses is that he abrades the hoof wall with fine sandpaper-it "tricks" the hoof in to thinking it's being worn away by rocky, wild horse country! And don't waste your money on any kind of hoof dressings. If you have a pond in your pasture, or let the water trough run over a little, their feet will get all the moisture they need when they come for water.

A lot of skeptics are probably saying right now "some horses just need shoes". There is a transition period for horses that have been shod and this is where hoof boots come in. These horses may need to be booted until the hoof starts remodeling itself. The more you ride and stimulate hoof wear, the faster the transition will be. If your horse was already barefoot, he probably won't have any issues transitioning to natural hoof care. And yes, PERFORMANCE horses can go barefoot. Eddie has clients that are Barrel Racers, Cutters, Reiners and even Racehorses! And Clinton Anderson keeps his Reiners bare in front and only shoes the rear (for sliding stops).

If I sparked some interest in natural horsekeeping & hoof care with any readers, Eddie & Pete's websites are a good source to learn more. If you have any comments or personal experience with natural hoof care, I would love you hear from you!

Groomed To A "T"

No matter what kind of horse or in what discipline you compete-Quarter Horse, gaited horse, jumping, roping, grade horse or otherwise, we can all take a lesson in grooming while viewing the Olympic horses. These horses simply sparkle in the lights of the equestrian venue in Hong Kong. There is not a spec of dirt showing, not a hair out of place. Their tack has nothing flapping or mismatched. The pads are in place under the saddles, upon which sit riders in white pants (there's a challenge to keep clean!) and shiny black boots. They are similarly groomed as the horses.
Presenting a horse to the world is a bit different than at a "Saturday night" show, but the lessons are the same. Clean and healthy horses, tack that fits, and horse and rider dressed in the style for that arena.
I have judged many a club show where the horses, though of not the highest quality, were presented at their best. It doesn't take big bucks to clean and oil the saddle you have, fit the bridle to the horse, wipe off your boots, and bathe the horse. Your horse reflects your desire and intentions to win in his presentation, and you will garner points and respect from a judge.
I do live in the real world. I know the bigger the show, the more your presentation will matter, and good tack does matter. There isn't a single place in America, whether its the board room, lunch room or school room, where the "right" clothes don't matter-that's just a fact.The show ring is no different. The higher up the ladder you go, the more that's the case. It does take money to win at the top, and tack is a part of the expense. At the more local levels, you can do well with your tack as it is, as long as its clean and well fitted to you and your horse. A new clean pad is not a big expense, and it can make all the difference.
Having your horse healthy and well fed not only enhances his look, but makes him more able to perform at his gaits with style and endurance. As a judge, horses have come in the ring for my consideration that should have had the entry fee spent on their hooves-which were so long and split, it was painful to watch them go. I can't imagine how the rider thought the horse would perform well with those hooves, when, in any discipline, its all about how the horse travels.
Maybe your event doesn't have points-its judged on time. If you dress yourself and your horse like you came to win, you stand a better chance of doing so. You show your competitors you have confidence in your abilities. It gives you a boost to have on a nice starched shirt, jeans without holes, and clean tack and horse.
I believe it doesn't matter how big the event, its still a competion, and its about winning. Presentaion matters and like I used to tell my clients, "Show up like you expect to have your picture made."

Dressage Perfection

Last night I got a chance to catch some of the Olympic dressage. Wow! I think that has to be just about the most beautiful thing you can do with a horse. I don’t do that myself yet because Copper and I are working on bending and getting our gaits correct. Anne, our Marketing Media Manager here and my riding instructor each week, said that no matter what discipline you ride you should be able to do a basic dressage pattern so I aim to get there.


According to Don Vizi, executive director of the National Walking Horse Association, there is a dramatic increase of interest among dressage for gaited horses. Realizing this, the National Walking Horse Association and the United States Dressage Federation have collaborated to provide exhibitors correct information and to train judges for modified tests since gaited horses don’t trot. This is so great because within NWHA or TWBHEA, Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association, sanctioned shows in the Versatility portion riders do a dressage pattern. This is a way to provide expertise to the discipline and to promote it.


Gaited horses won’t be able to compete in the USEF or USDF sanctioned events because they don’t trot and, therefore, can’t exhibit the trotting requirement of regular dressage like you see in the Olympics. Dressage is beneficial to any discipline you ride for the communication, bending, and overall collection. Plus, it is amazing to watch! Here are some links for more information. I'm not up to speed on the official rules between NWHA and TWHBEA.
http://www.nwha.com/dressage.html
http://www.nwha.com/news08Feb06.html
http://www.twhbea.com/News/08WVSRelease.htm

Abuse to Win

I have been keeping up with the soring issue within the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and have no idea how people are capable of purposefully inflicting pain on a horse for personal gain. This issue is important to me because I own a 6-year-old Tennessee Walker and cannot imagine him having a life of abuse for a ribbon and money.

For those of you who might not be familiar with soring, this is what it is: The practice of inflicting pain on a horse’s forelegs to induce a higher-action gait. There are several kinds of chemical substances that are used to accomplish this like diesel fuel, mustard oil, kerosene, salicylic acid and others. The purpose of doing this is to achieve the “Big Lick” gait used in the show ring which is an exaggeration of the gaits the horse performs naturally. Personally, I see no beauty in this. It is artificial and unnatural, and I do not agree with the several inches of pads used to shoe the horse with because this is another avenue used for abuse. The flat-shod TWH on the other hand is pure beauty, elegance, and grace. Why would someone manipulate something that is the foundation of the breed to produce a fake series of movements?

I am disturbed by the fact that some people will do anything to win – even compromise the existence of a creature that supports their cruel habit. If the desired goal can’t be achieved through hard work and practice, it seems logical to get out of the profession. Not everyone is meant to be a horse trainer. When a “trainer” or owner is willing to hurt the horse to win in the show ring, what else do these horses have to endure?

Soring has been illegal since 1970 with the Horse Protection Act but until offenders are severely punished it will still be widespread. Welfare and industry officials issue numerous citations every year and are using more sophisticated methods of detecting soring and improper shoeing. In 2006, the USDA became a lot more involved to crack down on such offenders and there are other equine organizations banning together to help stop this unethical practice.

This is a huge issue that will need the cooperation of the owners, breeders, trainers and judges and will not be corrected overnight. These horses have been bred to move with these thick pads to produce the exaggerated gaits that win in the show ring. Millions of dollars have been invested in these horses and will require the cooperation of the key players in the industry to become eradicated.

Beyond this, in other breeds of horses there are practices of abuse to win. These offenders are on the same level of the people who sore the TWH which deserves punishment and in my opinion, banishment from all competition FOREVER. There are several organizations that believe soring is inexcusable. I belong to the National Walking Horse Association. http://www.nwha.com – National Walking Horse Association

Saddle's Done with a Side of Hurricane

So my Flex2 saddle is finally done! The saddle was finished Thursday and my birthday was Friday so it was perfect timing. Despite my sheer excitement and the fact that I was unable to focus for the rest of the afternoon, I was only able to squeeze in a short ride. My little one is teething so sometimes he doesn't go down for the night right away and it's already getting dark sooner. When I got Copper all tacked up, I stood back and looked at what a gorgeous boy I have with the beautifully crafted saddle and headstall. Now I need a new saddle pad...and a new girth...and new bell boots.

When I climbed up in the saddle, it was awesome! I know I have a perfect fit for Copper, which was the whole point of me getting a new saddle, and now I do for me as well. It already feels broken in and I love the close contact. Now if I can get to ride for more than 5 minutes this week I'll be doing good! I'm not too hopeful with the hurricane rolling in.

With Hurricane Dolly getting ready to come ashore, I have made some preparations for Copper. Normally he is out in the pasture all the time even if we get a shower because that's where he is the happiest. I have learned he gets upset if he is in a stall for very long, but I know even he will like some shelter from the wind and rain if it comes our way. He has a stall that's about 15' x 15' and open on one side so he shouldn't feel too claustrophobic. I put him in there last night for about an hour so he could get used to it and after he tested the gate, he decided it wasn't so bad and went about munching his hay. For the morning feeding, he didn't want to leave! So, I'm content that he likes it. Looks like we are in for just rain which I am looking forward to - we desperately need it.

Does anybody out there have some helpful hints to get your horse ready for the storm?

Mules and Saddles-A Whole Different Fit

Used to be that fitting saddles on mules was all about addressing their straight backs. Because mules are increasing in value, especially those used for trail riding, the quality of the mare being bred has dramatically improved. In years past, is was not the highest quality mare, or the best donkey jack, that was used to produce mules. These days, many good Quarter Horse, Tennessee Walking Horse, and draft mares are used. Together with the improvement in jacks, mules have better conformation, way of going, and attitude. For saddle makers, there is increasing demand to fit these better mules.
Though most modern mules continue to have very straight backs, especially when compared to horses, the substance and widths of their bodies has increased. Good horse saddles with standard trees will have a curved bars to accommodate the typical curve of the horse back. This style of tree will ride high center on a mule, and will rock. A mule tree needs to be much flatter in the bar, and the saddle design needs to allow for a raised backbone conformation-usually seen in very straight backs.
Because of the better mares being crossed, wider trees are also in demand. The Quarter Horse and draft type crosses will usually require a wide tree.
Circle Y has found that our Flex2 saddles will address the fit of the mule very successfully. Because of the nature of the flexible bars of the Flex2 saddle which conforms to the curve of the animal's back when girthed down, it will fit the mule's straight back. The skirts are channel fit, so that the middle if the saddle is open, giving room for the raised spine. Most Flex2 styles are available in regular and wide width trees.
More mules are being seen with a curve to the back and in these cases, horse saddles can be used. The Flex2 saddles will conform to the horse types just as well. The Flex2 can be a useful fit for owners with both mules and horses of all types. to see the selection of Circle Y Flex2 saddles, please visit www.circley.com .

Monty

Last week for the July 4th holiday I went north see my sister and her family. I finally got to see my brother-in-law's Paint gelding, Monty. He's 15 years old, about 15ish hands and is stout. He had been used in a feed lot and for cow work most of his life but surprisingly is not nearly as seasoned as you would think. And, all that work and no play had taught him to be hard to catch with a general sour attitude towards being ridden. My BIL has been working the Pat Parelli horsemanship method with him and I have so say Monty is respectful and tries to figure out what is being asked of him.

I think one of the keys to any successful horsemanship method is patience. My BIL has taken Monty back to basics working on groundwork, desensitizing, and is trying to create a new attitude towards being saddled and ridden. He is making huge strides in trust and respect on the ground which will translate under saddle. I noticed Monty's general personality is kinda jumpy and nervous. That may be just the way he is wired, but as long as Monty continues to look to his leader for guidance my BIL will soon have a willing partner that is a pleasure to be around.

Dara

First Things First

Copper and I are a little out of place down here in south Texas in the land of Quarter horses. I hauled him into town last night for our first lesson with Anne, and we were working around barrel racers and a girl practicing Western Pleasure. The way I need to ride Copper is different than riding a Quarter horse, especially now since he is still relatively untrained in the proper ways of a Walking Horse. I feel encouraged by the information that Anne has and can’t wait to practice what I learned last night this weekend.

Anne has an easy going, but all-business style of teaching. I like how she takes the time to explain things and gives me little demonstrations on what I need to do with my legs and hands. She gave gentle reminders when I was doing something wrong and that was exactly what I needed. We worked on circles for bending, the flat walk, his head set, and the final lesson was parking out. Overall Copper caught on quickly and my legs were Jell-O by the time we were finished. :)


Copper has also been doing a lot better about getting in the trailer. Most of the time he hops right in, but he will still do the put his front legs in and stand there thing. Then I back him out, walk him around and then he will hop up in there. Stinker.

I am really excited that my Flex2 Trail has been put into work. It should be done in a few weeks and I can hardly wait! This is the first brand new saddle I have ever had. I have changed up some things on it like the conchos and tooling pattern. I also ordered the coordinating headstall so I will be completely outfitted in matching gear. It’s been awhile since I had a completely matching rig.

I am getting ready for vacation next week. The saddle and tack departments shut down for a week at July 4th and at Christmas. We run a skeleton crew in Customer Service and Shipping, but the rest of the office can take off if they choose. I’m out for the week and headed north to see some family.


Happy July 4th!
Dara

Great Horses and New Endeavors

Hi, I'm Amy. It's my first time blogging, so here's a little about me-

I have been with Circle Y for 14 years...that makes me sound old...but I actually just turned the big 3-0 this year. I started working here part time through high school and college on the production floor, spent a few years in quality control, and now my major focus is product design and marketing. I have a degree from Texas A&M University in Animal Science-Equine science, and even though I am not working directly with horses on a daily basis, I get to put my horse knowledge to good use here at Circle Y.

I have lived in Texas all my life, am married, and have two little girls, ages 3 years and 8 months. Being a mother is one of the most fun, rewarding things I have done. The big challenge is balancing work, spending time with your kids (when you don't want to miss a second), and doing the things you love to do, like ride!

I have two Quarter Horses. My old gelding, Boomerang, is 24 years old this year. I've had him since I was 12. He is the kind of horse that everyone should be lucky enough to grow up on...makes you feel like you can do anything! I grew up roping with my Dad, and Boomerang was my solid head horse-he knew his job and I just had to concentrate on the steer. He's retired now, due to unsoundness. The drawback of having a great once in a lifetime horse-they only come along once in a lifetime AND you tend to compare every other horse against them. Which brings us to horse #2, Fancy. My uncle bought her and later gave her to me. So I've had her for 4 years, but between two pregnancies she hasn't been ridden consistently. For a while, I was disappointed in our relationship-we just weren't "clicking". I even started looking for a different horse. But as soon as I stopped telling myself "she's no Boomerang", our relationship blossomed! Lesson learned: If I want another great horse, I've got to accept Fancy as the individual she is, and put in the time to build our trust in each other.

My friend Dawn is trying to turn us into barrel racers! I have barrel raced ONE TIME (I ran Dawn's horse when she was pregnant and couldn't compete), and Fancy is new to barrel racing too, so we're learning together. So far we've just done slow pattern work. It's fun! Working at Circle Y, I test ride a lot of different saddles-for research and development, to investigate a problem on a repair saddle, etc. Since I've never barrel raced before, I needed a barrel saddle. Right now I'm riding the Xtreme PerformanceTM Studded Croc Barrel-http://www.circley.com/catalog10.shtml. It's the saddle Kelly Kaminski is riding, too (she's on our Team of Champions). The Xtreme PerformanceTM series have some very unique features. So it's fun when I'm riding and people ask about the saddle and I can let them take it for a test ride. So far everyone thinks it's really comfortable. After a ride last week, I noticed the stirrup leather positioner was broken (its a new feature that lets you adjust how far back your fenders can swing-barrel racers don't want their legs to get too far behind them and throw them off balance, so the positioner is an adjustable strap that holds your fenders right where you want them). Mike, our design engineer, fixed it and we are making a design change to use biothane (a super strong synthetic) instead of leather. That's how product improvements are made!

Dawn and I are riding tonight so she can tune up for a barrel race on Sunday. Fancy and I might haul with her, just to ride around and get used to the competition atmosphere. If I get brave, I may do an exhibition run. I'll let you know how that goes next time...

Amy

Welcome!

So this is the first post to many upcoming insights into Circle Y. I am the graphic designer, take pictures of saddles and tack, and do all kinds of stuff in between. I am a native born Okie but moved to Texas about 3 years ago with my husband after graduating from Oklahoma State. I love working here and being in the horse industry without mucking a trillion stalls everyday! We do a ton of stuff in the Marketing/Design department and there really is never a dull moment.

I own a 6-year-old Tennessee Walker gelding named Copper. I have had him since he was 10-months-old and despite the long ownership time, he is not as broke as you would think. I just started riding him after a year and a half off because I was pregnant and then the winter was here with those terribly short days. Plus, I had a new little one to take care of and devote all my attention to! But now that summer is here, we are on track to make leaps and bounds in our partnership. He is my trail horse and my goal is for him to be sturdy, reliable, and capable of doing lots of things that a proper trail horse should do.

This past weekend Copper and I went on a local trail ride. We rode with the Marketing and Design Manager here, Amy, and her mare. Amy is a great rider and her horse is a sturdy mount so that was a great companion for Copper. He has been kinda spooky in the past and we have been working on that. To my delight, Copper did great. He had a couple of minor spooks but nothing serious. I was so proud of him!

In addition to my horse having a great learning experience, I had the pleasure of riding a Tucker Trail saddle. We also make this brand which I was unfamiliar with until I started working here. Let me tell you, I am a believer of the Gel-Cush! I have a Flex2 on order but I am riding a Tucker because I sold the saddle I did have. It didn't fit Copper well now that he has matured. It's truly notable how much difference your gear makes in the performance of your horse! But, that's a whole new discussion.

See ya,
Dara

Lots of Work Ahead

Wednesday, June 18
Copper and I have a lot of work ahead of us. We rode the end of last week and he was feeling good! He didn't act up but it took a few minutes to get his attention. A couple of friends and I haul into town most every week and ride at a nice arena. This is a great opportunity for Copper to get out and see new things, and it's fun. He has a lot of heart but I need help perfecting his running walk and canter. Anne, our Marketing Media Manager here, has tons of experience with Tennessee Walkers and is willing to give me some lessons to perfect his gears. I hope we can begin this week.


We also have had some issues with trailer loading. He has always been a great loader, even when he was young. Two summers ago I was hauling him quite a bit and he got kind of trailer sour. He knew when I loaded him up he was going to have to work. And that's the thing, it's not like this horse has ever known a real hard day's work like some horses out there or even performance horses for that matter. Anyway, to get ready for this year's riding season I have taken him back to basics.


We started doing all the groundwork about three months ago and within that was trailer loading. I tried the feeding him in the trailer but that doesn't really get the horse good and reliable to get in the trailer. He should get in there because I ask him to. He was used to an open top stock trailer and I got a 20 foot closed trailer. I thought maybe he was a little scared so I gave him plenty of time to warm up to it and that was why I started feeding him in it.


Well, once I knew he was fine with the trailer (he would stand in it on his own parked out in the pasture) he started making getting in the trailer a battle of wills. That's the thing about Copper, he is never malicious but he is always testing me. So to make a long story short, we practiced last night and he hopped right up in the trailer. I make a big fuss over him and tell what a good boy he is and he lowers his head and licks his lips. He loves attention and scratches behind his ears. It was kinda dusky so that made it even better. We will see how it goes tonight riding in town.


See ya,
Dara