The Lost Art of Equestrian Etiquette 

These days it seems like equestrian etiquette has long been forgotten about and some may argue that it  may no longer exist. Every month the Happy Horse Gazette will feature a new topic of concern relating to the loss of etiquette in the equine industry and how to bring it back. Many situations will be discussed and how to deal with them in an  appropriate manner. We hope you enjoy these helpful hints and share them with other horse people.

Proper Etiquette for the Trail

1. Make sure your horse has the temperament and training for riding on congested public trails. Busy multi-use trails are not the proper place for schooling green horses.
2. Advise other trail users of your horse's temperament, e.g. a horse with a tendency to kick should always wear a red ribbon in the tail or a stallion should wear a yellow ribbon. Assume that not everyone will know what these ribbons mean, so be prepared to explain or take the necessary precautions to avoid trouble.
3. Obey posted speed/gait limits, and use common sense in crowded areas (cantering/galloping on crowded trails endangers everyone.)
4. Move to the right to allow faster trail users to pass.
5. Announce your intention to pass other trail users, and reduce speed in order to pass safely. Pass on the left only.
6. Remove your horse from the trail if you begin experiencing behavior problems.
7. Stay on equestrian-approved trails.
8. As a courtesy to others in your group, use appropriate hand signals for turning, slowing, etc., and give verbal warnings for dangers on the trail (e.g. holes, low branches).
9. Remember that other trail users may not be familiar with horses or their reactions to new experiences. Your horse may be another trail user's introduction to horses; what you do is a reflection of the local horse community. Cheerfully answer questions about your horse. You are an ambassador for the entire equestrian community.
10. If you trailer to a location, do not clean out your trailer in the parking area.
11. On multiple-use trails, step off the trail (if possible) if your horse needs to relieve himself, or kick the droppings off the trail.

Equine Astrology
Aquarius 21 January - 19 February  

Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the zodiac, and is a fixed air sign, which is ruled by the planet Uranus. The Aquarius-sun horse is therefore determined and friendly, yet also naturally quirky. This horse is not so much dependent upon its environment for security, as it derives most of its security from being in the company of others. The Aquarian-sun horse will thrive living in a herd, and has the ability to form friendships with everyone. This horse will work tenaciously for you if you find ways of engaging its mind through unusual and unorthodox approaches in training and riding. The Aquarius-sun horse's behavior will always have an unpredictable quality, so life is never boring with this horse! The somewhat eccentric and erratic nature of the Aquarian-sun personality strives to cut through superficialities and test sincerity on all levels. If your horse is convinced of your authenticity, then it will shine for you. As the sign of Aquarius rules the fetlocks and flexor tendons, it is important to take care to support your horse's legs by bandaging before a work out, otherwise your horse may develop problems in this area. Even though it may not be apparent, the Aquarius-sun horse is prone to nervous tension, so it is important for you as an owner to spend adequate time with your horse, doing activities, which build your friendship and help your horse to relax.

Next month Equine Astrology will feature Pisces!

Product Review Barn

Welcome to the Product Review Barn! Every month we will feature two products that will be accompanied by a consumer review. At the Happy Horse we all have our favorite products and we sure do like to talk about them! The P.R Barn is a place where we can showcase these items. Any item that is featured in the Barn will be offered online at a SALE PRICE! If you find a product that you  like e-mail emily at happyhorsetack.com for the online sale information. Life has never been so good!

Scoring System: 
Every rider's must have
An excellent equestrian product
Could come in handy
Takes up precious trunk space

Pegasus Airboots
Retail price: $79.95
www.pegasusnw.net

Rhino Original Lite Turnout Sheet 
Retail Price: $130.00

This rug has all the design features of the Rambo Turnout including AquaTrans coating technology making it fully breathable and waterproof. The outer fabric is very efficient and lightweight with a polypropylene outer-shell. 1000 denier Ripstop polyester outer shell AquaTrans™ coating technology - ensures that your Turnout is waterproof, yet breathable. Breathable nylon lining - reduces friction and polishes your horses coat. No fill - ensures excellent light weight protection from the elements Non slip design - all Horseware rugs are designed with extreme attention to detail, creating rugs that stay put on your horse, no matter what! Attractive navy/white check with navy/white detail This turnout sheet is truly a top-notch product and worth it's weight in gold. Ask anyone who has tried a Rhino rug and they will agree!

Odds & Ends

Upcoming Activities * Feb.12th 05'  NCC/MESA "Ride the Test of Choice" with Bridget Schmidt NCC members only $20.00 while space is available. Contact Patty Morris at 970-484-6671 or threewhip@juno.com. February 12th event will be held at Blue Sky Farm in Winsor CO  * Feb. 26th 05' Jumper Jackpot Cross Rails through 3'3" $12.00 per class $18 per stall Event will be held at Fort Collins Equestrian Center in Fort Collins, CO. Warm-up from 7:30-8:30am and the event begins at 9:00am. Entries available at Happy Horse Tack

Little Blue Horse Franz Marc

Speak kindly to your little horse,
And soothe him when he wheezes,
Or he may turn his back on you, 
And kick you where he pleases.
~Anonymous 

Consignment Saddle Showcase If you are interested in any of these consignment saddles please contact emily at happyhorsetack.com

Pariani Futura Jumping Saddle 16.5" seat/wide tree $980.00 This Pariani is in excellent shape and is priced to move! If you have always wanted a quality, high end saddle, but get sticker shock every time you look at the price tag here is your once in a life time opportunity! This saddle will not last long at this price so hurry up and take it out for a test ride today! Passier Dressage Saddle 16.5" seat/med tree/two-tone $780.00 This is an older Passier, but is still in tip-top shape! Equipped with a deep seat and a plain leg flap, this saddle is sure to be properly balanced and a smooth ride. Stop in and give this classic model a try today! Crosby Prix De Nations 17"seat/med. tree $680.00 This Crosby is a dream for someone who likes a simple saddle. The Prix De Nations is well known for it's plain forward flap and flat seat. This saddle is in good shape, but does have some cantle wear. Any wear is from normal use and does not affect the integrity of the saddle.