Vol. 1 | September 2020
First issue of the Leading Rein, a UGA Extension Newsletter for Horse Owners and Professionals
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The equine industry in Georgia produces quality horses and boasts nationally recognized facilities. The growing industry in Georgia has an annual economic impact of over $750 million dollars. This newsletter will provide information on upcoming events, relevant information for all aspects of the equine world as well as access to horse experts across the state.…
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How many times have we heard that in our lifetime? I have noticed that joke pops out even more when folks know you have a “horse-y” background. I am always a fan of cheesy farm jokes, but one thing that horse owners are notoriously known to take seriously and not joke about is hay. From…
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I truly think equestrians can feel the fall breeze before anyone else. It signals relief from the heat and boundless opportunities for equine fun. But before you grab your boots and saddle bags to hit the trail, there are a couple considerations I would encourage you to make. Make sure you and your equine partner…
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Expert: Ajax Sugier, Maestro Equidador (Master Rider) from Argentina Ajax competes internationally in jumping, eventing and dressage. He has been riding and training for over 35 years. When determining tack to use, Ajax says to never buy the tack before you buy the horse. Each piece of tack is part of the whole and they…
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Tall fescue is one of the most widely grown pasture grasses in the U.S., over a million acres grown in North Georgia alone. A bunch grass, it is the most heat tolerant of all the cool season grasses. However, that heat tolerance comes with a price, an ergot alkaloid producing endophyte that can have negative…
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The horse bug bites early; I know I started riding lessons at the age of five. Too often, youth are not given opportunities to develop true horsemanship skills until they become adults or have a horse of their own. Georgia 4-H’s Horse Project aims to provide opportunities to bridge the gap and delve deeper into…
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When working with horses, accidents and emergencies will inevitably happen. It is essential to know what to do during those times to remain calm and provide the best first aid to your equine partner. You need to be prepared and it is best to have a friend or someone you can call to help you…
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Bit about Bits Understanding and teaching bit action can be a challenge. Try to start with the basics, and add in some fun. Discuss the difference between the direct contact of the snaffle versus the indirect of the curb. Have students in groups of two with a bit and two lunge lines for each group.…