Profile On Archives : Page 20 of 35 : Equus Education

Profile On: Hoyt Rose, Horse Trainer

August 4, 2014 by Christine Meunier 1 Comment

How much of your day/week is related to horses?
100%. I am a horse trainer. I also have a blog that is based on the horse community (www.fatbaldcowboy.com), and am working on a web and mobile app called Equine Assistant that’s designed to link a horse’s people. More information on it can be found at www.equineassistant.com and via our IndieGoGo campaign.

What is it exactly that you do?
My wife (Pam) and I own and operate P&H Horse & Cattle Co. We train and show Arabians, Half-Arabians and Quarter Horses in the Reining, Western Pleasure and Hunter divisions. I also hold an Arabian Judges card as well as Wisconsin 4H and WSCA Judging cards.

In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a liveable income?
Yes it is. Although, with the amount of time we need to invest it often seems as if we get paid below minimum wage.

What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
My recommendation is to get an education in business and then work for a reputable trainer in the breed and discipline you wish to compete. You should plan on 3-5 years of apprenticeship to gain enough knowledge to earn a living. The gaining knowledge part never stops though. You need to learn every day about the horse.

Favourite horse memory?
This may sound strange considering the success both Pam and I have had in the show ring, but my favorite memories are of watching our clients ride a young horse we trained for the first time. We start a lot of horses and many of our clients purchase young, untrained horses. The first time they get on and can do what we have trained is a great feeling. My proudest moments are when they don’t need us anymore.

Future goals?
I want the horse world to “Get Broke.” So many horses are discipline specific, and that is all they can do. Watching a horse compete in Western Pleasure, then in reining and trail, and then go home and go on a 15 mile trail ride is great. I want to help that happen for as many people as possible.

Best thing about your sport/profession?
Training horses is never boring because it is always changing. New horse, new clients. But I think the satisfaction of helping a horse and rider combination get together and accomplish something is the best part.

“A cowboy is a man with guts and a horse.” – Will James

Profile On: Virginia Slachman, Writer and Thoroughbred Rescue Volunteer

August 2, 2014 by Christine Meunier Leave a Comment

Author Virginia Slachman kindly took the time to answer some questions about her writing and work with the rescue of thoroughbreds after racing.

The Lost Ode by Virginia Slachman

What is it exactly that you do?
I’m a writer and college English professor by formal training, but I’ve always loved horses so I also spend quite a lot of time being involved in thoroughbred rescue, taking care of ex-racehorses who’ve been injured or otherwise removed from the racetrack. In fact, the setting for my mystery series – The Lost Ode is the first book – takes place on a stud farm in Kentucky and involves the horse racing industry.

I went to live for a time at Margaux Farm, a stud farm in Midway, Kentucky, to do research for this book. I was able to tag along with the stallion groom, the mares groom, the vet as he did checks on pregnant mares, and so on. Steve Johnson, then the owner of Margaux, was so generous to me, opening up his farm and allowing me to be privy to all aspects of how Kentucky racehorses are bred and trained. And of course I also got to meet the beautiful thoroughbreds, the people, and learn about the history as well as the darker side of the race industry.

That experience made The Lost Ode a joy to write because I could incorporate accurately a true “behind the scenes” look at a very high dollar-flashy industry. All aspects of breeding, training (and doing away with!) racehorses, is accurate in the book.

It also got me interested in helping these beautiful horses after their racing career is over. I have learned an enormous amount about how to care for and transition horses from the track to second careers. Some of them, of course, are too injured to be adopted, so the many rescue facilities dotting the United States provide a home and refuge for horses that otherwise might well be slaughtered.

How much of your day/week is related to horses?
I usually spend from three to four days with the thoroughbreds, (though there are other breeds of horse at these rescue facilities, too), doing everything from feeding, turn-out, grooming, mucking out stalls, transporting horses, medicating wounds, riding, exercising, massaging, or assisting when they are shoed or have their teeth floated, and transitioning them to new careers. . . the duties are varied and, essentially, the chores to be done depend on what the need is each day.

Virginia and a Granddaughter of Secretariat

Thoroughbreds are very versatile; we’ve placed horses as show jumpers, barrel racers, trail horses, companions for young children and older adults, and as dressage horses. They’re intelligent and athletic and able to emotionally bond in a way that makes them incredible companions.

I love every minute I spend with the horses and, as an added bonus, being immersed in this world makes the people, and settings, and plots for my mystery series quite authentic.

In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a liveable income?
The great thing about volunteering is that you get to be very active in all aspects of horse care. As with most volunteer, service organizations there is always a need for help. Because of this, you can really get a feel for what is entailed in different aspects of horse care. Maybe you love grooming horses, or maybe you find that farrier work really interests you, or massage, or exercising or horse training . . . maybe the veterinary aspect of wound care or maintaining the health of horses piques your interest.

When you volunteer, you get hands-on experience that can open the door for more education, or stepping into a paid position at a stable or breeding farm. For example, until I followed a farrier around, I didn’t realize how important hoof care can be; a farrier can actually aid in correcting conformation problems through horseshoe design.

One woman I know went on to work in artificial insemination . . . the jobs in the horse industry are multitudinous. Volunteering at a facility helps get you into the horse world in an active way so you can see what might be satisfying to you.

What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
As I’ve noted, the first step is to find a place where you can volunteer. Depending upon your level of expertise, you can step right in or take things more slowly, learning as you go. When I began volunteering, I knew next to nothing about horses, but now I’m comfortable in pretty much any circumstance involving them.

You get to learn their signals, how to be safe around them, how to bond (often called “hooking on”) and care for them. You learn their personalities and what treats they like –I know one stallion who loves root beer and cheesecake! So, if you have an interest in horses, jump right in!

Author Virginia Slachman

Favourite horse memory?
What I love about working with thoroughbreds is how courageous they are. Many, though certainly not all, of the horses I’ve known in rescue have been abused. Some will not let you come close, some are head shy from being beaten, others have serious physical injuries. I’ve known horses who’ve had a fractured leg or knee and several who are missing an eye.

Horses who’ve been mistreated have every reason to be mean, angry, spiteful, even dangerous. But none of the thoroughbreds I’ve known have reacted that way. Rather, they will withdraw and not let you near them. They are very social animals, but my experience is they’d rather avoid contact than harm you. But what amazes me is they are very willing to forgive us humans, and given love and care, learn to trust us again. Never, ever doubt the power of gentleness, love, and respect to earn the trust and affection of a horse. I’ve seen it time and time again.

One horse’s story comes to thought. This mare came to the facility I was working at after being abandoned in a field. She hadn’t been fed, and was terrified of absolutely everything. You couldn’t approach her; she’d flee as if for her life. A beautiful gray with a sweet eye, black mane and tail, she was living in a pasture with a herd, but could not bring herself to join even those of her own kind.

One winter day, I found her lying down in the pasture; she’d cut her leg fairly seriously so she needed vet care. With gentleness and working very slowly, I was able to get a halter on her and, with a lot of patience, get her from the pasture to the lay-up barn. Though injured, she raced around and around in her stall, which was not helping her leg wound. At that time, there was a twenty-eight year old gelding living in the barn who I termed our “therapist” because if he sensed any horse needed a little TLC, he was always right there to help out. When he saw this mare, he went into the empty stall next to her and stuck his nose to the bars until she stopped circling and came over. They stood nose-to-nose, calmly, until the vet came and took care of the mare’s wound.

She had an extended stay in the barn to recuperate. Because of that, all the volunteers got to interact with her. Eventually, she let us groom her, walk her calmly on a lead rope, feed her treats, and generally just hang out with her. Once she was fully healed and turned back out into the pasture, she joined the herd. Now if you walk out into the field, she’ll come right over for a carrot!

Like so many thoroughbreds I’ve worked with, this mare had a lot of issues to deal with. But she worked through them and learned once again to trust humans. As I said, horses have tremendous courage and the capacity to forgive—I’ve learned a lot from them.

Future goals?
I’d love to keep learning about and caring for thoroughbreds, and am very excited about the mystery series I’m working on. The Lost Ode is available on Amazon. And I’m just now finishing up the revision of the second book in the series.

Best thing about your sport/profession?
The horses. The best thing about the work I do is getting to know and care for the horses. I especially love watching traumatized horses regain their confidence and trust as well as seeing these wonderful creatures find new, loving homes and a second career off the racetrack.

“No hour of life was lost spent in the saddle.” – Author unknown

Profile On: Chuck Bartok, Marketing Consultant

July 20, 2014 by Christine Meunier Leave a Comment

Chuck on Beau 1997 Glen County Sheriff’s Posse (15 years)

How much of your day/week is related to horses?
Currently Shirley and I are “horseless”. Health issues caused us to sell the ranch and facility and move into a “senior environment”. We are VERY active in the local horse community and since I am a life member of California State Horsemen’s Association (CSHA) and fomer State Vice-president, we still contribute when we can towards successful venues.

I allocate approximately 55 hours a week involved in the horse industry. It is nice to be “retired” from the 80+ hours for almost 40 years ~smile~. I used to announce 30 West Coast Shows a year, but cannot continue that pace, so I volunteer for a few selected Non-Profit Functions.

Shirley left her boarding business and had to downsize to miniatures because of her bone conditions and finally NO horse and now spend her time handcrafting Wood Yard and Home Decor, focusing on the Western and Horse Motifs. Even though we miss the smells and daily contact, our hearts and spirit are still with the horse.

Our youngest son has an excellent Cutting Horse Training facility in Texas and is carrying on our “legacy” of being close to the horse.

What is it exactly that you do?
Most of the clients in our Marketing and Business Consulting Company are in the manufacture and distribution of horse products, provide professional services, or are breeders and ranchers.

Chuck Bartok is a 50 year serial entrepreneur who focused his energy in Agriculture and Equine Businesses and Financial Services. Since a major health set back a few years ago, Chuck is now spending his time helping others grow their businesses and profits through the effective use of internet and social media marketing.

Shirley, Chuck, and Winchester (her Champion Gelding and #1 Search and Rescue Horse).

In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a liveable income?
Everyone’s definition of liveable is different. I believe my fees and compensation would allow most reasonable people to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. For the past several years it has averaged about $100/hour net after taxes.

There is a demand for experienced marketing consultants and coaches in all fields. There is a strong market in the horse industry, since so many NEW people are always venturing into the business side.

What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
Be familiar with the industry, preferably with hands-on experience. Understand the needs of your client’s customer base. I DO not advocate wasting time getting advanced degrees in marketing. Most programs are taught by those of little to NO experience and are too focused on structure rather than getting the job done.

I have guest lectured in some programs and was appalled at the lack of understanding of how to grow the whole person – so important in the success of any business, regardless the venue. Suggestions: team up with experience , learn to listen, create your own persona (there are thousands who will follow YOU) and be willing to take the time to GROW. Just like starting a colt, there is NO easy button.

Chuck’s Son Jonathan Cutting

Favourite horse memory?
My father taking me to the stables in Chicago and riding the Forest Preserves after he returned from WWII. That embedded my desire to become a horseman.

Future goals?
Continue to encourage and help build the horse businesses of others.

Best thing about your sport/profession?
Watching clients build the horse related businesses of THEIR dreams. Especially young trainers. Some of my “clients” have really exploded onto the Horse World over the past 20 years.

“Whoever said that money cannot buy happiness didn’t know where to buy a horse.” – Author unknown

Profile On: Stacey Sikorski, Professional Show Groom

July 14, 2014 by Christine Meunier Leave a Comment

How much of your day/week is related to horses?
A good 50% is related to horses probably more.

What is it exactly that you do?
At my “real job” I do chart review, marketing and other duties at a major veterinary hospital. This includes horses as well as small animals (cats/dogs).

Some of Stacey’s Handiwork

My other jobs include:

Working one day a week conditioning and clipping show horses for an Arabian trainer.
Running a boarding facility for 9 horses at my home.
Running a clipping service for horses – I body clip and show clip.
On my “vacations” I work as a professional show groom.

In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a liveable income?
Yes but it is not easy. Most people do not want to work 80+ hours a week or be away from home as often as this type of work requires.

What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
In my case I just started letting people know I was available again. I got my start by working for people who had known me when I was a full time professional groom. They knew I was hard working, knew I could clip, braid, longe etc. They knew I could handle mares, stallions and young stock and drive a truck and trailer or tractor.

When I first started out I was lucky enough to find someone willing to give me a chance. People for some reason did not think I would stick to it. My first big show as a groom was the Scottsdale Arabian Show. I lived in a portable stall while there. It rained non-stop the entire show. My stall was flooded but it didn’t deter me at all. At the end of the show one of the trainers asked “What do you think?” I replied “This is what I want to do”. I worked there until the farm was downsized in a divorce.

Most importantly you need to be willing to work hard and LEARN. If my work was unacceptable I was told to do it again until I got it right and instead of being offended I got better and better. Learning to braid I practiced on all of our breeding stallions. You have to want to be the best and keep at it until you are.

A Horse Braided by Stacey

Favourite horse memory?
There are many but galloping *Enrilo in the 100 acre field ranks way up there. I was fortunate enough to work with some very famous horses and groomed more National Winners than I can count. Watching my friend and head trainer ride horses I had prepped to National Championships is another big one.

Future goals?
To make enough to be able to quit my day job and work for myself – I’m closing in on that goal. And to be known again as one of the best show grooms in the country. I’m competitive – being good is not enough. It feels great to hear one of my veterinarians say “I can tell a horse you have body clipped by sight”. Huge compliment!

Best thing about your sport/profession?
The feel of family. Even after my 10 year “retirement” when I came back to the industry they all still knew me. I knew them and honestly I felt like I had gone home. No one questioned me, no one yelled at me and best of all I didn’t have to worry I might do something wrong. They were all happy I was there to see to it that everything was how it was supposed to be.

“Don’t count your ribbons before the show starts.” – Author unknown

Profile On: Jonathan Brant, Guardian Horse Bedding

July 12, 2014 by Christine Meunier Leave a Comment

How much of your day/week is related to horses?
Our company, Equustock, manufactures horse bedding under the brand Guardian Horse Bedding. We also manufacture cat litters, fuel pellets and a moisture absorbent. I am primarily engaged with the horse bedding products.

Not only is our business founded and dedicated to horses but we also have our own farm with currently 6 horses residing there. We call this our “research facility” because all of our products were formulated, developed, tested and of course, subsequently used here.

I am around horses most days when I’m not traveling in some capacity. In addition to our corporate offices at another location, I have my own office in our barn. I am fortunate that I can walk out and pet, groom, clean or ride anytime I feel the need. Thanks to the wonders of modern communications I remain completely connected by intercom, internet, phone, cell, fax, etc. to the rest of our organization.

What is it exactly that you do?

Guardian Horse Bedding Products

I am one of two managing partners of Equustock, LLC (my wife Claire is the other partner). Together, with our team of 10 office staff, we oversee the day to day operations of manufacture, packaging, shipping and marketing of our brands: Guardian Horse Bedding, Guardian Angel Cat Litter, Unconditional Cat Litter, Absorb & Clean moisture absorbent and Big Heat Fuel Pellets.

We’re both fully engaged in sales and maintaining and promoting our company policy of Reduce-Reuse-Recycle-Repeat. We ship domestically and internationally direct from 10 plants regionally located around the country.

In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a livable income?
We began our business with our own horses in mind. We wanted to provide the best, cleanest and most consistent bedding we could. We finally came to the realization we had to make the effort ourselves. So, at first, Claire was the only employee (and she was working free).

We then slowly built the business until after about 2 years, Claire was able to take a salary out of the business. Anyone with a start up business will cite this same kind of story so we aren’t anything special. At first it was difficult and I continued to work at my other job while we established the framework of Equustock. After 13 years, we still continue to grow and expand our product lines. Short answer: tough, but do-able.

What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
See a need… create a solution… persevere.

Favorite horse memory?
So many… I’ll go with finishing a training level event on my wonderful young Irish Sport Horse “MJ”. He was quite a project but with expert assistance we were able to bring him along. I look forward to many more years competing him at Preliminary Level.

Future goals?
We would like to build the business to be self-sustaining or perhaps sold at some point. This goal would free up more time for us to spend together, and with our horses and animals.

Best thing about your sport/profession?
Equustock has provided me with the ability to combine my love and passion for horses with a stable business (no pun intended) that continues to grow. We began with the health and well-being of our horses as the objective and still remains our core philosophy for all horses.

“Give me food and drink; and care for me. And when the day’s work is done, shelter me. Give me a clean bed and leave me not too small a place in the stable. Talk to me, for your voice often takes the place of reins; be good to me and I shall serve you more gladly and love you.” – Author unknown

Profile On: Hoyt Rose, Horse Trainer

Profile On: Virginia Slachman, Writer and Thoroughbred Rescue Volunteer

Profile On: Chuck Bartok, Marketing Consultant

Profile On: Stacey Sikorski, Professional Show Groom

Profile On: Jonathan Brant, Guardian Horse Bedding

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