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How Arabian Horses Adapt to Different Climates and Environments

How Arabian Horses Adapt to Different Climates & Environments

How Arabian Horses Adapt to Different Climates and Environments

The Arabian horse, with its refined beauty and unmatched endurance, is one of the oldest and most adaptable horse breeds in the world. Originating in the harsh deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, the breed has evolved to not only survive but thrive in some of the most challenging environments. This natural adaptability, combined with centuries of careful breeding, has allowed Arabian horses to acclimate to a wide range of climates and terrains around the globe. Let’s explore how Arabian horses have become symbols of resilience and versatility.

Desert Origins: Built for Survival

The Arabian horse’s adaptation to extreme climates begins with its desert heritage. For thousands of years, Bedouin tribes relied on these horses for survival in arid conditions where food and water were scarce. Over time, Arabians developed unique physical and physiological traits to endure the harsh desert environment:

  • Efficient Hydration: Arabian horses can survive with minimal water compared to other breeds. Their bodies are highly efficient at conserving water, which helped them endure long desert journeys.
  • Hardy Hooves: Arabians’ hooves are tough and resilient, designed to navigate rocky and sandy terrains without the need for shoes.
  • Compact Build: With a smaller, more compact frame, Arabians require less energy and resources to sustain themselves. Their deep chest and large nostrils enable efficient oxygen intake, supporting stamina and endurance.
  • Fine Coat: Their thin coat helps regulate body temperature in extreme heat, while their skin is dense enough to protect against harsh sunlight and insects.

These traits not only ensured survival but also established the Arabian horse as a breed known for endurance, making them ideal for long-distance travel and racing.

Adaptability to Cold Climates

While Arabian horses are native to the desert, they have also proven to adapt remarkably well to colder climates. Their resilience and versatility allow them to thrive in regions with harsh winters when provided proper care:

  • Thickened Winter Coat: In colder environments, Arabians grow a thicker coat to insulate themselves against the cold. This seasonal adaptation helps them maintain body heat and stay comfortable.
  • Efficient Metabolism: Arabians have a highly efficient metabolism, which helps them maintain their body weight and energy levels during winter months when food may be less abundant.
  • Hardy Temperament: Their calm and intelligent nature allows them to acclimate quickly to changes in weather, provided they have access to shelter and proper nutrition.

Thriving in Humid Environments

Arabian horses have also demonstrated their ability to adjust to humid and tropical climates, despite originating in arid deserts. Their genetic efficiency and durability play a significant role in their ability to cope with higher humidity levels:

  • Sweat Regulation: Arabians are adept at regulating body heat through sweating, making them suitable for humid climates where heat dissipation is crucial.
  • Healthy Coat Maintenance: Regular grooming and proper ventilation are essential in humid environments to prevent skin conditions like rain rot, and Arabians’ thin coat helps minimize these risks.

Success in Diverse Terrains

Arabians are known for their versatility and can excel in various terrains, from sandy deserts to rocky mountain trails and grassy plains. Their surefootedness and agility make them reliable companions for riders exploring challenging landscapes:

  • Endurance in Deserts: Arabians’ legendary stamina allows them to cover long distances in hot, sandy conditions without fatigue.
  • Agility on Rocky Terrain: Their tough hooves and strong legs make them adept at navigating rocky and uneven ground.
  • Adaptation to Grasslands: In grassy plains, Arabians flourish with access to ample forage, showcasing their ability to adjust to more temperate environments.

 

Caring for an Arabian Horse in Varied Climates

While Arabian horses are naturally adaptable, proper care and management are crucial for their well-being in different climates:

  • Hot Climates: Provide access to shade, fresh water, and salt supplements to help them stay hydrated and cool.
  • Cold Climates: Offer shelter from wind and snow, ensure a consistent supply of high-quality forage, and consider blankets for extra warmth.
  • Humid Climates: Maintain good grooming practices, ensure proper ventilation in stables, and monitor for skin conditions.

The Modern Arabian: A Global Icon

Today, Arabian horses are found in nearly every corner of the world, thriving in climates ranging from the deserts of the Middle East to the snowy regions of Scandinavia. Their adaptability has made them a favorite for various equestrian disciplines, including endurance riding, dressage, and showmanship. Regardless of the environment, Arabians bring their signature grace, intelligence, and loyalty to every setting.

A Testament to Resilience

The Arabian horse’s ability to adapt to different climates and environments is a testament to its resilience and versatility. From the scorching sands of the desert to the icy winds of winter, these horses continue to inspire admiration for their enduring spirit and unique traits. Whether as loyal companions, competitors, or symbols of history, Arabian horses prove time and time again that they are truly one of the most remarkable breeds in the world.

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The Bond Between Humans and Arabian Horses: Why It’s Unique

The Bond Between Humans & Arabians: Why It’s Unique

The Arabian horse is often called a living legend, not only for its beauty, intelligence, and endurance but also for its deep and lasting connection with humans. For thousands of years, this iconic breed has shared a special bond with people, a relationship that is as extraordinary as the Arabian horse itself. In this blog, we’ll explore the unique characteristics of Arabian horses that foster this bond and the history that has made it so profound.

A History Rooted in Partnership

The relationship between humans and Arabian horses dates back over 4,500 years to the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula. Bedouin tribes relied on these horses for survival, as they were essential for transportation, warfare, and herding. Arabian horses were treated as members of the family, often living alongside their owners in tents. This close relationship fostered mutual trust and a deep understanding between humans and horses, laying the foundation for their enduring bond.

Unlike other breeds, the Arabian horse’s history is intertwined with stories of loyalty, courage, and companionship. Bedouins selectively bred Arabians not only for their physical traits but also for their temperament, favoring horses that were calm, gentle, and willing to work closely with humans.

Intelligence and Sensitivity

One of the most remarkable traits of the Arabian horse is its intelligence. This breed is known for its quick learning ability and keen sensitivity to human emotions. Arabians are highly perceptive animals that can sense the mood and energy of their handlers, often responding in ways that demonstrate empathy and understanding.

This intelligence and sensitivity make Arabian horses highly trainable and versatile. Whether in endurance racing, dressage, or pleasure riding, Arabians excel in various disciplines because of their ability to form strong connections with their riders and adapt to different challenges.

Loyalty and Trust

The loyalty of the Arabian horse is legendary. Historically, these horses were bred to stay close to their handlers, even in the harsh conditions of the desert. This instinctive loyalty has carried over to modern Arabians, who are known for forming strong, lasting bonds with their owners.

Many Arabian horse owners describe their relationship with their horse as more than just a partnership—it’s a friendship. Arabians are known to seek out human companionship, often following their owners around and displaying affection in ways that feel almost dog-like. This level of trust and loyalty is rare among horse breeds, making the bond with an Arabian truly unique.

A Breed of Personality

Arabian horses are not only intelligent and loyal but also full of personality. They are curious, playful, and often display a sense of humor that endears them to their owners. Their expressive faces, large eyes, and lively demeanor make them incredibly engaging animals to interact with. These traits make the bond between humans and Arabians feel more personal and dynamic.

The Spiritual Connection

Many owners and riders describe their bond with Arabian horses as a spiritual experience. There is something almost otherworldly about the Arabian’s grace, beauty, and presence. This connection goes beyond physical interaction, delving into a deeper understanding and harmony between horse and human.

In Arabian culture, these horses are considered a gift from God and are often associated with spiritual significance. This reverence has carried over into modern times, where Arabians continue to inspire awe and admiration worldwide.

Caring for an Arabian Horse

Building a bond with an Arabian horse requires patience, respect, and mutual trust. These horses thrive on attention and interaction, making regular grooming, training, and companionship essential. They are not just work animals but true companions who thrive in environments where they feel loved and valued.

Owners who invest time and effort into understanding their Arabian horse are rewarded with a connection that feels almost magical. The more you give to an Arabian, the more it gives back, deepening the bond with every interaction.

Why the Bond is Unique

The bond between humans and Arabian horses is unique because of their history, temperament, and inherent qualities. Few breeds can match the Arabian in terms of its loyalty, sensitivity, and willingness to connect on a profound level. Whether galloping across a desert or sharing a quiet moment in the stable, the relationship with an Arabian horse is one of mutual respect, trust, and love.

Celebrating the Legacy

The bond between humans and Arabian horses is a testament to the power of partnership and understanding. These horses have not only shaped the history of equestrianism but also touched the hearts of countless individuals around the world. Their elegance, intelligence, and spirit continue to inspire and captivate, reminding us of the timeless connection between humans and animals.

Owning an Arabian horse is more than just a commitment; it’s an opportunity to experience one of the most rewarding relationships imaginable. For those lucky enough to share their life with an Arabian, the bond is truly unforgettable—a legacy of trust, loyalty, and grace that transcends time.

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The Arabian Horse’s Influence on Global Horse Breeding

The Arabian Horse’s Influence on Global Horse Breeding

The Arabian Horse’s Influence on Global Horse Breeding

The Arabian horse, one of the oldest and most revered horse breeds, has left an indelible mark on the world of equestrianism. With its distinctive beauty, unmatched stamina, and remarkable intelligence, the Arabian has been a cornerstone in the development of countless modern horse breeds. Its influence can be seen in everything from racing Thoroughbreds to versatile sport horses, making it a breed of unparalleled significance in global horse breeding.

The Legacy of the Arabian Horse

Originating in the harsh deserts of the Arabian Peninsula over 4,500 years ago, the Arabian horse was bred for endurance, speed, and strength. Bedouin tribes prized these horses for their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to survive in extreme conditions. These qualities made the Arabian horse not only a symbol of status and wealth but also a vital companion for survival.

As trade routes expanded and conquests spread, Arabian horses were introduced to new regions, where their superior traits were recognized and incorporated into local breeds. Their genetic influence has since shaped equine breeding across the globe, ensuring their legacy as a foundation breed.

Arabian Genetics: The Key to Excellence

The Arabian horse’s genetics are unique, characterized by a dense bone structure, efficient metabolism, and exceptional endurance. These traits, combined with their refined appearance and calm temperament, made Arabians the ideal breed to improve others. Crossbreeding with Arabians introduced qualities such as:

  • Enhanced stamina and endurance
  • Refined conformation and beauty
  • Improved speed and agility
  • Increased intelligence and trainability

Breeds Influenced by the Arabian Horse

1. Thoroughbred

One of the most famous breeds influenced by the Arabian is the Thoroughbred, known for its dominance in horse racing. The foundation of the Thoroughbred breed traces back to three Arabian stallions: the Darley Arabian, the Godolphin Arabian, and the Byerly Turk. These stallions contributed to the speed, agility, and resilience that define Thoroughbreds today.

2. Andalusian

The Andalusian horse, hailing from the Iberian Peninsula, was significantly refined with Arabian blood during the Moorish occupation of Spain. The Arabian’s influence is evident in the Andalusian’s elegant movement, arched neck, and versatility in both dressage and traditional Spanish riding.

3. American Quarter Horse

The American Quarter Horse, renowned for its speed over short distances and versatility, also owes part of its lineage to the Arabian. Crossbreeding Arabians with native horses helped improve the Quarter Horse’s agility and endurance, traits essential for ranch work and competitive events.

4. Warmbloods

Many European Warmblood breeds, such as the Hanoverian, Trakehner, and Dutch Warmblood, have been influenced by Arabian genetics. Arabians were often used to refine these breeds, enhancing their elegance, stamina, and performance in disciplines like dressage and show jumping.

5. Morgan Horse

The Morgan horse, an American breed known for its versatility and compact strength, also has Arabian ancestry. This influence is reflected in the Morgan’s refined head, arched neck, and spirited yet gentle nature.

6. National Show Horse

The National Show Horse, a cross between the Arabian and American Saddlebred, was specifically developed to combine the Arabian’s elegance and intelligence with the Saddlebred’s high-stepping gait and showmanship. This breed is a testament to the Arabian’s continued influence in modern equine development.

The Arabian’s Role in Modern Breeding

Today, Arabian horses continue to play a vital role in global breeding programs. Their ability to improve other breeds—both physically and temperamentally—is unmatched. Modern breeders value Arabians for their:

  • Endurance: Ideal for creating long-distance and sport horses.
  • Refinement: Enhances the aesthetic and conformation of crossbred horses.
  • Versatility: Adds adaptability for various equestrian disciplines.

Moreover, Arabian horses themselves are thriving in diverse equestrian sports, including endurance racing, dressage, and showing, further solidifying their reputation as a breed of timeless excellence.

A Global Legacy

The Arabian horse’s impact on global horse breeding is a testament to its exceptional qualities and enduring appeal. From the racetrack to the dressage arena, the Arabian’s genetic contributions have shaped the modern equestrian world. Its ability to improve and refine other breeds ensures its influence will continue for generations to come, preserving its legacy as one of the most important and celebrated horse breeds in history.

Whether admired for their beauty, cherished for their loyalty, or utilized for their performance, Arabian horses remain a cornerstone of equine excellence worldwide. Their unparalleled contribution to global horse breeding highlights not only their significance but also the enduring bond between humans and these magnificent creatures.

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Decoding Arabian Horse Colors and Markings

Decoding Arabian Horse Colors and Markings

The Arabian horse is renowned for its beauty, elegance, and rich history. Part of what makes this breed so visually striking is its variety of coat colors and distinctive markings. These features not only add to the Arabian’s allure but also reflect centuries of careful breeding. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating world of Arabian horse colors and markings, decoding their significance and uniqueness.

The Genetics Behind Colors and Markings

The colors and markings of Arabian horses are determined by their genetic makeup. While coat colors like bay, chestnut, and black are influenced by dominant and recessive genes, markings are often random and not easily predicted. Breeders carefully consider genetics when planning pairings, aiming to maintain the breed’s standard while celebrating its diversity.

Why Colors and Markings Matter

While the beauty of an Arabian’s coat and markings is undeniable, these features often carry deeper significance:

  • Identification: Unique markings make it easier to identify individual horses.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Coat colors and markings contribute to the Arabian’s status as one of the most elegant horse breeds.
  • Cultural Significance: In Arabian culture, certain colors and markings are considered symbols of good fortune or noble lineage.

Traditional Coat Colors of the Arabian Horse

Arabian horses come in a range of stunning coat colors, each with its own charm. While the breed is known for its versatility and grace, its genetics also contribute to its diverse palette of colors. Here are the primary coat colors recognized in Arabian horses:

1. Bay

Bay is one of the most common coat colors in Arabians. These horses have a rich brown body with black points, which include the mane, tail, and lower legs. Bay coats can range from light reddish-brown to deep mahogany shades, making each bay Arabian unique.

2. Chestnut

Chestnut Arabians feature a reddish coat that can vary from a light golden hue to a deep, coppery red. Unlike bays, chestnuts lack black points, and their manes and tails often match or are slightly lighter than their body color.

3. Gray

Gray Arabians are iconic and among the most admired. While they may be born dark, gray horses lighten over time, often turning pure white as they age. This gradual change makes them particularly fascinating. Gray Arabians may also retain darker skin, which adds depth to their striking appearance.

4. Black

Black Arabians are rare and highly sought after. True black horses have a uniformly dark coat with no reddish or brown undertones, and their mane and tail are also jet black. They exude an aura of mystery and power, making them stand out in any setting.

5. Roan

Though less common, roan Arabians have a mixture of white and colored hairs throughout their coat, giving them a unique speckled appearance. Roan coats can occur in various base colors like bay or chestnut.

Unique Markings of Arabian Horses

In addition to their coat colors, Arabian horses are often adorned with distinctive white markings that add to their individuality. These markings are usually found on the face and legs and vary widely in shape and size. Here are some of the most common markings:

Facial Markings

  • Star: A white spot on the horse’s forehead, ranging in size from small to large.
  • Stripe: A narrow white line running down the face, often extending from the forehead to the muzzle.
  • Blaze: A wider white stripe that covers most of the face.
  • Snip: A small white mark on the nose or between the nostrils.
  • Bald Face: A white marking that extends across the entire face, often reaching the eyes.

Leg Markings

  • Coronet: A small band of white around the top of the hoof.
  • Sock: White markings that extend above the hoof, covering part of the leg.
  • Stocking: Larger white markings that extend higher on the leg, sometimes reaching the knee or hock.
  • Ermine Spots: Small dark spots within white leg markings, adding further uniqueness.

Celebrating the Diversity of Arabian Horses

Arabian horses are a living testament to the artistry of nature and centuries of dedicated breeding. Their variety of colors and markings makes them endlessly fascinating to enthusiasts and breeders alike. Whether it’s the sleek elegance of a black coat or the striking patterns of facial and leg markings, each Arabian horse is a masterpiece.

By understanding and appreciating these features, we can deepen our admiration for this incredible breed and its storied history.

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The History and Origins of the Arabian Horse: A Legacy of Elegance

The History and Origins of the Arabian Horse

The History and Origins of the Arabian Horse: A Legacy of Elegance

The Arabian horse, with its graceful silhouette, refined features, and undeniable presence, is one of the most celebrated and ancient horse breeds in the world. Revered for its beauty, stamina, and intelligence, the Arabian horse carries a storied past that intertwines with human history, shaping its legacy as a symbol of elegance and endurance.

Ancient Beginnings

The origins of the Arabian horse trace back over 4,500 years, making it one of the oldest known horse breeds. Native to the Arabian Peninsula, this breed was shaped by the harsh desert environment. Early Bedouin tribes played a pivotal role in its development, selectively breeding horses that could survive extreme heat, scarce water, and long journeys.

Arabian horses became essential to the Bedouin way of life. They were not only prized for their utility in war and travel but were also deeply embedded in Bedouin culture. These horses often lived closely with their owners, even sharing tents, fostering a unique bond between human and horse. This intimate relationship further contributed to the Arabian’s gentle temperament and loyalty.

The Arabian Horse in Warfare

The Arabian’s speed, endurance, and agility made it a formidable weapon in battle. Known for their courage and ability to traverse vast distances without tiring, Arabian horses became the mounts of choice for warriors across the Middle East. Their influence extended far beyond the Arabian Peninsula as they were introduced to new territories through conquests and trade.

Notably, the Arabian horse’s genetic influence can be seen in many modern horse breeds, such as the Thoroughbred, Andalusian, and American Quarter Horse. The Arabian’s qualities of stamina, speed, and elegance have made it a foundational breed in the equestrian world.

 

Symbol of Nobility and Elegance

Throughout history, the Arabian horse has been associated with royalty, nobility, and prestige. Renowned historical figures, including Genghis Khan, Alexander the Great, and Napoleon Bonaparte, recognized the Arabian’s unparalleled qualities and favored them as mounts.

In addition to its physical attributes, the Arabian horse’s striking appearance contributed to its legendary status. With its arched neck, finely chiseled head, large expressive eyes, and high tail carriage, the Arabian exudes elegance and beauty that is often depicted in art and literature throughout history.

The Arabian Horse Around the World

The Arabian horse’s influence spread far beyond the Middle East due to trade and cultural exchange. During the Islamic conquests, Arabian horses were introduced to Europe, where they became highly sought after. By the 16th and 17th centuries, Arabian horses had become integral to royal stables across Europe.

In the Americas, the breed’s introduction came later but had a significant impact. Arabian horses were used to improve the stamina and quality of other breeds, leaving a lasting legacy in disciplines such as endurance riding and competitive equestrian sports.

Modern-Day Arabian Horses

Today, the Arabian horse continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Its versatility allows it to excel in various disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, and endurance riding. Beyond performance, Arabians are cherished for their companionship and unique connection with humans.

Organizations and breeders worldwide work tirelessly to preserve the purity of the Arabian bloodline, ensuring that its legacy of elegance and endurance remains intact. Prominent events and shows celebrate the breed’s history and beauty, showcasing its timeless appeal.

A Legacy Worth Preserving

The Arabian horse is more than just a breed; it is a living piece of history and a testament to the enduring relationship between humans and horses. Its legacy, rooted in the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, continues to inspire admiration and reverence across cultures and generations. Whether gracing the pages of ancient manuscripts or competing on modern-day stages, the Arabian horse remains an icon of elegance, strength, and enduring beauty.

 

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Creating A Successful Marketing Campaign

Creating A Successful Marketing Campaign

Emily Maita – Sugar Pine Design

by Channing Turner

 

            A key element of showing horses that is often overlooked is marketing a horse and rider pair. This week, Arabian Horse Times interviewed Emily Maita, owner and graphic designer at Sugar Pine Design. She creates ads for the Arabian, Saddlebred and Morgan shows.

 

First Steps

            Emily explains that when she is starting on a new marketing campaign, it is important to listen to the customer. Understanding their objective and target audience is the first step in creating successful ads.

            When she begins the process of creating an ad, Emily says, “Less is more – always!” It can be challenging to use blank space, but ultimately it is your friend. A minimalist approach without clutter typically brings more interest to the subject.

            Picking out the format of the advertisement comes next. This is driven by the content and photos she has been provided. Each individual ad should be developed uniquely based on the provided materials. There is not one strict formula to follow, but tailor the ad to the horse – not the horse to the ad.

Mistakes to Avoid

            A mistake Emily often sees is a lack of authenticity. No two horses are the same and no two campaigns should be the same either. It is important to stand out in the crowd – without clutter!

 

Tips and Tricks

            One tip Emily has for anyone thinking about advertising for a horse show is to take time to nail down the right photos. The horse show industry has a great group of photographers that offer farm shoots if you do not find what you wanted at a horse show.

Check back next week for the next segment in our series of Fashion Do’s and Don’ts!

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Horse Show Fashion Do’s and Don’ts – Show Season

Fashion do's and dont's

Melissa Holmes – Show Season

by Channing Turner

Fashion Trends

            A current fashion trend that Melissa approves of is the mixing of suit and day coat fabrics. There are many options to choose from and they are a lot of fun to pick out.

Though there is not a specific trend that Melissa was glad to see go, she does not think fashion trends ever truly go away. When something goes out of style, it eventually comes back.

Continuing our series on horse show fashion, Arabian Horse Times spoke with Melissa Holmes at Show Season. Specializing in English, Hunt Seat and Western show apparel, we asked her about some of her fashion do’s and don’ts regarding Saddle Seat attire.

 

The Do’s and Don’ts

            Something that can make an exhibitor stand out in a good way is having a well fitted suit. This means pants or jods, and a coat that fits well. Another important tip is to clean your suit. Making sure your clothes are fitted and clean are easy ways to look good in the show ring.

            Both suits and day coats are applicable; it all depends on the rider and horse combination and what would look best.

When picking out fabrics for a suit/vest/tie combination, Melissa’s advises to remember you are showing in a large arena and fabrics often look different from a distance. It is important to make sure the color you pick looks good on you and your horse.

Her horse show attire pet peeve is feathers in gill hats. “Don’t do it!”

            And a final piece of advice for exhibitors regarding show fashion is if you are wearing something you like, you will automatically feel more confident. “After all, getting dressed is half the fun!”

***

            Stay tuned with Arabian Horse Times for more on horse show fashion Do’s and Don’ts.

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Fashion Do’s and Don’ts

Fashion do's and dont's

Saddle Seat Focus with Becky DeRegnaucourt

by Channing Turner

The Do’s

When picking out fabrics for a suit combination, Becky shares that the shirt, vest, and tie are more about the rider since they are closer to their face. But it is also possible to highlight the horse’s coloring in the accent pieces. She always suggests something simple, as “less is more.”

An ideal look for Becky is when the rider and horse blend together to make a seamless pair. Selecting colors and patterns that showcase the horse is ideal. She stated that often you will not know what it is about a particular horse and rider; you just know that you love the overall picture. This is likely because the artform of apparel has been chosen and implemented successfully.

 

The clothing an exhibitor wears in the show ring is just as important as how their horse performs. As we begin a new series on fashion do’s and don’ts in the show world, the Times reached out to Becky Veltema, owner of DeRegnaucourt Ltd., specialists in saddle seat apparel for Arabians, Saddlebreds and Morgans.

 

Horse Show Fashion Trends

When she helps a customer, Becky usually tries to avoid trends because they are temporary and ever changing. She would rather see her clients go for a more timeless look like a classic suit with custom trimmings, which can help showcase a great horse. She also says that contrast show coats are still popular and give a unique look that really market a horse and rider as a recognizable team.

The Don’ts

A show attire pet peeve Becky shared was a rider overshadowing the horse. If the rider is small or large, it is important to minimize the attention that is drawn to them. Additionally, being too extreme like having too many colors mixed can cause the rider to become the focal point rather than the horse being judged.

Tips and Tricks

When asked about her preference for day coats versus suits, Becky said that she likes both! She said either one done in the right way is stunning for different reasons. She likes the look to be unique, which can be harder with a suit but absolutely possible.

A fashion trend Becky was glad to see go was light colored and contrasting hats on women. During the 1980’s it was very popular for women to wear contrasting hats in Dove Gray, Cream, and Beige. Looking back now, she wonders, “What were we thinking?”

Most important to making your show attire look better is to make sure your items fit the best they can and get your hats cleaned and shaped.

Becky’s final piece of advice to exhibitors regarding show ring fashion is to be open minded. Just because you like a certain color or think you look good in something, does not mean it is the best choice for your horse or the show arena, but selecting something different from trends or popular colors that you see in the ring may help you stand out in a unique but subtle way.

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Stay tuned for more on show ring fashion, when we speak with Melissa Holmes of Show Season.

 

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Best Barn Features – Oak Haven Farms

Best Barn Features | Oak haven farm

by Channing Turner

OakHaven1

            Arabian Horse Times continues their look into impressive barn features with Oak Haven Farms in Bullard, Texas. Speaking with Lauren Krohn on their state-of-the-art facility which caters to the success of their show horses and breeding program, it was originally conceived and sketched on the back of a napkin while she and Jason were at brunch one day. They built the current Oak Haven facility by including ideas they had seen at other facilities and adding their own, while working closely with the builders during construction to determine which features were feasible.

 

Farm Features

Oak Haven’s open-air setup consists of 120 stalls (four for foaling), all of which have an aisleway window for seeing their neighbor, as well as a window view to outside. The well-ventilated barn—vitally important to protect against the Texas heat—contains eight groom bays, two for each trainer (Lauren, Jason Krohn and Cassie Gillespie), with two extra crossties for horses that are getting ready to lunge, as well as additional crosstie bays for the farrier and vet to work, and a climate-controlled room for clients to store show clothes.

Separate from the stall area and Lauren’s favorite feature at Oak Haven is their arena with a viewing deck and lounge. Having the arena separate means horses being worked are not distracted and the stalled horses are not disturbed.

Also on-site are two round pens, an equisizer used during show season to keep the horses left behind in shape, and a large shop to store trucks and trailers—convenient and crucial for loading and unloading out of the elements.

Putting Plans in Motion

Lauren believes every barn should be set up for efficiency. Having everything close together allows for work to get done quicker and is streamlined.

Her advice to anyone thinking about building a barn? “Think before you do,” she says. “Talking about it is much different than building, so most importantly, plan ahead, because it may be impossible to change some things after the fact.” Case in point … when Oak Haven was being built, they planned on having 12×12 stalls, but because of the thickness of the concrete walls, the stalls ended up not quite 12×12.

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Best Barn Features – Hagale Family Arabians

Best Barn Features | Hagale Family Arabians
HagaleArabians1

Anyone who has spent time around horses knows how important it is to have a functional facility to train, breed, and care for them. To learn more about building and operating a successful horse show barn, AHT interviewed Jen Wilson, the Director of Operations at Hagale Family Arabians. She is currently consulting on the construction of a new complex for the Hagales breeding operations.

 

Meeting The Needs

The new facility, Jen explains, will be utilized for breeding and starting prospects, containing two aisles of 18 stalls each for a total of 36. One row will house their up-and-coming 2- and 3-year-olds, and the other aisle will be home to mares and foals. Each stall will have a door that opens to the outside so that the broodmares and young horses are able to be easily turned out. Some unique features of the new building are an aqua-treadmill and a breeding lab. The main barn will remain the primary location for the training of their string of show horses.

 

Farm Essentials

When asked about her favorite farm features, Jen elaborated more on their breeding lab. Having this on-site and a vet on staff eliminates the need for travel and allows for the flushing of embryos and the collection of the Hagale’s seven stallions, making the breeding process more efficient.

Another unique element of the main barn is their dedicated vet and farrier workspace, providing a space for their trailers to be pulled indoors to work without distraction in a heated or air-conditioned environment.

A key part of their facility that they cannot live without, says Jen, is the hotwalker; which takes care of warming up muscles before a workout and cooling down the same afterward.  

And, of course, an essential feature in any barn to keep everything in order and efficient is a storage area to organize blankets and supplies that are used daily such as tack, as well as a washer and dryer to throw dirty towels, blankets, and leg wraps in after a show.

 

Designing A Barn

Efficiency, Jen says, is the driving force behind the design of the Hagale’s training and breeding buildings. What a typical day on the farm looks like determined the design choices to allow day-to-day operations to run smoothly and economically. Everything is close together and easily accessible. In the training barn, 35 horses per day are worked, so it is imperative to make sure tack, grooming supplies, and equipment is readily available.

Most important is determining your end goal when thinking about constructing a barn, Jen advises, which should be the guiding force behind your design, be it creating a successful training and/or breeding program.

Ultimately, Jen says the Hagales’ goal is to better the Arabian horse industry for everyone, thus their doors are always open and visitors are welcome.

 

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Arabian Horse Times also spoke to Lauren Krohn from Oak Haven Farms about their gorgeous facility in Bullard, Texas. Check back in a couple of weeks to hear about their key barn features!