Spring Has Sprung!

Yes, even though I'm still looking at snow on the mountains, I suddenly have green grass in my yard and my trees and flowers a readying themselves for their much anticipated appearance.

This vision of frosted horses seems distant now:

Here's what's cookin':

JUNE RIDING CAMP

I'm happy to announce that Picabo Ranch has agreed to host our June 24 – 26 Riding Camp. A big THANKS! goes out to Trish and Brent Bashaw who own the facility and to Mieka Barnes, the barn manager. Learn more about the facility, get traveling directions and lodging possibilities. I am also happy to announce that Caryl Boeder will be both attending the camp and conducting daily instruction in Yoga for Equestrians. This has been a popular addition to our camps in the past. Don't forget to sign up by sending a deposit. You can use a credit card.

WHAT IS FELDENDRAIS?

Robert Spencer, guild certified Feldenkrais® instructor and cofounder of the EquiMotion Integrated Riding program has provided a brief explanation of the Feldenkrais® Method for those of you who are curious. To better understand this method and how it applies to riding, read his newest piece.

HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS

With spring grass and weather changes, many horse owners are faced with periodic, mild colic situations. I've added the Silver Lining Equine Herbal Supplement, Colic Ease, to my product list. I have been a representative for these products for five years and will be adding more to the web site soon, but this time of year inspired me to get on the stick with the Colic Ease. To learn more or order visit this page on our site.

I have successfully used Colic Ease to relieve mild colic symptoms on numerous occasions. I give two tablespoons orally at the first signs of a mild colic (Horse's that are in distress, sweating, pawing, or thrashing around need veterinary attention immediately!). I also record the horse's heart rate, respiration, capillary refill and temperature for baseline reference. I proceed with walking, belly lifts, ear stroking and High Touch Jin Shin® to relax and comfort the horse. I give another two tablespoons orally after fifteen minutes. If I haven't seen remarkable results, or the situation is obviously worsening, I know its time to get to the vet, but if things are looking up I give a third round of Colic Ease and recheck the horse's heart rate, respiration, capillary refill and temperature.

Colic Ease contains cascara, which is a purgative and can be used by humans who have chronic constipation because it encourages peristalsis in the gut. It also contains ginger, which promotes gastric secretion and is used in humans in cases of dyspepsia, flatulence and colic, and Slippery Elm, which soothes the mucous membrane linings of the digestive system.

I'm looking forward to a fun filled summer of riding and learning with horses and hope you are too. Thanks to all for feedback and product orders. Speaking of orders, the second week of May, I will be in Jamaica, man! So please understand if there is a slight delay in shipping.

Happy Spring!

Nancy Camp
At Whole Horse Training