these superb horseman have with their horses, and learn how we can all take steps to achieve this with our own horses.

Transcription

1 From the President April 2013 What a shame our first comp of the year was washed out however we did need the rain, albeit not 8 inches (yes, I m that old I still think in inches not cm) over 3 days!! Luckily were we able to hold our training day two s previously(despite threatening rain), and a good day was had by all I think. The next SCEC event is another Double Dan Horsemanship Clinic (flyer also later in this newsletter), which is being held on Sat/Sun 20 and 21 April at Maxine s beautiful property near Berry. The clinic is fully booked for participants but spectators are more than welcome (a small charge applies). Dan and Pia Steers will be leading the clinic, and this time participants of the previous clinic have graduated and will be learning new skills on their way to be able to work their horses at liberty. In addition there are some newbies who will be starting at Level 1. Dan and Pia will be bringing some of their own horses to provide demonstrations as well. I would encourage SCEC members to come along and see the partnership these superb horseman have with their horses, and learn how we can all take steps to achieve this with our own horses. The next SCEC comp is on 28 April entries via as always. Please make sure you have set up your horse in global so that when you enter the comp the horses EA number and bridle number (if relevant) come across to me saves me chasing you later. Let s hope the weather is kinder to us this comp!! Running competition days requires input from many people and we ask that all our members volunteer to help with one task or another as often as they possibly can, especially on competition days helping set up the grounds, penciling, collecting tests are just some of the myriad of tasks that we need help with. This year, we ll be especially encouraging the juniors to have a go at penciling sitting with a judge and seeing how tests flow from their perspective is a great experience and can help a rider finesse the riding of their own tests to ensure the best possible reception from the judge. So please don t be backward in coming forward and offering to help with whatever you can. April 2013 This year SCEC committee meetings will be held on the Tuesday a week and a half before each comp that is, the committee will meet 6 times during the year (and probably an extra at the end of the year to sort out HOTY/point score etc), rather than each month. All members are welcome and we encourage anyone who may have ideas, suggestions or just a general interest in what s going on to come along. The next meeting is on Tuesday 16 April at 7.30pm at the Aviator Lounge, Airport. Finally, in my role as President, happy riding, and I look forward to talking, working and riding with many of you over the next year. Happy Easter Frances Simmonds President Online entries on

2 Next Competition 28th April, 2013 Online entries on close 12th April Next SCEC Event Double Dan Clinic 20th-21st April Spectator places still available Contact Frances Simmonds francess@uow.edu.au 2013 SCEC Committee President Frances Simmonds (02) francess@uow.edu.au Vice President Melanie Heaton (02) melanie@ihug.com.au Secretary / Treasurer Leanne Micallef (02) leanne.micallef@three.com.au Public Officer Katherine Daszkowski paddockwarrior@bigpond.com Newsletter Ewa Mantaj ewamantaj@hotmail.com Committee Tibby Barbour tibbybarbour@gmail.com Ebony-Lee Holz ebony89@live.com.au Amanda Whittall Terry Davis southcoastequestrianclub.com.au

3 Queensland Itch The allergic intense itchiness caused by biting midges, gnats and sandflies has been dubbed Queensland Itch because historically, it predominately affected horses in northern Australia and the tropical and subtropical areas of Queensland. The syndrome is known as Sweet Itch, Summer Itch, Summer Eczema and Summer Seasonal Recurrent Dermatitis (SSRD) in the UK, Canada, USA and South America - and Kasen Disease in Japan and Equine Dhobi Itch in the Philippines. All breeds and types of horses can be affected, irrespective of age, coat colour and condition. Some authorities believe that grey horses attract more midges, as they do have a different skin odour, but this association has not been proven. Donkeys and fine coated animals, such as goats, can also be affected. Over the last 20 years, the itch has spread to more central and southern coastal areas of the eastern coastline, with some areas having a high incidence over the summer months. More widespread outbreaks follow a pattern of summer rainfall as the climate changes, making a habitat of wet marshes, decaying forest matter and high humidity suitable for breeding and harbouring biting midges and sandflies. Primary Cause The primary skin reaction is due to an allergic reaction or hypersensitivity to the bites and insect saliva from small biting Culicoides brevitarsus (previously known as C. robertsii) insects - a common sandfly or midge (juvenile gnat) endemic in tropical and subtropical areas. The midges breed in humid, scrubby and bushy localities along the coastal fringe and inland in tropical areas with summer rainfall, or northern areas with monsoonal rains. The small 2-3 mm long insects swarm in a feeding frenzy just prior to nightfall and in the pre-dawn period under warm, humid conditions. They fly quickly and do not make a noise (sometimes they are referred to as no-see-ums in the UK) and bite target areas on the topline from the forehead and ears, over the withers, rump and tail-butt. Mosquito bites are also a possible trigger for midge attack if the skin is abraded or oozing serum from itching, rubbing and self-mutilation on trees or posts. Reports indicate that each swarming midge can bite a horse up to 100 times per hour, each time injecting minute amounts of highly sensitising The hypersensitivity reaction is caused by allergens in the type of saliva common to a large variety of biting midges and sandflies. These allergens trigger an intense immune mediated IgE antibody sensitisation with cytokine and histamine release. This creates a severe immune response, making the horse s skin inflamed, itchy and even more sensitised from repeated midge attacks. Certain horses appear to have a much lower tolerance to the effects of the allergens. Once sensitised, the increased IgE antibody levels specific to the allergens increase the risk of chronic, recurring lesions from season to season and eventually become subclinical over the cooler season when midges are not prevalent. saliva into the skin surface layers to create the allergic reaction. In southern areas, cold, frosty weather causes the insect attacks to reduce over winter and the symptoms may subside until the next midge season. Symptoms The symptoms are easily recognised in a sensitised horse as small localised juicy lumps on the skin surface over the target areas. The hair becomes erect and the skin begins to itch. The horses start to rub and then self-traumatise the skin, attracting more insects to feed and increasing the allergic reaction. This results in weeping of serum and shedding of skin surface cells which mats the already thinning and abraded hair over the affected area. Secondary bacterial and even fungal lesions (similar to rain scald) can occur over areas of broken and irritated skin. In chronic annual sufferers, the skin becomes bald and thickened and develops ridges (called rugae ) along the withers and lower rump and tailhead. Severely sensitive horses can become active and gallop around during a midge attack and run into fences in an effort to escape the irritation. In some cases, where the itching has led to selfmutilation, a course of antibiotics may be necessary to control the skin infection so as to help the skin to heal. Consult your vet for advice.

4 A special rug designed with under-belly covering to virtually seal and protect the under-body areas from midges biting highly sensitised horses is available in the UK. It is called a Boett Rug..They can be purchased on the Internet or from distributors in Australia. When combined with stabling overnight and windows and doors fitted with fine mesh fly wire, the risk is greatly reduced. This is recommended as a barrier protection for older, highly sensitised horses. The larger mosquito nylon mesh may still allow small midges to get through, so use a fine aluminium fly mesh if it is available, as the midges cannot distort the strands of the mesh to gain entry to the stable area. Block off all other openings, including the edges of sliding doors. Management The management to reduce the risk of Queensland Itch includes shielding sensitive or hyper-allergic horses from the swarming insects, combined with topical repellents and lotions to ease the discomfort and itching. Rugging to Cover Target Areas In endemic areas, it is a good idea to apply a protective sheet or light rug to cover the topline from head to tail. A full body rug and neck combo is helpful and in very sensitive, chronically affected horses, a covering over the ears and a fine fly mesh over the forehead is recommended. It is important to apply the covering from around 4pm in the evening to 8am the following morning to grazing horses and also to sensitised horses stabled overnight in endemic areas. Insecticides and Repellents There are a number of insecticidal and repellent lotions and creams containing permethrins (longlasting synthetic insecticide similar in chemical structure the to short-acting natural pyrethrin) and benzyl benzoate (a soothing skin emollient) available. These can provide relief from itching and midge worry in some horses. Midges appear to be resistant to repellents based on DEET and citronella. Studies have found that washing a sensitised horse in a permethrin based wash, such as Swift or Brute, once a week for 4 weeks and then once monthly thereafter can help reduce the risk in endemic areas. In the case of a highly sensitised horse, covering the affected areas with a light rug during the times when midges are swarming, combined with the permethrin washes, helps to improve the protection and results in long term relief in the majority of chronic sufferers. Alternative Medicine and Herbal Therapies The effectiveness of these therapies is often inconsistent, including lotions containing Aloe Vera to help reduce itching, lavender oil and sulfur paste smeared over the affected area to repel the midges. Oral products containing garlic, seaweed meal and rosehips to assist the immune system are claimed to be of benefit.

5 In most cases, rugging and other measures are also recommended to be used in conjunction with herbal or homeopathic remedies, which may impart the major protective benefit. It is claimed that acupuncture has a benefit, but not every horse appears to be helped by these forms of alternative therapy. In many cases, because many herbal therapies take so long to have benefit, if any, the midge season finishes and the horse starts to improve anyway, proponents claiming that it was the remedy! Over the years, as a vet, I have found that a lotion made from a mixture of menthol rubbing gel in warm water is helpful to repel midges. I recommend mixing 1 tablespoonful of each of Rapigel (Menthol gel) and Aloe Vera gel (to assist skin healing) into 200mL of warm water to form a strong menthol lotion. Store the lotion in a sealed glass jar, such as a jam jar. I suggest that the lotion be swabbed onto the affected areas over the ears, wither and tail-butt each evening before midges begin to swarm. It appears that midges which are not sensitive to conventional fly repellents dislike biting through menthol residues on the skin. I have found this procedure to be up to 90% effective in reactive horses. The residue of the lotion can be gently removed using a warm damp Chux wipe the following morning after removing the rug or before turning the horse out. Vitamin A and Vitamin E, as in Kohnke s Own Cell- Vital, Cell-Provide, Aussie Sport, Palomino Gold for Palominos (and Donkey Supreme for Donkeys), may help maintain healthy skin and hair coat. Do Not Administer Corticosteroids to Over-weight, Itchy Horses and Ponies Long acting corticosteroid injections and oral Prednisolone granules, as prescribed by your vet, are helpful in reducing the intensity of the itching and rubbing associated with Queensland Itch. However, you must avoid administering any form of corticosteroid to heavily pregnant mares, as cortisone is the natural hormone which triggers the birthing cascade. Also avoid use in obese or over-weight horses and ponies suffering from laminitis and those bordering on EMS or Insulin Resistance. Cortisones can modify the control of glucose and intensify the effects of circulating insulin and impede blood flow to the lamellae. Do not administer left-overs of these preparations, which may have been prescribed for another condition or horse/pony, without seeking advice from your vet, as you may trigger an acute laminitic reaction. Vaccination A vaccination as a form of immunotherapy has been trialled overseas with variable results. It was claimed to assist in desensitising the immune reaction, but more studies are required to prove the effectiveness. An oral mixture containing saliva harvested from midge bodies is also undergoing testing, but its benefits have not been proven. Nutritional Supplements Some horses benefit from supplements of Omega-3 and Omega-6 oil blends, such as 15-20ml per 100kg bwt of Kohnke s Own Energy Gold oil daily. This also contains added Vitamin E, to help maintain skin condition and perhaps assist natural anti-inflammatory compounds in the skin. Supplements of zinc, copper and selenium, with Disclaimer: The information and recommendations in this newsletter have been presented as a guideline based on the veterinary experience and knowledge of the author, Dr John Kohnke BVSc RDA. Whilst all care, diligence and years of practical experience have been combined to produce this information, the author/editor, Dr John Kohnke, accepts no responsibility or liability for unforeseen consequences resulting from the hints and advic given in this newsletter. Reproduced with permission from Talking Horses Equestrian Issue 19 (2010) by Dr. John Kohnke BVSc RDA.

6 South Coast Equestrian Club presents Double Dan Horsemanship Clinic DATE: 20 & 21 April, 2013 (Sat & Sun) VENUE: Foxwood, 58A Boundary Rd, Broughton (near Berry), NSW 2535 CONTACT: COST: Frances Simmonds ; Participants $350 for 2 day clinic CLINIC FULL Spectators $20 per day Bookings essential, numbers are limited Participants place will be confirmed on receipt of payment in full, which is required at latest by Friday 22 March. Preference will be given to members of SCEC. Confirmed participants unable to attend for any reason are responsible for finding a replacement themselves. No refunds will be provided if participant is unable to attend. Booking also essential for spectators (limited numbers), but payment can be made on the day. Mugs Away Coffee Van and limited canteen will be available on site. Ground Control (Level 2 and Level 1 mixed clinic) with Dan & Pia Steers The clinic is based on the Double Dan "Ground Control Explained" DVD which is available for purchase thru the Double Dan online shop and will be available for sale at the clinic. Double Dan Horsemanship introduces revolutionary horse training clinics that change relationships between horses and handlers. In 2 days, you can have a stronger, more productive equine partner. From the ground you will learn the foundation techniques of all Double Dan Horsemanship s remarkable liberty acts. Boost confidence on the ground and in the saddle with easy to follow ground control methods. Give your horse a relaxed softness in halter, teach basic long reining, lateral flexion, side passing and introduce cues. Equipment to bring: Rope Halter & lead rope Whip driving or lunging STRICTLY NO UNAUTHORISED PHOTOGRAPHING OR VIDEOING IS PERMITTED AT THE CLINIC

7 SCEC 2013 Event Calendar Month Event Location April Double Dan Horsemanship Clinic Foxwood, Berry 28 April Dressage Competition entries close 9pm 12 April, enter via May Sydney CDI Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC) 23 June Dressage Competition entries close 9pm 7 June enter via July evening (date tba) 18 August 6-8 September 22 September Seminar on Horse Management subject Dressage Competition entries close 9pm 2 Aug, enter via NSW State Championships Training Day a chance to practice riding a test, have a lesson, be educated by visiting experts SIEC 13 October SCEC Dressage Championships entries close 9pm 27 September enter via October National Dressage Championships SIEC 8 December Dressage Competition entries close 9pm, 22 November enter via

8 SOUTH COAST EQUESTRIAN CLUB COMPETITION PROGRAMME FOR April 23 June 18 August 13 October Championships 8 December Prep 1 EFA Prep 2 EFA Prep 2 EFA Prep 3 EFA Prep 1 EFA Prep 3 EFA Prep 3 EFA Prep 4 EFA Prep 4 EFA Prep 4 EFA Prelim 1A Prelim 1B Prelim 1B Prelim1C Prelim1A Prelim 1C Prelim 1C Prelim 1D Prelim 1D Prelim 1D Novice2A Novice 2B Novice 2B Novice 2C Novice 2A Novice 2C Novice 2C Novice 2D Novice 2D Novice 2D Elementary 3A Elementary 3B Elementary 3B Elementary 3C Elementary 3A Elementary 3C Elementary 3C Elementary 3D Elementary 3D Elementary 3D Medium 4A Medium 4B Medium 4A Medium 4B Medium 4A Medium 4C Medium 4C Medium 4C Medium 4C Medium 4C Advanced 5A Advanced 5B Advanced 5A Advanced 5B Advanced 5A Advanced 5C Advanced 5C Advanced 5C Advanced 5C Advanced 5C *Prix St George *Prix St George *Prix St George Prix St George *Prix St George *Inter 1 *Inter 1 *Inter 1 Inter 1 *Inter 1 *Inter 2 *Inter 2 *Inter 2 Inter 2 *Inter 2 * Grand Prix * Grand Prix * Grand Prix Grand Prix *Grand Prix Closing date 12 April Closing date 7 June Closing date 2 August Closing date 27 September Closing date 22 November Associate tests can be ridden Open, Open Pony or Junior, Official tests can be ridden Open or Official Pony. * Please note we will endeavour to run FEI tests as Official depending on the availability of the appropriate judges.

9 2013 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM We/I hereby apply for membership of the South Coast Equestrian Club Inc: Family Name(s):(member & guardian if applicable) Given Name/s: Address: Postcode: (please print VERY clearly): Contact Nos: BH: AH: Mobile: Rider Name: DOB: EA Reg #: Horses Name: Horse s EFA #: Horse s Bridle #: Pony (must not exceed 149cm with shoes or 148cm without shoes): Yes/No (EA Registration and Bridle number required to compete in official tests) Pony Height: Rider Name: DOB: EA Reg #: Horses Name: Horse s EFA #: Horse s Bridle #: Pony (must not exceed 149cm with shoes or 148cm without shoes): Yes/No Pony Height: Non Rider Name(s): I agree to abide by the Rules of the South Coast Equestrian Club Inc (SCEC). I understand that my membership is per calendar year and that I am entitled to members rates at all South Coast Equestrian Club Inc events within this period. Please note that all members are expected to help at competitions and other club events during the year as part of their membership. A friend or relative can also provide help in your place. Jobs are many and varied, for varying lengths of time (a whole day is appreciated but not required). We cannot run events without your help! Signed:... Date:... PRESIDENT: DOUG SYMES _ SECRETARY: MARY TWEED _ Membership Fees (per calendar year start Jan 2013): Send cheque/money order to: Full Riding member $50.00 South Coast Equestrian Club Inc. Subsequent family members $25.00 PO Box 179 Social member $25.00 Jamberoo NSW 2533 I have enclosed a cheque/money order (made out to South Cost Equestrian Club Inc) for $ Please charge my Visa Mastercard Amount:... Date:... Card no: Expiry date: / CCV no: (LAST 3 DIGITS ON BACK OF CARD) Full name on card:... Cardholder s Signature:... (Enquiries to Frances Simmonds ; )

10 Member Release and Waiver of Liability Full Name of participant (and guardian if under 18 years): SOUTH COAST EQUESTRIAN CLUB (Inc.) PO Box 179 Jamberoo NSW 2533 ABN Address... State... Post Code... Date of birth... Name of Club/Organisation... Membership No.... Address of Event / Activity... In consideration for being permitted to participate in any way in horse sport activities, I, the undersigned, understand, acknowledge and accept that: Horse sports are a dangerous recreational activity and horses can act in a sudden and unpredictable (changeable) way, especially if frightened or hurt. There is a significant risk that serious INJURY or DEATH may result from horse sport activities. I knowingly and freely assume all such risks, both known and unknown, and I voluntarily PARTICIPATE at my OWN RISK and assume sole responsibility for any injury, death or property damage I may suffer that arises from my participation in horse sport activities. I understand and acknowledge the dangers associated with the consumption of alcohol or any mind altering drugs before and during the activities and I take full responsibility for any injury, loss or damage associated with their consumption. I agree not to drink alcohol or take drugs prohibited by law before or during any horse sports activities. I agree to follow the directions of any event organiser or official and that any misconduct or refusal by me to follow any direction of any organiser or official can result in the CANCELLATION of my participation in the activities and my immediate removal from my horse NO MATTER where that may occur. I understand that any such non-compliance may result in injury, death and/or permanent disability as a result of my failure to comply. I agree to wear a helmet at all times whilst riding where this is required under the relevant EFA and FEI rules and regulations and agree that I am solely responsible for ensuring that whilst riding I wear a suitable helmet at all times where required under the relevant EFA and FEI rules and regulations and take sole responsibility for my actions. I have had sufficient opportunity to read this assumption of risk agreement, fully understand its terms and sign it freely and voluntarily. Dated:.../.../... Signature of rider/guardian... For Participants of Minority Age (Under Age 18) This is to certify that I, as a parent/guardian with legal responsibility for this participant, acknowledge, understand and accept ALL OF THE ABOVE and consent and agree to my minor child s involvement or participation in horse sport activities. Dated:.../.../... Signature of rider/guardian...

11 Stop Press Smart SCEC club shirts & saddle cloths are on order: Navy blue with white piping and discrete club logo, in a breathable fabric (shirts) Ideal for training days, use at home or smart casual wear Great value at $25.00 for standard shirt sizes from 8 to 24 Saddle cloths $50.00 Try before you buy at our next competition day or order by , phone or fax Yes please, I (name) would like to order SCEC club shirts. Size would like to order SCEC club saddle cloth/s Delivery at competition day or add $9.95 for mailing option I have enclosed a cheque/money order (made out to South Coast Equestrian Club Inc) for $ Please charge my Visa Mastercard Amount:... Date:... Card no: Expiry date: / CCV no: (LAST 3 DIGITS ON BACK OF CARD) Full name on card:... Cardholder s Signature:...