The official newsletter of Horses for Clean Water, http://www.horsesforcleanwater.com
Published by Alayne Blickle, Director of Horses for Clean Water

	In this issue... Message from Alayne: Fall Reflections Tip of the month: Give your pastures the fall and winter off Disaster Preparedness for Livestock Trail Riding Safety for Hunting Season West Nile virus found in Yakima County horse; first case of year acquired in Washington Educational Events

Message from Alayne: Fall Reflections

Each fall as the hum of summer farm activities, family events and horse shows wind down for us I like to take time to reflect on the season just past. In the Northwest we pack so much into our summers and it can become of a bit of a blur if you don’t take time to remember all that you’ve enjoyed.

For Matt and I, some of our summer highlights included lots of trail riding, reining shows, a family reunion held on our farm, and a horse camping trip near Mt. St. Helens. I also went back to school for two weeks to study new ways of thinking in pasture and range management. Around the farm we painted the barn and out buildings a beautiful, warm color that will lift spirits during the gray, dreary days of winter. With HCW, we had lots of exceptional tours at which I had the pleasure of meeting and visiting with many of you. And, happily, by the end of summer my sick and injured horses had all recovered were all “back in service.” Yeah!

Like many of you, at the end of summer I was focused out of my own world of work, horses, family, and friends when Hurricane Katrina hit. It’s so easy to get to think of oneself as the center of the universe with all sorts of things happening to only to you and around you. That is until something like Katrina happens. Then the merry-go-round screeches to a stop. You step back, you listen, you pray, and you pay attention.

It was an overwhelming experience to watch helplessly as fellow Americans suffered. But what brought me a flicker of hope was seeing so many caring people rally together to help—to help not only the people devastated by the tragedy but also the innumerable animals affected. So many amazing, inspiring individuals who dedicated their time, money, and expertise to help.

If you’ve had the desire to donate to one of the organizations which are helping horses and their owners affected by Katrina, you may want to consider donating to the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine or one of the equine rescue organizations listed on TheHorse.Com. We at HCW have been following their horse and pet rescue efforts through TheHorse.Com and have been greatly impressed as well as touched by the stories.

This fall, take time to look back over the year you’ve harvested so far. I hope for you that it’s been a good one.

Alayne

	Tip of the Month Give your pastures the fall and winter off. If you’re lucky enough to have pasture, mid-October is the time to retire them until next spring. Pastures grazed too closely in the autumn are subject to winter damage and are slow re-grow in the spring. During the winter months grass plants are dormant and simply cannot survive year-round grazing. By taking your horses off of pastures now, it gives the grass some time to grow a little (grass should be at least four inches by the time winter hits). This will help grass survive the winter and come back strong next spring. The best option for managing your horses during winter is to create a winter paddock or sacrifice area. For additional help with sacrifice areas and pasture management purchase the Horses for Clean Water tip sheets “Creating and Using a Sacrifice Area” and “5 Keys to Better Pastures.”

Disaster Preparedness for Livestock

	Suggested First Aid Supplies Purchasing through the following links helps support Horses For Clean Water programs. Antibacterial ointment (Betadine or other product) Wonder Dust First Aid Powder Cut-Heal First Aid Antiseptic solution Bandage materials: Telfa pads, Sanitary napkins 1 lb. roll fluffy cotton 4" stretch gauze 4" rolls 3M Vetrap 4" rolls Elastikon or 4" rolls Expandover 2" roll duct tape Bandage Scissors Chemical cold pack Combination pocket knife/tool kit Commercial poultice Horse Health Icetight Poultice Vapco Pol-Cat¨ Poultice Anti-Inflammatory Antiphogistine Poultice 3M Animalintex Poultice Pad Cotton swabs Electrolyte powder or paste Electro-Plex Paste Electrolyte Supplement Lyte Now Electrolyte Paste Farnam Apple Elite Electrolytes¨ ElectroDelyte Electrolyte Electrocharge Electrolyte Paste Vive Electrolyte Nutrition Bar Ascend¨ Performance Electrolyte Gel Eye wash solution First aid book Flashlight and batteries Fly repellant for open wounds Farnam Swat Fly Ointment Gauze sponges Latex or rubber exam gloves Rectal thermometer Digital Thermometer Equestrian Thermometer Veterinary Thermometer 2 pack Horse Magnet Thermometer Pavia 6 Second Rectal Thermometer 5" Veterinary Thermometer Saline solution Stethoscope Stethoscope Stethoscope Sunscreen/zinc oxide Tweezers Review this list with your veterinarian and ask for suggestions. Also consider these additional products: SLT First Aid Kit by Animal Legends Dr. Kellon’s Guide to First Aid Video

The recent tragic events of Hurricane Katrina are a harsh reminder that we all need to be prepared for potential disasters. It’s not a pleasant topic to think about and it’s easy to put off planning, but by preparing yourself for disaster now you can save yourself a lot of headaches and heartache in the future. The following tips are from Greta Cook, WSU Cooperative Extension King County and the King County Pet and Livestock Support (PALS) Group.

Step #1 - Assess the potential hazards in your area by familiarizing yourself with the types of disasters that can occur—earthquake, fire, flood, ice/wind/snow storm, hazardous material spill, mudflow, power failure, volcanic eruption.

Step #2 - Develop a plan of action. You may be isolated for a week or more. Survey your property to find the best location to confine your animals in each type of disaster. IF you must evacuate you need a place to go and a way to get there. Determine several locations and several routes to use. Leave early to avoid roadblocks. Don’t wait until the last minute!

Step #3 - Keep your trailer well maintained and always keep at least half a tank of fuel in your towing vehicle. Train your animals to load easily day or night, and with a stranger in case you are not available.

Step #4 - Be able to identify your animals:

• Permanent identification methods: freeze brand, micro-chip, tattoo, ear tag, photograph (four views: front, rear, left and right side and/or drawing). Include the age, sex, breed, registration number, distinguishing marks, and color with these records. Keep a copy of this information with your important papers.

• Temporary identification methods: if you find yourself at the time of a disaster without any of the above permanent identification methods, use spray paint or grease pen to write your phone number on the side of your animal or permanent marking pen for writing on hooves.

• Photographs of you and the animal showing distinguishing marks may help to reunite you later.

Consider prioritizing the order in which animals will be evacuated, and what will be done with those left behind. Inform all family and farm personnel of your plans in case you are not available during a disaster.

Step #5 - Prepare an emergency kit for your barn and a smaller kit for your trailer. Store emergency supplies in a secure and easily accessible location and keep at least a three-day supply in your trailer. Things to include:

• Water, hay, grain, supplements, medication for at least three days, preferably two weeks

• Containers for feed and water

• Permanent tag with your name and phone number and the animal’s name on each animal’s halter

• Fire resistant non-nylon halter and lead rope or appropriate control device as needed for each animal

• Blanket, leg wraps, brushes and shampoo (to clean off harmful substances)

• First aid book, supplies (see suggested supplies on reverse)

• Portable radio, flashlight and extra batteries

• Wire cutters, sharp knife, hammer

• Tarps, shovel

• Gloves, face mask or bandana

• Records—copy of medical history showing current vaccinations, medications and dosage being given, and any special feeding instructions. Include permanent ID numbers and any insurance information

• Phone numbers—vet and an alternate vet, farrier, animal control, county extension service, friends, family members

Step #6 Develop a neighborhood plan—learn what resources are available (i.e., arena, generator, trailer, tractor, bulldozer, medical experience, livestock experience). Set up a buddy system with a neighbor who can check on and feed your animals if you are away when a disaster strikes and vice versa. Fill out a release form, to be kept with your vet, authorizing emergency medical treatment if you can not be reached. Agree to help neighbors who may be in need.

Review plans yearly and also when you get a new animal. Rotate feed and water every three months to keep fresh. Rotate medication as often as needed.

Helpful web sites

Disaster Guidelines for Horse Owners

Hurricane Season...Are you Prepared?

Are You Ready? An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness

Emergency Preparedness: Being Prepared During Times of Disaster. Important Tips for Horse Owners

The Role of Equine Practitioners in Disasters

Trail Riding Safety for Hunting Season

Thanks to the Vashon Island Riders for their contributions to this article.

If you live in a rural area or trail ride in rural areas it is extremely important that you are aware of hunting season safety points. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Be visible—this is a good time to wear orange!

• Make noise—put a bell on your horse’s tack, maybe sing or talk to your horse!

• Don’t ride alone—you’ll be more visible and make more noise with a buddy. If you do ride alone, always let someone know where you’re going and when you will be back.

• Keep dogs safe—leave your dog at home during the hunting season. A wandering dog during this time is a tragic accident waiting to happen.

• Carry a cell phone on you—not on your tack. If you and your horse part ways you’ll want your phone within reach, not heading down the trail!

Sept. 23, 2005 Washington State Department of Agriculture press release:

West Nile virus found in Yakima County horse; first case of year acquired in Washington

OLYMPIA - West Nile virus has been confirmed in a 27-year-old horse in Yakima County, the state Department of Agriculture announced today (Sept. 23). The Prosser-area mare was tested after she became unsteady and developed signs of central nervous system infection. The horse was not vaccinated for West Nile virus.

This is the first reported case of West Nile infection in a horse where the infection was acquired in Washington state this year. The other announced equine cases involved infections that were contracted out of state.

The positive test results were reported today by the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at Washington State University in Pullman.

Earlier this week, health officials in Oregon’s Umatilla County announced a Milton-Freewater horse tested positive for the virus. In mid-September, the Benton County Mosquito Control District detected positive test results in mosquitoes collected in Yakima County, and the WSU lab last week confirmed a magpie infected with the disease, also in Yakima County.

“This is a clear indication that West Nile virus is in our state and it’s already amplified enough in mosquitoes and birds to spread the infection to horses,” said Dr. Leonard Eldridge. “We have been anticipating this since it’s been seen in neighboring states. The public and horse owners should take protective measures and avoid mosquito bites.”

The best thing horse owners can do to protect their horses is to vaccinate them. The vaccine requires two doses three to six weeks apart, and immunity will not be achieved until five weeks after the second vaccine. An annual booster shot should be considered prior to the start of the mosquito season.

West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito and can infect people, horses, many types of birds, and other animals. Humans cannot contract West Nile illness through contact with an infected horse and infected horses do not spread the disease. Mosquitoes get infected when they feed on an infected bird.

Most horses do not become ill and show no symptoms at all. Those that do become ill show signs such as loss of coordination, loss of appetite, confusion, fever, stiffness and muscle weakness, particularly in the hindquarters. About 30 percent of horses that become ill die.

More WNV information, including prevention measures, is available on the following Web sites:

Minimizing the threat of West Nile Virus, WA State Dept. of Ag.

West Nile Virus in WA, WA State Dept. of Health

West Nile Virus Current Status, U.S. Dept. of Ag.

West Nile Virus, Washington State University Cooperative Extension

Educational Events

Meet HCW Staff at these upcoming events this fall. Visit the Educational Events page for more detailed class descriptions.

Kirkland, WA
Winter Horse Property Management Classroom Series
Wednesday evenings 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. October 5th to October 26th Ben Franklin Elementary School Kirkland, WA	With winter just around the corner now is the time to prepare your horse place for the months ahead of rain, mud and long nights. Join us to learn how caring for your land in an environmentally friendly manner benefits horse health, makes your property more chore-efficient and saves you money, too! FREE! To register or for directions to the HCW class series contact the Stacey Rush at the City of Kirkland, e-mail or call 425-587-3854. This free program is sponsored by the City of Kirkland.

Renton, WA
Workshops for Livestock Owners
Thursday evenings 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. October 13th to November 3rd King Conservation District office Renton, WA	This fall join the King Conservation District for four FREE workshops on livestock management practices. Learn techniques that will help turn your farm into a more usable place for you, your animals and the environment—less mud, better pastures, and great ways to manage manure! Attend all four workshops, or only those that meet your needs: Registration is through the King Conservation District at 425-277-5581x120 or email. Class size is limited so please call to register or for more information.

Port Hadlock, WA
Managing Mud and Manure
Monday, October 17th 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Shold Business Park WSU Learning Center Spruce Room Port Hadlock, WA	Learn what causes mud, how it affects horse health, and ways to reduce and prevent mud on your farm. Learn manure management techniques that can make your farm healthier for horses. FREE! Pre-registration is encouraged but drop-ins are welcome. E-mail or call 360-385-4105.

Brush Prairie, WA
Horse’n Around in Clark County
Saturday October 22nd 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Clark Conservation District office	Join HCW and Clark Conservations District for a full day’s workshop on mud, manure and pasture management options. At this exciting event you will learn great ways to reduce mud, compost manure, and grow more grass—all while making your place nicer for you and more chore efficient! COST: $12 per person, which includes lunch and handouts. Registration is limited—to register or for more information call 360-883-1987.

Port Hadlock, WA
Managing Pastures for Horse Farms
Monday, October 24th 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Shold Business Park WSU Learning Center Spruce Room Port Hadlock, WA	FREE! This class will teach you basic pasture management techniques for good pastures, including how grasses grow, winter paddocks, rotational grazing, and smaller grassy areas. Also learn about equipment to make chores efficient, and safe fencing. Pre-registration is encouraged but drop-ins are welcome. E-mail or call 360-385-4105.

San Juan Islands, WA
Back By Popular Demand! The 4th Annual HCW Winter Horse Farm Management Workshop
Saturday, October 29th 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. San Juan Island Grange Friday Harbor, WA	FREE! Come to scenic Friday Harbor, WA for this one day workshop to learn techniques for reducing mud, composting horse manure, managing small pastures, reducing fly and mosquito populations, creating wildlife enhancement areas and much more! Find out about ways to improve horse health, owner convenience, farm productivity, neighborhood esthetics and the health of the environment. To register or for more information call 360-378-6621 or E-mail.

Port Hadlock, WA
Naturescaping for Horse Farms
Thursday, December 8th 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Shold Business Park WSU Learning Center Spruce Room Port Hadlock, WA	FREE! Winter is a great time to start making plans for the coming growing season. This class introduces “natural” techniques for insect control, dust barriers, visual screens between neighbors, summer cooling of buildings and shade for livestock, water conservation, low-cost/low-care landscaping as well as managing creeks or wetlands on horse properties, plants poisonous to horses and much more! Pre-registration is encouraged but drop-ins are welcome. E-mail or call 360-385-4105.

If you have any questions or would like to submit an article for publication in The Green Horse, please e-mail info@horsesforcleanwater.com.