 by Sandy Kucharski |
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Horseless Horse Activities |
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Spending time this spring at the state 4-H Hippology, Horse Bowl and Speaking contests, brought to mind how many opportunities are available for the "horseless" horse lover. We typically picture a 4-H kid riding his/her beloved backyard pony at the county fair. Although this is a common scenario, it's not the only one. With increased urbanization, and rising costs, owning a horse or pony is becoming only a dream for many. But as we all know, if you've been "bitten by the horse bug," you'll find any way to surround yourself with these beautiful animals. Children read Marguerite Henry novels about the wild ponies from Chincoteague, and cover their walls with pictures torn from their favorite equine magazines. They collect Breyers instead of Barbies, and top each Christmas or birthday wish list with a request for a horse of their own. It would seem to some that you can't actively participate in the horse industry until you're paying a feed bill, but that's really not the case. It's not about the animals that you own, or the ribbons on your wall, but it's about the appreciation you have for the Olympic rider who just had a great round, the desire to learn how a horse thinks and what makes him tick, and the joy you get from just watching a foal dance around his dam. There are plenty of ways to join in. Kids can be in the 4-H Horse Project without a horse, and they can do almost everything (with the exception of showing their own animal at the county fair). If they enjoy studying about horses, they can get involved in Hippology or Horse Bowl, both of which are competitions that test their knowledge, and encourage them to learn more. If they want to learn to develop an eye for recognizing quality horses and performances, they can get involved in horse judging. Experienced judging team members can use this skill when evaluating a horse of their own, or they can take it as far as college where scholarships are available. Obviously, becoming involved in a lesson program is another good way to have access to horses without owning. Hands on learning is a great way to experience the joy of horses. Collecting model horses is another way. Although it may seem like child's play, today's model horse enthusiasts are well-educated horsemen. They have become authorities on breed standards and markings in order to create the most accurate designs. They also have a working knowledge of most events, (down to the correct attire and appointments) so that they can set up realistic displays. They hold model horse shows and even have a national convention. Adults, as well as children, get involved in this horseless horse activity. Joining horse-related organizations is another great way to get involved that doesn't require ownership. You can hold a membership card in most breed organizations without owning an animal of that breed. Membership will entitle you to receive newsletters or magazines and keep you informed about upcoming events you may want to plan to attend. Special interest groups, like trail advocacy, or therapeutic riding are also great avenues for non-horse participation. Over the years, many of the "Horsemen of the Year" that we feature in The Sentinel have been non-owning parents or friends of various associations that just enjoy the animals and the people involved, and they are always around to lend a hand; they have the luxury of not having an animal to worry about, thus they can play an important part on show or special event days when the people with horses have their hands full. Young horse enthusiasts often use these activities to prove their level of interest and commitment to parents who may not be ready to "take the plunge" into horse ownership, without being sure that this interest is not just a passing fad. A horse is definitely a big responsibility (both in time and money) and it can't easily be sold at a garage sale or stored away when the child's interest fades. First time adult owners also find that they do a lot of research and studying before they take that step into purchasing a horse of their own. For those of us that do have horses, there's an opportunity for us here too. Do you have a horse that could use a little extra grooming, exercising or attention? How about a retiree, that's still useful but maybe not quite up to the performance level that you require? Think about linking up with a 4-H group, pony club or local association. They may have someone who would love to just spend a little time with your horse, or possibly even arrange to lease it. It could be as little as a visit now and then to groom, or maybe someone who you share your knowledge and your animal with, who could, in turn, offer you companionship and help with chores. The horse industry is not only made up of horse owners. Help our industry grow by encouraging education and participation at all levels. It will benefit us all. |
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