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4 Season Equine Association
Allegan County Speed Series
Animal Health Solutions, Equerry
Arnold Lumber
Black River Farm & Ranch
Briana Hali Performance Horses
CANTER Michigan
Cashmans Horse Equipment
Central Michigan Horseman’s
Copper Mare Ranch
Coventry Realty LLC
Digger’s Tile Service
Eaton Special Riding Volunteer
FQHR of MI
Gettin’ Branded
Good As New Blankets
Great Gaits of Michigan
Hosanna Horse Haven
Humane Society of HV
Let’s Get Ranchy Online Show
Livingston County 4H Committee
Lynnman Construction
Michigan Heritage Horse Farm
Michigan Horse Expo
Miss Rodeo Michigan
Quarter Moon Farm, Bemer Dist.
Re/Max Platinum, Kathie Crowley
Sara Kolenda, CPA
Shoo-Fly
Sparta Chevy & Trailers
Steven Jagusch AIF
T Wellness Tea Tree Oil Products
Traci Martin Realtor/Consultant
Tuscola County Fair & Shows









specific vehicle. It reflects what that exact configuration can carry. From there, you start subtracting real weight. Passengers first. It’s worth being honest here. Add in a dog, a cooler, tack, and whatever else ends up in the cab or bed. It’s not hard to be 800 to 1,000 pounds into your payload before the trailer is even part of the equation.
Math: Power Isn’t the Problem
By Robert Eversole trailmeister.com
Then you add tongue weight. This is the downward force the trailer applies to the hitch. For most bumper-pull horse trailers, a reasonable estimate is 10 to 15 percent of the loaded trailer weight. The best answer is always to measure directly. If your trailer weighs 5,000 pounds loaded, you’re looking at roughly 500 to 750 pounds of tongue weight. Every bit of that goes straight onto your vehicle’s payload.
Now the math becomes clear. You started with 1,500 pounds of payload and used 900 pounds on people and gear. Now you have 600 pounds left. Your trailer adds 650 pounds of tongue weight. You are now over your payload rating before the horses are even loaded. That’s how


















I am glad that we had our one week of perfect haying weather last month. Now that my supply is in the barn, I can focus on my riding lessons. It’s always worth it to sharpen my skills. I learn from a number of different clinicians to get a wider perspective. I have been learning from Gaye DeRusso on how to get my trotty mare to gait properly. Carl Bledsoe (Just Gait!) is another good one who can help you find your horse’s gait. He will be at Morning View Farm in Ionia,MI August 28-29. Contact Susan Williams (517-7559899) for more information and to reserve your spot. Besides that, it has been cool and rainy. This cooler weather is great for riding though. Members Kelly & John Sweet up in Barton City,MI have a stable and 501 c3 rescue called K’Lorne Acres. They will take you through beautiful woods and hills on their horses. Young and old can enjoy the scenery and camaraderie while gaiting on beautiful well-kept horses. Contact them at 224-605-8257 to find out more.
Ready to train one or two quality broodmares? These two well-gaited Palominos who came from Cecil Huff’s farm are ready for you to turn them into trail partners or Dressage or cow horses. Contact Susan Williams (517-755-9899) for an appointment to check them out at her farm in Ionia, MI.
Remember to send in your new horses’ registration paperwork to transfer them into your name. Go to mfthba.com to do that. Check out our website(michiganfoxtrottinghorse.com) for more interesting and useful information too!
For those who love horses, the outdoors, and the adventure of exploring new trails, the Michigan Trail Riders Association (MTRA) offers something truly special. We are a community of riders who are passionate about preserving and enjoying Michigan's Shore to Shore trail system while creating lasting memories with our horses, friends, and families.
At the heart of MTRA is our membership. Every member plays an important role in helping us fulfill our mission of protecting and promoting equestrian trail riding opportunities in Michigan. Membership dues help support trail advocacy, maintenance projects, educational programs, and organized events that benefit riders across the state. By joining MTRA, you are helping ensure that future generations of horse enthusiasts can continue to enjoy the trails we treasure today. While membership provides the foundation for our success, volunteers are the driving force behind everything we accomplish. Whether it's helping clear trails, assisting with organized rides, serving on committees, supporting fundraisers, or sharing ideas and talents, volunteers make a tremendous difference. No contribution is too small. Every hour spent volunteering helps strengthen our organization and improves the experience for fellow riders. Volunteering is also one of the best ways to become more involved, meet other members, and make a meaningful impact on the trail-riding community.
One of the most exciting developments within MTRA is our new Activities Committee. This enthusiastic group is dedicated to creating fun, engaging opportunities for members to connect and enjoy their time together. The committee has many exciting plans for our organized rides, including social activities, friendly competitions, themed
events, educational opportunities, and campfire gatherings that bring riders together after a day on the trail. These activities add another layer of enjoyment to our events and help create memorable experiences for members of all ages.
MTRA organized rides offer far more than miles of beautiful trails. They provide an opportunity to relax, unwind, and connect with people who understand the unique bond between horse and rider. Whether you're camping for a weekend ride, sharing stories around the campfire, or exploring a scenic trail with a new riding partner, you'll quickly discover the sense of community that makes MTRA special. Many of our members join because they love trail riding, but they stay because of the friendships they build. There's something special about spending time with people who share your passion for horses and the outdoors. New members are always welcomed, and it doesn't take long before familiar faces become trusted friends. Some members have formed lifelong friendships through MTRA, and many would say their closest riding companions were first met at an association event.
If you've been looking for a way to become more involved in Michigan's trail-riding community, now is the perfect time to join. Become a member, volunteer when you can, participate in our organized rides, and experience everything MTRA has to offer. Together, we can protect our trails, strengthen our organization, and continue creating unforgettable adventures on horseback.
The trails are waiting, the campfires are burning, and new friendships are ready to be made. Join the Michigan Trail Riders Association and discover where the trail can take you. Mtra.org
thatmaynotbepracticalforyoursituation
Whatisitthatyouenjoydoing?Howcould thatbebeneficialtoothers?
OREAdoeslotsofthingsthatdonotinvolve ridinghorses!Webuildcorralsandother














By Lynn Palm | lynnpalm.com







































DEADLINE: THE 16TH OF THE MONTH FOR THE FOLLOWING ISSUE PLEASE RESERVE YOUR DISPLAY AD IN ADVANCE.





By Kim Cardeccia | ConfidenceThroughConnection.com

HORSE & TACK AUCTION: 2nd Saturday of each month. 5:00pm start. Lake Odessa Livestock Auction, 3675 Tupper Lake Rd., Lake Odessa, MI. Call Roger Leech 231.730.0353. Facebook or lakeodessalivestock.com
HORSE/TACK AUCTION: First Saturday of each month (except July) Tack 2pm, Horses after 6pm. Consignments welcome. Northern Michigan Livestock, 1848 N. Townline Rd. Gaylord, MI. Office 231.439.5679. Find us on Facebook. northernmichiganlivestock.com
MONDAYS: HAY & STRAW: 3:30pm, Livestock 5pm (cattle, goats, sheep, hogs, etc.) Ravenna Auction, LLC. 3265 S. Slocum Road, Ravenna, MI. Call 231.853-.5738. Facebook or visit us at ravennaauction.com
TACK AUCTION: 3rd Saturday of each month, 5pm start. Longhorn Auction Service, 3265 S. Slocum Rd., Ravenna, MI. Call 231.730-0353. Facebook: Longhom Auction Service
TACK AUCTION: Select Tuesday Evenings ALL ONLINE! Facebook: Tri-Pine Tack & Western Boutique. (517) 937-9439 tripinetack04@gmail.com Items bought can be shipped or you can pick up in Hastings, Michigan
YODER BROS. AUCTION SERVICE: Spring and Fall Horse and Carriage Auctions in Mt. Pleasant, MI. Auctioneers: LeRoy Yoder or Willis Yoder, 989-386-9082, Clair, MI.
ATHENS LIVESTOCK SALES: Sale every Saturday at 12:30pm. Consignment welcome. Athens Livestock Sales, 3738 Enlow Road, Albany, OH. Call 740.592.2322. Email: jdbrowning01@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.
MT. HOPE AUCTION: Horse, rack, livestock auctions monthly. Mt. Hope Auction, 8076 SR 241 Millersburg, OH. Call us at 330.674.6188, email: info@mthopeauction.com. Find us on Facebook or mthopeauction.com
LARUE HORSE SALE, LLC: Hay, straw, tack, and horse auction on the first Saturday of every month. 1059 Richwood-Larue Rd., Larue, OH. Call 419.889.9150, email laruehorsesales@hotmail.com. laruehorsesales.com
Aug. 22: Ride & Drive-A-Thon: Eaton
Special Riding Volunteer Assoc.
8:30am-3:30pm- Sleepy Hollow State Park
7835 E Price Rd Laingsburg, MI 48848
Registration fee is $25 per rider
Questions: Dorothy @ 517-763-3729
September 4-6: Shoreline All Breed Youth Show- 23 Annual at Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington, Michigan Open to youth of all ages and experience levels! rd
Follow facebook page for more info: Shoreline All Breed Youth Show
July 11th, August 1st, September 12th & October 10th: Farmer’s Tan Gymkhana Series & Hold My Britches Jackpot Series
Dusty Britches Equestrian & Dusty Britches Equestrian on Facebook. Miami County Fairgrounds- Troy, OH
July 17th, August 14th, September 18th
Hoppel’s Arena Friday Night Lights
Early Exhibition begins at 5:00 PM, followed by an evening of barrel racing and pole bending competition. 40891 SR 518, Lisbon, OH 44432
Follow facebook page for more info: Hoppel’s Arena
July 18th: 6th Annual Kevin “Peavine” Anspach Memorial Horse Show Rain or Shine. Payback Classes. Van Wert County Fairgrounds 1055 S Washington St, Van Wert, OH 45891
Follow facebook page for more info: Northeast Indiana Open Show Circuit
HAMILTON COUNTY HORSE SALES: 1st & 3rd Saturday each month. New and used tack, hay, strawy, trailers, & horses. Consignors welcome. 22217 St. Road 37 N., Noblesville, IN. Call 317.946.4450 or 317.773.5590 or find us on Facebook.
IILLIANA LIVESTOCK, LLC: Tack, ponies, donkeys, and horse sales held at the Vermillion County Fairgrounds, 325 W. Maple St. Cayuga, IN. Call Clay Norris 574.780.8378 or Cobie Norris 217.260.5696. Facebook “Illiana Livestock LLC“
SHIPSHEANA TRADING PLACE: Horse Auction Fridays. 10:30am tack, 12:30pm horses. 345 S. Van Buren Shipshewana, IN. 260.768.4129, email: info@shipshewanatradingplace.com, or visit shipshewanatradingplace.com.
TOPEKA LIVESTOCK AUCTION: Hay and livestock auction every Tuesday. 601 E. Lake St., Topeka, IN. Call 260.593.2522 or email us at info@topekalivestock.com. Find us on Facebook or topekalivestock.com.





Your Horse Doesn't Have a Dashboard I encourage people to fill in that second column while their horse is healthy and relaxed. Take a few minutes on a quiet evening. Listen to gut sounds. Count respirations. Take a temperature. Feel for a pulse. Over time, you'll develop a picture of what normal looks like for your horse. Often, the first sign that something is wrong isn't a number at all. Maybe your horse quits eating or simply seems off. That's the time to start checking your gauges. A horse with colic, heat stress, or illness can show changes in vital signs before the situation worsens. Elevated pulse. Increased
By Robert Eversole trailmeister.com


























Greater Thumb Area Silver Buckle Speed Show Series


July 10th- Start Time 7:00 P.M.
Entry Booth Opens 6:00 P M
Contact Marie Curell 810-614-9390
Ride For A Cure Show
DATE CHANGE: Saturday, September 26th
Join us in BAD AXE, Michigan as we cosponsor with Huron County 4-H Horse and Pony Association for a great cause.
Camping the night before will be availableCall the Huron County Fairgrounds to book



TUESDAY, JULY 28TH- KID’S DAY Ages 2-14 are only $12 until 6pm
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29TH 3PM-10PM











LIQUID BIO CELL for the equine Nutraceuticals support needs of the equine Athletic performance & healthy joint support for all breeds
Shop MODERE products: us.shaklee.com/site/neovitality Laura Gabella neovitality laura@gmail com 330-554-3469


Nelson Automatic Waterers - Nelson preferred provider for repair and maintenance of your Nelson Automatic Waterers. Excellent response time. Most parts in stock Honest, ethical and reliable Will travel. Serving Michigan and Northern Ohio. WATERFIX COMPANY – John Guthrie Dexter,MI(Washtenaw)
313.418.5676or734.475.8898



offers
stalls and pasture board on over 20 acres
Miles of trail riding on the farm Good location for trailering to nearby parks. Quality hay, outdoor arena, round pen, dry lot, heated tack room and restroom Call Sandra Tuthill.
TUTHILLFARMS-248.207.6201 SouthLyon,MI(Livingston)
Email:sandratuthill@gmail.com Online:https://www.tuthillfarms.com/
Boarding, Training Available
Small dressage farm featuring: indoor & outdoor arenas dragged regularly; board includes 12x14 stalls, daily cleaning, turn out, two grain feedings, grass/hay continuously; individual lockers; heated bathroom; owners on site Horsescape Farm, LLC Williamston, MI
text/call 517-655-2584
https://www.horsescapefarm.com/
OPEN24/7–QualityBoarding:Tacklocker, heatedrooms,12%pelletgrain,hay,largepastures,dailyturnout.Wehavetrails,twoindoor arenas,andoneoutdoorarenawithlights HARDYFARMS–313.363.2243
7215N LatsonRd,Howell,MI
Email:info@hardysfarmcom
http://www.hardysfarm.com/ FindusonFacebook

Experience the Fastrak Difference!
Top quality equine supplements that promote better health, which leads to better haircoats, healthier hooves, less colic issues, less breeding problems, healthier foals Try it and see the difference for yourself!
Call (989) 872-5216 or (888)266-0014

LIVE AGE FREE. Support bones & joints which support you. Order Shaklee Life+ liquid bioactive collagen today Sip Life+ daily Shaklee ambassador, Laura Gabella us.shaklee.com/site/neovitality neovitality laura@gmail com
R&REquineServices
Joely Higgins - Independent Saddle Fitter, Bliss of London / Loxley Rep, Integrative Bodyworker Providing a holistic approach to your horses health and performance "Relief for your equine, one release at a time"
ServicingSEMichiganandTravel 734-360-8302
Releaseandreliefbodywork@gmail.com
Releaseandreliefequine com


Over30yearsof experienceintrimming,shoeingandcorrective shoeing.Askaboutteethfloatingtoo!Serving OaklandCountyandsurroundingcounties JOHN PETERSON FARRIER – 248 303 6498 Milford, MI (Oakland) (S-09/26) HoofCareMatters!

Automatically get rid of flies, mosquitoes, and spiders Safe and inexpensive to use Used throughout Michigan for over 30 years. We Install or Do-It-Yourself SHOO-FLY INSECT CONTROL
BillTressler–517.927.8089
Webberville,MI(Ingham) Email:bill@radiant-energy com

HORSE BLANKET WASH
GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS – Horse blanket washandrepairservice.10yearsexperience. GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS –517 404 6336




YR Andalusians
Specialized in quality Pura Raza Espanola, Pure Spanish Andalusians bred for disposition and movement
Sales Horses and Stallions at Stud!
Near East Lansing, MI
YRAndalusians.com
Gabriele (517) 285-2834


SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES
We specialize in horse trailers: full living quarters with slideout, to smaller two horse bumper pulls Cimarron, Lakota, Sundowner and Trails West. Great selection and even better prices! SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES

SADDLE, LEATHER & TACK REPAIR: Used saddles and tack bought and sold. Certified with 40 plus years of experience BIG BUCK SADDLERY
RogerBurkowski–830 285 2080 Flint,MI(Genesee)
SADDLE REPAIR & LEATHER WORK: New and used saddles and tack bought and sold. Complete Leather Repair available Many years of experience M-F 9am-6pm, Sat 9:30-5pm
JIM'S QUALITY SADDLE CO.
JimMoule–248 887 4829
Milford,MI(Oakland)

Sandalwood CPA, PLLC
Mid Michigan's QuickBooks expert here to assist you with your business accounting needs. Sandalwood CPA specializes in equine and agricultural business taxation
Sara Kolenda, CPA 269-275-4769



CHARTIER AGENCY
Specializing in tailored equine, liability, and farm and ranch insurance, we are here to protect your livelihood and cover your unique agribusiness needs. Contact local agent Shelby Agnew.
Shelby Agnew (248) 765-4374 shelby@chartieragency.com www.chartieragency.com (S-07/26)
K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING: Need to get away, call K & J – 248 667 2185! Also HORSE ART, Books and Journals (links below): www.zazzle.com/store/thistlebrook/products https://www amazon com/stores/kimberlykingstad/author/B0BZSMTH7P?
K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING KimKingstad–248 667 2185callortext Milford,MI(Oakland)
Ann-MarieLavallee–810 796 3510
Dryden,MI(Lapeer)Email: thetravelingtrainer3@gmail.com (S-10/25)
Tonya Grant Dressage Grand Prix Rider
30+ years of experience
USDF Gold Medalist
I love teaching kids and older adults from beginner to advanced Specializing in classical training emphasizing the basics using exercises to train the horse's mind and body
Tonya Grant 248-219-0410
Evekko10@gmail.com Fenton, Michigan and surrounding areas
Heading of your choice, up to 30 words of text, plus 4 lines ofcontactinformation. Classifiedsadsareprepayonly


Deadline is the 16th of the month prior to the Issue!








































