Six Tips To Prevent Mud
September 14, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

By Glenye Oakford

BarnManager is the Official Barn Management Software of US Equestrian.

Mud is hard on humans and horses alike, and many a barn manager undoubtedly has wished they could simply wave a magic wand to get rid of it. Reducing mud around the barn and pasture isn’t quite that easy, but there are things you can do to prevent it. We asked Dr. Stephen Higgins, director of environmental compliance for the University of Kentucky’s Agricultural Experiment Station in Lexington, KY, for his top mud-prevention tips.

“You have to be willing to try things and think out of the box,” said Higgins. “Sometimes you’ve got to be willing to break bad habits and traditions.”

  1. Assess your horse’s daily environment.

Taking your area’s climate and average rainfall into account, consider how water moves through your horse’s paddock or pasture.

“Is there natural drainage going through their paddock? Is there a summit position? Is it well-drained or does the water pool?” said Higgins. “A lot of people will lay out a horse farm looking at aerial photography and planning on two dimensions, length and width. They look for areas to place square paddocks or large paddocks, but they don’t consider the drainage.”

Ideally, gateways should be away from drainage areas — at the top of a slope rather than at the bottom, for example. Mud will be more likely in high-traffic areas, like gateways and spots where horses gather naturally, so it’s important to minimize that by shifting gates away from natural drainage paths.

  1. Use pasture grass to help manage water flow.

“You want to protect your pastures from excess water by having them in a full canopy of grass,” explained Higgins. “That’s crop science 101. You don’t want any bare spots or denuded areas, because rain can cause a lot of damage.

“You want what we call sheet flow, where water flows as a shallow sheet across a big area. You want thick stands of forages or grasses to slow water down to filter it and hang on to it as much as possible to prevent rapid soil run-off — and to water your pasture grass naturally,” commented Higgins.

  1. Control horse traffic

Keeping horses in for part of the day allowing a paddock to “rest” without horses for a time helps prevent overgrazing and soil compaction — both contributors to mud. During prolonged, heavy rain, consider stabling your horses to help prevent soil damage.

Continue reading on US Equestrian for more tips on preventing mud.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Corie Bannon
September 7, 2023| | in category BarnManager Q&A No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Corie Bannon

Corie Bannon, office manager for Hampton Green Farm and show groom for international dressage athlete Kerrigan Gluch, based out of Ocala, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

For my ringside bag, I like to plan for the worst and hope for the best. If it fits, it’s going into the bag. However, three things that are always there are extra white gloves, sugar, and a rag. Sometimes when everything is hot and sweaty the rider can’t grip the reins and fresh gloves are needed. Sugar is the reward and keeps the horse feeling good about their work. If you know me you know I don’t go anywhere without a rag on my belt. Such a simple thing has so many uses!

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Photo courtesy of Corie Bannon

One thing that has always stuck with me is you never know when a new opportunity might arise. The majority of my opportunities presented themselves when I was least expecting them. I was at the right place at the right time when I met a rider in need of a groom to travel to the Olympics with them. This led to an incredible opportunity to travel and learn so much about the sport. Unfortunately, I was severely injured in a car accident, and I was taken out of my position very suddenly. The turn of events took me away from the job I had but a new opportunity as office manager presented itself. You never know what life might throw your way. Always stay positive, patient, and open-minded and things will work themselves out.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

Lendon Gray inspires me the most in the industry. Lendon’s dedication and passion for the sport of dressage is unmatched. Not only did she have an amazing riding career, but now dedicates her time to her nonprofit organization, Dressage4Kids. Dressage4Kids focuses on education for all youth riders, no matter where they come from, what level they ride at, or how much their horse cost. I have been involved with the program for more than 20 years, and I can gratefully say that I would not have found success without the incredible work of Lendon. Dressage4Kids is continuing to create a pipeline of well-educated youth riders for the sport in the U.S.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

I need to have a plan the night before in order for me to stay as organized as possible. I like to make a list of show times and times riders would like to get on each horse. Then I work backward to determine the correct timing of tacking up, braiding, etc. Another thing that helps me on busy days is having my tack trunks super organized. Everything has its designated spot, and I know where it is without even needing to look. This is especially important when the day becomes chaotic because I don’t waste time looking for anything.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

Photo courtesy of Corie Bannon

I have been extremely fortunate in my career and have been able to groom at so many amazing shows. I have been able to be a spectator at Aachen, but I would love to be able to groom at this prestigious show. I feel this show is a huge accomplishment and dream for most riders and it would be amazing to be part of that dream!

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I don’t prefer one over the other. Every horse has their own individual personality. I have never worked with two horses alike, which keeps it entertaining. I tend to enjoy working with horses that have very loud personalities.

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

If I were a horse, I would be mostly laid back, but I would enjoy keeping my rider on their toes. I like to think I have a good work ethic. I’m a bit of a perfectionist, so I feel like I would enjoy being a show pony.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Horse Health Series: Proper Hoof Care
August 31, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Proper hoof health can be difficult to achieve at any time of year, especially during the months with higher temperatures and humidity. A solid, healthy hoof is even more difficult to attain in a warmer climate due to an increase in moisture in the environment. Dr. Stephen O’Grady of Palm Beach Equine Clinic in Wellington, FL, explains how moisture contributes to a weaker hoof infrastructure and offers steps owners and managers can take to help keep moisture away and strengthen horses’ hooves.

We tend to use more water to keep horses cool when the temperatures are high, both at competitions and at home. In many areas of the country, the humidity levels also increase during this time of year, adding moisture to the air and preventing hooves from drying as quickly. What happens to a hoof with excess water is similar to what would happen to a wooden plank that’s placed in a water trough: it becomes waterlogged, then softens and becomes weaker as a result.

It is best to tackle issues that accompany moisture by going straight to the source and minimizing the amount of water that comes in contact with the hooves. This can be accomplished in several ways:

  1. Give your horse fewer baths

Photo by Jump Media

Cutting down on how many times per day a horse is hosed can be difficult with competition horses that need to stay clean and that may be exercised, ridden, or shown several times per day. Still, it is important to be strategic about using water, especially on the legs. At home, try to occasionally let your horse air dry in front of the fan if a bath isn’t entirely necessary. Body clipping will help your horse’s heat tolerance this time of year and you may not have to use the hose after every ride.

  1. Avoid standing water

If you must bathe, be sure the horse isn’t standing in excess water that rises over the hoof capsule. Try to shower off the horse in a dry area so the surface underneath the horse does not contribute to the moisture level. After being bathed, move the horse to a dry surface so their hooves can thoroughly dry.

  1. Use hoof shields to direct water away from the hoof

A good preventative tool to use while hosing is tight-fitting bell boots that cover the hoof and prevent external water from running down onto the hoof. The same effect can be accomplished with a gallon-sized plastic bag. Simply cut the bottom of the bag, place the horse’s foot inside, and seal the bag just below the fetlock to prevent excess water from sliding down the hoof.

  1. Stand the horse in sawdust

Sawdust and similar materials have a drying effect on hooves. If hooves become saturated for any reason, let the horse stand in deep sawdust to extract the moisture. Shavings would work also, but sawdust is the most effective for absorbing moisture.

  1. Use a shellac-type hoof dressing

Photo by Jump Media

This type of product can help prevent the hoof from absorbing too much water if applied before baths or turnout. Ask your farrier or veterinarian to recommend options that will do the job when used one to two times per week. Boric acid powder can also be applied to horses’ feet once or twice a week, serving as an astringent for the hoof.

  1. Avoid turning out early in the morning

When humidity is high, the grass at dawn will have a high dew level, meaning horses will be standing on wet surfaces during the first hours spent outside. Though temperatures are cooler as the sun is still rising, for overall hoof health it’s best to wait until the grass has dried.

  1. Farriery may need to be changed during warmer months

Open the lines of communication between your veterinarian and farrier. This is a crucial step to ultimate hoof care. Each professional has a reason behind their decisions, and if the two work together as a team, the horse has a much higher chance of achieving optimal hoof health.

Achieving a healthy hoof is not solely a farrier’s job; it is a whole team effort and requires dedication and attention. By implementing these recommendations into your horse care routine, you can play a role in how moisture affects your horse’s hooves. When considering the effects of excessive moisture on the hoof wall, it’s important to understand there are other factors involved, including the age of horse, breed, genetic makeup, foot conformation, and current farriery practices. With open communication and implementing these measures as a team, you are on the right track to achieving a stronger and overall healthier hoof.

For a more in-depth explanation of horse hoof health, click HERE to read the full article from Palm Beach Equine Clinic.

NOTE: These guidelines are only suggestions, and you should always follow the specific instructions from your veterinarian.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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Barn Upgrades for Horse Health
August 17, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

By Kim F. Miller

BarnManager is the Official Barn Management Software of US Equestrian.

If you are building a new barn or planning a remodel, one important factor to keep in mind is the importance of ventilation. Fresh, circulating air is the essential element veterinarians urge when planning barn upgrades that most affect our horse’s health and well-being. Designs and management strategies to reduce airborne dust and ammonia go hand-in-hand with prioritizing ventilation.

Minimizing injury risks and creating a suitable place for the veterinarian and other care providers to help your horse rank highly, too.

Ventilation

Even the most meticulously kept stable is loaded with tiny, respirable particles that impact our horses’ vulnerable respiratory systems. Forage is the healthiest diet foundation for most horses, but it’s also one of the biggest sources of these invisible bits of organic matter that trigger irritation and inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Photo courtesy of US Equestrian

Traditional bedding is right up there with hay as a source of organic dust. Ammonia is another inescapable element in the stable and it’s harmful — for your horse and for you.

Whatever the airborne particles consist of, ventilation keeps them moving along rather than settling in the horse’s breathing zone.

If you are building a new barn, you’ll want to maximize natural breezes by positioning the barn and the breezeways in their predominant path. Make those aisleways wide — ideally, at least 14 feet — to maximize airflow intake, and choose ceiling heights and air exits to harness the tendency of warm air to rise.

Installing more windows and/or doors is your best option in barn remodels and upgrades. The more places air can enter and exit, the better. Horses in stalls with two doors or windows, for example, benefit from living in an airflow corridor.

Continue reading on US Equestrian to learn more about how ambient temperature, fans, eliminating dust, flooring, safe spaces, and injury reduction are all important factors in barn building design.

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BarnManager Q&A With: Madeline Finley
August 10, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Madeline Finley

Madeline Finley, manager at Maarten Huygens Horse Sales based out of Wellington, FL, and North Salem, NY

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

I like to travel light. I try to only carry the essentials. With that being said, my ring bag is always equipped with a towel, a hole punch, and cookies for the horses. I like to keep things very simple.

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

I’m very big on cleanliness and organization. Some would say it’s an obsession for me. I find it very hard to work and operate out of a messy environment. I think it’s safer for the people and the horses when the barn aisle is tidy and everything is in its place.

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

Maarten Huygens and Madeline Finley Photo courtesy of Madeline Finley

The person who inspires me the most in this industry is without a doubt Maarten Huygens. He came to the United States at a young age, rode, groomed, worked hard, and eventually became the successful businessman he is today. It is a story similar to how so many of us started out, including myself. Working for Maarten is really special. He is one of the most genuine, down-to-earth individuals with so much knowledge and passion for the sport. I am always proud to stand by his side.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

Communication always! Working in a sales barn can be very chaotic at times, but as long as everyone is communicating the day will run smoothly.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I have never been to a horse show in Europe. I would really like to experience that at least once in my life. If I had my pick, it would be the Dublin Horse Show!

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I love a mare with an attitude and a big heart. I like to think those two things go hand in hand. When you can form a bond with a tough mare she will do anything for you; she will be your best friend.

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

I would like to be a western horse on the Yellowstone Ranch. That’s my favorite show, and I always wonder what it would be like to live there.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Horse Health Series: Equine Dentistry
August 3, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Consistent equine dental exams are important for the health of a horse’s mouth as well as the rest of their body. The goals of equine dentistry may appear straightforward, but they include a complex system of evaluations that in turn affect the entire well-being of a horse. At its core, equine dentistry encompasses the objectives of maintaining even tooth wear, treating infection or disease, allowing for proper digestion, and promoting longevity. Dr. Tyler Davis of Palm Beach Equine Clinic in Wellington, FL, believes that routine and thorough dental exams can help prevent many issues from ever becoming problems.

Why do horses require dental care?

Horses grind their food into a finely masticated bolus before swallowing. The combination of a horse’s upper jaw being larger than the lower jaw, and the fact that a horse chews by moving their jaws from side-to-side results in uneven wear of the teeth. This uneven wear may cause sharp edges to form, which hinder efficient chewing and may ulcerate or tear the cheeks and tongue. Uneven wear can also cause the horse to swallow food that isn’t properly chewed and can lead to more daunting problems such as colic.

No horse is exempt from needing their teeth cared for by a veterinarian. For sport horses, however, dental care becomes even more crucial. Much of the connection between horse and rider comes by way of the horse’s mouth, and depending on the discipline, the horse may always have pressure in their mouth. If there are problems or discomfort within the mouth, it can become evident in the horse’s performance and disposition under saddle.

According to Dr. Davis, having a horse’s teeth in perfect shape allows one to immediately rule out dental issues when trying to troubleshoot a performance problem. A “sound mouth” also allows the best condition for supple, soft, and accurate connections between horse and rider through the bridle.

Photo courtesy of Palm Beach Equine Clinic

The most common signs of dental discomfort in horses include:

  • Head-tilting and tossing
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Bit-chewing and tongue lolling
  • Tail-wringing, bucking, and other behavioral issues
  • Drooling and bad breath
  • Weight loss and spillage of grain (sometimes)

What is floating?

On a basic level, most horses require a routine float. Floating is the term for rasping or filing a horse’s teeth to ensure an even, properly aligned bite plane. While floating is the physical process, the scope of equine dentistry is much broader and examines the horse’s overall health as influenced by the mouth.

“A proper dental exam using a lightweight speculum, a very good light source, and a dental mirror allows me to see any possible problems and prevent those problems from becoming painful and affecting a horse’s performance and overall health,” said Dr. Davis.

How often should you have a veterinarian perform a routine dental exam on your horse?

Dr. Davis recommends an exam every 12 months at a minimum. For many sport horses, the demands of their competition schedule may require bi-yearly exams to prevent any problems that could sideline them from training or events. Lastly, any horse with a history of dental problems may require exams every three to four months. Without routine dental exams by a veterinarian, uneven wear can escalate to a serious health problem.

For a more in-depth explanation of equine dentistry, click HERE to read the full article from Palm Beach Equine Clinic.

NOTE: These guidelines are only suggestions, and you should always follow the specific instructions from your veterinarian.  

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager’s Favorite Summer Barn Activities
July 20, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Summer is a wonderful time to hang around at the barn. There are also lots of productive and fun jobs you can do with your friends while enjoying the warm weather. Keep reading to learn about BarnManager’s favorite activities to do at the barn during the summer.

Paint Jumps

Summer is a great time to repaint jumps. Start by gathering your standards, poles, and planks together so you can easily make a plan for the colors and patterns you want for everything. Set aside any wooden boxes or jump fill that need touching up as well. This is a great activity to do at the end of the day when everyone is done riding. You can order a pizza and make it an afternoon painting party. Also, remember to check the weather forecast so your freshly painted jumps can dry safely overnight.

Revamp Flower Boxes

Flower boxes often take a beating in the ring. Begin by checking to see if any need repairs. Wash them thoroughly by removing any flowers that can be separated from the boxes. Do your cleaning in the wash stall or outdoors so you can really scrub off dirt and footing from the larger pieces. If the boxes are wooden, it may be a good idea to repaint them.  Consider purchasing some new fake flowers online or at a discount store to replace any that are getting old. It’s also a great time to replace old and worn-out green felt or turf that covers hunter poles or boxes.

Take a Group Trail Ride

Take advantage of the warm weather and plan a trail ride. This a great barn family bonding activity and a nice opportunity for the horses to enjoy time outside of the arena. You can also organize a group lunch or picnic after the trail ride back at the barn.

Plant Flowers Around the Barn

Spruce up the outside of the barn by planting some flowers. You can either purchase pots to put them in or plant them in the ground if you have a nice area in mind. If you really want to go all out, consider setting up a vegetable garden. Of course, make sure to plant a lot of carrots for the horses!

Plan a Photoshoot

Pick a nice summer afternoon to stage a photoshoot with some of your barn friends. Although hiring a professional photographer is an option, you can also take turns going behind the camera yourself. Even if you do not have professional equipment, iPhones can take great photos with proper editing.

Make Horse Popsicles

It’s always nice to have a cool popsicle waiting for you after a ride in the summer heat. This summer, try creating this treat for your horse to enjoy too. Popsicles for horses are easy to make and a great way to help them stay hydrated. Be sure all of the ingredients you use are safe for horses to eat. There are many variations of horse popsicles online with easy recipes to follow. Check out a few horse popsicle recipes HERE.

Summer always goes by too fast so make sure you are taking full advantage of the warm weather and sunshine and enjoy the time with your horse and barn friends.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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What To Know Before Taking a Job as a Working Student
July 14, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

Working student positions can be wonderful opportunities for young riders to get a taste of the equestrian industry. This type of job can often differ in expectations, duties, and benefits so it is necessary to understand all of the details before agreeing to the position. Continue reading for a few crucial points to understand and discuss before taking on a position as a working student.

Type of Barn

It is important to think about the type of barn you would like to work for when you start the working student job search. Farms of all levels and disciplines often offer working student opportunities. While some people may want to work for a top hunter barn that travels to shows every week, others may prefer working at a facility with a busy lesson program or pony camp. If you are unsure about what type of farm you would like to work for it may be best to talk to several to get a feel for what seems most beneficial for you.

Responsibilities and Training Opportunities

Similar to any job, it is necessary to be clear on what your job duties will be before accepting a position. Since some working student jobs require prior experience and others do not, be sure you can handle all of the tasks your employer expects you to complete.

Although working student positions often include training, you need to be honest about your level of experience. If you are talking to a trainer about a working student position and the tasks seem beyond your abilities, make sure you are upfront about what you are capable of doing. Do not agree to do jobs that you are not able to successfully complete. Employers are often open to teaching working students, but it is important to have the discussion ahead of time.

Riding Opportunities

Some working student jobs offer riding opportunities while others do not. Be sure you are clear about whether or not riding will be part of the job, especially if this is important to you.

Payment

Working student jobs are not always paid positions, and it is important to know that upfront. This is often dependent on the employer, level of experience, type of position, and length of time. Another important topic to discuss is housing if it is something you would need. The employer may provide housing if it is a longer-term situation such as a job during an entire winter circuit. Some barns may offer a small stipend and more riding opportunities as payment. This is an important factor to know ahead of time so you can plan accordingly.

Travel

If you take a job at a show barn it is necessary to ask about their travel schedule and if you will be expected to go. This is especially important to ask about if you are still in school or have other responsibilities. Make sure you will have housing and travel expenses covered if you are expected to attend horse shows.

Working student positions can give young riders a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a barn. Make sure the farm is the right fit for you so that you can get as much out of the experience as possible.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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BarnManager Q&A With: Katherine Esterline
June 23, 2023| | in category Uncategorized No comments yet

BarnManager Q&A With: Katherine Esterline

Katherine Esterline, groom for Anna Marek of Marek Dressage based out of Ocala, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

I always have sugar cubes. Anna’s trainer Anne Gribbons likes to give a lot of rewards during her lessons. I make sure to keep a good supply in my bag for training times and warm-up at competitions. The second item is a wet rag. Lots of sugar leads to a lot of foam and a mess! I use a wet rag to wipe the horse clean of foam and sand before they go in the show ring. It’s also very handy when the reins get slippery and covered in sweat. The third thing I keep in my bag is an instant ice pack. In Wellington, FL, it can get very hot during competitions. The ice pack helps me stay cool while standing by the warm-up arena, and it keeps my rider’s water bottle cold. 

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

I learned early on that a good curry comb is your best friend.

Photo courtesy of Katherine Esterline

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

My mom helped me find a passion for horses at a young age. She trained and managed a boarding farm in Michigan. She was the one who gave me my first lessons. She now manages the care of Anna’s training horses at Crownview Dressage. She works extremely hard. I never see her take a day off. 

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

I make a plan using the notes app on my phone the night before with the times my rider will mount and show. Anna tends to show two to three times a day plus additional schooling sessions. Having everything written down is essential. Setting timers for lunch and other special tasks is also very helpful.

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I really want to go to Aachen. I’d love to go even just as a spectator … one day! 

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I love geldings, but earning the friendship of a mare is truly the best. 

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

The new foals on the farm look like they’re having the most fun playing around in the field. I’d love to be them!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

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