MY PARTNER IN HORSE CARE

Farnam is an important part of my
equine management. Why not make it yours!

My teaching is based on a whole horse philosophy where success is the by-product of correct horsemanship and proper management. Overseeing your horse's environment is critical. Dental management, balanced shoeing, proper conditioning and good nutrition combined with well selected equipment and a consistent training program, that promotes physical and mental health, all tie together to cultivate successful and responsible outcomes.

At each of the clinic programs I teach, I would say 30% of the horses' students bring to the programs are not sound. Some of the unsoundness are mechanical lameness, some are nutritional, some are mental. Modifying the shoeing, checking with an equine dentist, or getting horses in better physical and nutritional condition often solve many of the identified problems. With the grueling discipline of barrel racing and the variety of ground conditions we compete on, a good consistent conditioning program is critical. The more fit the equine athlete is the less risk he runs being injured in incremental ground conditions. Strained ligaments, or sore muscles definitely influence performance. Maintaining soundness takes awareness, intuition, and support from a knowledgeable team of professionals who believe in your success.

Speaking of success, Farnam has been committed to providing top quality products utilizing the latest technology to create innovative, effective and cost efficient resources for successful horse care, nutrition and management since 1946. Three of my personal favorites are the Vetrolin grooming products, Equinyl Joint supplements and the Golden Malrin for fly control.

There's nothing like an invigorating bath or liniment rubdown as a reward after a tough work out! One of the more important parts of riding or competition is the cool down. Horses should return to normal breathing and muscles allowed to normalize before the cool down is complete; at a minimum this usually takes about 20 minutes, converting to approximately one mile of walking and slow trotting. After your cool down, a good rule of thumb is to spray a menthol brace or liniment on the horses back, and joints, rubbing until the hair is dry. Especially around the legs, hocks, and ankles, the stimulation created by the massage helps restore circulation. This is a great way to avoid swelling and stiffness. The attention also serves as a once over to identify bumps or swelling that may have occurred during the ride.

Equinyl is another one of my favorite product choices for supporting healthy joints. The timed release formula provides increased flexibility, reducing inflammation without gastrointestinal side effects.

Barn maintenance pulls everything together for me. A swept tack room, raked alleyway and clean stalls provide the organization I require in each day's regime. Golden Malrin is a wonderful fly bait, not only for the barn and pasture shelters but also around any ranch setting.

I have worked with the Farnam Companies for over 20 years, I have never been disappointed with any of the products that have the Farnam name on the container. They are honest in saying they are our partner in horse care. For coupons and additional information on Farnam's wide range of products visit Farnamhorse.com. Farnam is an important part of my equine management and we are proud to have them as a Sharon Camarillo Gold Sponsor! Why not make it yours!

Our 2012 Clinic Schedule is now online! You can get a head start in reserving space in a Clinic near you. Clinics are also wonderful holiday gifts that keep on giving for barrel racers and their horses. Also check out Making a Difference for new comments, Sharon's Current Events Schedule which has been updated, and Gerald the Galloping Gringo's new article, The Tale of the Tail for your enjoyment.