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| Pacers and Trotters on the Race Track |
On January 5th, we began the day by visiting with an equine veterinarian, Dr. Nairn, at one of the top standard breed horse facilities in New Zealand. As we arrived, it was easy to recognize the English style u-shape influence on the set up of the stables. After meeting the veterinarian, being greeted by several adorable jack russell terriers, and seeing the horses tacked up and prepared to work, we headed upstairs to watch the trotters and pacers circle around the track. It was really cool to distinguish between the trotting and pacing gaits and we discussed how they were trained to achieve each and the rules of the sport. As we continued, we were able to tour the entire facility, ask an incredible amount of questions, and see all of the award trophies and plaques. During the tour, we were able to walk over a vibration plate, in the colt area, which is used to ease or massage a horse with sore muscles. I was able to ask the veterinarian about any fly issues in New Zealand, and learned that they are not even remotely as much of a problem as they are in the United States. The horses were brought in after completing several loops around the track, and their harnesses were removed, they received a bath, and they were allowed to drink molasses water before being turned out to pasture. The barn manager then allowed us to hold and compare steel and aluminum horse shoes and the veterinarian discussed different common health issues and the importance of maintaining good health—which requires a highly skilled farrier. The stables were located on luscious green land with bay horses covered in thin burlap canvases—providing protection from the sun—frolicking around. It was beautiful day and experience that I will not soon forget.
--Kaylee Chambers
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| Trophies in Standard Breed Facility |
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| Pacers and Trotters on the Race Track |
