In a world where individuals face physical and mental challenges, man's best friend is there to help. Service dogs assist those covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); therapy dogs visit schools, hospitals, and other social settings where emotional boosts are needed; and emotional support dogs are prescribed pets for those with conditions and disorders affecting one's psychological and emotional wellbeing.

A great number of these patients suffer from anxiety. While emotional support dogs are not covered under the ADA, they are companion animals that improve one's overall wellbeing when needed most.

All dogs have the potential to help owners build healthier lifestyles. Having to feed, exercise, and groom a dog forces a person into a routine that requires organizing time. It gives a person a purpose, requires exercise, and builds self-esteem. Four-legged companions relieve feelings of isolation, too.

Not only is the dog there, but when it accompanies its owner in public, it's a great conversation starter that can lead to building meaningful relationships with neighbors. Many dogs can sense an owner's symptoms of anxiety. The dog provides a perfect distraction from the causes of fear and anxiety. Some breeds, however, tend to make better emotional support dogs than others. Here's a look at seven of the best breeds of dogs for providing emotional support.

Golden Retriever

One look at a golden retriever and your heart is sure to melt. As with most of the best emotional support dogs, the golden loves people of all ages and is friendly with strangers. This breed loves outdoor activities and exercise. Its long hair will need frequent brushing, which is one great grooming activity that relieves anxiety.

Labrador Retriever

Gazing into the expressive face of a Lab can make anyone feel loved unconditionally, a feeling needed by many struggling with loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Like the golden, Labrador retrievers are easy to train as they are food motivated. Their happy, playful nature and desire to please makes them an instant member of the family. They're especially good for older owners who need to stay active.

Poodle

Ranging from toy to large in size, poodles love to socialize. They easily adapt to their environment which is key to those diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Besides being smart and cute, they are hypoallergenic. Grooming is required, but for one with an allergy to dogs, they are a good match.

Pug

These silly creatures love being with their owners. Their social nature makes them an ideal emotional support pet to bring around strangers. As with many of the best emotional support dogs, people aren't afraid to approach pugs. Pugs require a little exercise and a lot of petting.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies don't know how small they are. They can be brave, curious, and protective. They are loyal, loving animals with incredible agility. Daily brushing strengthens the bond Yorkshire terriers form with their owners.

Beagle

These easy-going dogs are eager to please. They love people of all ages, food, barking, and exploring. Beagles do well with persistent training and fenced-in yards to roam. Beagles are great for people who want companionship while they are out and about the world.

German Shepherd

Unlike beagles, German shepherds are one of the easiest breeds to train. Intelligent and obedient, German shepherds know when to be protective and when to be calm. As a working breed, they are quite athletic. This breed is ideal for those needing emotional support in many ways, but its loyalty reassures a person who's feeling scared or anxious.

Final Thoughts

It's important to note that not every dog within a suggested breed will make a quality emotional support dog. Each dog is an individual. Training and temperament influence a dog's abilities differently. This is also why there are dogs from breeds unmentioned that are fantastic emotional support dogs.

Once you've completed your chores for the evening, you must say goodnight to your horse and take care of your human needs! If you're ready to kickback and spend some leisure time at home on date night, watch a horse movie alongside a close companion! Sharing your love of horses with the people you care for can be a great bonding experience. Plenty of movies feature unforgettable horse characters and plots. Need some ideas? The following suggestions are sure to spark a horse lover's interest!

Black Beauty (1994)

This Warner Bros.'s classic, based on the 1877 novel by Anna Sewell, chronicles a horse's life from its birth to old age. The movie shows how much of a horse's life is determined by fate. Black Beauty is owned by the kind and the cruel and knows both luxury and poverty throughout his lifetime. Key people and horses help Beauty persevere when times become difficult. The story is told by the narrator Black Beauty and through the dialog of the human characters and their actions. Beauty describes his thoughts and feelings as he is passed from handler to handler and works as a carriage puller, cabdriver, and even as a racehorse. At times, Black Beauty demonstrates a sixth sense for impending danger and disaster. Seeing how this horse's history unfolds makes one believe there will be greener pastures in the end.

National Velvet (1944)

When one resident of Sewels, England, purchases a beautiful gelding that comes to be known as "Pie," the whole village takes note. Pie loves to jump the walls of his enclosure and cause damage in town. Two of the first to witness Pie's leaping abilities are adolescent Velvet Brown (Elizabeth Taylor) and drifter Mi Taylor (Mickey Rooney), a young man who happens to be headed to meet Mrs. Brown, Velvet's mother. Their intriguing connection inspires Velvet to make a racehorse out of Pie, who she happens to win from its owner in a raffle. Taylor, a former jockey, is hired by the Browns to work on the farm and soon begins training Pie for the most difficult race in England, the Grand National. The horse is a true contender, but the real conflict is in finding the right jockey.

Secretariat (2010)

Death is lifechanging for the bereaved. Penny Chenery (Diane Lane) quickly discovers this when her mother passes at the beginning of this true story. She seems to forget to grieve and throws herself into the position of caring for her invalid father's horse farm. Penny pushes aside her husband and kids for a sudden interest in foals. She soon finds herself in a man's world as she tries to do what's best for the farm. She believes in herself and fights for what she wants and what is right. This includes managing the training of a new foal, Secretariat. Lucien Laurin (John Malkovich) reluctantly assists and later comes to believe in her vision. When Penny's father dies and financial ruin looks imminent, Penny perseveres and continues her fight even when her adversaries become her brother and husband. She believes Secretariat is driven to be a winning racehorse, a Triple Crown champion.

Hidalgo (2004)

Based on real events, Hidalgo is the story of one mustang's race as an unlikely contender in an event that spans 3,000 miles across the Arabian desert. Hidalgo is ridden by Frank Hopkins (Viggo Mortensen), known as the "Blue Child" because of his Native American descent. In the United States, Hopkins is known for being a Rough Rider, playing in Buffalo Bill Cody's show, and bragging about how fast his horse is. By chance, he finds himself agreeing to participate in the desert race. Once there, he has stiff competition and plenty of enemies who wouldn't mind seeing him and his horse dead.

The Black Stallion (1979)

In this film, a young boy named Alec is traveling with his father aboard a ship transporting people, cargo, and one irate Arabian horse. Alec's first encounter with the horse he calls "Black" stimulates his curiosity and brings out a strong sense of compassion for the animal. Soon after, a terrible storm wrecks the ship, and Alec is saved by Black. Stranded together on a deserted island, horse and boy form a bond. It is a breathtaking setting, and its beauty is accentuated by the orchestral accompaniment. Little dialog occurs in the movie's first half, but then Alec and Black are rescued and restored to the world Alec always knew. Alec wants Black to become a racehorse, and he is able to find a trainer (Mickey Rooney) crazy enough to do it.

In Conclusion

Well, there you have it! You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll fall in love with your horse all over again. Do you have a favorite that isn't on this list? Feel free to share it in the comments!

Springtime is located in Cockeysville, Maryland in Baltimore County and after 40 years of being around town, we know some of the best things that Baltimore has to offer!Here is a list of the top 5 attractions to see while in Baltimore, Maryland. We are sure they will keep you coming back and back again!

#1 - Preakness

The Preakness Stakes is an American horse race held on the third Saturday in May each year at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the second jewel of the Triple Crown, held two weeks after the Kentucky Derby and three weeks before the Belmont Stakes.

#2 - Historic Fells Point

Waterside Fells Point is known for its hip pubs and taverns, many with live music, as well as seafood joints serving Chesapeake Bay crab and oysters. Small galleries, record stores, fashion boutiques and eclectic restaurants line the cobblestone streets along the harbor and main square.

#3 - The Maryland Science Center

Located in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, it includes three levels of exhibits, a planetarium, and an observatory. Subjects that the center displays include physical science, space, Earth science, the human body, and blue crabs that are native to the Chesapeake Bay.

#4 -The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore & The National Aquarium in Baltimore

The Maryland Zoo is a 135-acre park located in historic Druid Hill Park in the northwestern area of the City of Baltimore, Maryland. The Maryland Zoo is now currently home to over 2,000 animals. The Zoo is open year-round rain or shine!

The National Aquarium in Baltimore is the largest tourism attraction in the State of Maryland. The aquarium has more than 17,000 specimens representing over 750 species.

#5 -Baltimore Sports

M&T Bank Stadium is the home of the Baltimore Ravens (NFL). The stadium is immediately adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home of the Baltimore Orioles (MLB).

"Adaptogens." This may seem like a new and mysterious term for many individuals entering the health and wellness sphere, but adaptogens have been used in herbal medicine for centuries. These powerful substances work to balance your hormones, help you cope with stress and even fight chronic fatigue. While these past few months of uncertainty and change may have surely added stress and taken a toll on our everyday lives, turning to adaptogens to support a healthy mind and body may be key!

Adaptogens Help Support Our Bodies in Stress

There is no doubt that each and every one of us has had to combat stress, change or uncertainty since that infamous day in March when our realities were altered indefinitely. While yoga, time spent outdoors and a healthier diet can all be effective methods of lowering stress levels, sometimes we need a little extra boost to help our body's processes function normally during overwhelming times. Adaptogens can help the body and mind manage physical and emotional stress, naturally.

Adaptogens Can Give Us the Energy Boost We Need

Summer is a time of abundance, sunshine and energy, but autumn and winter are quickly approaching. While we love the fall weather just as much as anyone else, shorter days and diminishing sunlight can take a toll on our energy levels. Luckily, many adaptogens can be used to help support balanced energy levels and fight feelings of fatigue or lethargy! Instead of reaching for that third cup of strong coffee to get you through your day, consider the benefits that natural substances like adaptogens could provide when responsibly incorporated into your daily routine.

Common Adaptogens and Their Benefits

While there is an extensive variety of adaptogens out there, some common and beneficial kinds include:

Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms are health powerhouses that have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries to help preserve health and wellbeing amid biological, environmental and psychological stressors. Besides helping with stress and fatigue, Reishi, including Reishi mushroom extract, may even help boost your immune system--an important factor to consider in this day and age!

Panax Ginseng

Panax Ginseng is a Chinese herbal tonic known for its ability to support the central nervous system. Periods of mental and nervous stress can take a toll on our bodies physically, but incorporating Panax Ginseng into your daily routine can help alleviate the effects of stress.

Queen Bee Royal Jelly

This unique substance gets its name from its origins: Queen Bee Royal Jelly is a concentrated bee's food produced for the queen bee herself! It is rich in B vitamins like pantothenic acid and especially helpful in reducing fatigue and promoting adrenal function.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba can help with improved blood circulation and transmission of oxygen to brain cells. In other words, this powerful, natural substance can improve memory and mental clarity.

Springtime's Tonic Blend is Chock-Full of Adaptogens and Antioxidants

At Springtime, we want the best for you and your health during this unpredictable time. If the stress of the season has taken a toll on your mental, physical or emotional health, consider the benefits of incorporating adaptogens into your daily routine in addition to other healthy life practices. Our very own Tonic Blend contains powerful adaptogens and antioxidants to strengthen resistance to physical and emotional stress. Containing a balanced blend of Reishi Mushroom Extract, Panax Ginseng, Queen Bee Royal Jelly, Ginkgo Biloba, bioflavonoids, Vitamin C and so much more, Tonic Blend is completely unique to Springtime and can be a wonderful addition to your routine. You can shop Tonic Blend here. To speak to a member of our team, contact Springtime Supplements today!

By now, it is safe to assume that we have all had a heavy dose of COVID-19 news... with frequent updates. As of this writing:

• nearly every sporting event is postponed or cancelled;
• thousands of schools from coast to coast are closed;
• many gyms, restaurants, casinos, clubs, and bars are not serving patrons;
• gatherings of 10+ people are being strongly discouraged;
• "social distancing" has gone from being a term most of us never knew to a part of our daily lexicon.

By all accounts, this may still just be the start.

While there has been plenty of advice on hygiene and social behaviors that could curb the spread of COVID-19, there hasn't been much news regarding if/how it can affect animals. In this post, we are going to delve into just what COVID-19 is, where it came from, the effect it can have on pets, precautions you can take for your pets, and what might lie ahead.

What, Exactly, is Coronavirus?

In late December, the current outbreak of COVID-19 started in Wuhan, the capital city of the Hubei province, in China. At the time, it was commonly referred to as, "The Coronavirus." This was a misnomer, as there isn't just a coronavirus; rather, coronaviruses make up a large family of viruses. Coronaviruses, in general, present similar symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, cough, and runny nose. In some instances, like now, they can also bring about mild-to-severe respiratory distress.

There have been several other well-known coronavirus outbreaks in the last couple of decades, namely Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). Prior to this recent outbreak, the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCOV)--now known as COVID-19--was previously unknown.

Where Did COVID-19 Come From?

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA), COVID-19, like other popular coronavirus, seems to have originated in bats. Further sequenced virus strains from the US and China suggests that the virus emerged from a single animal reservoir. The first victims of COVID-19 in Wuhan were all linked to a live animal market, which also suggests animal-to-human spread and, as we know, human-to-human spread.

While these viruses often originate in bats, they are rarely transmitted to humans that way. In the cases of SARS and MERS, the viruses were transmitted to humans via masked palm civets and dromedary camels, respectively.

Can Pets Get COVID-19?

Since we know that coronavirus originated from an animal source and was likely passed to humans through and intermediate animal host, it raises the question: Are my pets at risk for COVID-19 and, if they get it, can they pass it to me?

All things considered, this is a very valid question. From what is currently known, human-to-human contact is the primary way COVID-19 is transmitted. It is also highly unlikely that your pet is at risk for getting or spreading COVID-19. According to the World Health Organization (OIE):

There have not been any reports of companion or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19 and currently there is no evidence that they play a significant epidemiological role in this human disease. However, because animals and people can sometimes share diseases (known as zoonotic diseases), it is still recommended that people who are sick with COVID-19 limit contact with companion and other animals until more information is known about the virus.

That said, there is one confirmed case of a dog testing positive for COVID-19. The dog, a 17-year-old Pomeranian in Hong Kong, has yet to show any symptoms associated with the illness. The dog's owners also tested positive for COVID-19, but as of this writing it is unclear whether the dog transmitted the virus to the owners or vice versa. Both the dog and the owners, though, have been quarantined.

What About Equine Enteric Coronavirus?

If you are a horse owner, you may have heard of Equine Enteric Coronavirus. The Equine Enteric Coronavirus is very different from COVID-19. Whereas COVID-19 has the most impact on the respiratory system and is transmitted by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your own mouth, nose, or eyes, Equine Enteric Coronavirus is a gastrointestinal disease that is transmitted by one horse ingesting the manure of another that has been infected.

These two strains of coronavirus are very dissimilar and, to date, there is no evidence that communication of either disease can be passed from humans to horses or from horses to humans.

What You Can Do

While there is currently no confirmed evidence that COVID-19 can be transmitted to or from pets, it's always best to take basic precautions until more is known. Some of these suggestions will sound familiar.

Wash Your Hands

If you have been following recommendations to help stem the transmission of COIVD-19 between humans, you should already be washing your hands pretty frequently. To be safe, you should also be sure to wash your hands before and after you have direct contact with your pets, their food, waste, and supplies.

Have a 30-Day Supply

Just as you want to ensure you have enough supplies for yourself for 30 days, you'll want to take the same measures for your pets. This includes food, litter, medicines, supplements, and the like.

Have a Backup Caregiver

If you contract COVID-19 and become too ill to care for your pet, either on a short-term or long-term basis, you should have someone who can. Ideally, this will be a person your pet already knows, such as a family member or neighbor. It could even be a boarding facility where your pet has stayed in the past. The idea is to make the transition of care as seamless as possible for your pet.

Build a Pet Profile

In the even that you do need to use your back up pet caregiver, you can make things much easier for them and your pet by having a pet profile create. This can include favorite food(s) and feeding frequency, favorite toys, medical conditions and medicines for those conditions, vet name and number, and any unique behaviors you pet exhibits or enjoys.

In Conclusion

While it is still too early to have a complete grasp on the origin, transmission, and spread of COVID-19, much less project its short- and long-term effects, there are ways you can protect yourself and your pets. We will likely learn much more in the following weeks, its best to take the situation seriously, but to also not panic.

Do the best with what you know and be sure to make sure your pets are getting enough food, rest, grooming, and play time so they can stay as healthy and happy as possible. In fact, take some time to do that for yourself while you are at it.

Find out what Springtime is up to this month!

Spring is here and so is all the excitement that comes with it. Events are piling up and we are heading out to support our local events through sponsorships and awareness.

Here are a few local events where you could enjoy the Springtime season and enjoy all that Maryland has to offer!

Grand National Steeplechase - The 117th Running - Saturday April 20th

https://grandnationalsteeplechase.com/

What you need to know for the races:

• Race is always held on the second to last Saturday in April
• Railside - $600
  Paddock - $275
  Subscriber - $200
  General Parking - $40
• Tickets may be purchased by mail and online beginning March 1.
  Tickets may be purchased at retail locations beginning April 1.
• Places to buy tickets: Dover Saddlery, John Brown General & Butchery, The Butler Store, The Filling Station, and Wine Merchant
• Gates open at 12:00 PM
• You can bring a tent! Small (10×10) pop up tents without sidewalls are allowed and must be located directly behind the vehicle. Please be courteous to others and keep your picnic and accoutrements within this area. No grills or open flames allowed for safety reasons.
  
• There will be no food or drink concessions at the races so we recommend bringing a picnic with coolers of drinks and snacks.

Directions:

• The address is: 2838 Butler Road, Butler, Maryland
• I-83 to west on Shawan Road for 3 miles, right on Falls Road for 3 miles, left on Butler for 1.4 miles.
  

What to wear:

• Comfortable shoes are a good idea, as you will be walking on grass, so stiletto heels might not be the best idea.
• Sunday casual is the preferred dress for both men and women. However, as long as you don't look like you rolled around in mud you should be good!
• Bring a hat! You never know what the Maryland spring might bring, and with the possibility of sun you want to protect your wintered self from the harsh rays of the sun. OR if it's freezing, keep yourself warm while battling the winter that just won't turn to spring.
• Jackets are encouraged as mentioned above. You never know what the weather might bring.

What else you can expect at the Grand National Steeplechase:

• Join the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for a true Maryland tradition, the 117th running of the Grand National Steeplechase. Enjoy a beautiful day in Baltimore County's horse country with a classic picnic buffet, signature " Southside" cocktails, live music, and the best view of the Grand National Steeplechase course. It is the perfect occasion to take in an amazing spring day and the excitement of steeplechase racing!

Where to stay:

• Marriott Residence Inn -https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bwirh-residence-inn-baltimore-hunt-valley/
• Embassy Suites -https://embassysuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/maryland/embassy-suites-by-hilton-baltimore-hunt-valley-BALHVES/index.html
• Delta Hotel -https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bwidh-delta-hotels-baltimore-hunt-valley/
• Holiday Inn Express -https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/hunt-valley/balhu/hoteldetail

Where to eat:

• Manor Tavern - https://www.themanortavern.com/
• Woodfire Kitchen - https://wfkitchen.com/
• Casa Mia's - https://www.originalcasamias.com/
• Milton Inn - https://miltoninn.com/
• Barret's Grill - https://www.barrettsgrill.com/

Keep in mind: IN THE INTEREST OF SAFETY TO HORSES AND PEOPLE, THE FOLLOWING WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE RACECOURSE:

• MOUNTED SPECTATORS
• UNLEASHED DOGS
• GATORS AND GOLF CARTS (OTHER THAN THOSE IN OFFICIAL USE)
• BUSES/LARGE VANS

Just so you know: Springtime Supplements is a proud supporter of the Grand National Steeplechase and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. We are excited to be a part of a fun and local event that brings people together to enjoy the magnificence of the horses we love.

Let us know if you are going to attend and give us a shout out if you see our banners on the finish line and in the paddocks! Also, keep an eye out for the Springtime Supplements lotus flower on the Livestream broadcast brought to you by the National Steeplechase Association and sponsored by Springtime Supplements!!!

Now that spring is finally here, many of us will be gearing up to attend some horse races, both steeple and flat. With that comes the unveiling of some really fun, and functional, spring outdoor styles for both men and women. Here at Springtime, we are excited to attend many of the races in Maryland this year, as well as plan our outfits! We decided to make some quick and fun suggestions as to what to wear to the races.

Women:

Women will want to be practical but FUN. When it comes to fashion at the races, color and patterns are always in favor. This year, some of the hottest trends include: bohemian prints, feathered accessories, tie-dye, shorts, big bows, and ruffles.

You of course want to make sure your look will be comfortable in a variety of settings, such as walking around on the grass, and tail-gaiting. You want shoes that won't sink, so find some fun flats, or even better, some funky wedges will look great and keep your feet above ground.

We would be remiss if we didn't include hats and fascinators in our conversation about women's fashion when it comes to races! If you want to keep the sun out of your eyes, you may enjoy a big floppy hat with a bow or some feathers. Don't want to wear a hat, but still be on-trend? Or do you have a hat you like, but want to update the look? Why not try a fascinator to add a little extra pizazz to your look!

Men:

The races are a great opportunity for men, so often limited in their outfit choices, to really have some fun with their looks. Of course, you want your look to be both bold and wearable. This is the time of year to bring out your linen suits. If you want to spice them up, consider pairing your suit with a fun button-down shirt. Tired of wearing a tie? Try a bowtie! They come in many fun patterns and are a great way to mix things up. You can also play with patterns- find a shirt and a tie with the same colors, but in different patterns such as paisley/stripes, or checks/polka dots.

Many men will also want to wear a hat to keep the sun off their faces. Consider adding a feather or a patterned band to the hat to match your outfit. You will also want to carefully consider yourshoes as we may be dealing with mud or slippery grass.

Children:

Kids will want to follow many of the same fashion trends as their adult counterparts, just remember how much more likely they are to get dirty and grass-stained and plan accordingly!

It's that time of year again - tick season! The temperatures are warming up and the ticks are active and ready to find their next host. It's important to inspect your horses and dogs regularly to catch these bugs before too much damage is done. Check out these top five places ticks love to hide!

Horses

1. Tail - Always check your horse's tail as it is one of the most common places to find a tick. Be sure to inspect the entire tailbone, especially around the top of the tail.
2. Mane - Ticks can be found hidden in the mane near the crest of the neck. Use your fingers to feel any strange bumps along the crest - you might find a nasty tick.
3. Ears - Ears are a very sensitive area for horses, which make it a favorite spot for ticks to latch on to a horse.
4. Chest - The folds of skin and warm hairy spots around a horse's chest and armpit area provide an excellent place for ticks to hide.
5. Groin - Don't forget to check the groin area as it is an easy hiding spot for ticks. Carefully inspect between the inside of the hind legs.

Dogs:

1. Ears - Behind the ears are a favorites spot for ticks. Carefully examine all around the ears, especially where there is thicker hair.
2. Neck - Ticks love to hide in the folds of skin around the neck. Check around your dog's collar as well, because it can provide another hiding place.
3. Elbows - Behind the dogs elbows and around their armpits is another favorite tick hiding spot. Not only is it a warm area, but the skin in this part is more sensitive making it an easy place to bite in to.
4. Toes - One of the least inspected places is between a dog's toes. Ticks love to nestle into the nooks and crannies, and between the toes is a great hiding place for them.
5. Groin - Another warm and hidden place to regularly inspect is your dog's groin area. This sensitive area on your dog is another favorite spot for stubborn ticks.

Ticks are always on the prowl for their next meal. Be sure to routinely check your horses and dogs for these nasty hitchhikers. It is especially important to check after spending time in the woods or after traveling through fields with tall grass. For a natural 24 hours fly and tick shield, try adding in Springtime's Bug Off Garlic to your horse or dog's daily routine!

The History

The Horses

The Water

A Private, but Public, Island

Getting There

Plan Your Trip!

Bonus Video:Springtime's President, Kevin Edwards, visits Assateague Island and enjoys the beauty of the wild horses that inhabit it:

Before or after exercise?

Stretching safety

1. Neck

1. Facing your horse, stand on one side of them. Allow them to sniff the carrot or treat, and lead their nose to the ridge between their shoulder blades. Their hooves should be in place!
2. Once they reach the desired degree, you can give them the treat!
3. Repeat and then switch sides. (BONUS: Use the same technique to stretch their upper neck, leading their chin to their chest.)

1. Shake out your shoulders and gently (and slowly) move your neck through its entire range of motion.
2. Turn your neck from left to right, lower your chin to your chest and tip your head back as far as it will go.
3. Finally, move your neck laterally left and right by bringing your ear to the corresponding shoulder.

2. Shoulders

1. Face your horse and stand slightly to one side.Gently pick up your horse's foot (the one on the side you are on), and place your other hand behind the same knee.
2. Start to slowly back away from the horse, gently bringing the leg forward (but also keeping it low!)Then, slowly lift upward until you feel some tension, but make sure your horse is comfortable and not straining too much.
3. Slowly return the leg back to its resting position. Repeat this process a couple or a few times. Then switch legs.

1. Holding a dressage whip or lead shank, raise your arms overhead and lower them behind your back.
2. The tighter your shoulders are, the wider grip you will need.
3. Be mindful of your shoulders, and how it would feel to maintain keeping them back while riding. Hold for 30 seconds. (BONUS:Increase the intensity of this stretch by narrowing your grip, or increasing the hold time.)

3. Back/Spine

1. Grasp the tail just above the end of the tail bone and visually align the tail with your horse's spine.
2. Slowly and gently pull straight out from your horse's back, hold for a few seconds, and then slowly release.
3. (Note: Releasing slowly is important because letting go quickly can put pressure on the tail, which can be uncomfortable for them.)

4. Hips

1. Stand next to your horse, and pick up their leg as though you are going to pick up their hoof.
2. Place one hand on his fetlock, and hold his hock with your other hand.
3. Pull his leg backwards past the tail (as well as forward toward the front limbs until it is fully extended.) Feel free to rest your elbows on your knees to support your back while holding the extended leg.
4. Continue holding the extended leg until your horse leans into the stretch.
5. To lessen the stretch, you can place both of your hands hind his fetlock.-

1. Place your back foot on the ground, and drop the corresponding knee.
2. Tuck in your pelvis and brace your core so you aren't arching your back. Hold this for 2 minutes each side.
3. As your range of motion improves, you can place your back foot up on a couch, chair, or table.

5. Legs

1. Stand in front of the leg you're working with and pick up the horse's foot, as though you were about to clean it.
2. Place your hands on the leg between the fetlock and cannon bone, holding the leg in the palms of your hands.
3. With your knees bent, lift up slowly. You must lift with your legs, and must keep the horse's legs in line with his body.Be very careful to not pull it out to the side. When you lift, their shoulder blade will move up. Pause and count to three.
4. Then lower the shoulder and slowly return the foot to the ground.

1. Begin on all fours with heels against the wall, knees slightly apart.
2. Lift your left leg and place your knee against the wall.
3. Place the foot of your right leg flat on the floor.
4. Slowly raise your torso until you're upright, in a neutral spine position. Make sure your hips are square to the front of the room. Only go as far as you can with this stretch. You may not be able to raise your torso at all when you begin.
5. Switch sides and repeat.

Barn Owners - Take that Vacation!

When to Travel

Finding a Pet Sitter

Setting Up Barn Details

Portion Out Supplements

Stock Up on Feed and Forage

Prepare for Barn Emergencies

Paying your Pet Sitter

Connect with your Pet Sitter when you Reach your Destination

Resources:

Goldberg, Carey. "Tick-Killing Tip: Dry Then Wash, Brief Dryer Spin Could Do It." WBUR's Common Health Reform & Reality. 1 April 2013. 5 February 2017.

http://commonhealth.legacy.wbur.org/2013/04/dryer-quick-kill-ticks

Acton, Q. Ashton, ed. Issues in Life Sciences--Bacteriology, Parasitology, and Virology: 2013 Edition. Atlanta: Scholarly Editions, 2013.

Jill. "Five Freaky Facts about Ticks." Owlcation. 12 October 2016. 5 February 2017. https://owlcation.com/stem/Five-Freaky-Facts-About-Ticks

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Life Cycle of Hard Ticks that Spread Disease. 1 June 2015. 5 February 2017.

https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/life_cycle_and_hosts.html

Poldolsky, MD., Gary. Ticks Overview. 5 February 2017.

http://www.podolsky.ca/gary/TickOverview.htm

"Haller's Organ." Wikipedia. 18 December 2016. 5 February 2016.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haller's_organ

"About Lyme Disease." Lyme Disease.Org, Advocacy, Education, & Research.

5 February 2016.

https://www.lymedisease.org/lyme-basics/lyme-disease/about-lyme/

Crystal. "Natural Tick & Lyme Disease Prevention." Whole-Fed Homestead. 7 May 2014. 5 February 2017.

http://wholefedhomestead.com/natural-tick-lyme-disease-prevention/

Gamma oryzanol is a mixture of antioxidant compounds that occurs naturally in rice bran oil. Gamma oryzanol is believed to support healthy muscle tone and performance, which has made rice bran oil a popular supplement among athletes and animal breeders. Gamma oryzanol contains antioxidants, which are known to remove damaging free radicals, to protect body cells and tissues. Gamma oryzanol was first extracted from rice bran oil in Japan in 1953, and rice bran oil has since gained a reputation as a very healthy seed oil.*

The science behind the supplement

Gamma oryzanol is a collection of ferulated sterols, which the body can metabolize to provide circulating ferulic acid. These ferulic acid esters are thought to have support healthy hormone function, resulting in anabolic effects on healthy muscle growth and normal recovery from fatigue. Studies have indicated that gamma oryzanol also activates the higher center of the endocrine system and the automic nervous system, helping to promote healthy balance in both systems.

Gamma oryzanol shown to be effective in scientific study

The antioxidant activities of gamma-oryzanol from rice bran were investigated in a study¹ published in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry. The study found that gamma oryzanol "exhibited significant antioxidant activity in the inhibition of cholesterol oxidation." Gamma oryzanol components of rice bran oil were also shown to have greater antioxidant properties than vitamin E.

¹Antioxidant activity of tocopherols, tocotrienols, and gamma-oryzanol components from rice bran against cholesterol oxidation accelerated by 2,2'-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride. Xu Z1, Hua N, Godber JS. J Agric Food Chem. 2001 Apr;49(4):2077-81.

²Anti-aging efficacy of topical formulations containing niosomes entrapped with rice bran bioactive compounds. Manosroi A, Chutoprapat R, Abe M, Manosroi W, Manosroi J. Journal of Pharmaceutical Biology, Thailand 2012 Feb;50(2):208-24

The science behind the supplement

Scientific study on dogs

Treasured since biblical times for its potent health properties.

Dog Study

Springtime uses the highest quality Boswellia -- fully tested for potency, purity, and safety. Below you will find more information on Springtime products containing Boswellia:

The science behind the supplement

Springtime uses the highest quality MSM -- fully tested for potency, purity, and safety. Below you will find more information on Springtime products containing MSM:

Chondroitin Sulfate provides natural support for joints.

Not all chondroitin is created equal

The science of chondroitin

Panax ginseng has been used for thousands of years to help the body manage physical and mental stress.

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Springtime uses a powerful, standardized panax ginseng extract -- fully tested for potency, purity, and safety. Below you will find more information on Springtime products containing ginseng:

Springtime, Inc. Stress Free Calmplex for Dogs Springtime, Inc. Daily Calm for Horses Springtime, Inc. Performance Paste for Horses

A safe and natural supplement with quality ginseng and other natural ingredients to help dogs manage stress. (e.g.  vet visits, thunderstorms, fireworks, rescue rehab, training, etc). Buy 2, Get 2 FREE! A natural, non-sedating daily supplement that helps horses manage nervousness, stress, and anxiety. Buy 2, Get 1 FREE! Pre-event paste supports oxygenation, energy, and stamina for "best day" performance for horses.

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Springtime, Inc. Tonic Blend Tablets for People

A great way to add natural antioxidants & adaptogens into your diet to help the body's processes function normally during physical and emotional stress.* Buy 2, Get 1 FREE!

The global super-supplement supports the immune system for a variety of health benefits

Below you will find more information on Springtime products containing spirulina:

Updated on September 21, 2022.

Bee Pollen uses support energy, digestion, immune health, and more.

Bees collect more than honey! They collect granules of flower pollen as a food source for the adult bees in the hive. Bees would not have their famous reputation for staying busy without flower pollen. Bee-collected pollen is densely nutritious, and it has been treasured for its health properties for thousands of years for both people and animals. The benefits of bee pollen include:

• It helps support healthy muscle condition, essential for strength & endurance
• It has hive enzymes, which support healthy digestion
• Supports a healthy immune system
• It contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals

The key benefit of bee pollen is that it contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, protein, and live enzymes. Because of its dense nutrition bee pollen uses include supporting energy needs, muscle strength, healthy digestion, and immune support. Bee pollen is taken as a supplement in its naturally occurring granule form, ground into a fine powder, or as part of an ingested supplement, such as a pill or chewable tablet.

Pollen is the part of the plant that contains enzymes. Scientists state that enzymes are essential for biochemical functions of the body. They are completely destroyed by high temperatures (130 degrees) - cooking! Enzymes are the essential triggers for the metabolic machinery of living things. The enzymes in raw foods are important because they help support the body's own enzyme systems. Enzymes are the life principle of every living cell.

Bee Pollen for Seasonal Support

Bee pollen supports the immune system. When the immune system is functioning properly, it is less likely to overreact to non-threatening stimuli, like seasonal allergens, with annoying sneezing, coughing, and itching.

Typically it is not necessary to consume local bee pollen to achieve the health benefits. This is a common misconception. The immune system benefits of bee pollen operate with a biological mechanism in which the origin of the bee pollen makes no difference whatsoever.

Bee Pollen for Dogs

As a densely nutritious food source, bee pollen has been treasured for its health properties for thousands of years. Not only is it a great food source for adult bees in the hive, but it can also be beneficial for dogs.

Bee pollen can help to improve a dog's skin health, as well as their overall energy levels. It is also a natural way to help boost the immune system. 

Bee Pollen for Horses

Horses can also benefit from bee pollen, as it is a great source of nutrients and antioxidants. Bee pollen can help to improve a horse's coat and skin health, as well as their overall energy levels. It is also a natural way to help boost the immune system. Bee pollen can be given to horses in several different ways, including mixing it into their food or giving it to them in a treat form.

If you're looking for a natural way to help your horse stay healthy and boost their overall health, bee pollen is a great option to consider.

More Info on Bee Pollen Uses...

Bee Pollen for Dogs

Bee Pollen for Horses

Bee Pollen for People