Taking Pictures for Your Vet

Posted on February 14, 2022 by blogeditor

In the case of emergencies, ask your vet if you can send them a picture of your horse. This can include images of wounds, abnormalities, or lamenesses. This is called telemedicine and can be very useful especially if you live far away from your horse clinician. Here are some tips for taking pictures for your vet. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Tips for Taking Pictures for Your Vet

One of the most important things to think about when taking a picture for your vet is the lighting. Even during the day, barns are often dark. If your barn has overhead lighting this can throw shadows. Use the flash setting on your phone to give the image more light. However, the best solution is to take the picture outside. Natural lighting is the way to go. Also, try not to send your vet a blurry picture. Your vet will have a hard time helping you with a diagnosis if they can’t really see the wound.

If you have newer phone, then take a step of two back from the wound before taking the picture. This will help your vet see precisely where the wound is while still having the ability to zoom in. If you have an older phone in which zooming in on a picture makes it blurry, then you may have to send more than one picture to your vet. One picture from a distance and one picture up close. Sometimes it’s useful to use a reference object in the photo to show scale. Doing so will give your veterinarian context and perspective. You can use a coin, pen, or anything that you can easily hold near the wound. For more tips, talk to your vet.

Rocky Mountain Horse Expo 2022

Posted on February 14, 2022 by blogeditor

The Rocky Mountain Horse Expo is a Colorado tradition that has been around for over thirty years. It has entertained and educated horse lovers of all breeds and disciplines for a long time. This year will be no exception. The 2022 Rocky Mountain Horse Expo starts February 24th and ends on the 27th—that’s 4 days of horse fun! Continue reading for what you can expect to see that this great event. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

What to Expect at The Rocky Mountain Expo

The most anticipated part of the expo will be The Mane Event. The show includes many breeds and disciplines performing to music and lights. It is a great show for the entire family. Tickets for the Main Event shows are sold separately from admission tickets. Therefore make sure you get them ahead of time by going to their website. Another big event at the expo is The Ride with the Experts program. This program is designed for you to bring your horse and ride with the clinician during their presentation. Also, did you know that there was an art show at the show?

It’s called the Expo Art Show and Literary Corral. This will be part of a larger promotion of Art, Film, and Books at the event under the EQUUS Film and Art Fest. There are many great Equine Filmmakers, Artists, and Authors out there. This even will bring much needed awareness for the industry. The event will feature 300 vendors at the National Western Complex. Organized by the Colorado Horse Council, the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo is the council’s largest annual fundraiser and this year’s charity is the Ronald McDonald House in Denver.

Nordic Ski Areas in Colorado

Posted on January 13, 2022 by blogeditor

Did you know that there are several great Nordic ski areas close to Denver? It’s true! Even urbanites can quickly get out and ski without driving for hours or paying for an expensive plan ticket. Here are some of the best Nordic ski areas in Colorado. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Colorado Nordic Ski Areas

Premiere Nordic ski area Roxborough State Park is located just outside of Denver. Roxborough is along the Front Range and known for its jagged red rocks. The sights here attract more that just skiers to the area. Nordic skiers often hit the trails here and explore the snow-capped red rocks for a unique experience. Skiing is only allowed on designated trails and there is a fee to enter the park. Therefore, make sure you check out the Parks website before heading out of the city. Another great area for skiers to check out is Eldora Mountain.

Eldora Mountain is located near the small town of Nederland. The Nordic Center at Eldora features thirty-four miles of trails. This area features beautiful pine forests and expansive alpine meadows in the backdrop of the mountain. Skiers at Eldora Nordic Center also have access to National Forest lands via the Jenny Creek Trail. This one is really worth the measly fifty-mile trip from the city. If you are new to skiing, you can get lessons from the center. For more information like season ticket prices check out the Eldora Mountain website.

How to Lower Your Horse Insurance

Posted on January 13, 2022 by blogeditor

Are you a horse owner and looking to save some money this year? Veterinary medicine has advanced substantially and the costs of horse ownership have risen. Fortunately, the horse insurance industry has seen some recent changes that could help you keep money in your pockets. Here’s what you need to know. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Ask Your Horse Insurance Agent

Ask your horse insurance agency about their co-insurance options. This is where the owner and insurer share veterinary bills. For example, there are new insurance plans with a twenty percent clause. This clause means that the owner will pay twenty percent of veterinary bills and the insurer will pay the rest. A few years ago plans like these were only offered for small animal insurance programs. So this is a wonderful change in the industry for horses. If your insurer doesn’t offer this yet, talk to them about how you can at least lower your rates.

Similar to the car industry, if you can show you’re taking care of your horse then you should be able to get lower rates. In order for this to work, you’ll have to prove some stuff to your insurer. You must demonstrate that you are a proactive and engaged owner that works with a veterinarian and farrier on a regular basis. Healthy horses are easier to insure. Also, if you are working with a trainer and are a member of your Provincial Equine Sports Organization, then you’re going to get the most favorable rates.

Cowboy Downhill

Posted on January 13, 2022 by blogeditor

Have you ever heard of the Cowboy Downhill? This Steamboat Springs exclusive event is where pro cowboys from all over the state trade their boots for skis. It started over 40 years ago when a few Rodeo stars were invited to Steamboat for a day of skiing. It was such a historic event that it has become a huge tradition in the area. Continue reading for all the details. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Cowboy Downhill Even Details

Everything starts on Monday, January 17th, at 11:00 AM in Steamboat Square. This is the 47th Annual Cowboy Downhill (sponsored by Bud Light) and there will be a western celebration in Gondola Square to kick things off. You will experience 4H farm animals, food and refreshments at Timber & Torch Grill, and a learn-to-rope clinic. There will also be appearances by the Denver Broncos Cheerleaders, as well as commemorative Bud Light Cowboy Downhill logo wear and souvenirs.

There are two main parts to the Cowboy Downhill: the timed Dual Slalom and the Stampede Event. The race starts at 1:00 PM. Participants will ski down a dual slalom course, go over a jump, lasso a person, saddle a horse, and cross the finish line. You didn’t think it was just skiing did you? Afterwards is The Stampede Event. This is a mass start ski competition. First cowboy to the bottom wins the race. Also, there is an after party concert that you will not want to miss. This unique concert will feature the band Lil Smokies in Steamboat Square.

2022 National Western Stock Show

Posted on January 13, 2022 by blogeditor

Attention horse-lovers—the National Western Stock Show is already in full swing this year. There is more to see and do at this year’s festivities than there has been ever before. Visitors will be able to see the Coors Western Art gallery, horse shows, and even a stock dog competition. Also cheer on the kids in the Stadium Arena and shop at hundreds of western vendors for gifts and food. Continue reading for information on this historic Colorado Stock Show. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Western Stock Show Details

The Stock Show began on January 8, but don’t worry if you forgot to mark your calendar. The festivities will still be going on until the 23rd. Depending on the day of attendance, tickets for adults are $17 to $25. Kids from ages 3 to 11 get in for under $5 and anyone younger than that gets in for free. Guest Badges, which are good for Grounds Admission for all 16 days were $70. Even though you’ve missed a few of the days, these tickets may still be available. Remember to check the Western Stock Show website before you go.

The Draft Horse, Mule, and Donkey Shows are on the last days of the stock show. Visitors will “Witness first-hand the immense horsepower of these gentle giants. Featuring the workhorses of yesteryear, the Draft Horse, Mule, and Donkey Show and pulling contest offers the beauty, grandeur, and sheer force of today’s draft horses. The final weekend boasts cart, team, unicorn, 4-horse, 6-horse & 8-horse hitch classes as well as various working horse events including the popular Feed Team Race.” There are four ticketed performances in this category so there are still opportunities to attend.

5-Star General Contractors in Colorado

Posted on November 30, 2021 by blogeditor

Believe it or not, December may be a good time to do some home renovations. Business is slower for general contractors and materials may be less expensive. Also, contractors may be eager to find work since this is usually their slow season. Continue reading for some of the top rated general contractors in your area. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Top General Contractors in Colorado

One of the best general contractors in Colorado is Ace Handyman Services. Ace started in 1998 and have served over 100,000 homes. You simply can’t beat those numbers! Ace does it all. They do tiling for kitchens, baths, and entryways. Also, they can help with deck builds and repair, including siding, fascia, and soffit repair and replacement. They also do doors, drywall install and repair, texture, electrical, fence and gate repair, flooring and dryer vent repair. They have guys for gutter cleaning and repair, weather stripping, exterior maintenance, painting and staining, leaks and drips, garbage disposal, and faucet leaks. You name it, they can probably help you with it.

Another great company to hire general contractors is Handyman Hub, Home Repairs and Remodeling: Handyman Hub started 1994 and have served over 5,000 homes. According to them, “We pride ourselves on our superior customer service and providing quality workmanship at an affordable price. Our craftsmen are the best in the business, with an average of 26 years of remodeling experience. We do not markup materials, saving you money. You’ll be glad you called Handyman Hub.” Also, they specialize in home repairs and remodeling, bathrooms and kitchens, tile repair, tile flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, and grout repair. Handyman Hub can help you with caulking, lighting, faucet replacement, garbage disposals, toilets, safety bars, drywall, paint, doors and trim, molding, carpentry, decks, gates and fence repairs.

Sleigh Rides in Colorado

Posted on November 30, 2021 by blogeditor

Winter in Colorado is a magical time. Snow blankets the ground in white as everyone prepares for the holidays. Imagine taking a sleigh ride along beautiful Colorado landscapes, holding your loved ones and enjoying the crisp winter weather. Well, you can actually take a real sleigh ride with the whole family this year! Continue reading for some of the best places to find winter sleigh rides in Colorado. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Popular Winter Sleigh Rides in Colorado

One of the best places to find winter sleigh rides in Colorado is Breckenridge. The Breckenridge Stables offer tours in two locations, namely Peak 9 and the Breckenridge Golf Club. Peak 9 is usually open from late November through mid-April, while Breckenridge Golf Club is open from mid-December through end of March. Therefore, it shouldn’t be hard to plan a day around it. Both areas have amazing views that are different from one another. Breckenridge Stables has three different sleighs. One seats 12 to 14 people, one seats up to 28, and a more intimate one that seats up to 6.

Another great venue for sleigh rides is Bar Lazy L Ranch in Steamboat Springs. The rides here are fully planned events, so the tickets are worth every penny. First they pick you up in town and shuttle you to the ranch where your horse-drawn sleigh awaits. Tickets even include a meal. That’s right, the sleigh takes you to one of their pristine outdoors settings so you can take in the sights while dinning. After you finish eating, there is some additional entertainment to help you relax a bit before riding the sleigh back to the shuttle.

Christmas Adventures

Posted on November 30, 2021 by blogeditor

Christmas is just around the corner. Are you looking for a new Christmas adventure to take your family on this year? How about a scenic train ride through some of the most beautiful places in Colorado? Continue reading for everything you need to know about these unique Christmas adventures. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Christmas Adventures: Santa on The Train

This year you can live out your childhood dream to be on the Polar Express, now until December 24 with the Georgetown Looper. Enjoy the wonderful snowy vistas as you’re visited by Santa and his Elves. Also, they pass out presents and goodies to the little ones aboard the decorated and heated coaches. It is truly a magical experience for everyone in the family! Get your tickets now as their seats usually fill up quickly. If you miss out on this specific ride, don’t worry. Georgetown Looper also has a Victorian Holiday Celebration from December 26 to January 3. Your journey to this North Pole lasts approximately 50-60 minutes, round-trip. Guests may choose from the coach section, parlor car, or Presidential car.

Every wondered how the Georgetown Looper started? Here’s a quick history lesson. The Georgetown Loop Railroad was one of Colorado’s first visitor attractions. This spectacular stretch of 3 ft. narrow gauge railroad, built by the Georgetown, Breckenridge and Leadville Railway, was completed in 1884 and considered an engineering marvel for its time. The thriving mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume lie 2 miles apart in the steep, narrow canyon of Clear Creek in the Rocky Mountains west of Denver. Engineers designed a corkscrew route that traveled nearly twice that distance to connect them, slowly gaining more than 600 feet in elevation.

Senior Horses and Winter

Posted on November 29, 2021 by blogeditor

Not all horses are the same, but generally speaking senior horses need a little more care during the winter months. Now is a great time to get your horses examined before the real cold gets here. Your vet can assess your horse’s weight and make specific recommendations for their nutritional needs. Continue reading for some more tips on how to get your senior horses ready for winter. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Keeping Your Senior Horses Warm

Diet is important in keeping your horse warm. Within minutes of eating a meal, the horse’s digestive processes begin to generate heat and warm the body. Also, a lot like humans, calories that aren’t immediately absorbed are stored as fat. Fat is the ultimate insulation for horses. Older horses tend to have less fat on them, so make sure they have plenty of hay to eat this winter. Did you know that most horses consume 2% of their body weight in hay per day? For a 1,000-pound horse, that’s 20 pounds of hay! In winter you’ll probably need to increase that amount for your senior horse.

It’s a common misconception that horses have to have blankets on when it is cold or snowing. Rain and wind are actually worse, so make sure your senior horses have access to shelter. Shovel a path and put down straw, hay, gravel, or shavings to make it a safe surface for walking. But here’s the bottom line. An older horse with the proper weight and no health issues probably does not need a blanket. Leaner senior horses or horses with health issues should be blanketed. Shivering is a sign they definitely need a blanket.