Topic

Discussion

Action

Person Responsible

Invitation of GHC officer to attend our meeting

Buster Black reported that he emailed the GHC before the 1^st of the year and has yet to receive a reply

Topic

Discussion

Action

Person Responsible

Strategic Planning Meeting

Gregg Martin scheduled the February 19^th meeting for strategic planning for the club. Members are requested to be prepared to discuss their recommendations

Topic

Topic

GA Equine Day – Feb 5

Lakeside Training Center Clinic

Unwanted Horse Coalition

Hay Directory

Upcoming Benefit Ride – 3/21/08 – White Plains GA

Creating an Equine Source Directory

FDR State Park work day – 3/8/09

Master Equine Training

GA Equine Rescue League yearly meeting

Smooth Gaited Horse Clinic

Contact Bobby Mitchell on the passing of his father-in-law

Topic: Equine Dentistry – necessary for health; necessary for performance

Dr Febles, a vet for 20 years specializing in equine dentistry for the past 8 years, discussed the affects teeth have on the overall health of the horse. Effective dentistry is the result of training, knowledge and skill. She indicated that it is a felony in GA for one to practice equine dentistry who is not a vet. Unlike humans the horses tooth continues to grow throughout the life of the horse. Horses chew in a circular motion sliding back and forth so proper care of the teeth is vital. TMJ and being out in the poll result from teeth needing care. She recommends smoothing the canine tooth and removal of the wolf teeth. Horses need dental care beginning at age 2. From 2 to about 6 the horse needs semi-annual care. Afterwards yearly care is recommended. Because she is a skilled practitioner she knows how to avoid thermal trauma in using the power tools. An equine dentist is necessary because without the proper equipment the teeth at the back of the mouth can not be reached. Horses do get tooth aches and have abscesses. She believes that cribbing is a behavior problem. Gastric ulcers are possible and she has an inexpensive test to determine if a horse has these. Horse have to have good forage. Typical fees are $35 for sedation and $95 for floating.