October 2026 Issue

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE By Capri Stiles-Mikesell A s President of the Pennsylvania Equine Council, I would like to extend a warm welcome to the many new members and followers who have recently joined our organization. We believe this surge in support is largely the result of the action the Pennsylvania Equine Council was willing to initiate regarding the proposed ordinance in Bedford County. Your interest and engagement demonstrate that Pennsylvania horse owners, breeders, trainers, boarding stable operators, and equine enthusiasts recognize the need for a strong statewide voice advocating for the equine industry. Our Corresponding Secretary continues to receive numerous phone calls from concerned horse owners regarding fireworks being discharged dangerously close to stables, barns, and pastures. These incidents place both horses and humans at risk. Horses can suffer severe stress, injury, fence damage, escape attempts, and other dangerous consequences when startled by fireworks. Animal housing includes not only stables and barns, but also pastures where horses are maintained. The Pennsylvania Equine Council calls upon both the Pennsylvania State Police and local law enforcement agencies to educate themselves on Pennsylvania’s fireworks laws and to consistently enforce those laws. Pennsylvania law prohibits the discharge of consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure or vehicle and contains other restrictions designed to protect public safety. The current fireworks regulations are found in 3 Pa.C.S. Chapter 11 (Fireworks), specifically Section 1104 regarding the use of consumer fireworks. Fireworks are just one reason to protect yourself as a horse owner with excess liability coverage. Pennsylvania Equine Council has worked with many horsemen and event organizers who require proof of insurance before horses may be entered at county fairs and other public events. Adequate insurance protection is becoming increasingly important across all segments of the equine industry and serves as an important safeguard for participants, facilities, and the public. The Pennsylvania Equine Council strongly recommends that boarding stables establish a best practice requiring all boarders to carry excess liability insurance which can provide valuable protection for both horse owners and stable operators. The Council’s “Plus” memberships include as a benefit personal excess liability insurance. Benefits include: • Additional liability protection beyond standard policy limits. • Financial protection in the event of accidents involving horses, riders, visitors, or property damage. • Reduced exposure to costly legal claims and litigation. • Greater peace of mind for stable owners and boarders alike. • Demonstrated commitment to responsible horse ownership and risk management. Visit our website for more information at pennsylvaniaequinecouncil.org As we look toward the future, membership renewal notices will be mailed soon. I encourage every current member to reach out to at least two fellow horsemen and invite them to join the Pennsylvania Equine Council. We remain the only statewide equine organization in Pennsylvania dedicated to guiding and supporting horse owners through the challenges that affect our industry. Your membership strengthens our collective voice and ensures that Pennsylvania’s equine community continues to have effective advocacy, education, and leadership when it matters most. Thank you for your continued support of the Pennsylvania Equine Council and of Pennsylvania’s equine industry. Sincerely, Capri Stiles President, Pennsylvania Equine Council Pennsylvania Equine Council Newsletter • OCTOBER 2026 Horse SKIP’S TIPS VULNERABLE POSITION D o not develop the dangerous habit of ducking or passing under the head of a tied horse when tacking or grooming or for that matter, any time. You place yourself in a very vulnerable position if the horse should pull back or leap forward. Either cross to the other side by passing around the rear of the horse (stay close) or take a second to untie the horse if you have no other choice but to pass in front.