Published: October 10, 2008 09:01 pm      

4-H Silver Spurs club helps kids learn responsible horse ownership

“Mommy, I want a pony.”

That request is typically made by every child at least once in his or her life.

Although the idea of owning a pony or a horse can seem idyllic for a young child, the reality is, that responsibility brings with it a great deal of expense and hard work.

That, Carolyn Hunter says, is one of the major reasons for the Raleigh County 4-H Silver Spurs club.

Hunter is the leader of the club which, among other things, has a goal of ensuring its members know the details of exactly what goes into the upkeep of their treasured pet.

“We want to make sure the kids stay involved with their horses,” Hunter said.

The main method by which this is done is monthly meetings during which members complete workbooks.

“The children work in their horse books, do a craft, present presentations about horses and enjoy snacks while visiting with other horse-crazy kids,” she said.

Those books require the members to fill out information on how much money is spent on hay, veterinarian bills and any other expenses related to their horse.

Hunter’s daughter, Audrey Long, who grew up in 4-H and now works as co-leader with her mom, says she believes the program is important.

“It teachers them to take responsibility of their horses,” said Long, whose 6-year-old daughter, Riley, is also a member of the club.

In addition to activities at meetings, the club also sponsors horse shows, members help clean the showgrounds and also show their horses at the State Fair of West Virginia as well as at other local horse shows.

Club member Madison Walker, a 10-year-old who has been riding horses since she was 5, says competing is her favorite activity.

“Some of us go on and compete in the West Virginia State Fair in August, which is my favorite time of year,” she said.

Emily Small, also a member, agrees.

“Going to the State Fair representing our county is a great privilege,” she said.

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The club is open to members ages 9 to 21. Children under 9 can also participate as “Clover Buds.”

Hunter says new members are always welcome to attend meetings, which take place at the Raleigh County Horseman’s Association in Crow.

Anyone interested in learning more information about the club can contact Hunter at 252-0806.

— E-mail: mjames@register-herald.com