The Curly Cure

By Wendy Sauersmith

When I received my April issue, the first article I turned to as "Learning to Live with Horses and Allergies." What I had hoped to see mentioned was not there.

For people who are allergic to horses, there is a breed that is hypoallergenic, the American Bashkir Curly Horse. The curly hair that the breed is noted for is structurally different from regular horsehair. Curlies even have a slightly different smell than other horses. There is growing scientific and anecdotal evidence to show that people with allergies can work with Bashkir Curlies and be symptom-free.

Also, because of the natural hardiness of this gentle and intelligent breed, stabling is not necessary. Many Bashkir Curly breeders from all climates provide only run-in shelters for protection, and they have found the horses seem to prefer this arrangement. This would be beneficial to anyone allergic to hay, straw, or barn dust.

American Bashkir Curlies are being bred in all parts of the country. More information can be obtained from:

The American Bashkir Curly Registry

Box 246

Ely, NV 89301

Or

Eastern States Curly News

10200 Neo-Waterville Road

Waterville, OH 43566

I enjoy your publication very much. It is one of the few that provide articles on distance riding, which is my main interest. I hope to be competing soon with my Bashkir Curly stallion, Windwalker Shaman.