<b>By DOUG GRAVES<br>
Ohio Correspondent</b> </p><p>

SILVER SPRINGS, Ky. — Kentucky is considered an equine Mecca for any horse owner, and in northern Kentucky, one can find any kind of breed and discipline. But in years past, there’s been no official gathering place for these enthusiasts.<br>
Anna Zinkhon, a horse trainer and 4-H adviser, changed all that. One year ago, Zinkhon formed the Northern Kentucky Horse Network with a dozen fellow horse enthusiasts. To date, the club is 204-strong and growing in numbers.<br>
“Our country was formed with horses and people were around horses all the time,” Zinkhon said. “As things became more modernized, horses fell by the wayside. Most people have lost contact with these animals.<br>
“Lots of people out there have the passion for horses, but don’t know how to deal with them properly. Many horses nowadays are raised like poodles. We want people to become better owners so these animals are healthier and happier. And, a little more discipline makes it safer for everyone.”<br>
According to Zinkhon, a “horse muck” committee started in 1999 to focus on waste management in the equine industry. In 2002, that committee began creating educational programs, on-farm demonstrations, field days and a grant fund distribution system.<br>
The committee saw additional horse owners’ needs they wanted to address. So, in 2006, a group of equine leaders from Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties and representatives from the three extension services and conservation districts met to discuss equine industry needs. The Northern Kentucky Horse Network grew from that meeting.<br>
“Our expectation is to fill the need of those horse owners,” Zinkhon said. “And, we’re concerned with helping people with all breeds and all disciplines. Anyone.”<br>
This club attracts riders mainly from those three counties, though some come from other counties in Kentucky and Hamilton County in Ohio.<br>
“Anyone can be a member,” Zinkhon said. “Our goal and dream is to make our community the best horse community in Kentucky, and by doing this, we’re making lives better for our horses.”<br>
The club offers occasional swap meets, field days and many educational gatherings, such as grazing classes and equine nutrition, equine dentistry, horse shoeing and much more. For more information about the Northern Kentucky Horse Network, contact Zinkhon at 859-781-5779 or e-mail her at anna.zinkhon@fuse.net