Since 1984, the Equine Foundation of Canada (EFC) has been funding projects, equipment, and students to improve the welfare of horses in Canada. Fundraising has always been a challenge for the EFC, but 2021 was particularly complicated by the pandemic, lockdowns, and the limitation of person-to-person contacts. This has been especially true in Alberta due to the economic slowdown. Several years ago, Eldon Bienert was instrumental in securing several significantly large donations that have sustained the foundation through these tough times.

More than 33 years ago, Arnold Epstein, founder of Equiade and long-time horseman and pharmacist, was searching for an effective way to enhance equine performance. After spending time developing the product to find exactly the right mixture for maximum effect, he created Body Support.

Brain bucket, crash helmet, head armour, noggin shade, bump cap. Protective helmets have many derogatory names and a long history of ridicule. For decades, hockey players’ sweaty locks flopped about as players slammed into the ice and were walloped by pucks. Skiers protected their brains from colliding with trees by pompom-topped toques, and cyclists wore a leather hairnet to protect their brains from smashing into the pavement. Horseback riders boasted trendy top-hats in the late 1700s, while the fashionable bowler was invented in 1849. Apparently, the bowler’s “tasteful design meant that it didn’t blow off easily.” Fortunately, protective headgear design and social acceptance have evolved.

SciencePure Nutraceuticals Inc., the developers of brand PUREFORM®, first presented their targeted nutritional supplement concentrates to the equine and pet markets in 1997. The first equine products were designed to target horse joint pain (GHCL Plus/Glucosamine PLUS), as well as inflammation and respiratory issues (Curcuzone/First Response). They were so well received by the equine community in North America that the company received awards and accolades within the first two years.