This message is from: "Sharon" <s_obri...@verizon.net>
re: fjord retirement pastures - there are no fjords at this ranch so far, but it's a possible solution for someone looking for a retirement pasture because of moderate So Cal weather, and the opportunity to move 24/7 helps them keep their weight in check. The rolling hills offer gentle exercise. Heaven's Ranch, has several pastures, the largest is a 33 ac pasture that houses several retired horses, and some not retired horses. (www.heavensranchllc.com ...also specialize in lay-ups and offer comfortable retirement for older horses). It's in Chino Hills, So Cal. The 33 ac pasture has a creek flowing thru it on the north end with many shady trees and 3 sets of rolling hills toward the south end. The hills have never been fertilized or farmed. The hills are as they were 100 years ago. The horses are fed daily in the winter at the south end and as the scrubby pasture blooms in the spring and as the horses dictate, by leaving more and more hay on the ground, they start feeding every other day. The horses graze, hang out and wander all day. They can drink from the creek or they make their way as a loose herd across the 3 sets of rolling hills to the water trough at the south end. And then they head back to the north end for breakfast. Because of the opportunity to move and exercise 24/7, the horses keep themselves toned up. I was amazed that my very easy keeper mustang made it thru the springtime bloom with no weight gain because she self-exercised. There is usually a stall available if the horse needs to be pulled off the bloom for a few weeks. Maximum number of horses is @15. I know several of the horses have arrangements with the office to have regular trims and vet visits. As Jo Wilgus mentioned (I live in CA in desert climate. my fjords both do quite well in the heat and winter. we do get some 40 degree nights, even some 30's, but those are rare.) re: winter rains and summer heat- there are only the trees for shelter from the rain, and the horses know where to stand to get out of the short-lived winds that sometimes accompany the rain. In the summer they stand on the hills and catch the breezes. good luck, Sharon Important FjordHorse List Links: Subscription Management: http://tinyurl.com/5msa7e FH-L Archives: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw FH_L Shirts: http://tinyurl.com/8yky94l
