just another fun day
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi Everyone- Beaming with happiness. Those hooved ones sure work a spell on me :-) Haven't been out to see them for some days because of the weather. I arrived at the barn ~2PM. Wish I had my camera, because all 4 Fjords were lying down sleeping together! They were enjoying the first sun in days, exhausted from standing butts-to-the-wind and only lightly napping (if at all) during the storm. I changed into barn shoes and mucked my way across the pasture. A very muddy but happy-faced Knute came all the way from the other side to greet me. I hugged him and buried my face in his winter fur. Next in line was Rafael, then Tommes who was still asleep! He slowly recognized me and rose, then came to his senses and chased away the others ;-) I took him out and Rafael decided he was coming too. I waved my arms to shoo him away and he gave me a look that said MOVE. I moved. Out he came and dove into the grass. Funny, they (and the others) were rather like people who don't get enough sleep: grumpy, spacey, emotional. Needless to say I didn't ask too much today! Let them graze for a while then trimmed Tommes' hind feet. It was easy thanks to the rain. Scraped most of the mud off of him then left him with a pan of grain while I visited David, my newly acquired Shetland Pony. Today **drumroll** I was able to put the rope on the halter and tie him! When I first held the rope, restraining him, and reached out my hand, I saw the whites of his eyes. I spoke softly and stroked him like I always do, and he calmed. Interestingly, he is more comfortable with me on his right side. On the left side he was tolerant, but nervous. Then an amazing thing happened. There was a startling sound, and he ran -- to me! He looked deep into my eyes as if to say, You tied me up, now you protect me! I assured him there was nothing to be afraid of, then I removed the rope. Major progress :-) Later the barn owner arrived and moved Cubby aka Attack Pony into the vacated neighboring paddock, so David has his own place now. He was immediately more comfortable, dropping his head and ears. Now he can eat in peace, although that didn't stop him from stealing hay from his neighbor Bob the Thoroughbred, dragging it to the middle so he couldn't take it back! Clever pony... Brigid M Wasson San Francisco Bay Area, CA A HREF=http://ourfjords.freeservers.com/fjord1/Our_Fjordsx.html;Our /AA HREF=http://ourfjords.freeservers.com/fjord1/Our_Fjordsx.html;Fjords/A A HREF=http://www.ourfjords.freeservers.com/fw/Fjordings_Wesx.html;Fjordings West/A / )__~ /L /L
Re: Abused Fjords?
This message is from: Jean Gayle [EMAIL PROTECTED] Gretchen you could say the same thing about parents. Why should they have a child if they are going to abuse it. It takes all kinds. This second fjord of mine came to me abused and spoiled. One heck of a bad combination esp as he seemed to think I was his abuser. We had an awful time relating and I had to use the crop to help gain control over him. First time I used it he showed me good manners albeit with a white rolled eye. I have now had him three years and he is warming up a little more all the time. One of the most reliable horses under saddle but still likes to try to bully me on the ground. Not very strongly though. He now follows me along the fence line and allows an ear scratch. He no longer flinches at a friendly pat on the haunches if he sees it coming. He had been pastured as an only horse for four or five years without much contact. Then sold to a woman who ran a program for the disabled. She did not know fjords and cropped him severely when he balked. He got so he would buck when the children kept kicking his sides and she would discipline him for this. A woman rescued him and her children thoroughly spoiled him, until he would rip your pockets off. This whole combination of things made him a pretty miserable brute. I remember the truck driver who delivered him, ( I bought him through video only) screaming and cursing as he brought him up my road from the truck. Great intro! So maybe all of those people should not have owned him but tell them. Each had their own valid reasons but not the right training to handle him. That is life and will never change I am afraid. So saying I must go out and muck stalls so I can get to bed. Jean Jean Walters Gayle Aberdeen, WA Author:The Colonel's Daughter $20 PO Box 104 Montesano, WA 98563
RE: fjordhorse-digest V2002 #292
This message is from: Jean Ernest [EMAIL PROTECTED] Dave Mcwethy has Camptown Harness: http://www.horseharness.com/ Since he also has Fjords he has harness designed to fit Fjords! Do look at his website! Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, with 2 snow at last (At least?) Dave, per this message, who are you and do you have pictures on the web anywhere of your harness work? Also do you have a Fjord to fit to so I know I am getting one that will hopefully fit a Fjord and not a standard size horse, etc. Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Dave's Camptown harness
This message is from: Jean Ernest [EMAIL PROTECTED] Dave Mcwethy has Camptown Harness: http://www.horseharness.com/ Since he also has Fjords he has harness designed to fit Fjords! Do look at his website! Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, with 2 snow at last (At least?) Dave, per this message, who are you and do you have pictures on the web anywhere of your harness work? Also do you have a Fjord to fit to so I know I am getting one that will hopefully fit a Fjord and not a standard size horse, etc. Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
General Survey
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi all! Can't remember posting this many topics, but I had a lot to share! I hope some of you can share with me some of your information now, as I'm looking to complete a general horsey survey. This survey will be used to gather information for a report that I am submitting for our riding club's project. My topic was chosen to gather Fjord-related information, and has 20 questions listed below. If anyone would like to participate, please copy the list of questions and email them to me privately (at [EMAIL PROTECTED]). Thanks to all who contribute!! + 1.) When and how did you first learn about the Norwegian Fjord horse? 2.) Do you currently own a Fjord? If yes, how many? 3.) Do you own any other breed of horse? 4.) How long have you owned a Fjord or have been interested in the breed? 5.) What is your most favorite trait about the Fjord? 6.) What is your favorite Fjord color? 7.) Of all the traits, do you feel there is anything the Fjord could use a little improving on? 8.) What type of riding do you do? 9.) How often do you ride? 10.) Does your profession include horses? 11.) In what events do you participate with your Fjords in? If you show, what classes and how often? 12.) Do you feel that crossbreeding the Fjord is wrong? 13.) Would you or have you ever imported a Fjord? If yes, how many or for how long have you imported? 14.) Do you participate in Fjord-standards, such as trimming of the mane? 15.) Do you feel a Fjord should be registered? If yes, would you purchase a non-registered Fjord? 16.) Do you participate in identification-marking methods, such as branding, micro-chipping, etc.? 17.) Would you keep a Fjord in warm weather climate, such as a desert? Note: Usual summer temps. are 115! 18.) Which Fjord-promoting method do you think would be most beneficial: A. The circus or Medival Times type theme-show, B. The movies, or C. Strictly horse shows and Fjord events. 19.) Would you purchase a Fjord for its low cost over its quality? 20.) Do you breed or have you ever bred Fjords? If yes, how many foals a year? All information gathered for the Sagewood Spurs Riding Club, Chandler, Arizona. Gretchen Karlson A HREF=http://hometown.aol.com/fjordlove/myhomepage/index.html;Karlson Equestrian Portraiture/A
RE: fjordhorse-digest V2002 #292
This message is from: Skeels, Mark A (MED) [EMAIL PROTECTED] I don't know much about fit, but Dave on this list makes excellent harness. Dave, per this message, who are you and do you have pictures on the web anywhere of your harness work? Also do you have a Fjord to fit to so I know I am getting one that will hopefully fit a Fjord and not a standard size horse, etc. Basically interrested in a starter kit, not a show harness. Basic leather no frills or silver beads etc to run up the cost. How much are they, all usual questions that I don't know to ask. Most of my horses are 14-14.2 somewhat thick necked but not as thick as my stallion, who is real thick. Probably the typical Fjord on pasture that needs some good training to loose 200 lbs or so. Do you need measurements, if so what ones and exact locations. Thanks for any information. Mark Skeels
Re: fjordhorse-digest V2002 #292
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 12/18/2002 4:52:33 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: ...and have been having a wonderful time with the horses and now want to expand into driving. We would like any information on harnesses for sale for light pleasure driving as well as how to fit collars for heavier driving. Any information would be appreciated!! Thank you in advance, Shannon Kaplan Hi Shannon, it was great meeting you at Horsing Around. I'm going there for a lesson tomorrow. :) I also would like to learn to drive. I don't know much about fit, but Dave on this list makes excellent harness. Do you go to CC Ruth for your feed? There is a flyer I picked up (but it went through the laundry so I need another one!!!) about driving clinics in early January. First clinic is without horse. If you're interested, I'll get a flyer for you when I go back and get one for myself. Nice to see you on the list. :) Pamela A HREF=http://hometown.aol.com/northhorse/index.html;Northern Holiday Horses/A
Re: Old member returning
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Nice to meet you Alan. I'm a new member. And A new Fjord owner but own about 15 other horses. Breed Warmbloods, Morgans, Q.H., and now Fjords! Ride Dressage competitively, also jump, trail ride and some times even team-pen!!! Beleive well-rounded horses and people are Happy! Hope to get lots of helpful info, from this list! Kathryn From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: 2002/12/18 Wed PM 06:16:50 CST To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com Subject: Old member returning This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hello list members! I have been a lurker for several years. About 6 months ago I moved and lost contact with the list. I recently signed up again so I will take this opportunity to introduce myself. I own 5 horses, including 2 fjords, and enjoy driving and riding. My 5 yr old fjord mare is especially appreciated by my neices and nephews who have minimal experience on horses but are totally enamored with riding. Interestingly, I bought her as a 3 yr old and she was quite a handfull. I worked with her consistently for a year before she finally got it. Within the space of just a few weeks she went from being a reliable knothead to a trustworthy, attentive animal who is absolutely my first choice for beginner or tentative riders. I live in southeast Idaho on a small farm, am a retired military psychologist, and now work at a much leisurely civilian practice. I look forward to the comraderie of fellow fjord enthusiasts. Alan
Old member returning
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hello list members! I have been a lurker for several years. About 6 months ago I moved and lost contact with the list. I recently signed up again so I will take this opportunity to introduce myself. I own 5 horses, including 2 fjords, and enjoy driving and riding. My 5 yr old fjord mare is especially appreciated by my neices and nephews who have minimal experience on horses but are totally enamored with riding. Interestingly, I bought her as a 3 yr old and she was quite a handfull. I worked with her consistently for a year before she finally got it. Within the space of just a few weeks she went from being a reliable knothead to a trustworthy, attentive animal who is absolutely my first choice for beginner or tentative riders. I live in southeast Idaho on a small farm, am a retired military psychologist, and now work at a much leisurely civilian practice. I look forward to the comraderie of fellow fjord enthusiasts. Alan
Re: Enough!!
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hello, I did not receive this, either. Lynda
Re: fjordhorse-digest V2002 #292
This message is from: Jean Ernest [EMAIL PROTECTED] There is a wealth of information on harnesses, collars, carts, etc. on the Recreational Equine Driving List. Some members are experimenting with lines of Draught, cart balance, etc., some very interesting discussions. I really recommend reading some of these discussions and looking into the Archives and files , FAQ's etc. of this list. Harness maker Barb Lee of Nearside Harness is presently in Australia doing more research on all this with Australian Harness makers and drivers. There is information on how to measure for a collar, a whole dissertaion on Harness available to download and print out, etc. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RecreationalEquineDriving/ If you don't want to be receiving a bunch more emails, just sign up to read the messages on the web page. There you also have access to all the files, photos, ans archives also. Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, where two whole inches of snow (finallly) have made a beautiful winter wonderland. But we need a LOT more! +6 degrees. now want to expand into driving. We would like any information on harnesses for sale for light pleasure driving as well as how to fit collars for heavier driving. Any information would be appreciated!! Thank you in advance, Shannon Kaplan Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
leasing horses
This message is from: Salt Lick Stables [EMAIL PROTECTED] We have leased many horses over the years. And, like most folks who lease, we have had a few difficulties. Sadly, some people often have unrealistic expectations. As a result of such difficulties, we now lease only at our own facility. The lessee can lease for breeding purposes or riding, but the horse stays home with us. We rent 'em a stall and charge full-care boarding fees. Then we do all the work...feeding, grooming, shoeing, mucking, etc. The lessee gets all the joys of riding and showing or a beautiful new foal and we get the satisfaction of knowing our horses are well cared for and happy. Larson in New Mexico where the snow is starting to pile up (and up and up) [demime 0.99c.8 removed an attachment of type image/gif which had a name of IMSTP.gif]
Re: Bar (can't get my keyboard to do the German spelling)
This message is from: Deb [EMAIL PROTECTED] My deepest sympathies. All of my animals are my children from the horse to the dogs. I must admit my one black lab is my dearest to me as I have had her since she was 7 weeks old and now she gets whiter in the chin each day :-) I know what a loss it is, as do many others on this list, when you lose a faithful friend and companion. Take it easy and welcome to the list. Deb
Introducing Fjords to horse lovers
This message is from: Deb [EMAIL PROTECTED] A good friend of mine recently purchased her first Fjord. He is beautiful and quite well trained. He was on a 3-day mountain trail ride and while being high-lined, crossing rivers and just enjoying himself a number of folks were very impressed with him. She actually had two offers to trade him for their own gaited horses. Of course she wouldn't consider it but the point is... those of you are going to shows and such and introducing the versatility of the Fjord to other horse lovers are probably making more of an influence than you may realize. Good work to all of you, Deb
Re: A Christmas Story
This message is from: Warren Stockwell [EMAIL PROTECTED] Your right Pamela have a box of Kleenex What a beautiful and appropriate story. Thank You from my heart. Roberta - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com Sent: Wednesday, December 18, 2002 2:06 PM Subject: A Christmas Story This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] My email group of 30-odd horsewomen had this story. It is definitely worth sharing with this crowd. :) Oh, yes. Have some kleenex handy. The young couple had made their usual hurried, pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where their elderly parents lived with their small herd of horses. The farm had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine which topped the hill behind the farm, and through the years had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside. The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll, but they sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day's end. Crossly, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks. Why do you not at least dispose of The Old One. She is no longer of use to you. It's been years since you've had foals from her. You should cut corners and save where you can. Why do you keep her anyway? The old man looked down as his worn boot scuffed at the barn floor and his arm stole defensively about the Old One's neck as he drew her to him and rubbed her gently behind the ears. He replied softly, We keep her because of love. Only because of love. Baffled and irritated, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley.So it was, that because of the leave-taking, no one noticed the insulation smouldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the Old One. In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now, and the blazing heat drove him back. He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire's fury. By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left, and the old man and his wife. They thanked those who had come to their aid, and the old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulders as he clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas. Let us, therefore, climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared. And so, he took her by the hand and helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his hand. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they looked up and gasped in amazement at the incredible beauty before them. Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine, and it was aglow with star's heavenly candles. And poised on its top most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass. Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this. Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy as he pulled his wife forward. There, beneath the tree, was their Christmas gift. Bedded down about the Old One close to the truck of the tree, was the entire herd, safe. At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping daintily through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames, and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares pressed uneasily against the Old One as she moved calmly up the hill and to safety beneath the pine. And now, she lay among them and gazed at the faces of those she loved. Her body was brittle with years, but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift - Because of love. Only because of love. Pamela A HREF=http://hometown.aol.com/northhorse/index.html;Northern Holiday Horses/A
A Christmas Story
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] My email group of 30-odd horsewomen had this story. It is definitely worth sharing with this crowd. :) Oh, yes. Have some kleenex handy. The young couple had made their usual hurried, pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where their elderly parents lived with their small herd of horses. The farm had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine which topped the hill behind the farm, and through the years had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside. The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll, but they sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day's end. Crossly, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks. Why do you not at least dispose of The Old One. She is no longer of use to you. It's been years since you've had foals from her. You should cut corners and save where you can. Why do you keep her anyway? The old man looked down as his worn boot scuffed at the barn floor and his arm stole defensively about the Old One's neck as he drew her to him and rubbed her gently behind the ears. He replied softly, We keep her because of love. Only because of love. Baffled and irritated, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley.So it was, that because of the leave-taking, no one noticed the insulation smouldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the Old One. In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now, and the blazing heat drove him back. He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire's fury. By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left, and the old man and his wife. They thanked those who had come to their aid, and the old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulders as he clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas. Let us, therefore, climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared. And so, he took her by the hand and helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his hand. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they looked up and gasped in amazement at the incredible beauty before them. Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine, and it was aglow with star's heavenly candles. And poised on its top most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass. Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this. Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy as he pulled his wife forward. There, beneath the tree, was their Christmas gift. Bedded down about the Old One close to the truck of the tree, was the entire herd, safe. At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping daintily through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames, and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares pressed uneasily against the Old One as she moved calmly up the hill and to safety beneath the pine. And now, she lay among them and gazed at the faces of those she loved. Her body was brittle with years, but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift - Because of love. Only because of love. Pamela A HREF=http://hometown.aol.com/northhorse/index.html;Northern Holiday Horses/A
Let's please move on!
This message is from: Les D [EMAIL PROTECTED] It is now the Christmas Season when we are to share the JOY of our beautiful fjord times with each other. I don't normally share on the list but I try to get info or a wonderful story about someone's great time. Please enough about the slaughter houses. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good Ride ( or drive ). Les Margaret H. Callahan,Ca
Re: Intro
This message is from: Warren Stockwell [EMAIL PROTECTED] Welcome Dagmar!! Roberta - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com Sent: Wednesday, December 18, 2002 12:16 PM Subject: Intro This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I was quite surprised when I started receiving emails from this list, I thought it was a dead list. From the post I read I realize that I still don't receive emails from everyone, only through quotes from others I see these missed emails. My name is Dagmar, I am 38 years old, mother of 2 teenagers, 15 and 16 and a toddler, 2.5 years old. I do not currently own a Fjord horse, but would like to purchase one within a years time. I currently own 3 dogs, 1 Guinea Pig, a bunch of fish, a Budgie and a National Show Horse gelding named Party Lights, who is 16.1 h, 16 years old and my very first horse in 16 years, my first horse in the US. I was born and raised in Germany, owned a Fjord horse mare Laikar. I had to sell Laikar in 1988 because my American husband was re-stationed from Germany to the US. Laikar is 24 years old today and my very best friend of 22 years is still looking after her for me. I wish I had the money to ship my horse to the states, because I would have, but it gives me great comfort knowing that she is with a loving family and well taken care of. I am still a German citizen and live in Vancouver WA. Today is a bleak day for me because I have to say good-bye to one of the best dogs I have ever owned, his name is Bär, he is a Rottweiler male and he has had my heart for 11 1/2 years now. He came to us as a rambunctious 7 week old puppy! Anyway, hope to meet more of you here and learn MORE about Fjord horse keeping here in the United States, even though I believe it's not much different from any other horse breed ;) Happy Fjording! Dagmar
slaughter houses
This message is from: Janet McNally [EMAIL PROTECTED] I'm going not only by what Lynda said, but by the huge article I read in the Oregonian last summer. People who worked at the slaughter houses were also complaining. Speeding up the assembly lines HAS caused botching. No doubt about it. And there is a move to get them back to a slower speed, making it more humane. I wish I had the article to send you, but that's not the type of article that I save! Pamela, I have no problem believing there are cases where the line is moving too fast, creating dangerous situations for workers, and I would believe that on occaision, there might be an improperly stunned animal, but having worked in a turkey plant myself (boxing frozen turkeys), I can tell you that if someone up the line did not do their job properly and endangered the workers down the line, there would be an uproar. I do believe that workers would make claims that appeal to emotions to get attention to their plight, as generally, the public is more sympathetic about inhumane treatment of animals than they are to inhumane working conditions for people. Back to my original point, so this information about slaughter plant cruelty was not witnessed first hand? It is amazing how a rumor from one plant can spread and generalized to be the status quo for all slaughter plants. Be careful of what you read, there is a lot of biased press out there, some of it with deep hidden agendas. Janet
Intro
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I was quite surprised when I started receiving emails from this list, I thought it was a dead list. From the post I read I realize that I still don't receive emails from everyone, only through quotes from others I see these missed emails. My name is Dagmar, I am 38 years old, mother of 2 teenagers, 15 and 16 and a toddler, 2.5 years old. I do not currently own a Fjord horse, but would like to purchase one within a years time. I currently own 3 dogs, 1 Guinea Pig, a bunch of fish, a Budgie and a National Show Horse gelding named Party Lights, who is 16.1 h, 16 years old and my very first horse in 16 years, my first horse in the US. I was born and raised in Germany, owned a Fjord horse mare Laikar. I had to sell Laikar in 1988 because my American husband was re-stationed from Germany to the US. Laikar is 24 years old today and my very best friend of 22 years is still looking after her for me. I wish I had the money to ship my horse to the states, because I would have, but it gives me great comfort knowing that she is with a loving family and well taken care of. I am still a German citizen and live in Vancouver WA. Today is a bleak day for me because I have to say good-bye to one of the best dogs I have ever owned, his name is Bär, he is a Rottweiler male and he has had my heart for 11 1/2 years now. He came to us as a rambunctious 7 week old puppy! Anyway, hope to meet more of you here and learn MORE about Fjord horse keeping here in the United States, even though I believe it's not much different from any other horse breed ;) Happy Fjording! Dagmar
Re: the saving of Fjords
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Just wanted to quickly comment on a previous posting: From Deb: When I mentioned about the 4-6 Fjords I saw at the Hermiston auction, just this past October, only one person on this board even mentioned the posting. What do you suppose happened to them Fjords lost in a world of quarter horses. Perhaps I am a bit angry that I am a nobody on this list and so those poor Fjords didn't have a well known advocate. I was one of the folks who replied to this posting in Octoberabout knowing the location/history of the Hermiston auction and that I myself have indeed seen Fjords there. As I mentioned in my reply, from what I gathered (from a friend who was there and saw them), these Fjords seemed quite poor in quality - and quite possibly in health. To follow up on that story, I contacted my friend again to see if he knew anything about the Fjords whereabouts. Thankfully, he stated that one was purchased by a friend he knew from gaming, as a kid's 4-H project/beginner gaming horse. While he said the owners didn't purchase the horse for its breed, but rather its quite disposition, the horse found himself a good home with trusting folks. As for the remaining Fjords, he wasn't certain where they were sold to, but they did get split up - not sold together - from what he remembered. Hopefully, that's an indication that they weren't bought in bulk for a slaughter house. It's kind of hard to forget seeing such a strange breed floating through that place - which is Quarter Horse Country indeed. Lets hope and pray the other Fjords found good, loving homes as well and nothing worse. Gretchen Karlson A HREF=http://hometown.aol.com/fjordlove/myhomepage/index.html;Karlson Equestrian Portraiture/A
a new topic, leasing your Fjord
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi Everyone- Earlier this year Dagrun I decided to make our Fjords earn their keep. She put a great ad on Bay Area Equestrian, a very popular local web site, and the calls rolled in. Right away I got a great lease person for Tommes -- or so I thought. At first they were a great match, she an experienced but timid rider, he a talented and safe horse. Dagrun gave them lessons, so we all benefited. Later this person decided to move her own horse (a hot ex-trotter mare) to the same facility, so she could lesson on her. Things were moving along so well, until... Now, the place where we board is not fancy. It's inexpensive and utilitarian. We have a great barn owner/manager who doesn't mince words but is really there for you when you need her. Ask and you shall receive, demand and you'll get a hot redhead in your face ;-) In any case, my lease person saw the paddock where her horse would be kept and accepted it. THEN as soon as she moved her horse in, she started complaining. It's too muddy, not enough shelter, etc. Dagrun I advised that she speak to the barn owner and some accomodation would be made. Instead she wrote a nasty email, decided she was no longer welcome at our place, and moved her horse out without notice! She called me in tears yesterday, wondering what went wrong and regretting that she could not now lease Tommes. I'm annoyed, but I could kind of see this coming. This my first experience with leasing was actually pretty good. She rode my horse for two months, learned a lot, paid on time. Tommes is in even better shape now :-) My questions is, have any of you leased your Fjords and what was your experience? Any advice for me in choosing/maintaining lessees? Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area CA on roommates computer because the storm killed her phone line!
Re: Enough!!
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 12/18/2002 8:41:07 AM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Steve McIlree Owner/Administrator FjordHorse List Please tell me why I didn't receive your original letter, all I received was what someone else quoted. Happy Fjording! Dagmar
Icelandic horses
This message is from: Krist Martinsen [EMAIL PROTECTED] This message is from Krist Martinsen It is my understanding that in Iceland they have raised horses for a long time. Not just as a beast of burden, but as a source of food - both for themselves and as an export to France and perhaps other places. The Icelandic horse is very tough and can adapt to that harsh climate where I have understood cattle could not do well. I have not been troubled by this. I hope that I haven't step over any lines, Steve.
Re: New kid on the block!
This message is from: Warren Stockwell [EMAIL PROTECTED] Welcome!!! I am a western pleasure gal myself, but my Fjord Kaari chooses hunt. Now I have to relearn, hard to teach a old dog a new trick. I am gonna try, I will be asking questions I am sure. Roberta - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2002 3:20 PM Subject: New kid on the block! This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi! I'm new to the list and a new Fjord owner. Just recently bought (with my partners/sponsors) a young colt named ODIN from Green Valley Farm. And we LOVE him! I am not new to horse ownership. Actually have many. I have a breeding, training, teaching facility in New Glarus Wisconsin. Hope to learn lots on the list from more experienced Fjord owners. I ride mostly Dressage which is where I hope to go with Odin. Also do some eventing for fun and some occasional team penning with our QH's and TB's. I stand a Morgan stallion owned by one of my clients and compete him in Dressage. kathryn
Re: Enough!!
This message is from: Warren Stockwell [EMAIL PROTECTED] I do agree Judgement should be saved for he who has the right. Let he who has not sinned cast the first stone. Roberta - Original Message - From: Steve McIlree [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: FjordHorse List fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com Sent: Wednesday, December 18, 2002 9:22 AM Subject: Enough!! This message is from: Steve McIlree [EMAIL PROTECTED] I believe that it is time to call a halt to discussion of the meat industry in general. I would like to continue to hear from Lynda about the rescue efforts, but I believe that the discussion of the slaughter industry is becoming too emotional and off-topic. Please stop further discussion of animal slaughter and vegetarianism immediately. I trust you will do this as soon as you read this message, so I will not yet put filters in place to remove future messages on the subject. Let me say I will not censure anyone for anything they may have said on either side of this subject, and I don't believe anyone else needs to criticize anybody for anything that has been said. If you feel otherwise, put a cork in it! -- Steve McIlree Owner/Administrator FjordHorse List
Re: Slaughter houses
This message is from: Warren Stockwell [EMAIL PROTECTED] I looked back at this quote and I am of the understanding that it was from a slaughter house worker. I as I am sure others realize that it has high potential for effect the shock factor. Realize we are dealing with a true fact Fjords are going to slaughter, how it is done really doesn't matter. How it can be stopped does, I feel that is the real issue, and yes their is high emotion regarding this. I just put it in perspective. I my self know some folks that make their money buying horses at auction and selling them for slaughter. Do I understand this way of life, do I have a right to judge how another puts food on the table?? NO!! This is a respectable man he also has a trainer check out the horses and a vet to care for them and see if they should be offered for sale to the local pony clubbers or 4- h'ers These are horses that the majority of the local kids can afford. He is a rare bird. I have a meat horse at my home now he was 2 when I got him he is now 20 and wonderful. We just got a well bred 14 yr. QH at a meat auction after some searching find he is very well bred ( foundation stock), has done the show circuit and has many trophies and points. He was very thin and not well cared for, but he came home and is now the picture of health. Anyone can ride him and win. This is what ends up at the auction house often (not always). Their are folks out their that ride'em hard and put 'em up wet Their are also ( hard to say) horses that aren't fit for man nor beast but to put them out of their misery with respect is my wish. The reality is that slaughter happens, dose anyone want the Fjord to be just another horse going to slaughter, overwhelmed by the fact that their are just to many we can't save 'em all.? This was a wake up call for me I intend to be very aware of the possibilities and watch over my breed of choice. Let's face it the It's not always easy to see the Truth. Sometimes the truth sucks.Maybe some of this was over done but if any of it is true, what's the out come? Roberta - Original Message - From: Janet McNally [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2002 11:35 PM Subject: Slaughter houses This message is from: Janet McNally [EMAIL PROTECTED] When workers open the cows' skin and grab their legs, the cows try to kick us but we've already spread their legs open. And they're looking at us and they're sticking out their tongues. They make a rr noise. It's a look like, Don't do this to me You know, You're cutting me alive! They blink their eyes and they stare up at us like, Help me! While I think it is wonderful that there are people so dedicated to the Fjord breed that they will go through such effort to save a few horses, I do think Lynda's effort to pull at everyones emotions by painting the slaughter business as a filthy, inhumane practice has gone too far. While I have never been in a horse slaughter facility, I have been in a fair number of lamb and a few cattle slaughter facilities in 3 different countries and have yet to ***EVER*** see an animal that was still concious after it was stunned.Heart still beating, yes, but able to know it is being hung upside down, or look at you and blink its eyes, no. I wonder how many of you, Lynda including, have witnessed this first hand to be able to speak with athority? Or are you just trusting the word of people who have an agenda (to turn everyone against farming or into vegetarians)? In every facility I have toured, animals were led into the stunning area calmly. A slaughter plant would do this for reasons beyond the animal's own comfort, as calm animals move faster than frightened, balky animals. Also, fear and stress affect eating quality. Animals do not necessarily balk at the smell of blood like we think they would. for one, they are not educated as to what that smell means, so do not associate the smell of blood with fear. Also the sanitation of the plants I have toured (except for one) was emaculate. while I am sure there are exceptions, (and those exceptions should be dealt with), I think it is wrong to paint the entire industry with one brush, and to do so with such inacurate emotional pictures. Personally, I prefer to provide a fitting resting place here at home for my animals that provide me service, such as my dogs and my horses, and I grow my own sheep and cattle for our table. but that preference of mine does not give me or anyone licence to slander another industry with mis information. Janet W McNally
Enough!!
This message is from: Steve McIlree [EMAIL PROTECTED] I believe that it is time to call a halt to discussion of the meat industry in general. I would like to continue to hear from Lynda about the rescue efforts, but I believe that the discussion of the slaughter industry is becoming too emotional and off-topic. Please stop further discussion of animal slaughter and vegetarianism immediately. I trust you will do this as soon as you read this message, so I will not yet put filters in place to remove future messages on the subject. Let me say I will not censure anyone for anything they may have said on either side of this subject, and I don't believe anyone else needs to criticize anybody for anything that has been said. If you feel otherwise, put a cork in it! -- Steve McIlree Owner/Administrator FjordHorse List
Re: becoming vegetarian/buy locally
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Jean, Hehe, it is easier said than done, trust me!! Lynda
Re: Slaughter houses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Janet, I think it is wrong to paint the entire industry with one While I can understand your views, those pictures and that video did come from witnesses in a slaughter facility. The USDA post was directly from the USDA. None were made up by me or any others. This has become a huge issue amongst rescue groups for yes, horses are NOT supposed to be conscious during slaughter although their hearts are supposed to be beating. They are supposed to be brain dead. The problem is there so many horses being slaughtered and the pressure on the slaughter facility workers is so high some animals do go through without being brain dead. For example, in Alberta, we were notified last night that there will be at least a 1000 adult horses slaughtered before the holiday. We were actually contacted by a feedlot owner asking if we could find homes for numerous foals as he cannot feed them while they wait to be slaughtered, themselves. The feedlots are so overloaded they cannot even supply feed for the animals, so are pushing them through faster than ever. The workers cannot keep up with this pace and be humane, it is physically impossible. These are facts, we do not have to like them, or agree with them, and yes, slaughter IS supposed to be humane in a perfect world. Lynda C. Welch [EMAIL PROTECTED] Vice President, United Equine Foundation Norwegian Fjord Horse Breed Representative http://www.unitedequinefoundation.org/homepage.htm Lynda and Daniel Bailey's Norwegian Fjords Quality Fjords--Equine Transportation--Hand-braided Tack Accessories White Cloud, MI 231-689-9902 [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://hometown.aol.com/baileysfjords/
Re: Slaughter houses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 12/18/2002 1:43:23 AM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: While I have never been in a horse slaughter facility, I have been in a fair number of lamb and a few cattle slaughter facilities in 3 different countries and have yet to ***EVER*** see an animal that was still concious after it was stunned.Heart still beating, yes, but able to know it is being hung upside down, or look at you and blink its eyes, no. I wonder how many of you, Lynda including, have witnessed this first hand to be able to speak with athority? Or are you just trusting the word of people who have an agenda (to turn everyone against farming or into vegetarians)? I'm going not only by what Lynda said, but by the huge article I read in the Oregonian last summer. People who worked at the slaughter houses were also complaining. Speeding up the assembly lines HAS caused botching. No doubt about it. And there is a move to get them back to a slower speed, making it more humane. I wish I had the article to send you, but that's not the type of article that I save! Pamela A HREF=http://hometown.aol.com/northhorse/index.html;Northern Holiday Horses/A
PA Horse World Expo Feb 2003
This message is from: M Korose [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hello List Understanding that everyone is concerned about Fjords running around withour homes, I offer an opportunity to all Listers that have Fjords to sell. We are participating in the PA Horse World Expo 28 Feb - 2 Mar 2003 in Harrisburg PA (http://www.horseworldexpo.com/index_PA.htm) We will be taking our stallion (LFF Ulend) gray 3 yr old to the stallion avenue and we will have a small booth promoting Fjords. This is our attempt to promote the Fjord in the Mid Atlantic region, we are trying to get a demo time too for 1-2 daily presentations (probably driving). We have some nice materials with pictures, info, a light up presentation board, the works. We will be glad to offer flyers to folks with your sale horses as we have found most people love to see the Fjords and ask Where can I get one?. We will charge $10 for distribution, we need your flyer by mail or email. I will let everyone know the local charge for making 500 BW copies here, or you can send me 500 yourself. If you send a color flyer, we will display it (and give out BWs) or you can send me color copies, it is too expensive here to get them made. Think about this, especially if you have horses anywhere near the Mid Atlantic for sale(northeast, southeast, etc). We will be glad to take flyers for sale items or sale websites, we do not plan on selling any merchandise. Thanks for listening and remember, if they don't know where you are, you can't sell those beautiful horses. (email is [EMAIL PROTECTED]) Marsha Korose and Curt Pierce in VA (LFF Ulend is looking forward to meeting new Fjord girls next year, he is available by AI also, he knows that there will be no Fjord girls at the PA expo :-( ) Yahoo! Mail Plus - Powerful. Affordable. Sign up now. http://mailplus.yahoo.com
Re: becoming vegetarian/buy locally
This message is from: Jean Gayle [EMAIL PROTECTED] Good for you Lynda. When I try to remain emotionally calm in such a situation my face goes purple. I have to take a calming pill if I know before hand I think you have really gone beyond the call of duty. But I also know the type fellow you describe and they do not value a woman's ideas. $$$ usually work but not always. You deserve a medal. Jean Jean Walters Gayle Aberdeen, WA Author:The Colonel's Daughter $20 PO Box 104 Montesano, WA 98563
Re: becoming vegetarian/buy locally
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 12/17/2002 10:37:06 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I will admit that it is not easy to not yell, curse, accuse, etcbut to save horses this close to slaughter one must work from within the system's acceptance level, if that makes any sense. So, I find the best way is to treat this as a business transaction, make it clear I am doing this to rescue Fjords, my reasonings, etc., but remain rational, calm, and absolutely no emotional display whatsoever. I was involved in dog rescue for quite some time and must say nothing rings truer even in the business of canine rescue Happy Fjording! Dagmar
Re: like lambs to the slaughter...
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 12/17/2002 9:49:29 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: points out that the the slaughterhouse workers are people who are desperate for work, and are often severely hurt or disabled in the process of doing their jobs at the pace required. I have been on this list for quite some time and have never received an email until today! But I will save the intro for a later date. The above is absolutely true, a very dear friend of mine was very desperate for a job and ended up working at a slaughter house in MN and ended up crippling both of her wrists. It's very hard work, but work that also put food on the table and fed her hungry children. Everyone has to do what they need to do to survive and (this won't make me very popular or liked, oh well) who is ANYONE to judge someone elses lifestyle or means of making a living especially if there are NO OTHER ways and children need to be fed?! Happy Fjording! Dagmar
Re: I'm offended
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Andy, Of course, there is no money in small scale farming and ranching, so my father worked at--and eventually bought into the ownership of--a small, local slaughterhouse. He ended up going out of business because he couldnât compete with the huge factory-type I can understand what caused you to feel offended, but when I read the post you were discussing, it was in reference to the huge factory-type slaughterhouses we were discussing previously. Actually, that post was made in reference to the pictures I had posted that came FROM some of these huge slaughterhouses. Some of the members discussed supporting the type of slaughterhouse your father worked in and eventually owned and I also agree with this. This small ones do have the time to make sure the animals are not in pain. However, horses do not fall into the category of these type of slaughterhouses, unfortunately. Slaughterhouses that take horses ARE large, factory type. These are where Fjords are taken to and I personally felt this person's post was directed toward that sort of slaughter and was especially focused on the slaughter of horses in general. Just my take! Lynda
Re: becoming vegetarian/buy locally
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Jean, Actually, I found when dealing with these people I had more success making agreements, arrangements, etc., by doing this myself and being very straightforward, unemotional, and rational. The problem with the farmer himself was an issue in and of itself and I do not believe pertained necessarily to us. There were actually two problems. The first being he literally does not see horses as pets, companions, loving creatures that we do. He discussed them literally as meat. Carcasses. Price per pound. To reiterate this, when he told Jan he had sold the Fjords at the auction already, he stated very clearly he had no problem taking an order from ME for more. Taking an order, like ordering an item from a store. This was a simple transaction to him, he simply did not see the difference between those Fjords and another three he could purchase for us. He also apparently operates under the first come first serve basis, which he did not indicate to me whatsoever. The real problem is a bit trickier, and no matter how I say it, someone will get offended, I have no doubt. When Carol posted about these Fjords, I immediately emailed Alicia and being the impatient person I am wanted to talk to her RIGHT NOW. Of course, I have background in rescue work and know that every minute can made the difference. This is just life in horse rescue. I called Carol and asked for a number, Carol did not have it but said Jaimie did and both Carol and Jaimie went out of their way to get me the number as soon as possible. I do not think it was even a half an hour later when Carol called with it. So, I called the number and got a message machine for a stable, left a message, and later Alicia called back. Alicia was not happy with talking with me. She told me she had wanted Carol to purchase these horses, which is why she contacted Carol. I explained nicely that Carol was so worried about these horses she posted to the list, I saw it, called...here I was, what can I do? She quoted a much different price, $2000 Canadian then said that no, the Fjords were NOT going to slaughter in 2-3 days, but 2-3 months. I insisted on talking to the farmer to get to the bottom of this. This is where I made an awful mistake. I believed her and while still planning on working with the farmer, I was not as pressured by time, so I thought. IF I would have had even one inkling then and there we were under a tight time line, I would have immediately requested the assistance of the President from Foal Quest sooner in tracking this farmer down, began more intense fundraising work right then and there, and maybe we might have beaten this farmer taking these Fjords to that auction. The initial dealing with Alicia and then waiting for the farmer to contact me back with accurate information wasted almost an entire day. We needed that day to avoid what happened. I feel terrible about this as if we could have had just one more day, those poor young Fjords would not be on that truck right now having to go through the ordeal they are going through. I learned a valuable lesson with this type of rescue, seconds count when dealing with the actual slaughter aspect, minutes are just too long. However, Jean, you are correct in the fact that in dealing with these people, emotions MUST be left to the side. The slaughter man in Owen Sound has been extremely helpful and nice to me. He actually has told me the entire process of going back through paperwork to hold an auction liable in the event they sell a stolen horse. When I spoke with him today, he clearly stated that I could purchase ANY horse from ANY of his trucks if he knows in enough time. I will admit that it is not easy to not yell, curse, accuse, etcbut to save horses this close to slaughter one must work from within the system's acceptance level, if that makes any sense. So, I find the best way is to treat this as a business transaction, make it clear I am doing this to rescue Fjords, my reasonings, etc., but remain rational, calm, and absolutely no emotional display whatsoever. Lynda C. Welch [EMAIL PROTECTED] Vice President, United Equine Foundation Norwegian Fjord Horse Breed Representative http://www.unitedequinefoundation.org/homepage.htm Lynda and Daniel Bailey's Norwegian Fjords Quality Fjords--Equine Transportation--Hand-braided Tack Accessories White Cloud, MI 231-689-9902 [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://hometown.aol.com/baileysfjords/
