RE: Teaching horses to stand quietly
This message is from: "Gail Russell" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> I can understand your skepticism after seeing Parelli's 7 games tape. No Fjord I know (except Guntharwho is incredibly sweet, but has a mind more like an Arab) would give two hoots about all that rope wiggling. So Jean, what was different that changed your mind? Gail This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> We had a Parelli clinic here last year and I audited it, with a skeptical mind at the beginning. but after auditing the whole level 1 clinic I signed up for the clinic this year(level 1) It will be a 2 day level 1 and a 3 day level 2
selling Fjords in CA
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi Everyone- I have received several emails about Fjords for sale since I mentioned my efforts to promote them here in my area. I would like to suggest that you place ads on an extremely popular site called Bay Area Equestrian. Text ads are free and photo ads are very inexpensive. This site gets zillions of hits as browsers read the message board, bulletin board and articles which are updated daily. Check it out at www.bayequest.com / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
RE: Teaching horses to stand quietly
This message is from: "Skeels, Mark A (MED)" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> I think what everyone is trying to get at,,, is to teach your horse to stand quietly there is some training that is going to be necessary. If you read into these posts, what they are saying is that one training method that really works is thru the teachings of Pat Parelli. Nothing happens over night. But Pat Parelli has broken training down into methods that are easy for those on both ends of the rope to understand and get quick results from,, if applied daily, you will see quick results. Standing quietly tied to a post or cross tied is quite different from standing quietly in one spot and not encroaching into your space next to you while you get the horse tacked up, cleaned up, hoof's picked, etc; with no rope securing the horse anywhere. This can be done with Pat's methods. We have seen fast results using his methods, and we aren't horse people by any means. If you want your horse to stand quietly, and you don't know how to accomplish this, then you will have to seek instruction from someone who is good at what you want to accomplish. Pat Parelli's methods or someone else's, it don't matter. But Pat's methods, I think you will find, you will see very fast training results with. The only thing I have had a problem with his methods on the Fjord, is pinching the leg and getting the horse to lift their foot, it seems I could squeeze with vise grips the location and method shown, and it don't phase our horses. So I just pick them up, the old fashioned way. Everything else has worked great on all our horses. If you are looking for a Step 1, 2, 3, approach, then his is very good. Costs maybe a couple hundred to get going, on the first phase, but the money is well worth it, and your horse will be very well mannered everywhere you go. And of course this money can be split between all the horses you ever own, plus you will be trained along with the horse. Also a note on his equipment. We have bought his equipment, then needed more, so decided to get look a like stuff at other local stores. IT AIN'T THE SAME. The rope is either too stiff and hard or to soft and floppy. His tack seems to be best. And I don't get any commission. I guess you get what you pay for. Of course my wife and daughter do most of the training, and if the equipment has a problem, I hear about it. And so far what we have gotten from Pat is pretty good. His vocal delivery is maybe 98% good, a few swear words or expressions you may not want the young ones to hear, but hopefully that goes over their heads. His methods also teach you why a horse does what they do, and how to show your horse how to over come the prey/preditor and pecking order instincts they sometimes show towards you, such as kicking, hard catching, dominant aggressive behavior, etc. Just my 2 bucks worth. Mark Skeels -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Karl & Jerrie Froelich Sent: Monday, May 24, 2004 8:50 PM To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com Subject: Re: Teaching horses to stand quietly This message is from: "Karl & Jerrie Froelich" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> er - this is all great; but doesn't really help with the original question.. > This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > > In a message dated 5/24/2004 12:14:07 PM Pacific Standard Time, > [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > I have been practicing the Parelli methods for a couple months. I > think it works very well, but have not really had much first hand > knowledge > > > Hi Debi- > > I like the Parelli stuff a lot. Many people are now combining the method > with > clicker training for a very comprehensive program. Respect+body > language+what > > / )_~ > /L/L > Brigid Wasson > SF Bay Area, CA > www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
Re: Show Horse vs farm horse
This message is from: Tamara Rousso <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> I think I started this whole thing by complimenting Carol on the fine horses that she wrote about, but saying that even though Harrison has not had, and will not have, those accomplishments he is just as fine a horse to our families. I really didn't meant to start a debate. I just wanted to express how pleased I am with our non-show horse. But I think that Ruthie is onto a good point here because some of the recent posts have made the point that an average horse like Harrison can be shown and then he will be a ta-da "show horse". It's okay by me that some on the list think showing adds value to a horse. I know Harrison is invaluable to our family and the show route is just not for me. We LOVE Harrison and don't need validation of his worth by anyone else. I get your point Ruthie! Right? :^) tamara On Monday, May 24, 2004, at 07:07 PM, Ruth Bushnell wrote: Okay, we've established that shows are wonderful and that showing your Fjord is wonderful too... here's what bothers me, it is the inference, or misconception if you will, that any Fjord "path" other than a show circuit is unacceptable, or of lesser value, and that if Fjord underachievers were to only try harder, pay or borrow more, spend more time, (doing something they might not enjoy or be well suited to) then they too can elevate the station of their Fjord to a more favorable value and desireable status. (in the opinion of show buffs). Maybe I am mistaken! ...and nobody believes that a show horse is superior to a plough horse? or nobody sees "just" a farm horse as a project? or nobody regards a FJ nonparticipating owner as a loser? That would be good! just thinking... Ruthie, nw mt
Re: a "Star" is born
This message is from: Mariposa Farm <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hey good news Can I uncross my fingers now? Congratulations you guys (and good job Beth and Sandy) :) Mark Mariposa Farm Jon A. Ofjord wrote: Just after I got to work this morning, I got the call "It's a girl!".
a "Star" is born
This message is from: "Jon A. Ofjord" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Just after I got to work this morning, I got the call "It's a girl!". I knew the voice on the other end of the line was Beth Beymer of Starfire Farm. For almost a year now, we had been anxiously awaiting the birth of this foal and I was glad to hear that the filly was healthy, and of course, beautiful. Our mare, Vesla Mai, the mother of this little filly, has been out at Beth and Sandy's for over a year. Last year we had contacted Starfire Farm and booked a breeding to Beth's stallion BDF Obelisk, along with a few months training by Beth on our mare. During the summer things were progressing well for Vesla. Beth would e-mail us with weekly progress reports regarding her training, and we were thrilled to learn she had settled right away, and was in foal to Obie. Being a maiden mare and all, this was to be her first foal. I was able to get away from my job during July to go down and visit Vesla and get some more horsemanship pointers from Beth. I was delighted to see the progress she had made with Vesla. I went home dreaming of riding her on my 60th birthday, coming up at the end of September. As it turned out, we weren't able to get her shipped home in time for my birthday. I did have a trail ride and feed for my friends however, and it was a great way to spend my 60th year. On October 1st, I got a call from Beth. All I can remember of the message was "Vesla doing O.K. She's recovering from colic surgery at Colorado State University" We were stunned with the news. I looked up everything I could on colic surgeries, and the statistics didn't look good. They were 50/50 at best. She had torsion colic. Within a couple of days, we were given the bad news that she had sloughed the mucosa of her intestine. This in turn, caused a toxic shock to her system causing laminitis. More devastating news! We were hoping Vesla could make it through all this with minimal problems, but the laminitis did cause her coffin bones to rotate. She wouldn't be able to come home because of her condition. After a ten day stay at CSU, Beth and Sandy were able to take her back to Starfire Farm. There, they set up a stall for her, and padded it deep with shavings. They had to make sure they kept her weight down, as we all know, that's hard to do with a Fjord, but they managed it. She had to be on stall rest until her feet got better. A couple week later we got the news.Vesla was still pregnant! We could hardly believe it! Going through surgery and all. With Beth and Sandy's diligent care, Vesla was slowly healing. Her feet still hurt her some, but they assured us she IS getting better and better. When I talked with the veterinarian taking care of her, he told me they(Beth and Sandy) were doing more than most people could or would do to make this horse comfortable. This meant more work for Beth. Changing the pads on her feet, keeping the stall cleaned, getting the shavings, getting her feet trimmed. She told me she was going to be in this for the long haul. Taking the time to care for this horse, that wasn't even theirs, plus taking care of all their own horses at Starfire is an enormous amount of work. Getting the news today that Vesla had given birth to a healthy, bouncing baby girl was the best news we could have received. Vesla will still be out at Starfire Farm for a few more months, until she can stand the trip home (northern Minnesota). We have decided to name the baby "Bethany Star". Bethany is a combination of "Beth" and "Sandy", and "Star" for Starfire Farm, the place she was bornand because, in time, we hope she will be one. Without the help and kindness of these two wonderful women, this would not have been possible. Thank you Beth and Sandy for helping all of us through this. Jon & Mary Ofjord North Coast Fjords Grand Marais, MN 55604
Re: Skito Pads
This message is from: Lori Lemley <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> You can buy them through sportsaddle.com or loristack.com
Re: Teaching horses to stand quietly
This message is from: "Karl & Jerrie Froelich" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> er - this is all great; but doesn't really help with the original question.. - Original Message - From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Monday, May 24, 2004 3:24 PM Subject: Re: Teaching horses to stand quietly This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 5/24/2004 12:14:07 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I have been practicing the Parelli methods for a couple months. I think it works very well, but have not really had much first hand knowledge of how well others were doing with it. (And I certainly do not think that this is the only way to get things done) But after auditing and participating in clinics, I have seen some transformations happen. I watched a dancing 3year old paint go from using his owner as his personal chew toy to a respectful and still standing courteous horse. Hi Debi- Fjords are known for using humans as chew toys :-) I like the Parelli stuff a lot. Many people are now combining the method with clicker training for a very comprehensive program. Respect+body language+what Fjords love most, food! There is a yahoo list called PNHClickers which is very interesting. / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
Re: Show Horse/ Cynthia
This message is from: "Ruth Bushnell" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >...What your average Fjord owner can do, however, is attend events locally. Many > barns have schooling shows, play days, and clinics. If your friends are going > they can give you a ride...Brigid And then your "average Fjord owner" will be above average? = just kidding. What you've said here is true Brigid, and that's a good suggestion too... and I'm not picking at your post at all... But I feel like everyone is missing my point (which must be my problem, for not expressing my idea better) so I keep hoping somebody will "see" what I'm trying to say, so I can shut up. =))) How many ways can I say that I am not trying to diminish the value of shows, and showing Fjords!! I'm all for them, and commend every person and horse therein... and I suppose that most other people also think they're grand. Okay, we've established that shows are wonderful and that showing your Fjord is wonderful too... here's what bothers me, it is the inference, or misconception if you will, that any Fjord "path" other than a show circuit is unacceptable, or of lesser value, and that if Fjord underachievers were to only try harder, pay or borrow more, spend more time, (doing something they might not enjoy or be well suited to) then they too can elevate the station of their Fjord to a more favorable value and desireable status. (in the opinion of show buffs). Maybe I am mistaken! ...and nobody believes that a show horse is superior to a plough horse? or nobody sees "just" a farm horse as a project? or nobody regards a FJ nonparticipating owner as a loser? That would be good! We are now such a politically correct society, that dares not speak condescendingly of any human being... regarding their abilities or opportunities, or any other lack which might devalue them in any way... that I can't help but wonder why we sometimes tolerate bigoted innuendoes and condescension within Fjord ranks? I know we're talking animals here =)) but we have already "humanized" so many facets of our beloved horses... save for this one pocket of outlandish hierocracy!? just thinking... Ruthie, nw mt
Re: hi there
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hello List, Just had to share my excitment today..my stalls went in the new barn today and the dutch doors in the back for the runs! I watched all day while the groups of builders put them in. I still have to level the floor some, put in the tack room and other little things but it's just about done. This is my first barn that is all mine and that I had input in building so it was an interesting process. My husband left the whole thing to me to deal with quotes, and inspectors, builders, and the works. It wasn't too bad. The waiting for each part to be done was the hardest:) So if you are in the process, don't worry, it will go smoother than you think. I held my guns about payments only when each part was done..I did not want to be taken advantage of as a woman! I am going to have a hard time getting house work done this week..I may just go out and sit in the barn and smell the new wood smell:) Next big thing is the electrical part..have electrical guys coming to give quotes this week. Hope you are all having a fabulous spring. We finally received the rain we needed..three inches in two days. Looking forward to visiting with lots of you soon at the next big fjord gathering. Thanks for letting me share:) Kathy
Re: Skito Pads
This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Tryhttp://loristack.com/skitopad.htm Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska >I use a Bob >Marshall treeless sport saddle for my 7 y/o. I noticed a post, I believe from >Bridgit stating she uses the same saddle with a Skito pad. Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: Skito Pads
This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Check the "Endurance net": http://www.endurance.net many of the vendors carry them. http://www.endurance.net/Vendors/index.asp Jean in sunny Fairbanks, Alaska, mud drying up. >Bridgit stating she uses the same saddle with a Skito pad. ace to purchase. > I was looking for information on where to purchase this pad. Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: Show Horse/ Cynthia
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 5/24/2004 11:35:37 AM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: and I too loved the detailed accounts of the girls in OR. (thanks Brigid) ** You're welcome! I love to write, especially about my adventures! What I was trying to define was that many people can't afford to travel through "five states," as you have done, and what with the price of fuel we all know that is a large expenditure... and goodness sakes, there are folks who don't even own a trailer! ** Egads, I do spend a fortune on gas with pet sitting and horse activities. What your average Fjord owner can do, however, is attend events locally. Many barns have schooling shows, play days, and clinics. If your friends are going they can give you a ride. As I said before, I like both kinds (vocations?) of Fjords, ** Let's not forget that our chosen breed is known for its versatility. The same horse can ride, drive, and pull a plow. / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
Re: Teaching horses to stand quietly
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 5/24/2004 12:14:07 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I have been practicing the Parelli methods for a couple months. I think it works very well, but have not really had much first hand knowledge of how well others were doing with it. (And I certainly do not think that this is the only way to get things done) But after auditing and participating in clinics, I have seen some transformations happen. I watched a dancing 3year old paint go from using his owner as his personal chew toy to a respectful and still standing courteous horse. Hi Debi- Fjords are known for using humans as chew toys :-) I like the Parelli stuff a lot. Many people are now combining the method with clicker training for a very comprehensive program. Respect+body language+what Fjords love most, food! There is a yahoo list called PNHClickers which is very interesting. / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
Re: Skito Pads
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 5/24/2004 12:54:55 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I noticed a post, I believe from Bridgit stating she uses the same saddle with a Skito pad. I went to our local tack shop yesterday to inquire about the pad, and they were unaware of this brand. Hi MJ- The Skitos are custom made. One of their many good features is their length -- they stop at the edge of the saddle and don't hang over the rump of the short-backed Fjord like your typical western pads. They can be purchased through www.sportsaddle.com / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
Re: Teaching horses to stand quietly
This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Deb, Who was your Parelli instructor? We had a Parelli clinic here last year and I audited it, with a skeptical mind at the beginning. but after auditing the whole level 1 clinic I signed up for the clinic this year(level 1) It will be a 2 day level 1 and a 3 day level 2. I was very skeptical about the whole Parelli "show" but after watching this clinic I decided to try it myself. Not Pat Parelli, but a woman..forget her name at the moment. Jean in Fairbanks, Sunny at the moment after hard rain all night. >I have been practicing the Parelli methods for a couple months. I >think it works very well, but have not really had much first hand knopwledge >of how well others were doing with it. (And I certainly do not think that >this is the only way to get things done) But after auditing and >participating in clinics, I have seen some transformations happen. Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: show horses
This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >Linda in MN...UFFDA!! Raining and cold.last 14 days out of 16 have been cloudy and temps 10-15 degrees below normal. W Global Warming? Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, where we have been having the rainiest May I can remember..but hey! No forest fires! Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: Show Horse/ Cynthia
This message is from: "Ruth Bushnell" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > This message is from: "jgayle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > > Ruthie, the comment "yeah but with a fjord you don't have to choose" to me > meant that the fjord is so versatile you can do all the different styles of > showing, trail etc. Jean G. > YOU'RE probably right Jean... that's why I thought that I probably agreed with her =))) and how true it is, their very next best virtue to compliance, is their versatility. Ruthie
Skito Pads
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi, My name is MJ Allen, I own 2 fjord mares 3 & 7 y/o and board 1 gelding 15 y/o. I have been a lurker on this list for a couple of years.I use a Bob Marshall treeless sport saddle for my 7 y/o. I noticed a post, I believe from Bridgit stating she uses the same saddle with a Skito pad. I went to our local tack shop yesterday to inquire about the pad, and they were unaware of this brand. I've checked the internet, they had info, but not a place to purchase. I was looking for information on where to purchase this pad. My "big"western pad seems to slip and I don't get quite as long a ride on my wool blanket. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank You, MJ Allen Olympia, WA
[Norton AntiSpam] Re: address
This message is from: Kim&Gunnar Rogstad <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hi Pat The mailing address is 7663 Old Shiloh Rd Pefferlaw Ont L0E-1N0 Thanks Gunnar
Re: Aussie Saddle
This message is from: "Cherie Mascis" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> I have three Icelandic horses with a fjord on the way. Two of the Icees are wide (wintec x-tra wide gullet) pretty witherless and the Longreach aussie endurance saddle fits them well. It's light weight (13lbs) and flexible. It's from Down Under saddlery www.downunderweb.com It's about $795. They also make a cheaper copy for about $450. called the Kimberly Lite rider. It fits well and is decently make but with cheaper leather. Cherie Red Bluff, CA (soon to be moving to Klamath Falls)
Re: Show Horse/ Cynthia
This message is from: "jgayle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Ruthie, the comment "yeah but with a fjord you don't have to choose" to me meant that the fjord is so versatile you can do all the different styles of showing, trail etc. Jean G. Author "The Colonel's Daughter" Occupied Germany 46-49 Send $20 to: PO Box 104 Montesano, WA 98563
Re: Show Horse/ Cynthia
This message is from: "Ruth Bushnell" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> ...I just want to have fun with my horses. I'll take him anywhere and I'm not ashamed if we don't win. The comments of people who come up to visit us and stroke Tank are more than enough reward. I've always thought of Tank as an outstanding Norweigian Fjord Horse Ambassador!..Cynthia You and Tank both sound like great Fjord ambassadors Cynthia, as breeders, we greatly appreciate your many efforts to well represent the Fjord horse at large. I agree with you that "having fun" is the best criteria. That's what I was trying to say in my last post, and your letter adds significantly in that comment. Good of you to share Tank's profile with his show career and I too loved the detailed accounts of the girls in OR. (thanks Brigid) What I was trying to define was that many people can't afford to travel through "five states," as you have done, and what with the price of fuel we all know that is a large expenditure... and goodness sakes, there are folks who don't even own a trailer! So when you say, "you don't need to spend a lot of money to show," I'm here to tell you that to some people, that izzz a lot of money!! I don't know what Lori Albrough intended to convey when she added a comment, to Linda's post about the merit of a good family trail horse, with "yeah but, with a Fjord you don't have to choose"... but that started me thinking... (as "yeah buts" sound converse to me =))) As I said before, I like both kinds (vocations?) of Fjords, but I'd hate to see anyone who chooses to stay at home with their Fjord be made to feel guilty or inferior in any way because of the chosen vocation for their Fjord, either by necessity or preference. So I maintain they are all equal, and as near as I can tell we are all in harmony on the reality root-value of Fjords... be they dapper, or dusted... their mounts impeccably outfitted, or a casually attired youngster going fishing. Ruthie, nw mt
Re: show horses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cynthia, Well said...showing horses has many levels.and being an ambassador for the breed speaks volumes no matter what level show. Linda in MN...UFFDA!! Raining and cold.last 14 days out of 16 have been cloudy and temps 10-15 degrees below normal. W
Re: Teaching horses to stand quietly
This message is from: "Debi Williams" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hi all, I have been practicing the Parelli methods for a couple months. I think it works very well, but have not really had much first hand knopwledge of how well others were doing with it. (And I certainly do not think that this is the only way to get things done) But after auditing and participating in clinics, I have seen some transformations happen. I watched a dancing 3year old paint go from using his owner as his personal chew toy to a respectful and still standing courteous horse. My own apppie of 24 years made such transformation over this past weekend. She was a nice sweet horse to begin with, one any beginner could use. But.. she was always in my space. I had trouble doing the famous 7 games because of her intrusions. Once she learned to back up by rhythm in the rope, we were on another planet!! This happened with several horses at the clinics. Mostly it was the backing that changed them, from my prospective. Each time they went 1 step forward we backed 2 steps. Jerking on the lead rope would get caught by the instructor immediately. We couldn't hold within 3 feet of the snap to start with. I've done that since I was a kid. By the first break we had to hold 6 feet away. End of first day and I could actually lead and stand holding only the end of a 12 ft lead, 99% of the time my mare stood still and did not fuss to come into my space any longer. All it takes now is a wiggle and she goes back. It was a wonderful time on day 2 riding(in an arena) with the halter and getting a back without pulling! You would have to know my appie, she never backed (let alone willingly) bit or halter without the tug of war! We had fun, we trotted we cantered fancy circles and turn backs with a small suggestion. I got a new horse and she got a new rider. Can't wait to try this on the fjords. Some have started already and have progressed well. Find some one doing Parelli, Dennis Reis or Clinton Anderson or the other "natural methods" and see if it helps. Debi Williams Williams Hill Fjords
Re: Draoi
This message is from: "jgayle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Dee Anna, could it be a reaction to a bee or hornet sting? The appetite part is no way to judge, unfortunately, imho, as these fjords are so stoic and such great eaters! Wish you the very best in seeing him get well. Jean G Author "The Colonel's Daughter" Occupied Germany 46-49 Send $20 to: PO Box 104 Montesano, WA 98563
Aussie Saddle
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I just had to chime in about the aussie saddles. We have one for sale. My husband used it for 8 years before he found & convinced me to go with an ortho-flex western. I have my dressage saddle, which is 'the saddle' for me, and everything inside the arena and on the trail. So this saddle is just sitting in our bedroom (don't ask) and it should be a working saddle. This is the description. Kimberley Collection 'Poley' Aussie Saddle. One of the good ones. 17 to 18 inches (depending on how you measure them) We switched out the aussie stirrups to 'S' shaped safety stirrups. This is one of the best saddles we have used on ALL our fjords. We have a mutton withered mare, a 'withered' mare with longer back, and a 4 year old 'sport' type mare. It has also fit an arab with slightly higher withers, and a 16 hand appy who is thinner but with mutton withers. This saddle fits great with all of them. The only drawback is that it is one of the origional - from austrialia - saddles and it is much heavier than those being sold today. It fits extremely well and comes with it's own pad, shaped to the saddle & rimmed in wool. I think everyone should try an aussie, however, you need to be aware of two things. 1. The flocking/packing for the tree is not always good on the 'cheap' ones. They are not evenly stuffed, and use a mixture of materials, so they are hard and soft in places. You can imagine what happens to the horse when your body weight sits on the uneven flocking. 2. The billet straps are made of much cheaper materials, so they need quickly to be changed out. New billets for an aussie (if you can find them) will run $50 to $100 and have to be threaded through the saddle. If the billets are sewed in, that's a much cheaper saddle, check the other things out. There are an aweful lot of 'knock-off's' out there. You can pay a little more now & have a great saddle, or pay less, and then find your horse in discomfort, and buy something else later. We probably have a wider tree than other saddles, but however it sits, it fits. Everything. Just my thoughts. Mel Thomas
Re:Teaching a young horse to stand quietly
This message is from: "Ulrike Schnabl" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hallo everyone on this beautiful May morning, as I am gearing up for a long trailride today,I quickly went through my horsey e-mail.To teach a horse to tie is in my opinion one of the most valuable lessons to be learned early on.For us the high-line(long rope between two trees) has worked wonders. I put the youngster together with an experienced horse(far enough apart,so they can't reach each other with hoofs and teeth) on the line.We increase the time they have to be on it gradually.One can put a haynet right next to the horse on the line,so the horse experiences something positive.However,I give them this treat only after they have accepted to be restricted for a while. The highline has the advantage of a little flexibility,so a young unpatient horse is less likely to injure neck and shoulders when pulling back. Regards Uli Schnabl Get 2 Months FREE*
RE: show horses
This message is from: Cynthia Madden <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> A show horse is in the mind the rider/driver. I thought Michelle's recent story of taking the Fjord to a show where they usually rode their quarter horse was a great example What's the purpose of showing in open shows? To have fun, for kids (and adults) to learn how to do your best, and to win or lose gracefully. Note...to have fun is the first criteria in my book. I have taken Tank to an open show series this spring and we have enjoyed having a good time and showing lots of people their first fjord. I paid $1,100 for Tank 10 years ago and have taken him to shows, horse fairs, etc. in five states. We go to show people how neat Fjords are and to associate with other horse people (Fjord people preferably but not much available now in southern New Mexico). My cart and harness cost about $1,600, the price of a really good saddle. You don't need to spend a lot of money to show. You need pride in your horse(s), a sense of humor, and a desire to improve yourself. You do have an obligation to your horse and yourself to be prepared, be neat and ready to compete. You don't need lots of silver or brass, or really expensive stuff and flashy clothes. A good judge will pick the best team. I think Tank is a good (but not outstanding) example of his breed. He is certainly an outstanding example of their personality. He has made friends in many states. He is a homebred horse (in some people's definition). In my estimation, he is a good show horse. I am not a breeder. I just want to have fun with my horses. I'll take him anywhere and I'm not ashamed if we don't win. The comments of people who come up to visit us and stroke Tank are more than enough reward. I've always thought of Tank as an outstanding Norweigian Fjord Horse Ambassador! Cynthia Madden Las Cruces, NM [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.geocities.com/cmadden88011
Re: Libby evaluation
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi Everyone, The deadline for pre-registering for the Libby evaluation is July 2, not June 1 as I previously posted. Forms can be obtained from Sherrie Dayton. Thanks. Judy Phelps Chelan, Wa.
Re: Libby Evaluation
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi Everyone, The deadline for pre-registering for the Libby evaluation is July 2, not June 1 as I previously posted. Forms can be obtained from Sherrie Dayton. Thanks. Judy Phelps Chelan, Wa.
