Re: big saddle
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 8/13/2004 7:26:44 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Does anybody have any ideas on getting a saddle for a "big" girl? I am looking for a western synthetic saddle with a 19" seat for my fjord. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. ** Big Fjord or human girl? ;-) No, we don't all fit into those 15" seats! I have a Bob Marshall treeless which can be ordered in any seat size. It's not synthetic, though. If I were you I'd do a search on eBay or check with catalog stores like State Line Tack. SLT carries the Wintec line and can probably get larger sizes for you. / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
big saddle
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Does anybody have any ideas on getting a saddle for a "big" girl? I am looking for a western synthetic saddle with a 19" seat for my fjord. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Desperate to ride in Elgin Patricia
expensive Fjords
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 8/13/2004 3:04:53 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I recently had a lady ask me, while at a local expo, "Why are your Fjords so expensive? I can get one from (above mentioned ranch) for less than half of that" ** Hi Amy- It always confounds me when people think Fjords are expensive. Personally I think they're dirt cheap, especially if they've been well bred, raised, and trained! I see TBs or QHs for sale in the 10s of thousands despite club feet, lameness, etc. Now THAT's expensive. / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 8/13/2004 8:54:43 AM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Question. What do you think about outcrossing with Fjords?? What brought this question to mind was an ad on Dream Horse.com for a Fjord cross named Cooper. ** I saw Cooper, and actually wrote to his owner inquiring if he were an "intentional" cross. Apparently the breeder added TB to his/her Fjords to refine them and add height. To each his own. Our registry doesn't allow it. My personal observation is that the Fjord is not a breed that crosses well. A breed like the Friesian adds spark, beauty, movement, etc. when crossed. The Fjord seems only to add the dun color, or a big neck or head, when crossed. You often end up with something that looks like a mule and has the temperament of the non-Fjord. / )_~ /L/L Brigid Wasson SF Bay Area, CA www.Brigid.Clickryder.com
Spindly Evolution?
This message is from: "Ruth Bushnell" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> ... The fact is that the all-purpose > Fjordhorse suitable for riding driving and light draft that we have now is > the same type as they had in the late 1800's. > Just because a Fjordhorse has qualities of a good riding horse capable of > being used for dressage riding does not mean he is a "spindly legged > creature who can't do anything without going lame". Lori I changed the topic subject line for Steve's benefit =)) I could have commented on the crossbreds but Lynda used up all the allotted broadband (?) space.. HA! and besides there's probably not anyone who doesn't already know what I think on said subject. =)) I would like to add though, if there's space enough, that a very important reason not to cross is because of the potential for disproportion... a bulky Fjord torso with spindly Arab legs for support! (not a pretty sight!). As far as the evolution of the ideal Fjord model, I wholeheartedly agree with this account that Lori has written. Most folks are breeding true to the Standard, what more can we ask? Far more important to strive for optimum functional movement, than aim for size alone! (which is true of any particular selected facet in breeding) Ruthie, nw mt
Re: Rei Halsnaes
This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> What is interesting is that Modella's sire is a full brother to LINE N-13475 C-108, who's descendants include Faksi (yellow) in Norway, my Stella II (White Dun), and all her descendants, Anvil's Edel (Red dun) and her descendants, as I have outlined in a previous message to the list. So this white Dun line of Fjords is connected and shares many of the same traits as well as color! Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, sunny and warm again, stirring up the Forest fires1 > >It should be noted on behalf of Modellen, that his mother, Modella, brought >the white genes. Modella was a much treasured mare in Norway, and produced >many very fine offspring. Jean Ernest Fairbanks, Alaska mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
2005 Celebrations - Norway and Canada too!
This message is from: "Cheryl Beillard" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hello Birgit .. I just wanted to let everyone know, if they can't make their travel plans fit with the NFHR celebrations (in 2006, as Curt has pointed out) -- there will be at least ONE Fjord-related event, in Alberta/CANADA next year .. linked to the joint celebrations of Norway's 100th national anniversary, and Alberta's establishment as a province. You may want to consider tying your visit, if you are really keen on coming in 2005, to one of the events in Alberta .. when the details are known (I'm working with the Norwegian Embassy in Ottawa on one initiative and there is, of course, a provincial committee looking at the whole program of events for next year, in Alberta). But of course there are many other long established events that have lots of appeal, in the US too. Cheryl Beillard Wake-Robin Farm Fjords Wake-Robin Carriage Co. Inc. Contact us for a catalogue of the Swedish Tidaholm Marathon Carriages we are importing. : ) www.wakerobinfarm.ca (613) 649-2437
Rei Halsnaes
This message is from: "David McWethy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> It should be noted on behalf of Modellen, that his mother, Modella, brought the white genes. Modella was a much treasured mare in Norway, and produced many very fine offspring. It seems the mares don't get the notariety that the stallions do, and Modella was certainly an exception. Can anyone else tell something about her or others of her offspring? Dave
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 8/13/2004 12:57:12 PM Eastern Daylight Time, "Monica Spencer" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes: >I still don't understand why people hate the idea so much. Especially >since >DNA typing ensures no crosses can be registered as purebreds, so >the purity >of this unique breed is safe. I really don't see what's >wrong with a Fjord >cross. Monica: I'd like to comment on this (respectfully of course) from personal experience. First let me say that there isn't really anything "wrong" with the Fjord crosses out there in general. Yes, it's true that crosses cannot be registered either by mistake or devious means, but... The problem is that people can still falsly represent a cross as a "Fjord" because the breed is still somewhat uncommon. Locally here, there has been a ranch importing PMU horses, some of which are Fjord crosses. I have heard of several people buying these animals as "Fjords." Two local women I know bought a pair of crosses from another source, and persist in calling them their "Fjords." Their use of the breed name for crosses can be and I'm sure IS very confusing to the person who may not know better. I recently had a lady ask me, while at a local expo, "Why are your Fjords so expensive? I can get one from (above mentioned ranch) for less than half of that" Of course, I proceded to explain to her the difference between pure bred, registered Fjords and questionable percentage crosses. I also had a man Email me asking my opinion of a "Fjord" filly he was considering buying (again from above mentioned ranch)... This filly was a BAY with a white star & a white sock. I think it is this misrepresentation that angers people so. Don't you think a breeder of quality purebred Arabs or Haflingers or Friesians would aloso resent having cross breds represented as being "Arabs, Haflingers, or Friesians?" Aside from the above, I am also strongly against cross breeding because I happen to think Fjords are just perfect the way they are. And, as the saying goes... Why mess with perfection? Amy
Refined fjords.
This message is from: "Janne" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> I have to get in on this one a bit. I guess I have the same concern as Lynda, and I think many of us do, as far as the conversations I have had with other Fjord owners and breeders around the US over several years. ( I do get out of ND once in a while, haha) I HIGHLY respect those who show either dressage or western or what ever level you take your fjord to, - you go!! Really, I mean this, so please DO NOT read me wrong. Lori A., Gayle W. and on goes the list of great horse people and great PR people for the fjord breed But I believe our concern is more as it realtes to the FOCUS on a lighter type in breeding, and thereby going in a direction that may EVENTUALLY change the type of fjord that was most commonly used as a versatile fjord horse. That being not only in body, but the MIND of the fjord as well, which I put way high on my list when we breed fjords. And I believe that in reality the large % of fjords will still go to families with no showing in their agenda at all. And with the versatile population of humans in the US, from East to West, Norht to South, there will always be different focus on HOW one USES a fjord, - just do not let that focus change this versatile breed itself. My two cents form ND Janne Myrdal
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: vivian creigh <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Oh my good friend, I knew you could nor would not let that one pass by. Bravo, V On Friday, August 13, 2004, at 03:56 PM, Lori Albrough wrote: This message is from: Lori Albrough <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] However, I also know I am not alone in wondering what we are doing to this magnificent breed. Regardless of how many times we are told by various people the Fjord horse has always been bred to ride and drive, I have to question if we are not taking the "riding" aspect too far. My personal thoughts are we are changing the breed to match this ideal versus retaining the breed as it is, with the few exceptional Fjords being outstanding dressage and hunting champions. If you actually study the Norwegian studbooks going back 150 yrs you will see that Fjord bodystyle has changed and changed again over the years to suit the needs of the Norwegian people. The fact is that the all-purpose Fjordhorse suitable for riding driving and light draft that we have now is the same type as they had in the late 1800's. Simply look at the drawing of Rosendalsborken - now there is a horse I would like to ride. The heavier draftier type of the mid 1900's was a response for a need for horsepower on the farms after the wars. Just because a Fjordhorse has qualities of a good riding horse capable of being used for dressage riding does not mean he is a "spindly legged creature who can't do anything without going lame". I am currently showing two Fjord geldings in dressage shows and they have good bone (8.5" front cannons), good feet (no shoes), big bodies (extra wide saddle trees), and good Fjord type. They look as a Fjordhorse should look. People say "What a chunk of a horse" and "I can't believe a horse like that can be so light on its feet" and "How can he be so supple with that big neck?". One of these geldings won the log pull at Woodstock. These are versatile all-purpose horses, truly what we are promoting in our breed. Lets not slander the breeding programs of those who are actually breeding a horse who CAN do it all, and moreover, are taking them out and proving it! Lori Lori Albrough Bluebird Lane Fjords Moorefield Ontario http://www.bluebirdlane.com
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] For some reason, my first post did not show the separation of the conversation, sorry! Lori, <<>> I would not compare Rosendalsborken to the concept of a "refined" Fjord. He was a gorgeous animal that had all the qualifications of a Fjord, and rightly so. <<>> This is not what I said nor intended to say. I was talking about the potential future result of the breed if we become too focused on the refined type of Fjord. It takes a few generations for such abnormalities to occur, as we know from other breeds. There are quite a few pictures of Fjords available from the late 1800's and 1900's that depict a Fjord that is either mid line, which is what I would consider Rosendalsborken, to "drafty" of type. I have yet to see a picture during this era that depict a "refined" Fjord. Again, this is just my opinion! Lynda
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Lori, In a message dated 8/13/2004 3:59:16 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Simply look at the drawing of Rosendalsborken - now there is a horse I would like to ride. The heavier draftier type of the mid 1900's was a response for a need for horsepower on the farms after the wars. I would not compare Rosendalsborken to the concept of a "refined" Fjord. He was a gorgeous animal that had all the qualifications of a Fjord, and rightly so. <> This is not what I said nor intended to say. I was talking about the potential future result of the breed if we become too focused on the refined type of Fjord. It takes a few generations for such abnormalities to occur, as we know from other breeds. There are quite a few pictures of Fjords available from the late 1800's and 1900's that depict a Fjord that is either mid line, which is what I would consider Rosendalsborken, to "drafty" of type. I have yet to see a picture during this era that depict a "refined" Fjord. Again, this is just my opinion! Lynda
Re: Birgit & Denmark representative at Blue Earth
This message is from: "Pat Holland" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Birgit - Thank you for bringing to our attention the great influence Denmark has made in the Fjord world in general and in North America in particular. I have been privy to the Danish influence and particulars but many of our membership are not aware. Another Modellen offspring that is cause to be proud - is Silas, owned, trained and shown by Patti Walter - she has been showing him in open hunter and jumper competitions and considering soon - Eventing. I just saw a video of him in a jumper class and it was unbelievable. If we could figure out a way to braid the mane he would not look out of place in a A rated (AHSA) USeq sanctioned show. I am very serous about an open invitation for representatives of the European nations to come to Blue Earth next July. Considering your position with your organization - if you are not able to attend, would you consider sending Soren and Vibieka Juellund. It is my understanding he is the breeder of " Rei Halsnaes" and along with his very talented wife has made the greatest influence regarding that line in not only Denmark but Germany as well. I had the fortunate opportunity to speak to Vibieka on several occasions a few years ago, I believe they as a couple are excellent representatives. Please feel free to contact me regarding attending the Midwest Fjord Horse Club Show in July 2005. Our presentation of the Fjord next July will be above and beyond anything ever presented in North America. That I will assure you. Plans are being made already. I have several dedicated people working with me as we speak, I plan to keep active the enthusiasm created by this years show and continue to receive ideas and support. I am meeting with several of my committee people in two weeks while attending an evaluation in Wisconsin. Looking forward to hearing from you Pat Holland, MWFHC Show Chairman
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: Lori Albrough <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] However, I also know I am not alone in wondering what we are doing to this magnificent breed. Regardless of how many times we are told by various people the Fjord horse has always been bred to ride and drive, I have to question if we are not taking the "riding" aspect too far. My personal thoughts are we are changing the breed to match this ideal versus retaining the breed as it is, with the few exceptional Fjords being outstanding dressage and hunting champions. If you actually study the Norwegian studbooks going back 150 yrs you will see that Fjord bodystyle has changed and changed again over the years to suit the needs of the Norwegian people. The fact is that the all-purpose Fjordhorse suitable for riding driving and light draft that we have now is the same type as they had in the late 1800's. Simply look at the drawing of Rosendalsborken - now there is a horse I would like to ride. The heavier draftier type of the mid 1900's was a response for a need for horsepower on the farms after the wars. Just because a Fjordhorse has qualities of a good riding horse capable of being used for dressage riding does not mean he is a "spindly legged creature who can't do anything without going lame". I am currently showing two Fjord geldings in dressage shows and they have good bone (8.5" front cannons), good feet (no shoes), big bodies (extra wide saddle trees), and good Fjord type. They look as a Fjordhorse should look. People say "What a chunk of a horse" and "I can't believe a horse like that can be so light on its feet" and "How can he be so supple with that big neck?". One of these geldings won the log pull at Woodstock. These are versatile all-purpose horses, truly what we are promoting in our breed. Lets not slander the breeding programs of those who are actually breeding a horse who CAN do it all, and moreover, are taking them out and proving it! Lori Lori Albrough Bluebird Lane Fjords Moorefield Ontario http://www.bluebirdlane.com
RE: "clannish" fjords
This message is from: Cynthia Madden <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> There is something about the way Fjords recognize each other. Our favorite story is when Steve arrived after dark with Tank and his Morgan. There were no lights in the tent stabling area. Steve unloaded Pferd first and it was very quiet. When he unloaded Tank immediately you could hear the sound of Fjord pony whinnies. There were two other strange Fjords there who had never met Tank but they knew he had arrived and they all loudly greeted each other in total darkness. Because it was a driving show, there were, as usual, many Morgans but nary a peep out of any of them. Cynthia Madden Las Cruces, NM [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.geocities.com/cmadden88011
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: "Donna Kelly" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Judging by Steve's post and another I received off list. I DID NOT mean to open a can of worms. I happened to see the horse on Dream Horse.Com and I have not noticed any Fjord outcrosses before. I have no intention of getting a Fjord to outcross. In fact I have no intention of breeding at all. I am interested in getting a Fjord to pleasure ride and drive. However I come from a background of raising and showing Arabians. Outcrossing is very common as I'm sure you know. There is also a great deal of outcrossing of drafts to produce warmbloods. So I was interested to know how the Fjord community feels about it. Donna Kelly Germansville, PA OK everyone, I'm hereby putting you on notice to keep this short and civil. I DO NOT want to see vast amounts of bandwidth burned on this innocent question! -- Steve McIlree Owner/Administrator FjordHorse List
Re: fly spray
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I use 1/2 cup skin-so-soft, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup water and 20 drops of pure citronella oil. Jeanie Lambert
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: "Monica Spencer" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > This message is from: "Donna Kelly" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > > Hi All, > Question. What do you think about outcrossing with Fjords?? What brought this > question to mind was an ad on Dream Horse.com for a Fjord cross named Cooper. Donna, you'll find that a lot of folks on this forum are, to put it mildly, dead set against outcrossing Fjords. I've followed this discussion before (it comes up from time to time) and I still don't understand why people hate the idea so much. Especially since DNA typing ensures no crosses can be registered as purebreds, so the purity of this unique breed is safe. Most of the horses I've owned have been crosses of one sort or another (not Fjord crosses) and I really don't see what's wrong with a Fjord cross. But that's just my personal opinion. Monica in Nelson, BC
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hello, The following post is my opinion only, not necessarily our farm's. :) Outcrossing used to be done to create a breed that would be "better" than the two individual breeds used to create the outcrossing. For example, Thoroughbreds and Morgans. Today, we have virtually unlimitless breeds of horses all reputed to do certain tasks quite well. Therefore, the necessity of outcrossing is nil, for one can, with research, find a horse perfect for their personal desires and goals. In regard to the Norwegian Fjord, many of us find the concept of outcrossing distasteful for the Fjord, all by itself, is exceptionally versatile and is known for its fine and gentle temperament. Theories abound that crosses resulting from Fjords tend to not always carry over this wonderful temperament, but do almost always have coloration patterns similar to a purebred Fjord. However, I also know I am not alone in wondering what we are doing to this magnificent breed. Regardless of how many times we are told by various people the Fjord horse has always been bred to ride and drive, I have to question if we are not taking the "riding" aspect too far. All one has to do is look through some of the old photographs of Fjords to see an obvious and drastic change in type over the past few years. Van "Vestlandhest" tot "Fjordenpaard" is a prime example. Even just a few years ago it was accepted the average Fjord was primarily a family horse, able to ride, drive, and even do draft work exceptionally well and thrived in this environment. The exceptional Fjord (not many), were noted for progressing in dressage, Western riding, and jumping. Now, all of a sudden it appears the average Fjord is now expected to be what used to be exceptional, and the desire and demand for the more refined Fjord with the "Arab" dished face is emphasized. My personal thoughts are we are changing the breed to match this ideal versus retaining the breed as it is, with the few exceptional Fjords being outstanding dressage and hunting champions. This does not mean I believe most Fjords cannot perform at these levels for this is far from the truth. However, many people who are looking for these types of Fjords are not planning on doing this kind of work with them either; they are more concerned with the Fjord's appearance being closer to what they are used to seeing in American horses, while still retaining a bit of distinction with the cute little mane and dorsal striping. So, if I had my choice on if we would continue to breed the more "refined" Fjord which of course, will eventually develop into spindly legged beautifully colored horses that cannot do anything without becoming lame (as our American breeding history has proven us to do with countless breeds and various species), or outcross to "create" this type of horse that is becoming so popular...well, I would chose the outcrossing done PROPERLY with a solid plan behind the action. This would retain the Fjord type and uniqueness many of us love about the breed without seeing it ruined all to fulfill what appears to be a normal American fad. I should note that I am not in any way a proponent of outcrossing the Fjords. However, I am also becoming increasingly disturbed to see such a change in type, as well as the demand for this type, as I have noticed over the last couple of years. Lynda In a message dated 8/13/2004 1:05:45 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Especially since DNA typing ensures no crosses can be registered as purebreds, so the purity of this unique breed is safe. Most of the horses I've owned have been crosses of one sort or another (not Fjord crosses) and I really don't see what's wrong with a Fjord cross. But that's just my personal opinion.
Re: FC Gwendellin and fjord-jubilees
This message is from: Curt <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Birgit had written: "I think it is a great idea and already last year I decided that 2005 would be a good year to visit the fjord-community in USA. " In regards to your possible trip to USA, I wanted you know that Norwegian Fjord Horse Registry (NFHR) is making plans for its 25th anniversary celebrations in 2006. The plans have not been finalized and are in the early planning stages. We are hoping to have a celebration and educational event in late September or early October 2006. Although the event will not be a national horse show or evaluation, it will be an excellant opportunity for the entire Fjord Horse community to see the North Americans and some of their Fjords. As soon as our board of directors approve the plans for this event, we will be inviting everyone to attend. Ideas are welcome. Regards, Curt Pierce Chairman, 25th anniversary Committee
Re:picky eaters
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 8/13/04 11:09:35 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: > Yes there is no question any fjord I do or have owned have been picky > eaters. > > They pick one field clean and then move onto the next and pick it clean too. > ROFL.tooo darn funny. and true. i don't think oz ever raises his head in the pasture. unless he hears a peppermint wrapper within 2 miles :)
Re: outcrosses
This message is from: Steve McIlree <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Friday, August 13, 2004, Donna wrote: > Hi All, > Question. What do you think about outcrossing with Fjords?? What > brought this question to mind was an ad on Dream Horse.com for a > Fjord cross named Cooper. > thanks in advance, OK everyone, I'm hereby putting you on notice to keep this short and civil. I DO NOT want to see vast amounts of bandwidth burned on this innocent question! -- Steve McIlree Owner/Administrator FjordHorse List
outcrosses
This message is from: "Donna Kelly" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hi All, Question. What do you think about outcrossing with Fjords?? What brought this question to mind was an ad on Dream Horse.com for a Fjord cross named Cooper. thanks in advance, Donna Kelly Germansville, PA
FS: English AP saddle for Fjord
This message is from: Eileen <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Hello Listers, I've decided to sell my fairly new English saddle that fits my Fjord mare (and replace it with a synthetic). It's a black leather, all purpose model by Ascot Int'l with a very wide tree (I'm guessing 36cm) and generous 18"+ seat (listed as 19"). You can see the saddle at Frontier Equestrian, http://www.frontierequestrian.com/getProduct.cfm?CatList=31 I'm selling it because the leather on the seat and most of the flaps is smooth and too slippery for me and my green horse. The flaps do have suede on the front. The panels on this saddle are quite wide and generous, great for our Fjords, and the seat is large. I'm asking $225 plus shipping - I'm in eastern WA. I can send photos. Eileen in easetern WA, sure tired of temps in the triple digits :-(