[IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
I used to keep fish in my water tank but one year my tank water heater broke down and all the fish froze. Pat G., in MN Where do you get a tank water heater? Is it battery or mains? Sue Coombes
[IceHorses] Re: Bill Saddling Beaut
Finally, here's a couple of pictures of Bill with his hoist which enabled him to be able to saddle Beaut by himself, in the later years. Thanks Judy for the photos, I'm in the process or re-reading Bill's book as night time reading. It is even better second time around. I am also doing the Parelli programme level 1 and have got to the porcupine game. It is still raining here.Very few dry days for 10 months now. Yesterday we were 80% under water. It's slow going. Susan coombes
[IceHorses] Re: What Gait / TWH in Belgium
What gait for this Tennesee Walking Horse http://gaited-horse.blogspot.com/2008/04/what-gait-tennessee-walker- in-belgium.html Mostly flat walk.Some ordinary walk in the middle and a little running walk near the end. Sue Coombes
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
2008/5/1 Susan Coombes [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Where do you get a tank water heater? Is it battery or mains? Sue Coombes You've never needed a tank heater? Wow.. Sometimes I forget how forgiving other locales are to live in. Ice and snow are no thrill... Oh..in answer to your question, you plug them in to an electrical source. Wanda
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
You've never needed a tank heater? Wow.. Sometimes I forget how forgiving other locales are to live in. We have one, but have never used it. We get ice on the top of our tanks sometimes, but so far, never so bad that we can stir it and break it. We have tanks that are pretty deep though. I'm sure shallower tanks would need them here sometimes. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
I agree with you completely and then I am going to confess that I just asked my grandson to do the first few rides on Yrsa. The difference here is that Gabriel is 17 and a better, more balanced rider than I am and he probably weighs more. He's certainly more agile and athletic than I am.l I don't have him train, although he did a great job with a Welsh pony I gave him several years ago. I just let him be the first person who sits on the ponies and the first person they move forward with. Using a young person can make sense in a situation like you describe. I would bet your grandson has been riding much of his life - certainly for many years? There's certainly something to the first rider being an agile, balanced rider. I'd rather that the horses not be backed by a really large person the first time, but there's always the trade-off between all the factors: weight, balance, senstitivity/awareness, agility, calmness and experience. Emily would probably have been ok to have done the first rides by the time she was 13 or MAYBE even 12, but we didn't start any horses about that time, and I wouldn't have allowed her to do it for anyone else, for horses I didn't know very well. She was a phenomonally good rider though, and a very sharp and sensible kid who'd had really good and sensitive training. Ironically, I probably wouldn't have wanted her to do it between the ages of 13 and 16, as her hormones kicked in. Gosh knows, parents get awfully stupid about that time, and starting a horse would be no time for a family situation involving a petulant teenager! Kids hit adolescence at varying ages, and to varying degrees of rotten-ness, but that would be a factor I'd consider. Unfortunately, I'd say that most of the kids that are finally getting enough experience to be the first rider up about the time that adolesence strikes, and by the time that has settled, they are essentially adult sized. Karen Thomas, NC
[IceHorses] OT a foundling
for two years now my geese lay huge piles of eggs and set them for months and never hatch anything. Then last nite my husband calls me at work and says I had six geese hatch out! He said all were doing great, but one he is scrawney and stunted and the mom kicked him out of the nest so something must be wrong with him, I'll probably have to put him down but he put him in the incubator to stay warm. I get home and find five perfect fluffy huge baby geese, and one pitiful little bewildered duck :) I reckon mama duck wanted a surrogate mama to raise her babies! haha Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] What Gait / TWH in Belgium
http://gaited-horse.blogspot.com/2008/04/what-gait-tennessee-walker-in-belgium.html Walking for the most part. I'd say mostly flat walking, with some regular walking and maybe a couple of short parts that might have been running walk. I think I also saw one brief glimpse of step pace, where she changed his direction and he seemed a little resistant. Overall, that's a lovely horse - reminds me of Blaze, a gorgeous palomino TWH pleasure horse that my buddy down the road owned when we were kids. Good for the rider for not pushing the speed too. It's always best to let the horse get really comfortable in his gait(s) before asking for more speed. Many nicely gaited horses will step pace (or hard pace) if pushed too fast, or if they lose their relaxation, and it would be a shame to rush this horse past his nice natural gaits. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
I have ground driven him a few times but he is way better at it than me! But he doesnt pull and drag on me. He is a very lackadaisacal nonchalant guy. I think it will be ok. Trust me. I know my horses and if he is the least bit uncomfortable or even fretting I will just let Kale waller all over him as he stands at the mounting block. I am in no way starting him under saddle with a child. I guess that is a misunderstanding. I am just proceeding to the next logical step after two years of me teaching him cues as I lead him around to me wallering on him while he stands perfectly still at the mounting block, to now, time for someone to go ahead and sit on him. But any adult would be too heavy I think. Not just me. Even a 120 pound adult would be too heavy at this point I think! But one day I had him carry a sack of feed across the saddle all over the yard and he was fine with it, even when it fell and crashed at his feet, he was like oh just one more weird thing she is doing to me all the time... And I wasnt intending at ALL to have Kale RIDE him on his own using reins. yi. wouldnt even do that in a stall or roundpen. Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Liz in Belgium
wow, has to be an awesome group... their suggested reading is Lee Z, Bill Dorrance and Eckhardt Tolle! Jeez would be a spiritual experience! Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
I would bet your grandson has been riding much of his life - certainly for many years? Gabriel started riding when he was about 13 I think, but we started with lessons right from the get go and the girl we chose is a dressage rider. Then he rode her ponies over fences for a couple of years before he got too big for them - he's not a big guy, only about 5'6, but too big for our Secion A ponies. Now he's a sometimes endurance rider on his Arab, Tali Sinjabi.. This story took on a twist when his older brother drove him to his lesson one afternoon, fell in love on the spot, and eventually married Ellie the dressage instructor. They have a second baby due 6/28. So be very careful when choosing riding instructors that you choose someone you would welcome into the family. In the case, we did well. Nancy
Re: [IceHorses] OT a foundling
Pictures, Janice, we want pictures. Nancy
[IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
You've never needed a tank heater? I have only had horses a year. I didn't know I could get one. I use a kettle which doesn't seem very effective. The pipes to the paddock and stabe freeze too so I carry water from the house to buckets in the yard. It's only for a few days. I don't have mains electric to the pasture only the stable block. The yard is only a few steps from the house and there is a small paddock adjoining which I use for winter turn out/sacrifice area. I will do a search and see if there is one I could use in the yard.
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
On 01/05/2008, Karen Thomas [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You've never needed a tank heater? Wow.. Sometimes I forget how forgiving other locales are to live in. We have one, but have never used it. We get ice on the top of our tanks sometimes, but so far, never so bad that we can stir it and break it. We have tanks that are pretty deep though. I'm sure shallower tanks would need them here sometimes. So maybe you can guess why Icetolts hold no pizzazz for me. We deal with ice enough in the winter, no reason to put a show on for it. Wanda
Re: [IceHorses] OT a foundling
pictures! We need pictures! Jacki
Re: [IceHorses] An Old Image from Old Tolt Magazine
Judy Ryder [EMAIL PROTECTED] kirjoitti: I thought it was interesting that the noseband was labeled American. And the word tryk was used pointing to the upper and lower portions of the noseband. It's labeled American, because it seems to be originally a piece of tack used in western riding. At least that's the section where I find it in European (German) internet tack shops. I've never actually seen one used but looks nasty because the portion going around the head is so thin and round so it probably puts a lot of pressure to those tryk points... Krisse
Re: [IceHorses] for the grace of god
Janice McDonald [EMAIL PROTECTED] kirjoitti: when my nasi was gelded it was found that his ingual ring was open and gut fluid was in his scrotum and the vet said it could have led to hernia where his intestines might have descended into the scrotum. And he said that would be life threatening. I didnt get the full grasp of that til today, one of my favorite young horses was purchased last week by a friend and my friend called to say they gelded him this morning, not by a vet, and when the man (experienced at it) made the incision his intestines spilled out in a big pile into his hands. The vet came and they had to put him down I am just shocked. The vet said nothing they had done could have made it a different outcome unless they had known beforehand and sent him to Auburn. Janice That's why vets usually before the castration feel the inguinal rings rectally to a assess the risk of intestines coming out and if necessary recommend to geld the horse in general anesthesia. Not 100% sure but reduces the risk a lot. Krisse
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
On 5/1/08, Susan Coombes [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You've never needed a tank heater? I have only had horses a year. you are pretty sharp for only having had horses a year! Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
But any adult would be too heavy I think. Not just me. Even a 120 pound adult would be too heavy at this point I think! If you think he's not physically mature enough to carry even a small adult now, then why be in a rush for a child to sit on him? He's only four today, and I know that many horses continue to physically AND mentally mature until they are seven, or even ten.I think Ima, who's also celebrating a fourth birthday today, is both physically and mentally mature enough to have a small-medium adult sit on her, but I'm in no rush. She'll only be MORE mature when her turn comes around, hopefully later this year. Karen Thomas, NC
[IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
I just pulled out a book I've had for several years, called Equine Liability. There's a whole section on the subject of liability involving children. I'd recommend that anyone who ever has kids over to ride, or who has kids in the neighborhood, read it. (I do allow kids to ride here sometimes, but only in controlled circumstances.) There are times when releases of liablity aren't binding, and that's particularly true when kids are involved. Kids can't sign a release for themselves, and if the release is written such that it's binding, it still only prohibits the parent who signed the release from suing - it can't keep the other parent from suing, nor can it prevent someone from suing for the child himself. We don't talk about it a lot on the list, but we DO have increased liabilities just from owning horses. I think we're mostly a VERY safety concious group, and that we understand that their are inherent risks with this sport. I'm sure we've all fallen, some of us many times, and those of us who have kids that ride have seen our kids fall - and maybe we've also been kicked, struck, stepped on, bitten, head-banged, you name it... My daughter got kicked in the belly (by a horse belonging to another kid) during the first day of her 4H horse camp and had to be carried out by ambulance and was hospitalized for two days. She was on restricted activities for six weeks, due to a bruised spleen - luckily it didn't rupture. We didn't sue because we don't like nuisance suits, her injuries were covered by our health insurance anyway, and we didn't want to shut down what was basically a well-intended program... but we could have sued, and in this case, maybe it wouldn't have been merely a nuisance. It never hurts for us to remember that their ARE laws that protect us when we make every effort to do things right, but there are also laws that protect others, and it's that gray area in the middle where the biggest risks are for safety minded folks like us. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Bill Saddling Beaut
On 4/30/08, Nancy Sturm [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: What wonderful pictures. And what a nice horse. Yes, an incredible horse, and what was the story of when he got her? I think she was scheduled to be put down she was so mean... Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
I think, what I will do, is have Kale (is it Cale? Why someone would name my nephew out of a type of lettuce is beyond me...) get on Nasi and have him ride him up the mobile home stairs, then dive into the geeses wading pool. His life might be endangered but what the heck, maybe it would win the virtual horse show. HA. a joke! a joke!! Janice-- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
So maybe you can guess why Icetolts hold no pizzazz for me. We deal with ice enough in the winter, no reason to put a show on for it. Ironically, that's probably also why ice tolts are so darned bizarre to me. I know that much of the North American continent has mild enough weather such that ponds and lakes don't freeze deeply enough to be useable even for ice-skating, much less strong enough to hold up the weight of a 1000-pound horse/rider pair. Ice sports just aren't viable in most of the continental USA even for humans. Why on earth would anyone want to rent an ice rink for their HORSES? It's just weird. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
On Thu, 1 May 2008 08:39:07 -0500, you wrote: name my nephew out of a type of lettuce is beyond me...) It's a cabbage. I must admit I was thinking wow, what a strange name (but I thought maybe it had that spelling but some trendy pronunciation such as Karly and it was just me being un-cool to think it was just plain Kale) Mic Mic (Michelle) Rushen --- Solva Icelandic Horses and DeMeulenkamp Sweet Itch Rugs: www.solva-icelandics.co.uk ---
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
We have a pond on our new property--there's no fish. Sometimes ducks and geese swim in it. The water is green and murky. Could I just go to Walmart, buy some goldfish and put them in the pond? You would need to go to a good pet store or fish store but I think you can buy Koi that can winter in a pond even in the harshest of climes - you would just need to check - but your local Wal-Mart variety wouldn't make it through the winter. I think I would opt for stocking it with trout or somehting like that. One plus to that might be that some local farmers might want to fish the pond and you can build some good will and contacts that way. That's how a friend of mine found someone to cut and bale her hay. -- Laree in NC Doppa Mura Simon, Sadie and Sam (the S gang) Yet when all the books have been read and reread, it boils down to the horse, his human companion, and what goes on between them. - William Farley
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
I think, what I will do, is have Kale . . .get on Nasi and have him ride him up the mobile home stairs, then dive into the geeses wading pool. SNORT!!! Oh Janice, I do so look forward to your posts. -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
We have a pond on our new property--there's no fish. Sometimes ducks and geese swim in it. The water is green and murky. Could I just go to Walmart, buy some goldfish and put them in the pond? You could, but I wouldn't if the idea is to clean the pond. Friends of ours had a BEAUTIFUL, springfed, swimming pond on their property. They decided to introduce some koi and ornamental goldfish into it. . . Well, it's not a beautiful swimming pond anymore. The fish reproduced like crazy and the water is always muddy/dirty looking now, even with the addition of two fountains to try to aerate things.Goldfish are dirty. I am just amazed that people have found them helpful in keeping stocktanks clean. I think the algae eaters / catfish are what is REALLY cleaning the tank, and the goldfish are getting the credit. -- Renee M.
[IceHorses] Virginia's pond
Virginia, What about native fish species? Down here, people stock their ponds with bluegill, bass, and catfish.The kids and hubby could fish it that way too. : ) -- Renee M.
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
There are times when releases of liablity aren't binding, and that's particularly true when kids are involved. Kids can't sign a release for themselves, and if the release is written such that it's binding, it still only prohibits the parent who signed the release from suing - it can't keep the other parent from suing, nor can it prevent someone from suing for the child himself. That's 100% correct, Karen, a parent can't sign away a child's right to sue. Also, even with liability releases, if a party can prove any level of negligence (like you knew in advance of the little hole that the horse tripped in and caused the rider to fall and break their arm), the liability release is null and void. It's amazing that any of us let anyone ride our horses or get near them and that's why so many people won't let you ride on their land. I just believe you have to be aware, do your best to protect yourself and have a little faith. I will do everything I can to safely help a child that has a thirst to participate in the horsey experience -- Laree in NC Doppa Mura Simon, Sadie and Sam (the S gang) Yet when all the books have been read and reread, it boils down to the horse, his human companion, and what goes on between them. - William Farley
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
On Thu, 01 May 2008 13:07:55 -, you wrote: I will do a search and see if there is one I could use in the yard. You can get electric wire here which you wrap around the pipes, and which stays just hot enough to stop pipes and taps freezing - maybe a better option in the UK where we don't get that much freezing weather. Mic Mic (Michelle) Rushen --- Solva Icelandic Horses and DeMeulenkamp Sweet Itch Rugs: www.solva-icelandics.co.uk ---
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
Has anyone mentioned the whole attractive nusiance thing yet? Horses are like swimming pools in that respect: It's the horse owners responsibility to keep children out of pastures, paddocks, barns, etc. So, if a young child happens to crawl under your electrified, well-maintained fence while Momma is busy watching her soaps (or playing on the computer) and gets his/her foot stepped on by a horse and toes broken, too bad, horse owner is responsible. And unsupervised child's parents get a nice tidy sum from your insurance company. Gawd, doesn't it just make ya proud to be a litigation, lawsuit-happy American?!? I DREAD when my girls are in school and their little friends start coming over, wanting to ride the ponies. . . .Or they want to have birthday parties with pony rides. Sigh.I wish it was like when I was a kid. Suffice it to say, I guess everyone just has to use their common sense, be as safe as they can, and operate within their own comfort levels where their own horses and the general public (children included) are concerned.If you think about it too much, you'll want to erect a 10' fence around your property with a moat and DANGER signs every 10 feet and NO one will ever be allowed on your property within 20' of your horses! It's so ridiculous here with the lawsuits. I personally don't know how anyone even sells horses anymore.Here's what happened at one farm a few years ago here in Michigan when someone was trying out a horse. Luckily, it was an adult and the courts upheld the Michigan Equine Liability Law. But still, the farm owners got dragged into court and had to hire a lawyer: http://asci.uvm.edu/equine/law/cases/laws/terril.htm -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
I had a young neighbor girl riding with me a few years ago . . . (Oh geez, she's graduated from High School and is in college, so I guess it's been more than a few years!) She started when she was 12 until about 15.We had a GREAT time together, she riding Soley, me riding Eitill. I even borrowed her and we went camping at the State 4-H trail ride. Then, her life got busier as she entered high school with sports, social activities, and boys, and the horses took a backseat. I have to admit, I was not worried about being sued if Nikola came off or got injured because her parents were from Germany and their mindset was so totally different than that of most Americans.Her mother EXPECTED her to fall off (thankfully, she never did!).They bought her a helmet and boots as I requested, and away we went. -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
Oh Janice, I do so look forward to your posts. I was thinking that very thing earlier this morning. I consider Janice a national treasure and feel that her quirky wit is quite wasted on yahoo mail lists. Wonder if we could figure a way to market Janice? Nancy
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 11:19 AM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Virginia, What about native fish species? Down here, people stock their ponds with bluegill, bass, and catfish.The kids and hubby could fish it that way too. : ) Maybe that's why the prior owners had trout. But, where would I buy the stock? Clueless, V
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
You could, but I wouldn't if the idea is to clean the pond. Friends of ours had a BEAUTIFUL, springfed, swimming pond on their property. They decided to introduce some koi and ornamental goldfish into it. . . Well, it's not a beautiful swimming pond anymore. The fish reproduced like crazy and the water is always muddy/dirty looking now, even with the addition of two fountains to try to aerate things. Goldfish are dirty. I don't believe that's true. Ponds will cycle, no matter what kind of fish you have in them - things are always happening to slightly alter the natural ecosystem slightly. Our goldfish pond is usually very clear, although there are times when it becomes somewhat murky. The most common cause of murky water is overfeeding - we don't feed our fish at all - and when natural debris accumulates. For us, the biggest natural debris comes from the leaves that fall in the fall, but that eventually corrects itself. When Cary was researching garden ponds before he built ours, he found a great website. One of the cute phrases on that site was, The solution to polution is dilution. In other words, the bigger the pond, the easier it is for the pond to find a natural balance. For that reason, the four-foot goldfish pool I imagined became an approximately 6x19 foot pond with two sections, a one-step waterfall between and a bigger waterfall at one end. It works great with VERY little maintenance. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
Also, even with liability releases, if a party can prove any level of negligence (like you knew in advance of the little hole that the horse tripped in and caused the rider to fall and break their arm), the liability release is null and void. It's amazing that any of us let anyone ride our horses or get near them and that's why so many people won't let you ride on their land. Exactly, and that is a little scary if I think about it TOO much. I just believe you have to be aware, do your best to protect yourself and have a little faith. I will do everything I can to safely help a child that has a thirst to participate in the horsey experience Us too. We let kids ride here, but only well-screened kids. We even let three little girls adopt Thunder for a while (at different times) after Emily left home, and those experiences were absolutely joyous for the hopeless horsey mom in me. They took lessons on him, and two learned to jump, but their parents were involved, knew the inherent risks of riding, and they agreed to our restriction that the kids had to stay involved in organized and suitable riding lessons. (MAYBE I could give lessons myself but it's really NOT my cup of tea!) I've let a few kids ride the Icelandic's here, some that I didn't know prior to their parents coming to try out Icelandic's. We always start in the round pen so I can see for myself that the kids have had some training, and that they aren't rough riders. If the kids don't have experience, or if their parents are clueless, we don't let them out of the round pen! If a kid is rough with the reins, they have ONE chance to prove that they can listen and do better, but if they insist on riding rough, I take the attitude that they my horses deserve better. After that one chance, they don't have to be perfect, just better, and show that they care enough to listen. I can only think of two occasions where I put my foot down and said 'nuff's enough. We've also had a few pony-ride birthday parties here for the nephews and good neighbors, but I carefully select which horses I trust for that duty. I sure wouldn't ask ANY horse to do that for very long, or very often. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 11:34 AM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Has anyone mentioned the whole attractive nusiance thing yet? Horses are like swimming pools in that respect: It's the horse owners responsibility to keep children out of pastures, paddocks, barns, etc. So, if a young child happens to crawl under your electrified, well-maintained fence while Momma is busy watching her soaps (or playing on the computer) and gets his/her foot stepped on by a horse and toes broken, too bad, horse owner is responsible. And unsupervised child's parents get a nice tidy sum from your insurance company. Gawd, doesn't it just make ya proud to be a litigation, lawsuit-happy American?!? I wonder if Canada is the same? V
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 11:31 AM, Karen Thomas [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: One of the cute phrases on that site was, The solution to polution is dilution. In other words, the bigger the pond, the easier it is for the pond to find a natural balance. For that reason, the four-foot goldfish pool I imagined became an approximately 6x19 foot pond with two sections, a one-step waterfall between and a bigger waterfall at one end. It works great with VERY little maintenance. Our pond is roughly 35' x 50', green and murky, and since I know nothing about ponds, I thought if I added fish (or maybe certain plants?) they would take care of balance for me. V
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
Maybe that's why the prior owners had trout. But, where would I buy the stock? Clueless, V In the USA, there are local Ag agents who can help you with those details. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 11:48 AM, Karen Thomas [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Maybe that's why the prior owners had trout. But, where would I buy the stock? Clueless, V In the USA, there are local Ag agents who can help you with those details. Karen Thomas, NC I don't think we have such people because I've looked and haven't found any. I did find a local Koi farm and I think I'll contact the owner--he sells pond lilies, and other pond supplies. Maybe he can tell me what would be best to do. V
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
You could, but I wouldn't if the idea is to clean the pond. Friends of ours had a BEAUTIFUL, springfed, swimming pond on their property. They decided to introduce some koi and ornamental goldfish into it. . . Well, it's not a beautiful swimming pond anymore. The fish reproduced like crazy and the water is always muddy/dirty looking now, even with the addition of two fountains to try to aerate things. Goldfish are dirty. I don't believe that's true. You might if you saw our friend's pond. They had native fish species in it prior to adding the goldfish and koi and it was always clear and clean-looking. But after two years of adding the ornamental fish, it changed. Our goldfish pond is usually very clear, although there are times when it becomes somewhat murky. I am not talking about a smaller, backyard ornamental pre-formed or lined pond that have grown immensely popular in the last 5 -10 years -- we had one of those too with goldfish, potted waterlilies, etc. We always added floating Water Hyasinths (spelling!) to it every summer to help keep the water clear and it did very well.And we seldom fed the fish. They reproduced in it, but for some reason, we never got an over-abundance of them -- maybe 5 extra than what we started with? No, I was speaking about adding goldfish / koi to a larger, farm pond with dirt bottom situation of half an acre or more -- which is what Virginia has (unless I'm mistaken?).I don't think adding goldfish would be wise if she wants to clean it up simply because in a more natural environment without sufficient predation, goldfish will breed like crazy, stirring up the dirt bottom in the shallows constantly and eventually over-run the pond with their numbers. We had a gray water pond at our previous house. I turned a DOZEN feeder goldfish into it one summer. . . . At first it was nice, and then, within a couple of years we had the same situation as our friend's going on -- muddy-looking water, TONS of goldfish. But it was never a nice swimming pond to begin with, so we didn't worry about it. And it attracted lovely blue herons, though they never seemed to make a dent in the fish population despite their best efforts!. : ) -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
Virginia, is it algae that is fouling the water?Some folks swear by barley straw as a natural alternative to chemicals: http://ohioline.osu.edu/a-fact/0012.html http://www.bestfish.com/barlybal.html http://www.exoticwaterscapes.com/barley-straw.php?gclid=CPrSydjMhZMCFQh7IgodUwe6BQ -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
Maybe that's why the prior owners had trout. But, where would I buy the stock? Clueless, V Hmmm. . . I don't know about up there. . . Around here, we have fish farms which advertise in the local paper for stocking fish for farm ponds. Now, it's interesting to me that the previous owners had trout in this pond of yours. . . Don't they require flowing water? And I *thought* they were not tolerant at all of dirty water. AND, I think they need quite cold water. Is this quite a deep, cold, spring-fed pond? Is there a stream or something that flows into and out of it? Is it an old beaver pond by any chance? -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:20 PM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Virginia, is it algae that is fouling the water?Some folks swear by barley straw as a natural alternative to chemicals: http://ohioline.osu.edu/a-fact/0012.html http://www.bestfish.com/barlybal.html http://www.exoticwaterscapes.com/barley-straw.php?gclid=CPrSydjMhZMCFQh7IgodUwe6BQ I don't know if it's algae--I'll keep the links though. V
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:26 PM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hmmm. . . I don't know about up there. . . Around here, we have fish farms which advertise in the local paper for stocking fish for farm ponds. I've never seen ads like that, but then, I've never looked before either. Now, it's interesting to me that the previous owners had trout in this pond of yours. . . Don't they require flowing water? And I *thought* they were not tolerant at all of dirty water. AND, I think they need quite cold water. Is this quite a deep, cold, spring-fed pond? Is there a stream or something that flows into and out of it? Is it an old beaver pond by any chance? I don't know anything about trout, but maybe the pond doesn't have the correct living requirements. We were told that the pond is well-fed. I'm assuming it's man-made. I have no idea how deep it is but I'll check that out when the weather gets warmer. The previous owner had a pump shooting water high up into the air--they took the pump out for the winter and we have no clue how to put it back so we'll have to do some research. V
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
Gawd, doesn't it just make ya proud to be a litigation, lawsuit-happy American?!? Absolutely!! As a matter of fact, I was going to call a lawyer about suing The Eagles for my hearing loss. It is a direct result of listening to their music too loud when I was a teenager unable to grasp what I was doing to my hearing that I am going deaf today. Susan in NV read my blog to see why I ride my horse in pink: http://desertduty.blogspot.com/ Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. http://mobile.yahoo.com/;_ylt=Ahu06i62sR8HDtDypao8Wcj9tAcJ
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
For that reason, the four-foot goldfish pool I imagined became an approximately 6x19 foot pond with two sections, a one-step waterfall between and a bigger waterfall at one end. It works great with VERY little maintenance. So. . . with the waterfalls, I'm assuming there's a circulation system in place? If so, that will help maintain water quality quite a bit. Virginia -- Can you clarify:Are we talking about a ornamental pond, or a farm pond? Is there a synthetic liner in it, or a dirt/clay bottom? Is there a pump which circulates or aerates the water in it?With the size you gave of 35' x 50', it could be either a very large ornamental pond, or a small farm pond. I was thinking and commenting from the standpoint that you were talking about a natural farm pond, but maybe not -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:14 PM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: No, I was speaking about adding goldfish / koi to a larger, farm pond with dirt bottom situation of half an acre or more -- which is what Virginia has (unless I'm mistaken?). I don't know if you'd call it a farm pond. It's on our 'front lawn', we think it was man-made, were told it is well-fed, and the prior owner had a pump in it shooting water up in to the air, and there's nice landscaping around it. I don't know if there's a liner under the dirt bottom. V
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:37 PM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Virginia -- Can you clarify:Are we talking about a ornamental pond, or a farm pond? Is there a synthetic liner in it, or a dirt/clay bottom? Is there a pump which circulates or aerates the water in it?With the size you gave of 35' x 50', it could be either a very large ornamental pond, or a small farm pond. I was thinking and commenting from the standpoint that you were talking about a natural farm pond, but maybe not And I'm such a newb that I can't answer those questions other than say that the previous owner had a pump which shot water high into the air. We were told the pond is well-fed. I don't know if there's a liner. We do have frogs. :D V
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
We were told that the pond is well-fed. I'm assuming it's man-made. The previous owner had a pump shooting water high up into the air Ahhh, okay, you ARE talking about a landscaping pond then, with aeration fountain it sounds like. That will help with clearing the water when you get it going again. I thought you were talking about putting goldfish into a plain 'ol farm pond. : ) -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:42 PM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: We were told that the pond is well-fed. I'm assuming it's man-made. The previous owner had a pump shooting water high up into the air Ahhh, okay, you ARE talking about a landscaping pond then, with aeration fountain it sounds like. That will help with clearing the water when you get it going again. I thought you were talking about putting goldfish into a plain 'ol farm pond. : ) So you think the goldfish would be OK? V
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
Our pond is roughly 35' x 50', green and murky, and since I know nothing about ponds, I thought if I added fish (or maybe certain plants?) they would take care of balance for me. V Fish could help. Ideally, you can get a balanced eco-system (MOST of the year, anyway) where you have just enough plants to feed the fish and just enough fish to clear out the algae, but that can take time time and several cycles (sometimes many cycles) before it's basically settled. Check with a local expert to find out what's best for your area - I know your climate is very different from most of us list member's, but fish are fun to watch! Many pond keepers will advise you not to try to micromanage the initial cycles though, since human intervention tends to hurt more than it helps. Some cycling is inevitable. Cary had aquariums for years before we got the goldfish pond - goldfish, then tropical fish and finally saltwater fish in a gorgeous reef tank, so I've watched many cycles over the years. (The last cycle that ended up all over my hardwood floors was the end of the inside aquariums!) Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
is there an equestrian law in your state?? I am just curious. There is one here, and i know in ala and Ga. I have a big one posted on my front gate. Janice-- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
On 5/1/08, Nancy Sturm [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wonder if we could figure a way to market Janice? Nancy I'm quite sure that if you do, I am the only one who wont profit off it haha Janice-- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
I don't think we have such people because I've looked and haven't found any. I did find a local Koi farm and I think I'll contact the owner--he sells pond lilies, and other pond supplies. Maybe he can tell me what would be best to do. A pond is a pond, no matter what the size. Ideally you want a balanced ecosystem be it for fishing or for beauty. The larger ones are actually easier to balance than the tiny pools. If you choose to add lilies etc, beware that they can grow to cover much of the shallower surface - that can be beautiful, but not what everyone wants in a fishing pond. Plants tend to catch your fishing lines. Water lilies are gorgeous though - do they thrive in your area? I love mine. I planted a few lilies (and a couple of other plants) when we set ours up, and I've never had to plant more. Check the internet too. I'll ask Cary if that great site he found is still up and running. It was more oriented towards ornamental ponds than fishing ponds, but it was full of good information. My grandpa used to take me pond-fishing when I was tiny and I still have vivid and happy memories of those times. He died when I was just six, so I know I was very young. I love ponds of all kinds, but they shouldn't be a lot of work. My grandpa's pond (we own it now) is scheduled for demolition with the upcoming road expansion next to us, and I hate to think about it...such good memories. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
You would need to go to a good pet store or fish store but I think you can buy Koi that can winter in a pond even in the harshest of climes - you would just need to check - but your local Wal-Mart variety wouldn't make it through the winter. Oh I don't know about that! We've tried Koi in our goldfish pond, and the longest any lived was just a few months. Cary built this pond for us in 2000 and we still have some of the original plain-old-pet-store goldfish, and we get a few babies every year. Since we can find regular old goldfish in basic gold, red, gold/white, red/white, we quit wasting the money on the more expensive Koi. I've had a few of the really pretty calico goldfish - the tri-colored black/white/gold ones. Unfortunately, they don't show up so well in the pond shadows, so the less exotic gold, red or white/colored ones are now my favorites. Seriously, though, we haven't bought a fish for the pond in at least five years. It's really self-sustaining. It's about six feet by 18 feet, with two pool sections and a couple of waterfalls. I think I would opt for stocking it with trout or somehting like that. If Virginia is talking about a full-sized pond, I'd agree to use a typical pond fish - here, that would be bass or bream most likely. That said, our neighbors released some goldfish in our big pond, and we still see them occasionally. They've gotten VERY big. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity... especially with children
I DREAD when my girls are in school and their little friends start coming over, wanting to ride the ponies. . . .Or they want to have birthday parties with pony rides It's so ridiculous here with the lawsuits. On the other hand, there ARE the inherent risk laws that protect owners - the owners just have to be very careful. Those laws are actually more clearly stated to protect horse owners than they were when we first got our horses 20 years ago. We have at least 4-5 of those signs posted. We have a sign that says riders are required to use helmets. But, mostly we are very careful to pick the spots where we allow kids to ride, and I'm careful where which horses we use, and we stop any human-horseplay or rough riding before it starts - we have a zero-tolerance policy for goof-off riding. And I'm VERY careful that such events are well-supervised - at least one supervising adult to each mounted kid, at least until I know the kids well. I'm still SLIGHTLY nervous when new kids ride here, but not enough to stop doing it. Emily had friends over to ride many, many times, and we have some wonderful memories of those occasions. I certainly hope to live to see grandkids have the same joyful experiences... Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] OT a foundling
On 5/1/08, Jacki Edens [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: pictures! We need pictures! Jacki I was thinking when the nephews come over this weekend, the two year old and baby geese would make a great photo op if I can only figure out how to keep them all together... Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
Virginia, is it algae that is fouling the water?Some folks swear by barley straw as a natural alternative to chemicals: We don't use any chemicals for algae, etc., nor have we ever used anything like straw. From all that we've read, the more that humans interfere with the natural cycles, the longer and stronger the cycles will persist. It seems to be true - be that with aquariums, goldfish ponds, or bigger fishing ponds. You have to be prepared to grin-and-bear some seasonal cycling though. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] hey judy
you posted a url to a youtube or some video where a young woman or girl was playing at liberty with her icelandic ? Do you know how I can find that? Could it be these videos? http://iceryder.blogspot.com/2008/04/hvuiski-icelandic-horse-stallion-and.html Judy http://iceryder.net http://clickryder.com
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity...
Absolutely!! As a matter of fact, I was going to call a lawyer about suing The Eagles for my hearing loss. And I'm going to sue McDonalds because I'm fat. . . Oh wait, that's been done. . . If only my mother was still alive, I could sue her because I was a 9 lb. 3 oz. baby and if she hadn't pigged out for nine months, I wouldn't have started out with all those fat cells right off the bat. . . . I mean, there's gotta be SOMEBODY ELSE we can blame for our own problems, right?: ) -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:54 PM, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Good luck! Boy, this new farm is just turning out to be one educational adventure after another, isn't it? : ) Very true!! Oh--and there's a vegetable garden plot--empty. I don't know what was grown there but I'll probably buy some started plants and see what happens. Clueless but willing to learn! V
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
Virginia -- Can you clarify:Are we talking about a ornamental pond, or a farm pond? Is there a synthetic liner in it, or a dirt/clay bottom? Is there a pump which circulates or aerates the water in it?With the size you gave of 35' x 50', it could be either a very large ornamental pond, or a small farm pond. We have both, actually two of what you call farm ponds plus the goldfish pond, and we use the same rules - we want the most natural, stable ecosystems with the least work. In fact, when you try to set up a successful small pond, you try to simulate the conditions of a large pond. You virtually have to have some circulation for a smaller pond to thrive - you simply don't have the same amount of surface area for oxygen transfer as you do in a larger pond. Our goldfish pond has a synthetic rubber liner...or at least it did to begin with. It has a more natural-type floor now on top of the liner, a sort of soil from years of existance. We purposely haven't tampered with that debris (other than trying to keep out the bulk of the fall leaves) since we wanted it to become as natural as possible. I think that's why this goldfish pond has been so succesful - we don't maintain it to death, thanks to Cary's research and good planning. I think the bigger deal is whether Virginia might want to use the pond for fishing or for natural beauty. I think all ponds are pretty, but some fish are definitely more palatable, and beautiful water plants can snag your fishing lines. Either kind can be set up for minimal maintenance though. It just takes planning - and some restraint about feeding the fish! Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:57 PM, Karen Thomas [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I think the bigger deal is whether Virginia might want to use the pond for fishing or for natural beauty. I'm more interested in it being a natural beauty. I know my kids would love to watch the fish. Another thought I had was, fencing the entire front yard, pond included and using it for another pasture. I could watch the horses from the house. But--I don't know if it would be a good idea for the horses having free access to the pond (I've seen photos where ponds are fenced to keep the horses out). V
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Fish in Water Tank
Where would I find one? I definitely need it. I HAVE to soak hay for Corrie but there is no water down there some days when it's frozen. I don't mind frozen hands, better than seeing her cough. Sue Coombes The only one on ebay at the moment is this one in the USA: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Electric-Water-Heat-Cable-Frost-King-Heat-Tape-12-Feet_W0QQitemZ260235431961QQihZ016QQcategoryZ1435QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD2VQQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1638Q2em122 but that's the sort of thing I mean. We had it at the old place and it was really handy to have one outside tap you knew would always be working. Mic Mic (Michelle) Rushen --- Solva Icelandic Horses and DeMeulenkamp Sweet Itch Rugs: www.solva-icelandics.co.uk ---
[IceHorses] Re: Virginia's pond
Virginia, is it algae that is fouling the water?Some folks swear by barley straw as a natural alternative to chemicals: My neighbour uses barley straw in his pond/fishing lake. It is very effective. Susan coombes
Re: [IceHorses] hey judy
no, but thats a good one:) The one I wanted was the one where a girl is playing at liberty with her horse, and I think he even lays down. A friend at work sent me a video saying this is really beautiful and its a guy whose horse is miserable and has its ears back the whole time and I wanted her to see something really uplifting and beautiful showing the bond a human and horse can have based on trust and friendship and not domination... Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] hey judy
Here is the video she sent. Do you see the horses are unhappy? At first i thought they were like mine, will pin ears at one another when I am with them, because they are jealous, but his does it when alone with him, and one even goes after him in what appears to be an aggressive manner. also, the very beautiful shots of him riding in water... reminded me of how the american indians supposedly broke and trained horses in water... so when they were tossed it wouldnt hurt so bad... anyway, here it is, tell me if you agree or am i imagining... http://canecorso.com/lorenzo.htm janice-- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
But--I don't know if it would be a good idea for the horses having free access to the pond (I've seen photos where ponds are fenced to keep the horses out). We have a big pond that dries up during our summers but when it has water in it the horses love to go in and romp around. We have a threatened turtle species that lives in it too and goes to the creek when the pond dries. I do worry a bit the horses will step on the turtles but love seeing them play in it. Ann
[IceHorses] Treeless saddle
Anyone know this sort? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Treeless-Saddle-TREKKER-ICELANDIC-Black-17-NEW_W0QQitemZ370047033511QQihZ024QQcategoryZ72594QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem Mic Mic (Michelle) Rushen --- Solva Icelandic Horses and DeMeulenkamp Sweet Itch Rugs: www.solva-icelandics.co.uk ---
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
On 4/30/08, Janice McDonald [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: nasi has been trained up til now to whoa, go, stand still at the mounting block while I lean over him waving arms around, wiggle the saddle vigorously, slap the stirrups against his side etc. He is fine with all that. just stands there. I have ponied him on two trail rides, he did great. He seems unafraid and not spooky of anything. I just had the same idea yesterday. I've finally gotten my horses in to a situation that is much closer to my house, only a few miles, where I can see them everyday. I am actually amazed at how little I have had to go over things with Snorri, as long as I do it right. I think I ground drove him a couple times, had already taught him to give to real light pressure at that point, not many sessions, so we were having a zen moment yesterday, one where he was really happy with me b/c I came to his rescue when he was trying to bite and itchy spot on his butt. I have recently leaned over his back a couple times, but not all the way on. So in this zen moment, I put a sidepull on him, and jumped on bareback. He stood real nice, then he took a few steps, figuring out his balance, also stopped on a really light touch, very nicely. I did this three times. Maybe two minutes each. The last one, I tapped his butt, and he did a turn on the forehand, which was also rewarded, we will get the signals straight for forward and engaging the hindquarters. So it was great. I also have lost 40 lbs over the last several months, partially because I thought I would be too heavy for him at that point. I think he can handle it now, just for a little walking. Lately I feel I have awakened in some aspects of how to get the best out of the horse, like really seeing how our energy affects the energy of the horse, etc. I think my point is that riding a horse for the first time does not have to be a dangerous, dramatic affair, it really isn't if you are in tuneI'll get a video of the next time, now I have a video helper. Kim M. (in Kentucky)
[IceHorses] Re: Virginia's pond
Oh--and there's a vegetable garden plot--empty. I don't know what was grown there but I'll probably buy some started plants and see what happens. Clueless but willing to learn! V Growing vegetables is great fun. You do need a sense of humor though as you won't be the only ones eating the produce! You just have to try growing carrots. The directions are always on seed packets. Potatoes and beans are easy too. We grew sweetcorn last year but a rat ate them all. Pigeons ate the peas. Rabbits and moles built dens amongst the plants and a pheasant sat on a nest amongst it all. Sue Coombes
Re: [IceHorses] hey judy
those horses are mad at something, i dont know if its each other or what. But Tommy Turvey or pat parelli's horses don't ear pin like that, not with each other or strange horses or with the trainer. My stonewall and Traveller do, jealous of each other from birth, but not when I am working with one by myself! Its just very odd. very nice cinematogroaphy tho? Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Treeless saddle
I had a trekker but a different model. It was ok but the stirrups didnt hang right for me. The sensation stirrup hanger deal works with it tho... Janice-- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
We have a big pond that dries up during our summers but when it has water in it the horses love to go in and romp around. We have a threatened turtle species that lives in it too and goes to the creek when the pond dries. I do worry a bit the horses will step on the turtles but love seeing them play in it. I think that's probably somewhat of a concern - what the horses do to the existing ecosystem. I know that some communities have zoning that prohibits fencing streams and creeks, since the much they create can cause damage further down the stream. I'd think that a standalone, manmade pond would be up to the discretion of the owner...? Beyond that, I think that depends a lot on the particulars. Most horses love water, and I'd love to have a water source for mine to play in and to use to cool off in the summer. A lot of folks in our area have ponds in their pastures, and I'm a little jealous. But, we didn't include the ponds in our fenced area, because there have been muskrats around them for a long time - my grandpa built these two ponds in the 1920's, using mules and scoop pans, so who knows when the muskrats started building their tunnels. There are many muskrat holes right around the edge that don't show up well. These holes and tunnels can be very deep, some well over two feet, and will sometimes collapse with the weight of a human. If I had all the money in the world, I'd put in a new pond for my horses to play in, and would watch from the get-go that such a problem didn't arise. As it is, it would be VERY costly to correct this old problem, and a logistical nightmare since the pond dam is right beside a main county road, and not much room for a bulldozer to work in. And since the main pond will be destroyed anyway when the road goes in, it's not worth the expense to repair it. I wish we had a good natural stream on our property, but all we have are wet weather ditches. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] hey judy
no, but thats a good one:) The one I wanted was the one where a girl is playing at liberty with her horse, and I think he even lays down. This is not the one, but this is good, too: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_vvc7-GmOU or this one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA2ZKnL6B8M maybe it was this set of videos of the young girls? http://iceryder.net/videonaturalhorsemanshipkatla.html Judy http://iceryder.net http://clickryder.com
[IceHorses] Re: Treeless saddle
--- In IceHorses@yahoogroups.com, Mic Rushen [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Anyone know this sort? They are advertised for sale on equine whispers site http://www.equinewhispers.co.uk/icelandic.html There is some info about it there otherwise I know nothing Sue coombes
[IceHorses] interesting site rekel jeffrey, foal being born and other stuff
http://www.youtube.com/user/artroland I found this guy interesting. I liked the video of the foal being born. sue coombes
[IceHorses] Re: Liablity... especially with children
I DREAD when my girls are in school and their little friends start coming over, wanting to ride the ponies. . . .Or they want to have birthday parties with pony rides It's so ridiculous here with the lawsuits. On the other hand, there ARE the inherent risk laws that protect owners - the owners Hello..I'm mostly a lurker, but had to respond. We are also in FL a zero liability (supposedly) state with signs, etc. This can be thwarted with a good attorney and proof of gross negligence on the part of the claimant. A farm was successfully sued here due to a sinkhole appearing in an arena that caused a fall (rider was a minor). No way anyone could have seen that coming..we had it happen in our arena that is regularly tilled/dragged and leveled. There were pine trees here 15 years ago and we still have an occasional tap root hole appear...just the size of a hoof. We also had a fellow barn owner sued when a boarder fell in the tack room and hurt her knee. The lady is nuts and when I found out about it I refused to let her board at my barn years ago. Guess what? She threatened to sue me for not letting her board! Don't be lulled into a false sense of security because you pepper your property with signs..they are not foolproof. Nor are signed releases. A shame it isn't like it used to be. Becky in FL
Re: [IceHorses] Treeless saddle
Anyone know this sort? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Treeless-Saddle-TREKKER-ICELANDIC-Black-17-NEW_W0QQitemZ370047033511QQihZ024QQcategoryZ72594QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem Those newer style treeless saddles that have the built-in panels that have the built-in panels have gotten some discussion on the treeless list. Basically, I conclude that you may lose some of the benefits of a treeless saddle with them - the shape of the panels may not follow the contours of the back as it falls-away from the spine as easily as with the other designs. That said, some people like them and they seem to work for some horses. I just can't imagine any treeless saddle working better for such a large percentage of Icelandic's as do the Sensations however. The Sensations have what you might consider semi-panels for lack of a better term. There are separate pieces on each side of the spine, but not such that it's not flexible and easy to conform to the horses. I have a Torsion that has pockets for panels to be inserted, but I don't use them. I prefer to do any panel tweaking inside my channel pads. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Fish in Water Tank
But, we didn't include the ponds in our fenced area, because there have been muskrats around them for a long time - my grandpa built these two ponds in the 1920's, using mules and scoop pans, so who knows when the muskrats started building their tunnels. T Wow muskrats how nice. On my birthday in August a couple of years ago, I noticed from the window that the pond had splashing in it. A family of river otters had come up from the creek and were having a ball. They played for hours and then were gone. There were 4 or 5 of them, they swam and dove so fast we were never sure of how many. There is a raft for the turtles in the middle and some would sun on that. By the way, we do have our creek fenced off from livestock. It is pretty easy to get grants around here to fund the fencing. We have wildlife friendly fencing so some can go under and some over, it works well. We see coyotes, foxes, bobcats, rabbits, skunks, and other critters regularly. Heard a mountain lion nearby and the hairs on my arms stood on high. found out it had killed a sheep next door. This year the pond will be dry by June maybe, we little rain since February. My hay guy said he will have no hay this summer and will just let the cows out to graze the 6 inch high hayfield. Hope I can find something. Ann
Re: [IceHorses] Zen Moments
I have recently leaned over his back a couple times, but not all the way on. So in this zen moment, I put a sidepull on him, and jumped on bareback. He stood real nice, then he took a few steps, figuring out his balance, also stopped on a really light touch, very nicely. Very nice, Kim! Lately I feel I have awakened in some aspects of how to get the best out of the horse, like really seeing how our energy affects the energy of the horse, etc. I think my point is that riding a horse for the first time does not have to be a dangerous, dramatic affair, it really isn't if you are in tuneI'll get a video of the next time, now I have a video helper. Looking forward to video! I also have lost 40 lbs over the last several months, partially because I thought I would be too heavy for him at that point. Congrats! Judy http://iceryder.net http://clickryder.com
Re: [IceHorses] Treeless saddle
Anyone know this sort? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Treeless-Saddle-TREKKER-ICELANDIC-Black-17-NEW_W0QQitemZ370047033511QQihZ024QQcategoryZ72594QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem Is there any place that shows you where the stirrups are hung? Anything about the design or construction? Judy http://iceryder.net http://clickryder.com
Re: [IceHorses] What's In Your Saddle
What's in your saddle... and is it crooked? http://www.newrider.com/forum/showthread.php?t=144231 I see so many crooked trees. I can't imagine putting a crooked tree on a horse, but when you think about it, why would we put any solid frame on a horse that is continually changing shape as it moves. How about symmetry? As humans we are not symmetrical. Horses are not symmetrical. What if the crooked tree and the asymmetrical horse are bent in opposite directions? How problematic would that be for the horse? That's one of the reasons that I like treeless better. Judy http://iceryder.net http://clickryder.com
Re: [IceHorses] Treeless saddle
On Thu, 1 May 2008 10:38:46 -0700, you wrote: Is there any place that shows you where the stirrups are hung? Anything about the design or construction? No, couldn't find anything. I'm not in the market for one, just hadn't seen or heard of them before. Mic Mic (Michelle) Rushen --- Solva Icelandic Horses and DeMeulenkamp Sweet Itch Rugs: www.solva-icelandics.co.uk ---
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Virginia's pond
Hey Virginia, You asked about fencing the pond in for the horses. . . And it occurred to me: When it becomes winter and your pond freezes over, you can have your own icetolts. SNORT! (Sorry, couldn't resist. . . . ) Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Virginia's pond
Growing vegetables is great fun. You do need a sense of humor though as you won't be the only ones eating the produce! I had a vegetable garden for several years (V- I learned a lot from the Gardening for Dummies book) About 3 years into it, I decided to give corn a try. I planted my seeds, the shoots would come up right on time, get about 2-3 inches tal and disappear! I couldn't figure out what was happening. I planted again and the same thing happened. So the 3rd and last time, I kept a closer eye and realized when the corn got just the right heigth, the crows would land, pull up the plants and eat the seed - they would clean out the rows in about 30 minutes. So, I put a lawn chair in the middle of the garden, took some old jeans and a shirt and stuffed them with straw and went and bought one of those Mylar balloons with a smiley face - never had a problem again - the balloon floated enough to convince the birds it was alive and even my neighbors driving by occassionally pulled in to talk to me because they thought I was in the garden. Vegetable gardens are great fun and good exercise -- Laree in NC Doppa Mura Simon, Sadie and Sam (the S gang) Yet when all the books have been read and reread, it boils down to the horse, his human companion, and what goes on between them. - William Farley
Re: [IceHorses] Virginia's pond
I don't think we have such people because I've looked and haven't found any. I did find a local Koi farm and I think I'll contact the owner--he sells pond lilies, and other pond supplies. Maybe he can tell me what would be best to do. Smartest idea of all -- Laree in NC Doppa Mura Simon, Sadie and Sam (the S gang) Yet when all the books have been read and reread, it boils down to the horse, his human companion, and what goes on between them. - William Farley
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Liablity... especially with children
Don't be lulled into a false sense of security because you pepper your property with signs..they are not foolproof. Nor are signed releases. No, it's definitely a balance. I think the signs and releases are basically worthless, unless you are careful in virtually every respect otherwise. It's a shame we have some of the trivial lawsuits we see, but I'm not quite ready to shut everyone out of my life either. I'll never have the guts or the patience to run a boarding barn, train horses for others, or have a lesson program, that's for sure! I'm glad some people do though, and bless them for their efforts. That book, Equine Liability, also presents some example cases where horse owners where not found liable - it's good to read about those cases too, to help keep our risks in balance, so that we don't all turn into hermits! Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] nasi's big day
I just had the same idea yesterday. I've finally gotten my horses in to a situation that is much closer to my house, only a few miles, where I can see them everyday. Good to hear from you, Kim. I thought about you just a couple of days ago. Good to hear that you're well and glad you've got a new and improved situation with your horses. So in this zen moment, I put a sidepull on him, and jumped on bareback. He stood real nice, then he took a few steps, figuring out his balance, also stopped on a really light touch, very nicely. I did this three times. Maybe two minutes each. The last one, I tapped his butt, and he did a turn on the forehand, which was also rewarded, we will get the signals straight for forward and engaging the hindquarters. So it was great. I think that's a good point - finding those moments when you KNOW things are right, and taking advantage of them. Typically, I think that's better than working on a schedule. We have to have a true relationship with your horse though before you can do that. I'm sure you do, but not everyone does. I could REALLY take a beating if I confess...oh, what the heck. I sat on two-year-old Tifa VERY briefly one day a few weeks ago. She was lying down, and I went over to see her. She didn't get up, but seemed to remain 100% relaxed and peaceful. In a moment of insight, I knew I could put a leg over her. She accepted it without a thought, so I went ahead and put a little bit of weigth on her, while she was still down. She could care less. Since she was lying down, and I was only on her for maybe 10 seconds, I'm sure this didn't strain her back. I got up before she tried to get up, which I think was best - no scrambling to get off her in a hurry. I also know that I won't ride her any earlier because I did that - she's still at least 2-3 years from saddle training. It was just an opportunity I saw to introduce her to the idea of a human on her back, and it was a peaceful easy experience for her to soak up over the next few years. That's not something I particularly expect to do with my other young ones - not unless such an easy opportunity presents itself in such an ideal way. Most likely, it will be another 2-3 years before anyone sits on her again. On the other hand, four-year-old Ima hasn't had anyone on her back yet. I've sort of swung my leg over her when she's come to visit me while I was sitting on the board fence, but I never had one of those Tifa-opportunities present itself for fully sitting on her. I think my point is that riding a horse for the first time does not have to be a dangerous, dramatic affair, it really isn't if you are in tuneI'll get a video of the next time, now I have a video helper. It certainly doesn't have to be dramatic. Do you normally work with Snorri alone or with a helper? I prefer to do certain things along, but I'm lucky to have a good friend I can trust to help me with certain things. If too many people are around, or people I don't know, it's harder for me to get into those zen moments. Karen Thomas, NC
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Liablity... especially with children
A shame it isn't like it used to be. Becky in FL I agree 100% Becky.We've litigated ourselves to the point where it's almost fool-hardy to be neighborly as in letting the neighbor kids ride your pony, letting someone try out your horse to feel the tolt, letting people use or ride your property, etc. etc. When I was a kid, a group of us ran all over the countryside on snowmobiles in the winter. My Dad was a part-time beef farmer with 70 acres and most of the farms around us were larger. We kids never had to go on the roads to get to each other's houses -- we just went across fields and woods. No one minded (as long as you stayed off the winter wheat and the hay fields!). It was just the way it was and nobody thought a thing about it. I'm sure people remember being able to ride their horses like that too. I sure wish my girls were growing up in similiar circumstance. Sigh. -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity...
On 5/1/08, Renee Martin [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Absolutely!! As a matter of fact, I was going to call a lawyer about suing The Eagles for my hearing loss. And I'm going to sue McDonalds because I'm fat. . . Oh wait, that's been done. . . what the fla, Ga, ala equestrian laws say basically is that riding a horse is inherently dangerous, you know that when you get on one, so you cant sue anybody if you die. janice-- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity...
This is what it says, and I have a big sign saying it on my front gate and so does everyone else I know who has horses. WARNING Under Florida law, an equine activity sponsor or equine professional is not liable for an injury to, or the death of, a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities. basically, from what I understand, if you even have someone over to your house to ride with you, you are an equine activity sponsor Janice -- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
[IceHorses] Kim's big day (was nasi's big day)
- Original Message - From: Kimberly Morton I also have lost 40 lbs over the last several months, Woo hoo!: ) That's awesome.I'm green! I think my point is that riding a horse for the first time does not have to be a dangerous, dramatic affair, Exactly. And I think for most on this list, that's a goal that is often met.I think too, that's why some folks have felt so comfortable letting kids be the ones do the first few rides. It's just a non-event for the well-prepped horse, and their trusted person is right there -- as usual. Good to see you posting and with such great progress news! Now, I must get off the computer, making sure I'm not one of those Moms on the computer all day whose unsupervised children are getting under pool enclosures and horse fences in the neighborhood. . . wink -- Renee M. in Michigan
Re: [IceHorses] Laree's Corn
on time, get about 2-3 inches tal and disappear! I couldn't figure out what was happeningcorn got just the right heigth, the crows would land, pull up the plants and eat the seed ...put a lawn chair in the middle of the garden, took some old jeans and a shirt and stuffed them with straw and went and bought one of those Mylar balloons with a smiley face - never had a problem again How funny!!
[IceHorses] 37 yo Horse in CTR
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=11767 Judy http://iceryder.net http://clickryder.com
Re: [IceHorses] Liablity...
basically, from what I understand, if you even have someone over to your house to ride with you, you are an equine activity sponsor Janice Janice - This is a misunderstanding about these liability laws and signs - we have the same thing in NC. Even with those signs if a person can prove that there is negligence, all the signs in the world can't stop them from suing or protect you and they don't apply to children, even if their parents are right there. As the case that Renee sent shows - what those people were trying to say is that the horse owner knew the bit was faulty or they didn't maintain it correctly so they were negligent - which would negate the liability law - which in MI is the same as in FL or very similar. I was involved in working to get those laws and signs into NC through our horse council - they are based on the same type of laws used by ski resorts/facilities - but they do NOT give you blanket protection and a lot of people mistakenly think they do. In the case that Renee sent, the liability law protected the horse owner becasue they couldn't prove negligence - they couldn't prove that the horse owner had any reason to believe that the tack wasn't safe. In NC there was a very similar case, where a horse stepped in a small hole in the arena while a potential buyer was trying a horse to buy - the horse stumbled, fell and the riders leg had a compound fracture. The plaintiff in that case won because they proved that the barn owner knew the hole was there and didn't take any precautions to prevent the horse from stepping in the hole - they had the sign also. .-- Laree in NC Doppa Mura Simon, Sadie and Sam (the S gang) Yet when all the books have been read and reread, it boils down to the horse, his human companion, and what goes on between them. - William Farley
Re: [IceHorses] 37 yo Horse in CTR
On Thu, May 1, 2008 at 3:04 PM, Judy Ryder [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=11767 That's cool - I bet he's one of those horses that just wouldn't be happy in retirement -- Laree in NC Doppa Mura Simon, Sadie and Sam (the S gang) Yet when all the books have been read and reread, it boils down to the horse, his human companion, and what goes on between them. - William Farley
Re: [IceHorses] Re: Liablity... especially with children
some times people need to be sued tho. if they have KNOWN there was a problem they didnt fix, or warn people about. janice-- even good horses have bad days sometimes.
Re: [IceHorses] Kentucky International Equine Summit
Keeneland Race Track installed Polytrack...transition to this synthetic surface. The reason for the change was revealed during the session on The Safety of Horses: A Long-Term View. We felt the safety of the horse and rider was not coming first and that was unacceptable, You need to listen to the horse and do what´s best for him. It´s a tenet that is not used enough in this business. In his opinion, the key to equine safety is good horsemanship. More on the Summit: http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=11771 If the race track industry sees benefit in switching to synthetic surfaces which are less concussive on the horse's legs for long-term soundness, how does running on ice fit in? Judy http://iceryder.net http://clickryder.com
