I am so unutterably furious right now it's all I can do to NOT go down to the BOs house and just completely dismantle her.

( long version )

Any of you central VA natives (Richmond, or west - Hanover, Henrico, Louisa, Goochland counties) know of a barn that can take a TB mare, and a human renter? I'd love love love to be able to live on the same farm as my horse again, but at this point it's a matter of getting Harper OUT of here, pronto. I can move back in with my parents if I have to. I can't afford a whole lot, but I've got no problem working off part/all of Harper's board and/or my rent if I have to. I've just got to LEAVE...and if someone is looking for a live in that will work at the farm full time, I'm all for that, too.

Thanks!

Does anyone have any information pertaining to the following Saddlebred stallions?

Sir William Robert
Sir York

Sir York is my horse's sire and if you have a photo of him I would love to see it. :) Thank you!

i kind of fear posting this on here. i dont feel like getting snarky comments. meaning i am NOT looking for critiques or advice what so ever. so dont give it. i'm basically posting this because this community needs more activity thats not drama related, and because i miss being an active member.

this is us just messing around in our new arena at home.




*edited to fix the embed video*

I thought I would take the time to post some photos of my darling to those who can appreciate.

On May 5, my Percheron mare Prima foaled a colt - Asher. He's out of the cremello TB Guaranteed Gold

Since then, he has become such a gem. He leads. He bathes (sometimes). He will run up to you, spin around, and shove his ass in your chest and force you to scratch his arse :P He loves people, and is so smart and friendly. My new farrier absolutely did not beleive me when I said he was only 2.5 months old. He is already in a yearling size halter.
Despite my dissapointment at being a palomino instead of a buckskin, he is put together so well it almost is artistic. I just love this boy. If there weren't 129371928371923x too many stallions around already and I had the facility, I just might keep him entire :P

I am still debating his registered name/show name. Its hard because he hasn't entirely shed out yet, and the genetics of it all still blow my mind. It was a 80% chance of being a buckskin, and he's a palomino. On top of that, the darker the mare, the more deep of a gold shade their coat should be. Well, momma's black, and Asher is literally seeming to be shedding out solid white. Only time will tell.

Here's some of the names im considering...thoughts? (Prima Dona x Guaranteed Gold)

Primary Alchemy
SolarWinds
Sunscream

Simply put...( This baby boy is going to be a MONSTER! :D )

GETTING AN ARENA!(~!!!!)

Aah I'm so excited! I just had to share...

My Grandpa (property owner- well, sort of, his sister "owns" it now) and I have been going back and forth about the arena situation for years now.

( Ramblings and a diagram! Lookie! )

Whoohoo!

Just wanted to update you all on the kitten situation.

Went out yesterday and talked to the wife. She doesn't like horses much and stays away from the barn. She didn't even know that the momma cat had been killed. I told her the situation and she was furious. She basically told me to take the kittens immediately and that she would pay for any vet care they needed. Pretty sure she chewed her husband (the BO) out that night.

I took all four to a vet, who gave them some fluids to get them rehydrated. They all tested negative for FeLV, which is great. I took home two of them, and my friend took home the other two.

They're healthy and happy at the moment. It took them a while to get used to the bottles, but once they figured it out, they were golden. They're sleeping now. I'll add pictures as soon as I have time to take some.

Thanks to everyone who was so helpful through the whole situation.

So, just over 7 months ago, I brought home a morbidly obese, surly grade paint gelding. Some of you might remember this- I needed big, beefy, sane-ish, and capable of dressage and jumpers and baking apple pies and speaking Swahili and performing open-heart surgery with one hoof tied behind it's back.

I thought he was the bee's knees at first, but the honeymoon period quickly ended. His herdbound behavior made life with him rather difficult. He was pushy and rude and walked all over everybody.

Django has lost weight, trimmed up, and really become a hell of a horse. We've still got a long way to go- for both of us. My riding needs work and he's still figuring all sorts of things out. I've found a partner and a friend in this horse, however, and I couldn't be more thrilled. He's got such a big heart.

There isn't a day that goes by that I'm not thankful for my knowledgeable trainer and barn owner, or for the friendly, helpful folks at my barn. I've grown so fond of my farrier- I made him strawberry rhubarb pie last time he was out to do Django's feet.

Django's trailering issues have disappeared. He's still not overly fond of ramps, but he'll do them if asked. He stands quietly to be tacked, stands quietly to be mounted.

Django has turned out to be amazing on trails- he doesn't bat an eye at water, or jumping logs in the path. He's become the babysitter on trail for the more nervous nelly horses. We trailered out to the Big Rock Forest Preserve (in Big Rock, IL) and he was more than willing to follow me across this bridge. The bridge swayed like crazy... A trip to the cross country course in Barrington, IL proved to be a blast. He is so brave and I am SO proud of him.

When we bought him, trainer said we were looking at 2'6 fences tops, most likely. With shoes and pads in front and a properly fitting saddle, Django's proved her wrong. We're certainly not doing big fences regularly- my position needs major help and Django needs to learn to use his body more effectively, but...

So, I guess what I have to say is this: I'm so appreciative of the kind guidance and thoughtful suggestions available in the horse world, here and in real life. I'm a beginner, and Django's a beginner, and together... we're beginning to get the hang of things. Life is good and I love my beastie.

I was wondering if anyone has any recommended reading for pre-teen riders (and their parents) who are coming up with far-fetched reasons for their horses behavior?

Basically, I've been hearing a lot of "My horse won't go on the wash rack because it saw me fall in the mud like two months ago and then my dad sprayed me with the hose so now it's trying to protect me by not going on the wash rack."

Ridiculous, right?

Except that the kid has her parents believing (and saying to others) this statement about the wash rack and a couple other bad habits she's teaching her horse mainly because she treats her 7 year old trained WP horse as if she's afraid of it on the ground.

(Edited to fix grammar mistakes)

Amid all the recent drama, I just returned from a lovely horse show and drama or not, everyone loves pictures.


Aiden is ready to go.

( Parker '08 )

Edited because rich text sucks.
Edited again because livejournal sucks.
Edited a third time because photobucket sucks.
Edited a fourth time because my life sucks.
Edited a fifth time..jesus christ.
Edited a sixth time. Dear The Internet, I hate you so much.
Edited again..somebody just shoot me.

I, like many, have been a lurker for the most part. I've posted about my tragedy with my gelding, Matthew, and received generous support for which I am most grateful. My heart went out to windy_withers and her loss(es). I love reading about the Shiloh rescue. I love seeing all of the *GORGEOUS* photo collections! However, communication between the members in this community must improve. On this, I hope everyone agrees.

In reference to previous posts, I want to extend my sympathies to "J." While I do not know anyone in the story personally, it is my opinion thus far that she did not deserve this. Her horse and barn owner are also victims. Anyone, when in a constant state of panic, distress, and is thus in "survivor mode" is not truly themselves. I believe that hurtful comments made by J show someone scared, on the offense while protecting herself and her beloved horse, and were not in her true character (this also applies to some other commenters at times). Humans don't always follow the rules. That's why we are capable of forgiveness.

Based on the facts presented thus far, whomever sent that email is a very unstable person. I could be wrong, and I hope I do not have all the facts, for it is a very harsh vision of reality for the present time. Whomever went after J seems quite the villain, worthy of true, real life legal action. I hope that our government system will provide punishments to fit such a crime.

Let us quit dealing with our emotions by trying to find out "who started it" or "passing blame" to appropriate parties. What does it matter? Does it ever really help? Let the mods assign punishment where it's due. So far, I believe the mods are working diligently and appropriately.

harnessphoto's intent was to rectify the nastiness in this community. While an admirable goal/worthy cause, she seems to have been unsuccessful. What does it matter if she made things worse in some ways? What does it matter if her actions led to such a catastrophic event? What does it matter if it isn't her fault? What does it matter if people have differing opinions on the matter? It is out of our control now, and assuredly, harnessphoto has a conscience and already feels very badly about it. If she doesn't, then she won't develop one by having people in this community yell at her, criticize her, and mock her. Please read what I have said just now, and apply it elsewhere, too.

I observe that people have somewhat forgotten how to respect, cherish, and honor diversity. Share your opinions, whatever they may be, in a polite, civil manner. If you do, all the drama, all the heartache, all the schemes to put an end to the evils disappear. EVERYONE deserves to be heard, let's make sure we're all here to support that right by just being, and please forgive me, NICE.

I am only 22 years old. I went to alternative kindergarten because I wasn't yet emotionally strong enough for kindergarten. I have just graduated college. I can hardly consider myself a well-established, wise woman worthy of advising people of all ages, races, backgrounds, values, etc. When I look around, I see people capable of contributing so much more than I. However, some choose to bicker, gossip, and inflict pain on others... why? I hope that those who have it within them to lead this community back to its true and original purpose can accomplish that. There is so much I/we want to learn, and there are beautiful people here capable of teaching us. What a wondrous gift this community has to offer!

Let us remember that we aren't here for just ourselves, we're also here for the horses.

Thanks for reading. Please take everything I've said in the kindest possible way for that is how it is intended.

Most of you have probably heard of things like March of Dimes, WalkAmerica, etc, where people participate in mini-marathons in order to raise money for charities. I know one park in this area does a Pink Ribbon Ride in the autumn, where you can either walk or ride to support breast cancer research. Personally, it is the ONE AND ONLY time you will ever find me in anything pink. ;)

October 19 there's going to be a National Rescue Ride, to support horsey rescues around the country. (USA, that is.) I think over 50 charities are already registered to participate. A rider or walker can register with the group of their choice, and raise money for them by getting sponsorships from friends and family, or donating out of pocket. The great thing about it is you don't have to have a horse to participate -- so your lesson kids, horse-crazy cousins, and office buddies can join in. Of course, if your trail buddies want to get together and ride, that's even better.

Another neat thing about this is they only really started to get underway a few months ago; they had debated whether or not to try this year, but there was so much interest generated that they went ahead for '08. They're definitely hoping to get an even bigger turnout next year, so if you know of a group that isn't listed, pass it along to them. (I'm not sure if they're still registering new charities for this year, but it couldn't hurt to try!)

For more information, or to find out if your favorite rescue is registered, visit the website: NationalRescueRide.org. Registration forms can be found there as well.


Of course, if you can't join in this year, you can always hit up the Online Store and show your support that way. :) Come on, you know you NEED another barn jacket, don't you?

So my BO has 3 sons, the youngest is 4. He always wants to help with the horses, so my BO gave him a job - bring in my retired guy Joshy, and her retired girl Image. He's been doing this for a while, and before you think this is a story straight out of fhotd, Joshy and Image are very docile, and someone is always right there watching. Anyway, back to the cuteness!

Yesterday my sister was getting her horse from the pasture, and saw Joshy and Image out in the "fatty paddock" as usual. 15 minutes later, she is tacking up and notices that Joshy and Image are in their stalls with the doors closed. After doing some investigating, it turns out the 4 year old decided it was time for the 2 retirees to come in for their dinner (it was way too early) so he caught them and brought them in. Something tells me my horse knew it wasn't really dinner time, but how could he disobey his little 4 year old buddy? Of course his mom made sure he understood that he can't just bring the horses in whenever he wants, and from now on he has to have a 'grown up' with him.

It's amazing for me to think that 11 years ago my horse was headshy and terrified of children, and I was even a little scared of him. Now a 4 year old can lead him in from the pasture, brush him, and hug his legs without Joshy batting an eyelash.

So Ferarri's ride went well today, but he worked up a sweat when I was trying to make him stand like he's supposed to at the end of a class. He paws, he moves, he does anything to try to keep moving. He HATES standing in one spot for too long(unless he's eating, of course). Haaa. This is something to be worked on.

I took some pics at the barn today with my lovely(that's sarcastic) phone.

Here's a horse you've never seen before.... Aristocat aka Cat. Ferarri's daddy. ;]



( More under here!!! )

 I don't know if any of you are interested, but I'm totally hooked on this game.  And I'm sure some of you are hooked as well.  It starts out kind of slow, but it picks up pretty quickly.  Click on the link below to join!

http://www.howrse.com/?parrain=RavenCrest 

x-posted  

I highly doubt any of your remember me, but I am a lurker who normally reads almost every post in this community and tries to soak up as much information I can about riding and caring horses. I am a freshman in college who has been riding for eleven years in almost all the main disciplines (hunter/jumpers, dressage, western, reining, etc) but my heart will always be in jumping primarily equitation. Currently though I own an eight year old registered TWH gelding who I am fine-tuning to sell (so I can purchase a hunter/jumper prospect) and a four year old miniature horse mare.

I come to this community with the white flag raised for advice on the mini mare named Summer. Like most minis, she is an easy keeper and seems to get fat on air even though I know it isn't possible. Before I go on explaining what I feed her and what I do to exercise her and blah blah blah, I will give you my question so you can ponder as you read on; How can I spice up my miniature's workout and keep her at a correct weight?

Hey guys! I know, I know... I haven't posted in ages. For shame. But I've had nothing to say. Polo season ended, I take a random odd lesson on lesson horses every once in awhile. Life has been lame in the horse sense.

Until this weekend.

Last April I had the EXTREMELY GOOD FORTUNE to meet the alumni who founded the club, one of whom built the Bridgehampton Polo Club (horses for the hoity-toities). We contacted him a few weeks ago and he invited us up to watch... IN THE VIP TENT.

Excuse me? An open bar? A tent with tons of celebrities? Psht. HIGH GOAL POLO!?! I am so in.

Since it was so late we camped (yes, in a tent) in Easthampton which ended up being an affordable, if not interesting option. (we tried to have a campfire when we got back. Lighter fluid may have been involved...)

The teams were White Birch and Jumeirah Culu Culu. Mariano Aguerre was there - a TEN GOALER!!! - and everyone else was in the 5's or 6's. REALLY fantastic. And our contact introduced us to ALL the players, which was incredible.

Unfortunately, I think me and the rest of the Skidmore Polo kids were the only ones there who watched the game... whatever. Everyone else's loss (Nicky Hilton was there, and I hate to be assuming but I doubt she could tell one goalpost from the other...)

Anyway, fortunately for you all I took more pictures than a mom on her kid's first birthday. NOT dial-up friendly, but very horse friendly!

ON to the pictures!!

( Read more... )

hope you enjoyed!

-Megan

[Edited to: fix the dang pictures.]

A few months ago I posted about leasing my 20 MFT gelding to an 11yo boy who takes lessons out at the barn.  I expressed concern about the barn owner and trainer (with just enough credentials to teach beginners w/t/c) bossing the boy around.  I decided to go ahead with the lease and added a few clauses to keep the trainer off my horse's back and attached a full sheet of instructions on how to take care of horse with mild arthritis (ie.  DO NOT TROT UP THE DRIVEWAY!!!).