Fabulous Friday on Frequently Feline: Happy Birth Announcement

While you might not guess it, from some of the terrible weather which has been plaguing some of the areas in the country, Spring is just around the corner. This is the season when mares deliver their foals who will be actively cavorting in pastures and paddocks along side their mothers.

It gives me great joy to announce one of these births. Mr. and Mrs. Roy Jackson, who owned Barbaro, a horse who stole the hearts of so many people, and who will forever be remembered by horse lovers around the world, recently shared the news about their newest colt, Barbaro's third full baby brother.

Born to La Ville Rogue and sired by Dynaformer, the colt was born on March 10, at 10:45 PM at Mill Ridge Farm near Lexington, Kentucky. At birth, he weighed 145 pounds. I highly suspect that this colt will be named Sereno for the fourth hound in that famous family lithograph owned by the Jacksons.

According to "Blood Horse Magazine" Headley Bell, the managing partner at Mill Ridge said, “He is a good size colt with plenty of leg and size as indicative of his weight. A bay colt, he only has a marking on the center of his forehead. Thankfully both mom and baby are well.”

While I do not have a photograph of the newcomer, I had to share a photo of Nicanor, Barbaro's first full brother, shortly after he was born.

And while not considered a "pet", it gives me a great deal of pleasure to bestow the title of Pet of the Week for the new baby.

Please leave a comment of congratulations for the birth of the new colt.

Silent Sunday on Frequently Feline: Love This Foal!

This little baby may be slightly embarassed. There seems to be a "who me?" expression on his face.

What in the world could be on his mind? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment!

Name The Filly Contest Winner: GREAT name!

You may remember the "Name the Filly" contest back in May.

The other day, a drawing was held at the "Name the Filly" contest party. The party was hugely successful with all participants having a great time. It was attended by all the volunteer kids and their adults.
Since there was such a huge number of names submitted to the contest, they had to use a bigger hat than they expected from which to select the winner. Many thanks to all who sent in suggestions for her name!

One of the volunteer kids was the winner. She was thrilled and moved to tears by her win.

So, without further ado :::::: the name of this adorable filly, (who, by the way, will be available for adoption in a couple of months) , has been christened, "Tricky Dixie."

If you are interested in more information about adopting this filly, please contact me at hpmiou@aol.com
Isn't it a great name? I love it. Leave a comment and tell us what you think!

Horse Quiz: What Breed of Horse Are You?

I just about fell out of my chair when I found this horsie "quiz." yeh I know I am posting a lot about horses lately, but hay . . . when the shoe fits, I say, "wear it!"

It was absolutely no surprise to me that I turned out to be a Quarter Horse. With that sweet disposition for which they are famous, (at least mine were), that is no coincidence . . .
::::::whinnying with laughter here::::::, y'all know what a sweetie pie *I* am!

I don't mean to saddle you with extra work, but if your interest has been spurred on, take THE HORSE QUIZ and do share your results in an unbridled fashion!

What kind of horse ARE YOU? Leave a comment and let us know. This should be fun!

Functional Horse Duds: Keeping the Flies Away

Keeping up with the latest fashions is important to some folks. As far as I am concerned, I could care less. I prefer to be comfortable and wear clothing that is functional and of course, attractive.


Some horse servants I know however, enjoy "dressing"up their equine pals in fancy duds. While this little "ditty" may seem to be a bit unusual, it sure helps to keep those pesky flies out of Raven's eyes. I kind of think that the plaid pattern is rather chic!


Now, if they could design something a little more flashy and alluring for human use, perhaps we could keep mosquitoes from attacking us and at the same time be in vogue.


What do you think of this "fly mask" design? Leave a comment and let us know.

Happy Horse is Home From Hospital: Way to go, Casper!

When a beloved companion animal become ill, or is injured , our hearts are heavy, as it fills with worry and concern.

Our hearts are uplifted as they start to recover. If they have been hospitalized, when they are released, a great burden is lifted from our shoulders. We may continue to remain guarded as we wait for a full recovery, but having them home once again is such a relief.

Today my heart is brighter. When I heard that Casper, my friend Vicki's horse, who had been recently hospitalized for several days is now on the mend. He was spung from the horsepital yesterday morning. I know that Vicki must be thrilled as well and so relieved to have him back home and available for much loving.

Casper will be receiving what I suspect will be some pretty fancy shoes. I wonder if they will be saddle shoes with wings and tips? Ok so I had to make a pun. I am overjoyed!

All our well wishes go out to Vicki and to Casper for a swift and total recovery. I know you will want to join me in sending them special messages of cheer by leaving a comment!

Fabulous Friday on Frequently Feline: It's too Hot!

Kim's horse, Bam, makes a lot of sense, don't you think?

Bam is making it perfectly clear that it is far too hot for Kim to go riding, don't you agree?

Since Bam is both beautiful and communicates well through equine sign language, we think she deserves the "Pet of the Week." award!

Let's congratulate Kim and Bam for this presigious award, and leave a comment for them!

Endangered Horse Species: Reverse Vasectomy

AP Photo/National Zoo, Ann Batdorf

Yesterday, while going through my roadrunner email, I saw an article on their website that caught my eye. It was strange seeing a horse featured on their news page, so I had to follow it, of course. So rather than re-write it, I am sharing it here just the way it was presented on their main page.

I think it is incredible what veterinarians are learning and how important this new development in veterinary care will help to contribute not only to endangered horse species, but has great potential for other horses, and, of course, many other animals.

Dated: June 16, 2008

Scientists at the National Zoo say they have reversed a vasectomy on an endangered horse _ the first known operation of its kind on an endangered species.

Veterinarians revealed Monday that they successfully performed the procedure on the horse to allow it to reproduce naturally. The surgery was performed in October 2007 on a Przewalski horse named Minnesota. The horses are native to China and Mongolia.
Luis Padilla, the zoo veterinarian who performed the surgery, says the procedure was a first for this species and likely for any endangered species. The team worked with St. Louis urologist Dr. Sherman Silber, who pioneered the technique in humans.

This photograph released by the Smithsonian's National Zoo shows a Przewalski horse named ''Minnesota'' at the Smithsonian's National Zoo grazing in his yard on July 2, 2005. Recently, veterinarians at the National Zoo performed a successful reverse vasectomy on the animal - the first procedure of its kind to be performed on an endangered species.

The ''temporary vasectomy'' could have a significant impact on how animals are managed in captivity by giving zookeepers a way to control the animal's offspring without having to neuter them.

To read more about it, visit: Reverse Vasectomy on rare breed horse

Isn't this exciting? Can you think of other uses for this procedure to help animal management?
Leave a comment with your suggestions.

Fabulous Friday on Frequently Feline: Kissing Cousins?

This smooch planted Raven's schnozzola which puts Jimmy Durante's to shame, inspired me to feature Kim's beautiful mare. This equine just loves to be kissed and fussed over. Kim, of course totally enjoys the process as well, doting on her as frequently as possible.

So lets congratulate Raven for her "Pet of the Week" award by leaving a comment for Kim. She will be happy to pass the messages on to this charming filly.

Name the Filly: Enter the Contest

One of my favorite things about "blogging" is finding folks who share my love for animals, and of course my passion for horses.

When a "stranger" posts a comment on my blog with a link to theirs, the first thing I do is to check it out! I was thrilled when I discovered the fascinating equine oriented one, "Oh Horsefeathers"  on which the author, MrsMom,  posts almost every day.

MrsMom is holding a contest and donating a "mystery" prize for the best name suggested for this adorable black and white paint  filly born at Harmony Meadows Equine Rescue, a few days ago.

The date set for the naming party to be held in June has not yet been set, but stay tuned for more information.

You can read more about the happenings at Harmony Meadows Equine Rescue on their blog, as well.

So join in the fun and put on your thinking caps.  You can read more about this filly and add a comment to MrsMom's blog entry with the names that you suggest. There is no limit to the number of creative names you wish to enter.

Time is running out so grab that cup of coffee, put your feet up as you look at these photographs and fall in love.

Feel free to forward the link to my blog entry to your horse loving friends, to invite them to join in the fun!

Isn't this baby just adorable?  Tell us what you think by leaving a comment here, as well.

Silent Sunday: Montage Chevaux

Mattie: My "cyber" sponsored horse rescued from the kill pen.

It makes absolutely no difference which language is our native tongue. All horse lovers can connect  through the deep love we share and the powerful emotions we often feel when we are in the presence of  these magnificent animals.

I would like to share this magical video, "Montage Chevaux",  by juju57 as a gift for enjoyment. I am positive that you will be touched by the beautiful  photographs and enchanting music.

How have you been impacted by your love for horses? Leave a comment and share your experience with us.

Fabulous Friday on Frequently Feline: Meet Bobbi and Babe

Ok! So I am a sucker when it comes to adorable foals. This little Palomino gal, named Bobbi, is as precious as can be. She is obviously full of herself and has an attitude to boot, from what I hear from her owner, M00NLTSNTA. Testy and feisty, she is quite a handful.

 
Tail up, learning more about where her feet belong, Bobbi signals that life is a blast!

.

 

Babe, her ever so lovin' mom will be getting plenty  of exercise cavorting with her daughter

That romp was exhausting! Time for dinner and a little nap!

While many folks do not consider horses to be "pets", some of us think of them as very special ones. My pick for "Pet of the Week" goes to both Babe and Bobbi , two very beautiful and talented equine pets.

Let's leave a comment of congratulations to both M00NLTSNTA and this mare and foal for winning the title this week.

Raven's First Shoes: Designer Brand?

My friend Kim truly believes in taking her time to develop a solid partnership and a trusting relationship with her horses.

Her mare, Raven, who is getting her very first set of the equine equivalent of Emilio Pucci's, was allowed to go barefooted as long as possible to allow for her feet to grow in really well.

Kim told me that she began Raven's training between the age of three and four years old. Since Raven was only ridden on ground with few rocks and also in a huge arena, Kim saw no need for rushing the process.

Choosing an excellent farrier is one of the most important aspects of horse care. I just loved this photograph that arrived in my mailbox last night.

But I wonder if horse shoes really carry good luck! What do you think? Leave a comment and let us know.

Horse Rescue: Rhetorical Question?

Liesha and Markie at the horse show

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word, "rhetorical" as a : "of, relating to, or concerned with rhetoric, b : employed for rhetorical effect ; c : asked merely for effect with no answer expected <a rhetorical question> "

So I had to wonder  if there are any  good answers to the rhetorical question that Jo Deibel, President, Director and founder of Angel Acres Horse Haven Rescue , passed along from an inquiry she received from one of her adoptive families 

"How does a beautiful, intelligent horse who can name Wild Again, Forty Niner, Mr. Prospector, Native Dancer, Nashua, Round Table, Bold Ruler, Neartic, Damascus, Sword Dancer, Flaming Page, Bull Page, Nijinsky and Nasrullah among her ancestors in a five generation pedigree, end up slaughter-bound?"

Jo continued by saying, " Here's a rescued mare, slaughter-bound, a throw away, an off-the-track thoroughbred.  Beautiful, isn't she?"

Jo ended her email writing, "She looks pretty regal for a throw away and she has the best home she could ever have with the absolute best girl to love her. Just ask the mare If only she could talk........"

I don't think that this mare would feel that Jo's  question is at all rhetorical. If this mare could speak, I am sure she would ask for answers that say "yes" to horse rescue and at the same time  thank the many people out there doing a Herculean job to give a new life to these unwanted horses, where they can be loved and find their niche in the sport of horses.

I am sure there are many unforgivable "answers" that  the mare's connections, who so carelessly and thoughtlessly threw her away could give. But I want to know why these young and spirited horses are being thrown away to be disposed of in a horrific manner. It just sets my teeth on edge and makes me so angry that I can hardy speak.

What are your feelings about this "rhetorical" question? Please leave a comment and let us know.

Passing it Forward: The Joy of Blogging

One of the things I personally enjoy about "blogging"  is meeting the most fascinating people on the Internet. Networking and building community is one of my favorite past times. I was thrilled to receive this little "award" the other day from one of the horse bloggers with whom I have connected.

Mrs Mom who blogs at OhHorseFeathers & Related Twisted "Tails" was gifted by Pony Girl, of ponygirlridesagain with this adorable graphic, and in turn, MrsMom  passed it forward.

Making new friends who share common interests is very exciting. Finding folks who love animals and contribute to the body of knowledge about them and make a difference in the lives of animals, is very satisfying to me.

Thanks, MrsMom. I am proud to add this award "banner" to my blog.

Have you met folks on the Internet who share your interests? Have you met any of them in real life? Leave a comment and let us know how the Internet has impacted you.

Big Brown Captures the Preakness: Second Leg of Triple Crown Victory

Photo of Big Brown winning Florida Derby: by Coglianese Photographs 

While I generally publish "Silent Sunday" each week, I can hardly contain myself and be quiet. I am far too excited and awed Big Brown's performance and win.

One of the most beautiful races I have ever seen was the running of the Preakness Stakes yesterday afternoon. Big Brown finished with a huge win, loping over the finish line, winning by 5 1/4 lengths, not even appearing to break a sweat. This horse has an afterburner that rivals a jet fighter plane.

Aside from Big Brown galloping away to victory capturing the second leg of the Triple Crown series, the greatest part about yesterday's races was that no horses were injured. We all breathed a sigh of relief when the races were finished and all horses returned to their stalls safe and sound.

I am positive that little patch of white spot on his side is his power spot.  Jockey,  Kent Desormeaux certainly knows how and when to touch it because that horse flew like the wind when he got ready to leave the other contenders in the dust. It sure appears that Big Brown doesn't have to worry about getting dirt in his face.

I am positive he could have set a record, but I  bet my bottom dollar that Mr. Desormeaux  felt no need to push Big Brown, to keep him fresh for the strenuous running of the third and final jewel of the Triple Crown, the  Belmont Stakes in three weeks, on June 7.

I for one am on  pins and needles in anticipation about the Belmont. But I certainly don't want to count my chickens before they are hatched in order not to jinx him.

Even if you watched the race yesterday, you can enjoy viewing it again with the video from partymanners.

What did you feel while watching the running of The Preakness Stakes? Did you know that Big Brown would be victorious? Leave a comment and let us know!

Help End Horse Slaughter: Watch REAL SPORTS/Bryant Gumbel- HBO-May 12 at 10:00 PM

 
What happens to all the "pretty little horses" that have reached the end of their career as race horses or no longer able to compete in other equine sports?

The sad fact is that many of these race horses are are often taken directly from the track  and sent to auction for sale as meat.

Since the three foreign based slaughter houses in the United States have been closed, "killer buyers" who profit from the sale of horseflesh are now shipping these unfortunate horses outside  the United States, to Mexico and Canada where horse slaughter remains legal.

Tonight, May 12 at 10:00 PM,  REAL SPORTS with Bryant Gumbel will present a special report airing some of the dirty little secrets about the plight affecting many of our magnificent Thoroughbred race horses no longer able to compete in the sport of racing during his 134th debut edition of the show.

It is my fervent hope that many people will watch the show this evening and will be touched sufficiently to take action to stop the inhumane and cruel practice of horse slaughter.

Many of these horses remain suitable to find new homes where they can begin a happier and useful life. Many of them can be retired at rescue havens where they may be able to  live their lives out in peace.

We need to work together in support of the pending legislations H.R. 503 and S. 311, to be finally passed to protect our vulnerable horses.

On the other hand, it is heartwarming to see a lovely mare, named Remarkably, a slaughter bound mare that was "thrown away" given the opportunity to have a new life. Just look at her now. She was pulled from the kill pen in September 2006 and has found a career as a show horse.

Ridden by Liesha, trained by Elissa Allen (Evenstride Farm) winning a 2nd and 5th place win at a recent horse show.

Information provided by

Jo Deibel
President/Director

Angel Acres Horse Haven Rescue, Inc.

If you are a horse lover  and wish to help, I urge you to watch this special segment tonight on REAL SPORTS.  Then follow your heart and take action by visiting: American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act.

Silent Sunday on Frequently Feline: Happy Mare's Day!

Mother's Day, is a special day we set aside to honor our moms.

In the spirit of Mother's Day, I chose this very special "mom", Callie, rescued from the slaughter pen. It is not only the sick and elderly that are sent to slaughter. Just like Callie, many are young and healthy horses in desperate need of homes.

This very lucky mare had a weanling at her side and was pregnant with the foal featured in this touching video from ksbg195. 

Let's thank the "horse moms" who lovingly rescued these horses in order to give  them a second chance for a meaningful and happy life, by leaving a comment for them.

Happy Mother's Day!

To Dream the Impossible Dream: Do You Have One?

This morning while I was indulging in one of my recent favorite hobbies, "Yahoo Answers", I ran across a unique question asked by a young lady who wanted to know if anyone believed in unicorns or Pegasus. It got me to thinking about these two mythical horses and how they have impacted me over the years.

Do I believe in them? While I have no absolute proof, I must admit that I lean toward the belief  that they exist in spirit and can touch us on many levels.

Pegasus, the flying horse, has always been inspirational. My mare, Patti and I spent many hours volunteering in the Pegasus therapeutic riding program. The name of the program was well chosen, as it offered disabled riders the opportunity to experience what may have seemed to be impossible for them.

Much more enjoyable and enriching than  impersonal  machines and other "orthodox" physical therapies, the horses and the folks who involved in handling them, provided  the healing effects which traditional physical therapy provides, but in an enjoyable and delightful way.

The Unicorn, on the other hand, to me is a symbol of what is possible if one truly believes in something. Just because we cannot see something, does not mean that it doesn't exist. Maybe there is a unicorn in my garden. I would like to think that one day, I might actually get to see one.

"The Unicorn in the Garden" a fable of our time written by James Thurber is a truly inspirational and thought provoking metaphor. Please take a few minutes to view the video,(classic UPA cartoon 1953)  from erose7en

So why not dream the impossible dream? They can only come true if we dare to.

Do you believe in unicorns and Pegasus? Have these mythical horses touched your lives in any way? Leave a comment and share your thoughts with us.

Silent Sunday: In Memory of Eight Belles

 
The joy I felt as Big Brown brilliantly galloped over the finish line, winning the Kentucky Derby yesterday afternoon, was immediately replaced with a deep and profound sadness at the premature and tragic  loss of the beautiful and talented filly, Eight Belles. Her fatal  accident was an immediate reminder that the Sport of Kings is never held without enormous risk and sorrow.

My heart and well wishes go out to Eight Belle's connections, owner: Fox Hill Farms, trainer: Larry Jones, breeder: Robert N. Clay and Serengeti Stable, and her jockey, Gabriel Saez.

Fly with the angels, sweet Eight Belles.

Join me in sending condolences to Eight Belle's connections by leaving a comment.