Life as of late hasn't slowed down much. If anything it's gotten busier. Now normally, I'm a fairly lazy person. I would rather relax, chill with the horses, sleep, ah sleep. That's a strange concept as of late.
I've lost 2 employees in less then a week, so someone has to make up the difference. Guess who got elected? LOL Oh well. At least I know that whatever needs to be done is getting done this way. Even if i don't remember what my family looks like any more.
My son went to the Netherlands on Monday. He said everyone has "interesting shoes"? What's up with that? Anyway, he's there safely. So it's a bit quieter around these parts. I'm still busy as heck, but whatcha gonna do?
Life at work is hectic, with Christmas looming, it's not about to let up much either. Sigh.... Well, at least Christmas time is quite fun and VERY Busy.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
For Sale $1500.00 OBO
Foothills Cappuccino aka CC4 yr old triple registered mare.
FQHA, NFQHA, AQHA
A/A, e/e
14.2hh
Has just been started under saddle.
email for more info. lapetix2000@yahoo.com
Serious inquiries only please.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Geeze
It's been quite a bit since I've posted anything anywhere!
Since I got promoted, I don't have any time to do much of anything. My days start earlier then I'd like and end much later then I'd like. At night, when I finally get a chance to sit down for a bit, my legs hurt so badly the crampisomehow I have to get used to this. I don't know how. My feet, OMG, they hurt so horribly that they have woken me up at night. The problem is, my legs and feet Should be used to it already. I've been doing this for almost a full year. Now I can sit down once in awhile, but it's not easy when the employees don't want to do thier job.
One of my major pet peeves is a couple of my guys, are giving me a hard time. I've had to write each one of them up for something or other, mostly for not opening the store on time. I HATE writing anyone up for anything. The act alone makes me angry. But as of yesterday, I was Supposed to have started my "vacation". Yeah right. I should have known that the smarter thing to do would have been to cancel the whole damn thing. But no, I'm stubborn. I need NEED sometime to back up and regroup. So yesterday, the person assigned to open the store, neglected to get the keys from me so the store could be opened on time. Which led to me having to go in and open the store. I ended up working for a few hours then I felt safe enough to cut out. Then todayl, the Security company calls me and says the store isn't open 15 minutes after it was supposed to have opened. Damn it! So again, I get dressed and have to go into the store. Thankfully the person who's supposed to have been there is there at this point, but, still late. So this means of course I have to write him up YET again. This of course pisses me off, pisses him off to no end, but what choice do I have? The Security company had already informed the District Office and Corporate that the store wasn't open, someone is responsible, and that someone is me, cause whatever my employees do, I have to answer for. What a predicament this puts me into. So now I know I'm going to be written up myself because this is his 3 write up for this very thing and I'm going to be having to pay the piper on this. This makes me angrier.
Why OH why do I allow myself to be put into situations like this? I have got to find a good missle ground. I admit, I'm having difficulty going from emmplyee to manager, it's not as easy as one would think. The amount of responsibilty doens't bother me at allk, it's the lack of respsect that I get from the employees. It's not all of them, but there are a couple who think of me still as thier equal. I try very hard to treat everyone the same and as equals. But they have a line that should not be crossed. One is of course not doing thier job(s), being sexually explicit, making a lot of luid comments and of course not showing up on time or at all for thier shift. They all know how to do thier job, but for some reason, they just do not want to do it.
I've been told I need to get the bitch factor and start to really hammer down. I guess I need to get that bitch factor in motion and keep it that way for a bit. Sigh......
Since I got promoted, I don't have any time to do much of anything. My days start earlier then I'd like and end much later then I'd like. At night, when I finally get a chance to sit down for a bit, my legs hurt so badly the crampisomehow I have to get used to this. I don't know how. My feet, OMG, they hurt so horribly that they have woken me up at night. The problem is, my legs and feet Should be used to it already. I've been doing this for almost a full year. Now I can sit down once in awhile, but it's not easy when the employees don't want to do thier job.
One of my major pet peeves is a couple of my guys, are giving me a hard time. I've had to write each one of them up for something or other, mostly for not opening the store on time. I HATE writing anyone up for anything. The act alone makes me angry. But as of yesterday, I was Supposed to have started my "vacation". Yeah right. I should have known that the smarter thing to do would have been to cancel the whole damn thing. But no, I'm stubborn. I need NEED sometime to back up and regroup. So yesterday, the person assigned to open the store, neglected to get the keys from me so the store could be opened on time. Which led to me having to go in and open the store. I ended up working for a few hours then I felt safe enough to cut out. Then todayl, the Security company calls me and says the store isn't open 15 minutes after it was supposed to have opened. Damn it! So again, I get dressed and have to go into the store. Thankfully the person who's supposed to have been there is there at this point, but, still late. So this means of course I have to write him up YET again. This of course pisses me off, pisses him off to no end, but what choice do I have? The Security company had already informed the District Office and Corporate that the store wasn't open, someone is responsible, and that someone is me, cause whatever my employees do, I have to answer for. What a predicament this puts me into. So now I know I'm going to be written up myself because this is his 3 write up for this very thing and I'm going to be having to pay the piper on this. This makes me angrier.
Why OH why do I allow myself to be put into situations like this? I have got to find a good missle ground. I admit, I'm having difficulty going from emmplyee to manager, it's not as easy as one would think. The amount of responsibilty doens't bother me at allk, it's the lack of respsect that I get from the employees. It's not all of them, but there are a couple who think of me still as thier equal. I try very hard to treat everyone the same and as equals. But they have a line that should not be crossed. One is of course not doing thier job(s), being sexually explicit, making a lot of luid comments and of course not showing up on time or at all for thier shift. They all know how to do thier job, but for some reason, they just do not want to do it.
I've been told I need to get the bitch factor and start to really hammer down. I guess I need to get that bitch factor in motion and keep it that way for a bit. Sigh......
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Monday, July 7, 2008
Fireworks and Horses Do NOT mix
On the 4th, there was the "typical" local celebrations, food, fun and fireworks. Each nyear at night, I make sure I'm home. So that If and when the horses freak out and bust through the fence, I can catch them and settle them down. This 4th was no exception. I was home. Fireworks were let off, the horses didn't freak to badly, a little running around and such, but not much fan fair all in all. Or so I thought.
Early on the 5th, Sabrina came running into the house and said she thought one of the horses was hurt really badly. It looked like she had a broken leg is what she said. She saw another horse kicking the tar out of her and Tink fall.
The only thing we could come up with is at some point someone had lit off a firework close enough to really scare the youngun's and they freaked out.
I contacted a vet and designed a treatment plan specifically for her, that would work IF she had had a soft tissue injury/ puncture wound / infection. I had hoped that treating her with meds and a LOT of hosing would help the swelling go down and prayed that it was a soft tissue injury.
Today, I knew from the first moment I set my eyes on her that it wasn't a puncture wound that eluded me or a soft tissue injury. The swelling had grown significantly. Originating from her stifle the swelling went all the way down to her hock. I called the vet for Xrays. The first vet came out and did regular xrays. Then hussled back to the clinic to develop them. To no avail. She came back with Dr. John and the digital radiograph.
The new pics were taken, and lo and behold there were breaks. The stifle was on the opposite side of where it was supposed to be. The growth plate was fractured, the tibia was fractured. It was bad. The injuries were so bad, that she could not be saved. No matter how much I would have wanted, no matter how much money it would have cost, it would have all been in vain.
Rest in Peace my sweet little gal. I will always remember you and you will always hold a special place in my heart. I'll see you at the Rainbow Bridge some day.
Early on the 5th, Sabrina came running into the house and said she thought one of the horses was hurt really badly. It looked like she had a broken leg is what she said. She saw another horse kicking the tar out of her and Tink fall.
The only thing we could come up with is at some point someone had lit off a firework close enough to really scare the youngun's and they freaked out.
I contacted a vet and designed a treatment plan specifically for her, that would work IF she had had a soft tissue injury/ puncture wound / infection. I had hoped that treating her with meds and a LOT of hosing would help the swelling go down and prayed that it was a soft tissue injury.
Today, I knew from the first moment I set my eyes on her that it wasn't a puncture wound that eluded me or a soft tissue injury. The swelling had grown significantly. Originating from her stifle the swelling went all the way down to her hock. I called the vet for Xrays. The first vet came out and did regular xrays. Then hussled back to the clinic to develop them. To no avail. She came back with Dr. John and the digital radiograph.
The new pics were taken, and lo and behold there were breaks. The stifle was on the opposite side of where it was supposed to be. The growth plate was fractured, the tibia was fractured. It was bad. The injuries were so bad, that she could not be saved. No matter how much I would have wanted, no matter how much money it would have cost, it would have all been in vain.
Rest in Peace my sweet little gal. I will always remember you and you will always hold a special place in my heart. I'll see you at the Rainbow Bridge some day.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Cotie
Cotie Loves Gregory. Everytime Gregory is around him, he has eyes only for Gregory. Cotie was scratching Gregory's head, so that made Gregory laugh, which made Cotie do it more. They were quite the pair the other day.
Grandkids
This is Sabrina and her boys. Gregory on the left and Collin on her lap. They were outside enjoying a rather beautiful (if not blazingly hot) day.
Collin took it upon himself to play in a mud puddle, while Gregory favored the pool. They were so cute playing that day.
While Hannah contented herself playing with bubbles and in the pool, the boys were hamming it up doing their own thing. It amazes me how much they are all alike, yet have so many differences.Each child is very independant, while one may be more stubborn then the other, each seems to learn at an extremely quick rate, course that may be me thinking they do. ; ) Gregory is pretty outgoing, while Hannah is shy, very opinionated and extremely stubborn. Gregory Loves to tease and play, while Hannah prefers to chill and hang out with dad, she does like to play at times but not as much as Gregory does. She's a bit of a chicken too, unless it's horse related that is, she's the first to say, Nanna, I want to ride, then Gregory follows suit quickly. It seems they try to out do each other constantly. They fight, they fuss and they argue, but they really love each other. Collin on the other hand is very Mommy oriented right now.
All in all though, I couldn't ask for a better bunch of grandchildren. They are a blast to have around and it is SO great to be able to say..... Here ya go, this child is acting a fool, YOU take care of the situation! LOL Being a Grandparent is The best!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Pictures..
I will be taking more pictures of Cotie for Y'all to eval again. I just have to get them done, then posted. Thanks everyone!
Zelda Chokes, AGAIN
I had been pulling Zelda in before anyone else so she could "take her time" and not feel rushed and putting her in her own enclosed area.
A lot of good That did. First time she choked, it was on hay alone. Dislodged that, but evidently left her throat irritated. Second time, she choked on pelleted grain. Such fun! Not, called the vet out for that one. This time, it was sweet feed and one mouth full. As soon as it got stuck, she stopped and raised her head waiting for me to come and help her. I took her right out of there and put her in the yard. Gave her a shot of banamine and massaged and massaged and massaged. She drank a bit, which must have moved the blockage, cause about 15 mins later, she was tearing up the grass running away from me. Good Grief. Poor Zelda is really starting to show her age now, which saddens me. The vet says she looks great for her age, even though I know the time is getting closer to her demise, and that's not something I look forward to, but I am preparing myself for it (emotionally). I'm trying to decide where it would be best to lay her. I think she would like it best if she were close to the pasture edge since then she will "feel" as if she's still part of the herd, or if you would prefer, look over the herd. I know this may sound silly to some, after all, what does she care once she's passed away, but it matters to me where she is laid to rest. I want to do what she would want, the way she would want. I know she's not ready yet, she's still full of piss and vinegar, but I don't think, that it's that far off. I wish I could wave a magic wand and make her young again. Hell, I wish I could wave a magic wand and make ME young again. ; )
A lot of good That did. First time she choked, it was on hay alone. Dislodged that, but evidently left her throat irritated. Second time, she choked on pelleted grain. Such fun! Not, called the vet out for that one. This time, it was sweet feed and one mouth full. As soon as it got stuck, she stopped and raised her head waiting for me to come and help her. I took her right out of there and put her in the yard. Gave her a shot of banamine and massaged and massaged and massaged. She drank a bit, which must have moved the blockage, cause about 15 mins later, she was tearing up the grass running away from me. Good Grief. Poor Zelda is really starting to show her age now, which saddens me. The vet says she looks great for her age, even though I know the time is getting closer to her demise, and that's not something I look forward to, but I am preparing myself for it (emotionally). I'm trying to decide where it would be best to lay her. I think she would like it best if she were close to the pasture edge since then she will "feel" as if she's still part of the herd, or if you would prefer, look over the herd. I know this may sound silly to some, after all, what does she care once she's passed away, but it matters to me where she is laid to rest. I want to do what she would want, the way she would want. I know she's not ready yet, she's still full of piss and vinegar, but I don't think, that it's that far off. I wish I could wave a magic wand and make her young again. Hell, I wish I could wave a magic wand and make ME young again. ; )
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Which photo is best?
A
B
C
D
I'm looking for a new picture of Cotie's head to redo the banner with. Which one looks best? Or are none of these good?
May 7, 2008
Elly ~ Who has hit the "terrible two's 'tude". She's in the Don't touch me, don't look at me, don't even Think about it mode right now. She hasn't offered to kick, however, she has shown her Butt a couple of times. Heaven forbid I walk towards her right now with a halter. She looks at me and sticks out her toungue as she goes the opposite way. Brat!
Cassie. She's due in June. She's starting to want a LOT of attention from me. She's getting very picky eating and really getting to be a bit of an attention Hog. She's a sweet mare though, so it's hard to not give her the attention she desires. Not much longer to go.
David's mare, Gracie. She may LOOK pregnant, but she is Not. She's just a marshmellow. She's a big horse, with a lot reach. She takes great care of David when we are out on a trail ride.
Sandy. She decided the trees were a good place toget a good scratch. And of course eat all the nice green
grass that's under them. ; ) Always the opportunist!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Tornadoe's?
Typically, here in Va, at least the area that I live in, we don't see a tornado, and certainly not one of any kind of significance. That is until today.
Photo courtesy of NOAA.com
Our hospital, Obici Memorial, was hit pretty significantly. One of the outbuildings took what they are calling a direct hit from the tornado. What the Heck? Cars in the parking lot were flipped, there's one photo of a red mustang with a branch embedded into the hood of the car.
These two photo's are courtesy of WTKR Channel 3 news via Crystal Squires.
There are a lot of photo's of the damage, some showing the path of destruction. Now I've seen tornadoes before, but for some reason, this floors me.
We do get tornadoes here, however, hardly ever one as significant as this one. The worst damage I've seen caused by a tornado here is a storage barn being taken out or a barn roof peeled off. I don't know how big the tornado was. Now there's reports of other tornadoes that hit the area. They are saying that 13 homes are completely destroyed in Suffolk. Another small community called Driver they are saying is destroyed.
A lot of local people have been affected by this. I wonder if there's anything that can be done to help those that were hit so hard.
I had no damage at all. My horses, however are acting like fools. Fighting and being extremely aggressive which is totally out of character for them. Makes me wonder if the storms are over or if they are still on edge.
Something like this makes me appreciate what little I do have and be thankful that I didn't loose everything as some of my neighbors did.
Please say a prayer for those that were affected.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
I had to laugh
David (son) didn't want to get up and help Rob. It was later in the morning, like around 11. Is that technically still in the "morning"? Anyway, Rob grew impatient and decided to take drastic measures.
First it was nice, Hey David, wake up, gotta get to work. Second attempt - same, still no response. David was dead to the world and evidently really enjoying his sleepy time. Poor boy has so much to do don't you know! Third attempt included a bit of a rucous.
When Rob let loose the chain saw about 3 feet from David's head, I have heard reports that David launched out of his bed by about 12 feet. He was up and ready to go in a matter of milliseconds!
The next time Rob said, Hey David let's go, and he didn't want to wake up, Rob got creative yet again. Only this time it was a leaf blower, yup you guessed it, aimed straight at David's head. Man I would have PAID to have seen either one of these happen.
The last time Rob tried to get David up and he didn't want to cooperate, he resorted to a squirt gun. Ya know, he got up pretty quickly after about 3 squirts in the face. I think he needs to listen when Rob says, Hey David, time to get up, gotta get to work.....
Some people just have to learn the hard way. ROFL Man I still would love to have seen that all transpire. Vengeful mom? YOU BET! HA!
First it was nice, Hey David, wake up, gotta get to work. Second attempt - same, still no response. David was dead to the world and evidently really enjoying his sleepy time. Poor boy has so much to do don't you know! Third attempt included a bit of a rucous.
When Rob let loose the chain saw about 3 feet from David's head, I have heard reports that David launched out of his bed by about 12 feet. He was up and ready to go in a matter of milliseconds!
The next time Rob said, Hey David let's go, and he didn't want to wake up, Rob got creative yet again. Only this time it was a leaf blower, yup you guessed it, aimed straight at David's head. Man I would have PAID to have seen either one of these happen.
The last time Rob tried to get David up and he didn't want to cooperate, he resorted to a squirt gun. Ya know, he got up pretty quickly after about 3 squirts in the face. I think he needs to listen when Rob says, Hey David, time to get up, gotta get to work.....
Some people just have to learn the hard way. ROFL Man I still would love to have seen that all transpire. Vengeful mom? YOU BET! HA!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Little Helper
Gregory was helping build "his" Zelda a new run. We decided because she's on the meds for so long and she can't have the typical hay, we made an area just for her that runs along most of the pastures so she can still feel apart of the group, but be seperated. He was cute. He tried to help untangle some of the electric tape that was pretty tangled up. 
Gregory had started picking grass to give the girls. They were fighting over him. I don't think he's going to have a choice or not about being a little cowboy. The horses all think he's pretty neat stuff!
This photo just cracks me up. Dolly really Only wanted the grass that Gregory was providing, but Opal wanted Gregory's attention to herself, as you can see she's a bit jealous that he's hugging Dolly.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
What would you do if?
When you went to where ever your horses are and you notice that your herd has increased? It appears that someone has purposely put the horses in with your own. Who would you notify? And what if this was something that was becoming common place? There's no room in any of the local shelters or they don't have the facilities for abandoned horses? Would you assume thier care? What would you do? What would be your immediate concerns?
Monday, April 7, 2008
The Dreaded Vet Day~
The Vet came and went today. He was scheduled to;
1. Pull coggins on all horses that were either going to a trainer or will be on trail rides this year.
2. Geld Cotie
3. Pull wolf teeth
4. Put my old Rott. Heidi to sleep
What happened is a different story;
First we have had rain for more then 2 days. It's mushy, soggy wet out there, with nice sized puddles everywhere. It was still drizzling while he was here.
Getting Prepared!
I had designed and set up these little feed pens for each horse, just like we set up for our horses when we are out on a trail ride. Hot tape and all. The horses that were to have thier coggins pulled were in one each. Cotie was in his pasture, so there was no need to confine him.
I fed early, got everyone brushed as best as possible since for whatever reason possesses a horse, they MUST find the biggest deepest muddiest pit to roll in, Just so they can show off thier ability to be the dirtiest thing possible when being presented to the vet. No one resembled thier true coloring. UGH! So a brushing I must do, a LOT of brushing I must do. I'm sure they were all thinking, just wait until I am out of here, I'll show her what wallowing in the mud is! Gross beasts to say the least!
And we waited, and waited. Finally, Dr. John appeared! Hooray...... sort of.
I allowed the horses that weren't to be messed with out. Left the others in who were having thier coggins pulled and went to talk to Dr. John. Dolly took to rearing up for whatever her reason was acting a total fool. Opal stood there looking at Dolly. I swear I heard her laughing. Grace, who was on the other side of Opal was tossing her head having a major temper tantrum. Sandy stood there yelling at me and Zelda, OMG, Zelda. Acted as if she was dying! Tossing her head, pawing, charging the fence, stopping, backing up, then charging it again. What the hell has gotten into these horses? The whole time, Opal is standing there just watching the idiots on either side of her, still laughing I'm sure! I was!
Finally, I pulled Dolly out for her test. She about bolted out of the gate. Put her up, grabbed Opal, found out this mare has a small star. Huh! Never saw it before, EVER. We've had her for HOW many years? How can one miss such a thing I ask? Observant aren't I? Put her up, grabbed Sandy. Who stood there like a perfect angel. I wouldn't expect any less from her. She's always A#1!! NEVER a worry from my Sandy gal! Put her back, and I see Zelda having a total melt down. I thought, well damn, I best let her out or she's going to come unglued completely. So I let her out, which made Grace go into over load. That head was a tossin' and a rollin' and those feet came up and she stomped, and she was just having a total fit. Now this horse, NEVER ever has a fit for any reason. EVER. She is a pretty steady Eddie. So while I had my back to the gate, Darling Miss 36 yr old Zelda, zipped out of the gate. Normally (notice I say NORMALLY), this isn't an issue, cause Zelda never leaves the front yard. She has never gone on a "walk" off the property unless there is someone on her back. She didn't do it today either. But what she DID do was run, Yup, RUN, over to Cotie as fast as she could. Tail flagging the whole way. Some 36 yr old! Brat. Whatever, she'll stay in the yard, so it's nothing to be concerned about right? So I take Grace out into the yard to have her coggins pulled. She is excellent, doens't flinch at all, but is still pretty peeved at me. I put her up and put her in the large pasture and she takes off like a bat out of hell. Close the gate and what do I see? Zelda is teasing Cotie. Tail up, she's winking at him, he's teasing her and she is having herself a grand ole' time. OMG! He's supposed to be Gelded today. What's wrong with this picture!?
I see her driving Cotie crazy who's pulling out all the stops to impress Ms. Thang and say to Dr. John, I guess I best go get the old hussy. You know, she must think she's a 10 yr old by the way she's acting. He looks up and starts giggling. Sees her teasing him and says go ahead, I'll catch up. Dear Lord! Some Old fart! I get close to Zelda, who promptly turns with the zest of a 5 yr old and takes one look at me and says See Ya..... Catch me if you can... Oh boy what a BRAT. What in the world has gotten into these kids today? Cotie is now totally beside himself. She's running all over the yard, determined not to be caught. Dr. John is laughing at her as much as he's laughing at me. I get to the gate that Cotie's behind and say, Co come here. He lowered his head and meandered up like Ho hum, OK if I Haaaave to Mom. I snap a lead on him. Dr. John stuck his arm through the gate and pulled the coggins. Cotie just stood there like it was no big deal, which it's not, trust me, he's had probably close to as many different needles stuck in him for one thing or another then most elderly horses have had in all thier years.
Dr. John looks Cotie over again and said are you sure you want to geld him? He's such a Nice horse. He is built very nice, has good muscling, and has the best temperament he's seen on a stallion in quite some time. He "should" be a stallion. I said, well, there's no one knocking down my door to breed to him, not that I am advertising at all (cause I am not), nor is there a shortage of horses in the world right now. He said, I know, but damn, he's one nice horse. I said, well, I was told he is turned out at the knee some. He said, no not really, just a tiny bit, nothing that will affect him or his offspring. I said, well, yeah, but, I would really like to ride him. He said he thought he would be a "wonderful wonderful ride". He had actually gotten a chance to watch him canter around his pasture. I actually saw him smile! Dr John, not Cotie. LOL I said, I thought it was best. I really want to ride him and if he's a stallion, I can't. He said OK, BUT... can we please wait until it's pretty outside? He was afraid that Cotie would slip and do the splits. That's a visual I can do without, thank you very much! Plus I had to get into work as fast as possible, so I thought it best to go along with his "plan" for now. So Cotie did not get gelded. Sigh... I hate building something up in my mind, only to have it denied!I have to reschedule his gelding appointment and Sandy's cortison injection for another day, a Pretty day, where it's a bit warmer and the sun is out with firm footing and no worries of Cotie falling and injuring himself worse then being gelded.
Now Heidi, I had not slept much last night. Fretting, worrying, being upset at the prospect of loosing my Heidi. I thought I was prepared. I was wrong. I backed out, chickened out. I just could NOT do it. But, Dr. John to the rescue! He had a drug on board that he's been using on his elderly boxer bitch. It's working wonders for her, so why not give it a shot and see if it helps Heidi? I'm game, anything to keep her realitively pain free and living as normal life as can be for a 12 yr old Rott. It is expensive, but, Heidi is worth it to me so we are giving it a shot. If it works, then she will stay on it until it no longer works. I should see a definite improvement in 4 days. I haven't a clue what it's called, but I don't care. I am going to use it and hope that it does the trick for Heidi. I'll miss my old dog terribly, but when it's time, I'm confident she will tell me it's time.
Dr. John gave me the bill and said, don't forget to reschedule. He's going to pull up Sandy's digital x rays and see which bursa is inflamed. He'll decide if we should do an additional set for comparison. I hope not, they ARE expensive, but really worth it. Then he left.
Wow what a morning. But at least Cotie was left with his dignity intact and Heidi is still here, at least until the next appt. ; )
1. Pull coggins on all horses that were either going to a trainer or will be on trail rides this year.
2. Geld Cotie
3. Pull wolf teeth
4. Put my old Rott. Heidi to sleep
What happened is a different story;
First we have had rain for more then 2 days. It's mushy, soggy wet out there, with nice sized puddles everywhere. It was still drizzling while he was here.
Getting Prepared!
I had designed and set up these little feed pens for each horse, just like we set up for our horses when we are out on a trail ride. Hot tape and all. The horses that were to have thier coggins pulled were in one each. Cotie was in his pasture, so there was no need to confine him.
I fed early, got everyone brushed as best as possible since for whatever reason possesses a horse, they MUST find the biggest deepest muddiest pit to roll in, Just so they can show off thier ability to be the dirtiest thing possible when being presented to the vet. No one resembled thier true coloring. UGH! So a brushing I must do, a LOT of brushing I must do. I'm sure they were all thinking, just wait until I am out of here, I'll show her what wallowing in the mud is! Gross beasts to say the least!
And we waited, and waited. Finally, Dr. John appeared! Hooray...... sort of.
I allowed the horses that weren't to be messed with out. Left the others in who were having thier coggins pulled and went to talk to Dr. John. Dolly took to rearing up for whatever her reason was acting a total fool. Opal stood there looking at Dolly. I swear I heard her laughing. Grace, who was on the other side of Opal was tossing her head having a major temper tantrum. Sandy stood there yelling at me and Zelda, OMG, Zelda. Acted as if she was dying! Tossing her head, pawing, charging the fence, stopping, backing up, then charging it again. What the hell has gotten into these horses? The whole time, Opal is standing there just watching the idiots on either side of her, still laughing I'm sure! I was!
Finally, I pulled Dolly out for her test. She about bolted out of the gate. Put her up, grabbed Opal, found out this mare has a small star. Huh! Never saw it before, EVER. We've had her for HOW many years? How can one miss such a thing I ask? Observant aren't I? Put her up, grabbed Sandy. Who stood there like a perfect angel. I wouldn't expect any less from her. She's always A#1!! NEVER a worry from my Sandy gal! Put her back, and I see Zelda having a total melt down. I thought, well damn, I best let her out or she's going to come unglued completely. So I let her out, which made Grace go into over load. That head was a tossin' and a rollin' and those feet came up and she stomped, and she was just having a total fit. Now this horse, NEVER ever has a fit for any reason. EVER. She is a pretty steady Eddie. So while I had my back to the gate, Darling Miss 36 yr old Zelda, zipped out of the gate. Normally (notice I say NORMALLY), this isn't an issue, cause Zelda never leaves the front yard. She has never gone on a "walk" off the property unless there is someone on her back. She didn't do it today either. But what she DID do was run, Yup, RUN, over to Cotie as fast as she could. Tail flagging the whole way. Some 36 yr old! Brat. Whatever, she'll stay in the yard, so it's nothing to be concerned about right? So I take Grace out into the yard to have her coggins pulled. She is excellent, doens't flinch at all, but is still pretty peeved at me. I put her up and put her in the large pasture and she takes off like a bat out of hell. Close the gate and what do I see? Zelda is teasing Cotie. Tail up, she's winking at him, he's teasing her and she is having herself a grand ole' time. OMG! He's supposed to be Gelded today. What's wrong with this picture!?
I see her driving Cotie crazy who's pulling out all the stops to impress Ms. Thang and say to Dr. John, I guess I best go get the old hussy. You know, she must think she's a 10 yr old by the way she's acting. He looks up and starts giggling. Sees her teasing him and says go ahead, I'll catch up. Dear Lord! Some Old fart! I get close to Zelda, who promptly turns with the zest of a 5 yr old and takes one look at me and says See Ya..... Catch me if you can... Oh boy what a BRAT. What in the world has gotten into these kids today? Cotie is now totally beside himself. She's running all over the yard, determined not to be caught. Dr. John is laughing at her as much as he's laughing at me. I get to the gate that Cotie's behind and say, Co come here. He lowered his head and meandered up like Ho hum, OK if I Haaaave to Mom. I snap a lead on him. Dr. John stuck his arm through the gate and pulled the coggins. Cotie just stood there like it was no big deal, which it's not, trust me, he's had probably close to as many different needles stuck in him for one thing or another then most elderly horses have had in all thier years.
Dr. John looks Cotie over again and said are you sure you want to geld him? He's such a Nice horse. He is built very nice, has good muscling, and has the best temperament he's seen on a stallion in quite some time. He "should" be a stallion. I said, well, there's no one knocking down my door to breed to him, not that I am advertising at all (cause I am not), nor is there a shortage of horses in the world right now. He said, I know, but damn, he's one nice horse. I said, well, I was told he is turned out at the knee some. He said, no not really, just a tiny bit, nothing that will affect him or his offspring. I said, well, yeah, but, I would really like to ride him. He said he thought he would be a "wonderful wonderful ride". He had actually gotten a chance to watch him canter around his pasture. I actually saw him smile! Dr John, not Cotie. LOL I said, I thought it was best. I really want to ride him and if he's a stallion, I can't. He said OK, BUT... can we please wait until it's pretty outside? He was afraid that Cotie would slip and do the splits. That's a visual I can do without, thank you very much! Plus I had to get into work as fast as possible, so I thought it best to go along with his "plan" for now. So Cotie did not get gelded. Sigh... I hate building something up in my mind, only to have it denied!I have to reschedule his gelding appointment and Sandy's cortison injection for another day, a Pretty day, where it's a bit warmer and the sun is out with firm footing and no worries of Cotie falling and injuring himself worse then being gelded.
Now Heidi, I had not slept much last night. Fretting, worrying, being upset at the prospect of loosing my Heidi. I thought I was prepared. I was wrong. I backed out, chickened out. I just could NOT do it. But, Dr. John to the rescue! He had a drug on board that he's been using on his elderly boxer bitch. It's working wonders for her, so why not give it a shot and see if it helps Heidi? I'm game, anything to keep her realitively pain free and living as normal life as can be for a 12 yr old Rott. It is expensive, but, Heidi is worth it to me so we are giving it a shot. If it works, then she will stay on it until it no longer works. I should see a definite improvement in 4 days. I haven't a clue what it's called, but I don't care. I am going to use it and hope that it does the trick for Heidi. I'll miss my old dog terribly, but when it's time, I'm confident she will tell me it's time.
Dr. John gave me the bill and said, don't forget to reschedule. He's going to pull up Sandy's digital x rays and see which bursa is inflamed. He'll decide if we should do an additional set for comparison. I hope not, they ARE expensive, but really worth it. Then he left.
Wow what a morning. But at least Cotie was left with his dignity intact and Heidi is still here, at least until the next appt. ; )
Saturday, April 5, 2008
They are Legal.....well almost
"Dusty's" official name is: Driften Up Dust...... Cow Horse Prospect
I would direct Dusty towards anything cow horse related. She is one I wouldn't hesitate to take to the show ring. She's not pushy, she's easy going, not trying to be "king of the hill", she loves attention and tries very hard to please.
All Breed Pedigree
For Driften Up Dust
"Tink" aka
Driften Chub..... HUS / H/J prospect
Both are for sale, should anyone be interested. Driften Chub will make a great hunter jumper. Long legs, big butt, nice neck and a long smooth stride. I believe she has a lot of potential to do really well to go HUS. Very well built with the Go attitude.
All Breed Pedigree
For Driften Chub
Now I'm waiting for the paperwork to come back complete for the BC. And they will be good to go! If anyone is interested, please contact me privately at my email addy.
I would direct Dusty towards anything cow horse related. She is one I wouldn't hesitate to take to the show ring. She's not pushy, she's easy going, not trying to be "king of the hill", she loves attention and tries very hard to please.
All Breed Pedigree
For Driften Up Dust
Then there's ..........
"Tink" aka
Driften Chub..... HUS / H/J prospectBoth are for sale, should anyone be interested. Driften Chub will make a great hunter jumper. Long legs, big butt, nice neck and a long smooth stride. I believe she has a lot of potential to do really well to go HUS. Very well built with the Go attitude.
All Breed Pedigree
For Driften Chub
Now I'm waiting for the paperwork to come back complete for the BC. And they will be good to go! If anyone is interested, please contact me privately at my email addy.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Well I finally got it done
The first time ever. I got the babies registered! What a feat though. Being as it is something new to me, it was a learning experience even. But boy, am I relieved.
I also called the vet, who will be out on Monday, weather permitting, to 1. geld Cotie, 2. pull his wolf teeth, 3. pull Coggins and 4. put my beloved Rottie Heidi to sleep.
More about Heidi in a seperate post.
I also called the vet, who will be out on Monday, weather permitting, to 1. geld Cotie, 2. pull his wolf teeth, 3. pull Coggins and 4. put my beloved Rottie Heidi to sleep.
More about Heidi in a seperate post.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
For Sale - $1,500.00
Genetically tested as a palomino. A/A, e/e however, she is going gray I believe.
"CC" is registered AQHA, NFQHA and FQHA. She's 14.2hh
Her registered name is Foothills Cappuccino
Her pedigree is listed on All Breed (click on link)
She's not been started yet, but will be this spring - fall. She's used to kids running around like screaming banchees, cats, chickens, etc. She isn't spooky but will be "alert" if the killer bag goes flying across the field. She's at ease with other horses, foals, mares and geldings. CC leads, loads, does all the normal typical stuff she should, all but had someone sit on her and ride. She is currently a 3 yr old. Ready to start your way. Good mind and solid feet, doesn't crib, bite, kick or charge, easy to handle on the ground.
If interested email me privately at my email address.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Cotie
This is my stallion Cotie, each of these pictures were taken today. Of course it has been raining off and on since yesterday. So please excuse the muck.Cotie weighs in now at 969 lbs and is somewhere around 15hh. I'd like to see him bulked up a bit and of course fully shed out. I've put him on that Gold As Sun stuff to see if it makes any difference in his coat color. I'll post the results after the tub is gone and his coat is fully blown.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Proud? Why Yes I Am!
I was accused of being "proud" of my horse Cotie once. Ya know, I have to agree, after much deliberation and thought, I admit, yes I am proud. Cotie came here when he wasn't quite 4 months old, he got shipping sickness shortly after he arrived that quickly turned into full blown pneumonia.
Fast forward to about his 2ND yr. I decided to sell him to someone who really wanted him to service her own mares, since my fencing seriously lacked the security it needed for an intact stallion. Well, things didn't work out as well as I had hoped. In fact, things didn't work out at all. After him being there for about 8 months, I brought him home. He had lost a significant amount of weight and hadn't grown much if at all.
Well, he has been back home for a year now. His temperament remains the same as it always has been. He's a pretty "Steady Eddie" in that department. Accordi
ng to the new tape, he weighs 969 lbs. My height stick is in two pieces currently, so I used the tape, according to it, he's at a flat 15 hh. However, I think he's taller then that, I don't think I used the tape correctly. Neither here nor there, he looks pretty good now. One can no longer feel the every vertebra or all ribs. I can see muscle AND fat. It was a long year of recovery, one that I am SO glad is over. Cotie has had a rough start in life. So to say, "She's proud?" Why, yes, I guess I am.
ng to the new tape, he weighs 969 lbs. My height stick is in two pieces currently, so I used the tape, according to it, he's at a flat 15 hh. However, I think he's taller then that, I don't think I used the tape correctly. Neither here nor there, he looks pretty good now. One can no longer feel the every vertebra or all ribs. I can see muscle AND fat. It was a long year of recovery, one that I am SO glad is over. Cotie has had a rough start in life. So to say, "She's proud?" Why, yes, I guess I am. Cotie has 2 foals due to hit the ground this summer. One will be for sale, the other is already sold in utero. He will be gelded here shortly as I would rather him being out in the open enjoying life, seeing the sights and going on trail rides with me.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Botulism~
It seems there's a Botulism outbreak in our area. Carol from the tack store sent me an email saying that there's been some horses that have died from this. From what the Merck Manual states, it's a horrible way for any animal to go.
Merck Vet Manual - Botulism
As I recall, awhile ago, there was a hay supply that was suspected. We had had an outbreak of botulism cases here locally, when exactly I don't recall. I need to check into this further to see if there's a pattern from where the suspected source is. Sigh..... if it's not one thing it's another! Everyone be careful and check it!
Merck Vet Manual - Botulism
As I recall, awhile ago, there was a hay supply that was suspected. We had had an outbreak of botulism cases here locally, when exactly I don't recall. I need to check into this further to see if there's a pattern from where the suspected source is. Sigh..... if it's not one thing it's another! Everyone be careful and check it!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Today~
I met an interesting person. Someone that I know I've seen before, but never had the opportunity to talk to. She ended up with a horse that is in her words, "Sorry shape", enough so that she's flaming mad about how poor he is. He has rain rot, skinny and of course blowing his winter coat. So he looks worse then he actually is I'm sure. However, she said she could feel every rib.
I felt bad for her, I know her frustration. The anger at whomever had the horse previously to allow the animal to get in such a state.
I advised her to do several things.
One contact the vet, have the vet come and do an exam on the horse. Two, power pack the horse. Three, Bathe the horse with an astringent type shampoo. Four, put the poor thing on a really easy to digest and palatable grain that's a complete feed. Five, free choice hay. And finally Six, Groom, groom and more grooming. And a possible Seven, perhaps putting him on SMZ's for a bit would help with his skin issues and anything else that may be going on. I would Definitely have his teeth checked also, thinking about it, but I forgot to mention that.
I'm sure she thinks I'm nuts. But I've been there, done that.
She asked me how long it should take to see some improvement. I said, about 6 weeks to 2 months. Possibly more, the longer the horse has been down it seems the longer it takes to bring them back up. And the horse isn't young, so bouncing back may take a bit more doing then just tossing food at the poor thing.
Example:
This picture is about a year old. Taken 3/24/07
(This is NOT the horse in the post above, however.)
This was taken 8/19/2007
Yes, I know, I take REALLY crappy photos, so please don't hammer me for them. I'm trying to get better at my picture taking skills. It's hard when your subject wants to be In your face instead of standing still for that "perfect" shot. : )
WHY do people let their horses get to this state before they find them another home? Are they hoping for a miracle? Are they hoping that hay prices will go down? Simply saying they can't afford it doesn't make sense to me. If you couldn't afford to feed the horse, then, sell it, give it away if need be. Find a temporary home for the poor thing, as in Free lease the horse out. Anything but let them starve!
Which brings up a question. If you came across a horse that was in sad shape, what would you do?
A. Say something to the owner
B. Call the authorities
C. Sneak the horse food
D. Attempt to get the horse
E. Walk away
F. All the above
G. None of the above
And if you chose answer A. How would you approach the owner about it? Would you ask if the horse had a medical problem that led him to be thin and sickly? Or would you use a more tactful route? I'm curious how others would approach this touchy subject. I have been faced with this before.
I felt bad for her, I know her frustration. The anger at whomever had the horse previously to allow the animal to get in such a state.
I advised her to do several things.
One contact the vet, have the vet come and do an exam on the horse. Two, power pack the horse. Three, Bathe the horse with an astringent type shampoo. Four, put the poor thing on a really easy to digest and palatable grain that's a complete feed. Five, free choice hay. And finally Six, Groom, groom and more grooming. And a possible Seven, perhaps putting him on SMZ's for a bit would help with his skin issues and anything else that may be going on. I would Definitely have his teeth checked also, thinking about it, but I forgot to mention that.
I'm sure she thinks I'm nuts. But I've been there, done that.
She asked me how long it should take to see some improvement. I said, about 6 weeks to 2 months. Possibly more, the longer the horse has been down it seems the longer it takes to bring them back up. And the horse isn't young, so bouncing back may take a bit more doing then just tossing food at the poor thing.
Example:
This picture is about a year old. Taken 3/24/07(This is NOT the horse in the post above, however.)
This was taken 8/19/2007Yes, I know, I take REALLY crappy photos, so please don't hammer me for them. I'm trying to get better at my picture taking skills. It's hard when your subject wants to be In your face instead of standing still for that "perfect" shot. : )
WHY do people let their horses get to this state before they find them another home? Are they hoping for a miracle? Are they hoping that hay prices will go down? Simply saying they can't afford it doesn't make sense to me. If you couldn't afford to feed the horse, then, sell it, give it away if need be. Find a temporary home for the poor thing, as in Free lease the horse out. Anything but let them starve!
Which brings up a question. If you came across a horse that was in sad shape, what would you do?
A. Say something to the owner
B. Call the authorities
C. Sneak the horse food
D. Attempt to get the horse
E. Walk away
F. All the above
G. None of the above
And if you chose answer A. How would you approach the owner about it? Would you ask if the horse had a medical problem that led him to be thin and sickly? Or would you use a more tactful route? I'm curious how others would approach this touchy subject. I have been faced with this before.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
School? At My age?
I guess I'm going back to college. I'm not sure what I'm going to major in, but, I'll think of something I suspect.
I'm leaning towards Nursing, mostly because there's always a demand for nurses and there's a pretty good school that's quite close by.
I would Love to find a career that involves horses, but I don't know if that's possible. I'm "looking" into a few possibilities, but I haven't settled on any one thing yet. So we shall see.
I "think" I am better with animals then I am with people, but, then again, I am not necessarily good with anything right about now. So we shall see....
I'm leaning towards Nursing, mostly because there's always a demand for nurses and there's a pretty good school that's quite close by.
I would Love to find a career that involves horses, but I don't know if that's possible. I'm "looking" into a few possibilities, but I haven't settled on any one thing yet. So we shall see.
I "think" I am better with animals then I am with people, but, then again, I am not necessarily good with anything right about now. So we shall see....
Friday, March 14, 2008
What would you do?
Scenerio:
If you had an animal born that wasn't responding as it typically should after birth, what would you do?
Would you -
A. Do everything in your power to save it, even though it may be for not?
B. Do nothing and let "nature" takes it's course?
C. Call the vet and pray the vet will come to the rescue?
Now let's complicate the scenerio slightly. What if you call the vet and the vet couldn't or wouldn't come out to help? Then what would you do?
Now let's complicate the scenerio a little further. What if you did not have the means to transport said animal to the vet for care at his office? Then what would you do?
If you had an animal born that wasn't responding as it typically should after birth, what would you do?
Would you -
A. Do everything in your power to save it, even though it may be for not?
B. Do nothing and let "nature" takes it's course?
C. Call the vet and pray the vet will come to the rescue?
Now let's complicate the scenerio slightly. What if you call the vet and the vet couldn't or wouldn't come out to help? Then what would you do?
Now let's complicate the scenerio a little further. What if you did not have the means to transport said animal to the vet for care at his office? Then what would you do?
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Work Day...
The storms had taken out all but one strand of my fence, so, I had to fix that. Then we decided to block off part of the front pasture to allow some grass to grow. But while I was at it, I thought, well now is as good of a time as any to build seperate pens. One to allow each horse to eat without the fear that someone else is going to steal their grain, and two, so the one's that aren't used to camping type pens, this is a good time to introduce them to the much smaller confines of a small confinement. Then my freinds showed up and we started messing with the horses they want to use for a clinic that's coming up next weekend. First it was CC. She did OK, but she did try to cow kick and throw a fit. But she loaded without to much fan fare and went on repeatedly. She did quite well. She is really starting to look like a pretty mare. Mike, really likes her, said she'll be one heck of a horse, very smart, very quick to pick up things. Then he worked with Peppy, my little pal boy. Said he was to dang adorable and just wanted to love on him. He is an overgrown stuffed animal type of colt. Just a real love bug. But he did really well for his first "formal lesson". Then it was Elly's turn. Who for some "unknown" reason, was not into it at all. It wasn't me that was handling her and she wasn't sure that this person who had the lead was someone she would trust or not. So she was a little bit of a pill. Not bad, just unsure and very cautious. Once she didn't see me, she relaxed a little more and got down to business. Then she blew up. Threw herself over in a temper tantrum. Got up, shook it off and started shaking her head NO, I don't want to play any more. She meant it too. So Mike asked her to do just a little more, attempted the loading, which she failed at today, and just asked her to step over a 4x2. She picked her leg up as high as she could and just held it there. It was strange. Then she was put up and she took off like a shot.
Now on to the new feeding situation. I got everyone's buckets ready and put them in the pen's. Most everyone went straight into them right away. Only Dolly, Elly and Sandy didn't. I led Sandy into one and she was a happy camper. No one could steal her grain and that made her a happy girl! Grace on the other hand was NOT a happy camper, but one way or another that girl is going to loose some weight. She looks like she's 8 months PG for goodness sakes! So Elly ate standing next to me and Dolly ate at the fence. Everyone thought this new system was cool. Each had their own section and each had their own buckets. Letting them out of the enclosures was just as uneventful as putting them in them. I was prepared for all out chaos, but I was denied! For once! All in all, the kids did well today. Even if there were a few little 'tude episodes.
Now on to the new feeding situation. I got everyone's buckets ready and put them in the pen's. Most everyone went straight into them right away. Only Dolly, Elly and Sandy didn't. I led Sandy into one and she was a happy camper. No one could steal her grain and that made her a happy girl! Grace on the other hand was NOT a happy camper, but one way or another that girl is going to loose some weight. She looks like she's 8 months PG for goodness sakes! So Elly ate standing next to me and Dolly ate at the fence. Everyone thought this new system was cool. Each had their own section and each had their own buckets. Letting them out of the enclosures was just as uneventful as putting them in them. I was prepared for all out chaos, but I was denied! For once! All in all, the kids did well today. Even if there were a few little 'tude episodes.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Storms~
It may have been storming inside, but it was storming outside as well. The first storm that came through two days ago, decided to take out the fence that keeps Cotie in. There was a good 10 foot section that was knocked out, took out the stock fencing as well as the hot tape. Well, I found it that night after I got home from work. The tree was fairly substantial. Thankfully Cotie didn't think it was necessary to go on a walk-about, since he was still there and staying away from the tree. so, we broke out the chainsaw and cut the thing apart. The base of the tree was resting on another tree, so a good section was up in the air, when it was released, it suddenly pitched the opposite way. Like a see saw. Cotie must be pretty mellow since he didn't even flinch while the saw was running. We did what we had to, repaired the fence and all was well. Hopefully we won't have more substantial storms come through. All the fields are totally saturated so more rain and it will be Leigh's Lake here.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Wax On, Wax Off.......
Who in the hell invented this torture? That's what I would like to know? Who in their right mind would ever think that waxing was a good idea? That crap is bloody painful!
Tonight my daughter said - Here mom, try this, just put it on, let it harden then pull it off. Alllllrighty then. I'm game to try just about anything once. Sooooo... I put the wax on my right eyebrow. Did as instructed, then rip. Oh My God, I had a Come to Jesus moment. I thought I was going to see stars or something. What's worse, is I started the one side so I had to do the other - right? Only when I did my Left eyebrow, I didn't see the wax get on to my eye LID. After I got done crying, I thought, this Has to be a "new" form of Torture. I can NOT imagine what it must feel like for a bikini wax. I'm Sure would pass out!! My eyebrows Still hurt. I swear I drew blood when I ripped part of the wax off. So much for my eyebrows. I'm sure going to miss them until they grow back again. I hope they do grow back.. Oy..... Never again!
Tonight my daughter said - Here mom, try this, just put it on, let it harden then pull it off. Alllllrighty then. I'm game to try just about anything once. Sooooo... I put the wax on my right eyebrow. Did as instructed, then rip. Oh My God, I had a Come to Jesus moment. I thought I was going to see stars or something. What's worse, is I started the one side so I had to do the other - right? Only when I did my Left eyebrow, I didn't see the wax get on to my eye LID. After I got done crying, I thought, this Has to be a "new" form of Torture. I can NOT imagine what it must feel like for a bikini wax. I'm Sure would pass out!! My eyebrows Still hurt. I swear I drew blood when I ripped part of the wax off. So much for my eyebrows. I'm sure going to miss them until they grow back again. I hope they do grow back.. Oy..... Never again!
Saturday, February 16, 2008
One of my kids........
This is "Boakie" otherwise known as Leo Boakie On Cue. I was sent these pics of him from his new owner.
The gal who has Boakie now, drives and does a bit of dressage. He lives north of me now, where they get a LOT more snow then we do here in Va. I think he looks fabulous.
I hear he still has his sense of humor. He was always the clown of the pasture here. Always stirring things up, always getting the girls fired up and running. Then would look at you as if to say, What?
I miss his fuzzy face, but he's in a fabulous home now. I can't wait for further updates on his progress.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Collin / 2 months old
Such a cute little boy. He's getting his first tooth already, is trying to sit up and is cooing to get attention. He had his first real laugh 2 days ago. He's so much fun! All but when he's screaming at the top of his lungs for that bottle! He weighs about 15 lbs now.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Zelda
Meet Zelda. She's about 36 yrs old now if not older. We acquired Zelda in 1991, July 4th to be exact. On July 5th, the vet estimated her age to be a minimum of 19 yrs old. Probably closer to her mid 20's. So an exact age for Zel isn't possible. Notice all the white coming out under her forelock. Under her mane there's a lot of white also. Zel got a treat today of going out in the front yard to eat a little bit of grass that may still be hanging about. She found one big clump that she kept grabbing so much of she had to spit half of it out. This old gal is as steady as they come. She still has spunk and a bit of energy, but any time they kids start ripping up the pasture, she sticks close to the barn and out of the way. Zelda is 14.2hh and is a Morgan / Qtr cross from the best we can figure.Zelda has an interesting story. She came to me straight off of a meat truck. A kill buyer had stopped to fix something on the truck and a friend of mine had seen her and a pony, they didn't look like they belonged. So he called me and asked me if I'd be interested. Of course! Bring her here! So he did. When she got here, she was in need of a little medical care. She had a chipped shoulder and a popped splint. Best guess was it had happened on the trailer. So we doctored her up, and let her just be a horse for about a year. I would apply a piece of mold able plastic to her leg every day, 2x's a day, vet wrap it, soak it (hot and cold), bute and just let her rest.
After her recovery, Zelda has taught many children how to ride, she's been a therapy horse since I've had her and has helped a few older children learn patience and basic horsemanship. She's taught them to love and be accepting too. She may be retired from just about all riding activities, but she still likes to kick up her heals once in a blue moon. She will gladly pack around a small child and is ever so careful with them. If she feels the child start to loose their balance, she will stop dead in her tracks. I will readjust them, get them set and we can start off again, but only when she feels that child is safe up on her. Her job now is to teach the babies how to behave and be respectful. She is, in her mind, their Grandma / mentor. She does a good job of it too!
Zelda is by far the best horse I've ever had the pleasure to be owned by. While she no longer helps with equine therapy, she will always have a place here until the day she's called to go over the rainbow bridge. That day, I am not looking forward to, but I know that she's earned that at the very least from me.
Three Amigo's~
Left to Right~ Elly, CC and Cassie.I know these are Horrible pictures of these 3 girls, but what I want to point out is the size of each. Cassie is 15 hh flat, CC is 14.2, Elly is almost the same height as CC. CC of course has had longer to fill out and elongate, but between the two (CC and Elly) Elly will be a stockier and bulkier horse. I think she will be as bulky as Cassie is if not slightly thicker. Notice CC's Mohawk action. It's time to give her a trim. UGH!
These 3 hang out together. Cassie is the best negotiator as far as turns goes. She also has one heck of a stop. She's not as fast as CC is on a flat out run, but CC has yet to learn how to get out from under her own feet. Then there's Elly, she's not the fastest of these 3 girls YET, but she can out maneuver both of them and gives them a run for their money. Out of the 3 girls, Elly is by far the most competitive. I wonder what she's going to be like when she does start competing.
They had just tore up the pasture, racing, as usual. This time Cassie won, with Elly coming in second and CC sliding to a stop just inches from the fence. This is where they stopped. Thankfully since I was on the other side of this separating fence. I wasn't that close to this fence at the time they were racing, I saw them tearing it up and started walking towards the fence to get a photo. I was to late. I think El was a bit pissed she didn't win. LOL These 3 are a riot to watch. They do most everything together now.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Nick Of Time aka Nick
And his owner Kelly. Don't they look Fabulous together? "Nick" is a horse that came from Canada. He's a perch gelding that I purchased via Foal Train. Nick had the best laid back personality when he was here. He and Kelly hit it off right away. She has done a wonderful job with him. They compete now and are doing quite well. I'm very proud of the two of them! It's great to get these updates on how well they are doing together. Makes my day!
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