Charli Girl Miniature Horses: April 2008

A bit about Miniature Horses.

The designation of a miniature horse is determined by the height. Section A, miniature horses stand 34" and below at the withers (the high part of the back, located between the shoulder blades). Section B, miniature horses stand 34" – 38" high at the withers. Lassie is a section B and is in foal to a Section B stallion.

While its common for people to refer to minis as "ponies" or "shetlands" , they are not.... and are a breed of their own. Miniature horses are exactly that, Miniature versions of their larger cousins. They don't have the stubborness or body type of a pony. Miniature horses do grow a thick shaggy coat during winter, which is clipped for the show ring.

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Well we had our first show of the season on Saturday the 26th April at The Caves.... The Saturday saw the miniature horse and pony and shetland show and the Sunday was The Caves Agricultural show. Jolly was such a good boy and it was a big weekend for him. He placed 3rd in the yearling and under class. That was the only class for the mini show that he could enter, and on the sunday with the ag show they had all the males in together.... I thought that was a bit unfair... babies competing against stallions.... but he got 2nd!!! He was beaten by his brother (Kildaire Rock-a-billy Rebel) and bet 2 other stallions.... I couldnt believe it, I truly was on top of the world. I now know what the standard is like so aim to do just that aswell...... but the experience and fun was certainly something and the lovely people I met was great. Jolly, being so little was a real hit with people and kids and other horses. So keep watch on this little man..... he is destined to be a real head-turner!!

His next show isnt until June.... at Finch Hatton, just north of Mackay.

Wow.... time has flown so fast!!

My little monkey boy is now 5 months old. He is changing so much. Spirit went through a rather naughty phase where he would rear up or turn and kick if I was to go down to his level or if the kids were near..... but he now has realised he gets in big trouble so he hasnt done that for a while now... he is so gentle and loving and smoochy!! He is now weaned nearly fully..... we started that about 4 weeks ago when Jolly came to live with us..... Spirit was draining Lassie so we took it as a a sign and the fact Jolly came, meant they could support each other with new surroundings. He still goes for a run to Lass when let out and has a quick suckle but I think its more a comfort thing than a feed. Spirit now shakes hands, bows, and lays down. I havnt been doing much training as such as I have been focusing my time on Jolly instead, prepping him for the shows that have been coming up. Spirit's first show will be in June...... the Finch Hatton Show, which is here just out of Mackay..... So lots of homework for him now.