The Falabella Miniature Horse

The Falabella is a rare Argentine breed of Miniature Horse that has been kept pure by breeding only pure Falabellas to other pure Falabellas for countless generations. It is known as the first and original Miniature Horse breed, yet the miniature size is secondary to their pure heritage. It is a true pure breed due to their unique and historic ancestry, which is one of its greatest attributes. The other is the fact that the Falabella name is known and recognized all over the world. Breed ancestry has been kept pure by the Falabella Farm and by small groups of dedicated breeders who want to preserve their precious heritage. The Falabella is an exquisitely unique horse that has always been rare due to the limited number within its pure ancestry gene pool. Estimates indicate that only a few thousand Falabellas exist in the entire world. The most desirable feature of the Falabella and its primary value is that of its rarity and pure Falabella ancestry. Falabellas are very pretigious to own and are highy prized by those who have them.

FALABELLA HISTORY
Many historic facts and fables have been told of the famous Falabella in books, magazines and equine articles. It was said that the original Argentine little horses were descendants of Andalusian and Spanish Barb horses brought to Argentina by the Spaniards when they first arrived in the 15th century with the intent to conquer Argentina. They were defeated and the horses were left to roam free. Over several more centuries the harsh environment and inbreeding caused a reduction in size and produced naturally smalhorses. Back in the 1840s, these small equines were seen within herds near the southern Buenos Aires area by Patrick Newell and he started to build his herd with the smallest he could find. It was from this point that selective breeding was started to develop a true small horse. This was over 150 years ago. Patrick Newell worked with the small horses and his knowledge was passed to his son-in-law, Juan Falabella, who shared his knowledge with his son Emilio, who passed it on to his son, Julio Falabella. As Julio worked with his father through his younger years, he gained all the knowledge his father had learned throughout his lifetime.

Over many years they used a variety of equines including the native Argentine Criollo horse and equines with Pinto and Appaloosa markings to breed down in size, continually keeping the smallest and best quality in each generation. By the 1950s, Julio took over his fathers Falabella Farm. He had created tiny sized Falabellas in every color including Pintos and some very rare and colorful Appaloosas which were his favorites. The greatest development and perfection of the Falabella breed was done by Julio when he created his tiny horses in many colors. With his dedication and knowledge, he was able to produce perfect little horses that were some of the smallest in the world. Once the tiny sizes in all the colors were attained, a century of natural heritage and breed development was completed, Julio set out to show his Falabella Miniature Horses to the world!

In the 1960s Julio Falabella sent his Falabella Miniature Horses to the USA and other Countries. Several articles about the Falabella Miniature Horse were written in Western Horseman Magazine and National Geographic Magazine, as well as other Horse Magazines. The news spread like wildfire about this little Miniature Horse breed that was Centuries in the making from natural and selective breeding over many generations. Julio and his Falabella Miniature Horses became famous as he continued to export them to all parts of the world. Some of the richest and most famous people bought them. Among them were kings, princes, presidents and movie stars. It was not unusual to pay astronomical prices for some of Julio's smallest and best Falabellas. Through the 1970's the Falabellas were being imported in small groups. By this time, Julio had a large number of Falabellas on his huge Ranch in sizes as small as 28 inches with perfect conformation in all colors. Some of Julio's very best and most colorful stallions and mares were sent to the USA and other countries all over the world. It was during these years that the Falabella Miniature Horse became a registered breed through the Falabella Miniature Horse Association.

When Julio passed away in 1980, the Falabella Farm and his lifes work was continued in Argentina by his wife, Maria Luisa de Falabella and their son Julio and daughter, Maria Angelica Falabella. Angelica then later moved to the USA in 1995 and brought her very best Falabellas with her, including he smallest and most colorful Pintos and Appaloosas. Both Falabella Farms continued to be a primary producer and exporter of Falabella Miniature Horses all over the world until Maria Angelica Falabellas retirement in 2006.

Currently, Falabellas are still at the Falabella Farm in Argentina and others are located in the United States, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom and a number of other Countries.

FAMOUS FALABELLAS
The most famous Falabella to be imported to the United States was Chianti, a beautiful black Leopard Appaloosa stallion born in 1964, which was imported with Falabella mares sent to the Regina Winery in California in the 1960s. Chianti became an immediate sensation and has since been written about in many equine news articles. Chianti and his mares produced some of the first Falabellas foals born in America and some of the very first Appaloosas within the Miniature breed. One of the best known and finest sires in the USA was Toyland Zodiac, a 31 inch top quality, black Leopard Appaloosa Falabella stallion born in 1976. Toyland Zodiac is the leading sire and grandsire of more show quality and top winning offspring than any other Falabella stallion in the USA. Some of the most beautiful and finest quality Falabellas have Toyland Zodiac in their ancestry.

SPECIALIZING IN FALABELLAS
Specializing in Falabellas is a popular choice for those who are looking for something unique and different. A growing number of Miniature breeders and other horse breeds are adding Falabellas to their farm as they see the many advantages in breeding these rare little horses. They are available in every color, giving a wide variety of choices. They can be registered and shown in competition in all Miniature Horse shows, and in all Miniature Horse Registries in the World. Most important, they have their own FMHA Registration certificate to authenticate their historic ancestry. With many top farm names coming and going over the years, the Falabella name has withstood the test of time and has retained its status. Falabellas are known and shown world wide and the name creates its own market which is a unique advertising and promotional advantage available to Falabella breeders. Some Falabellas can be expensive and carry premium prices, however, most can be acquired at affordable prices. Foals are especially desirable and can cost less than adults. They are a good choice forthose who want a few or are looking to acquire future breeding stock or show prospects.

There are less than 1,700 Falabellas registered in the FMHA since its incorporation in 1973. Only small herds are known to exist in the USA and most other countries, and their number is estimated to be only several thousand in the entire world. There is a strong demand and limited supply due to the small number in existence. There are distinct differences between Falabellas compared to American Miniature Horses. The rarity and purebred Falabella ancestry of every Falabella is what primarily sets it apart from all other Miniature Horses.

ARGENTINA ACCF FALABELLA REGISTRY
All Falabellas originally came from the Falabella farm in Argentina and they still continue to breed and export their Falabellas around the World. The Falabella Farm in Argentina has developed its own Association de Criadores de Caballos Falaballa (ACCF) Registry, in which they record the original ancestry of their Sires, Dams and offspring born on the Falabella Farm. When a Falabella is imported from Argentina, they have an ACCF registration document which authenticates their Falabella Farm heritage.

FALABELLA MINIATURE HORSE ASSOCIATION
The Falabella Miniature Horse Association (FMHA), was incorporated in 1973 as the first Falabella Miniature Horse Registry in the World. By this time, Falabellas were already becoming very popular and a number of breeders were importing them to the USA and other parts of the world. With continued importations of Falabellas and additional offspring being born, there was a need for a Registry to record and authenticate their pure Falabela ancestry, thus the beginning of the Falabella Miniature Horse Association. The Argentina ancestral Pedigrees were recorded and FMHA registration certificates were issued to all pure Falabellas and their offspring. Today, FMHA continues as an International Falabella Registry for Falabellas all over the World.

FMHA REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
Only pure Falabellas are accepted for Registration in FMHA. They must have an FMHA registered Sire and Dam or must have documented proof of every ancestor tracing their original ancestry to the Falabela Farm in Argentina. FMHA honors all pure Falabellas with Regisration certificates from imported Falabellas with ACCF registrations from the Argentina Falabella Farm and from other Falabella Registries in other Countries. The Falabella Registry, American Registries and other Miniature Horse Registries. An additional and important plus is that most Falabellas in the USA are also registered in the American Miniature Horse Association (AMHA) and/or the American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) and Falabella offspring can be triple registered in AMHA, AMHR and FMHA. This gives owners the opportunity to register, breed and show their Falabellas in the Registries of their choice and still maintain a pure Falabella breeding program.

The American Miniature Horse is extremely popular and has become one of the top choice Equine breeds. Proof of their popularity is shown as the count of AMHA and AMHR Registrations are over 200,000 since their inception. In comparison, there are less than 1,700 Falbellas registered in FMHA since its inception in 1973, attesting to their rarity. Pure Falabellas make up only a tiny part of the growing number of other Miniature Horses, however, they are a big attraction for Miniature horse breeders and Falabella Fanciers. SHOWING FALABELLAS Winners Ribbons, trophies and special awards can bring show titles, recognition and added value to your Falabellas. Falabellas can compete side by side with other Miniatures for winners ribbons and National titles, and some have taken top awards on an International basis.

DISPOSITION
Falabellas are sweet natured and enjoy being with children, adults and seniors. Their small size makes them easy to handle. They are easy to train to drive and fun to show. They can also provide family enjoyment as a beloved pet or companion for anyone, from tots to teens and adults, foals are especially adorable and affectionate making for a very unique and precious equine. They are versatile in many ways and can do all the things that any Miniature Horse can do. Most can be ridden by small children. They are quite intelligent and can be trained to do so many thing. They are strong for their size and driving them is very popular, especially in shows and parades.

QUALITY
The quality of a Falabella is most important, having an overall appearance of a well balanced horse with a pleasing look, good legs, a good bite and good conformation, the same as required to show. Falabellas with the finest show quality are highly desirable.

BREED TYPE
All breed types are acceptable for the Falabella. As development of the Falabella evolved, selective breeding has created a variety of types. Some of the most popular Breed types seen in Falabellas are the Arabian, Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, Pinto and Appaloosa, but the most important factor will always be their pure Falabella ancestry. Emphasis has been toward breeding for refinement, well balanced conformation and the look of a true horse in the breed type they resemble.

SIZE
Birth heights can be as small as 12 inches and up to 22 inches or more, and mature heights are usually attained at 3 years of age. Since they are naturally a small equine breed, mature heights can be 25 inches to 34 inches and over but most Falabellas mature in the 30 to 34 inch height range. All sizes are accepted for registration in FMHA. In essence, size does not take away from their pure ancestry or their value. The Falabellas pure heritage has always been the first and foremost reason to acquire them. Once a pure Falbella is accepted for registration, they remain registered in FMHA for life.

COLORS
The Falabella comes in all solid colors and a wide variety of colorful Pinto and Appaloosa patterns. Rare Pintaloosa patterns can also occur, showing both Pinto and Appaloosa markings. Some of the most colorful are in strong demand but limited in number.

FALABELLA BREEDER INCENTIVES
Because of their rarity, the primary reason to have Falabellas is to protect and preserve the breed through dedicated breeding and keeping the bloodlines pure, but secondly, specializing in the Falabella bloodline gives a great marketing advantage since there are a small number of Falabella breeders but a large number of potential buyers who have Miniature Horses.

In a business sense, Falabellas can be acquired to start a small horse farm which can generate a yearly income in addition to your own job or business. It also offers farm tax benefits and can give a higher, safer and longer term return than some other investments. Foals have good value and are adorable and fun to raise. Additionally, foals will increase herd value if kept, or can generate income each year through sales. Feed costs are low and returns are high! A one time investment for each Falabella can give returns through foal sales for 20 years or more. The Falabella is truly a special breed to consider.

By Laurie Stevens

Laurie Stevens Author, and well renowned Pure Falabella Miniature horse breeder of 31 years has produced some of the finest Falabellas in the world. Please visit our Website at ToylandFalabellas.com

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Dr Harry: showing miniature horses

Miniature Horse Tack

Miniature horses are one of the fastest-growing equine breeds in the world today. These elegant and cute horses, no taller than 38 inches (from the withers to the last hairs), are attracting a lot of attention. They can be bred like regular horses and even ridden.

Miniature horses require tack similar to a regular horse. It includes bits, carts and wagons, harnesses, saddles, bridles, reins, halters, girths or cinches, martingales and other accessories, but in smaller sizes than for normal horses. Most miniature horse tack equipment is made of fine leather for strength and durability. Some accessories such as curb straps and stirrup hobbles are also available in different colors, such as natural, light, dark, black, and burgundy.

Prices of miniature horse tack differ based on the material, size and model. A floral-embossed saddle with 8-inch suede seat may be priced at around $125, while a blanket and a girth may cost around $14 and $7, respectively. A miniature Western saddle with or without tooling and an 8-inch suede seat is priced at approximately $200. A bridle may cost around $25 and a miniature Eggbutt bit may be priced at around $20, while a 3.5-inch stainless steel Eggbutt snafflebit may cost around $30. A leather halter may cost $12, while a nylon halter may be priced at around $8. An entire English tack set comprising of saddle, bridle and pad is also available for just $200. Some manufacturers are also offering custom-made miniature horse tacks as per the exact size of the horse.

There are also some stores that offer miniature horse tack on discount. Prices would be slashed as much as 20-30%. Miniature horse tack accessories can also be bought over the Internet. There are several sites that have exclusive products featured for miniature horses. Products can be compared and even ordered online.

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Miniature Horses, Ponies - What's The Difference?

When most of us start out learning about horses, we are told that a horse is a member of Equus " caballus that is over 14 hands high (a hand, we quickly learned, is 10 cm). A pony, on the other hand, was defined as a member of the same species that was less than 14 hands. Now, miniature horses are always much smaller than 14 hands, so why are they called miniature horses rather than ponies?

The answer lies in the proportions. Most ponies are cobby in build (rounded and stocky - think of drawings by the cartoonist Thelwell), while many breeders of miniature horses (often affectionately referred to as "minis") prefer to breed for proportions that are more like that of a "regular" horse. The American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) suggests that a "mini" is ideally "a small, sound well-balanced horsethat, if photographed without anything to give a sense of size, should look identical to a full-sized horse.

As expected, size matters. The AMHR recognizes two categories of miniature horses: those in the "A" division are less than 82 cm (34 inches) at the withers, which is defined as being the last hair of the mane, while the "B" category covers horses 34-38 inches at the withers. The American Miniature Horse Association, however, does not recognize horses over 34 inches. A miniature horse is always measured in centimeters or inches, but never in hands.
If they were measured in hands, the largest "minis" would be around 8 or 9 hands (by way of comparison, an average Shetland pony measures 10 hands). "Minis" come in all color types, including the more exotic types like pinto and palomino as well as the more mundane bays, greys and chestnuts. Whatever size of color they are, miniature horses have been in the world for a surprisingly long time.

In the Renaissance and Restoration periods, they were occasionally found in private menageries as curiosities. At the other end of the economic spectrum, miniature horses also had their uses as pit ponies hauling coal in the mines.
There are also some who hold the view that some of the fossilized horse remains classified as ancestors of Equus caballus are actually the fossilized remains of "minis." There may be some uncertainty about the dating, but the fossils certainly have the right size and skeleton structure.

Since the 20th century, miniature horses have been developed as a breed and refined to the animals that they are today, and this work is ongoing. The most widely known breed of miniature horse is the Falabella, which originated in Argentina.

"Minis" are still kept as curiosities in petting zoos and farm parks, but they also have a wider range of roles. They are, of course, unsuited as riding animals, because of their size, but are often shown competitively and can be used for light harness work. Their most noteworthy work is therapeutic, as they are often used to provide interaction and comfort to the elderly, and in working with autistic children.

For more information on horses, try visiting [http://www.interestinghorses.com] - a website that specializes in providing horse related tips, advice and resources including information on the miniature horse [http://www.interestinghorses.com/miniaturehorse.html]

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CUTEST VIDEO EVER!!! "One Year Old Baby Running and Playing w Miniature Horse!"

Owning Miniature Horses - The Smallest Of The Small

When it comes to pet ownership, we all have our preferences; the debate of dog versus cat can go on indefinitely. But for those who prefer horses, the care and feeding of their animal suddenly becomes a far greater undertaking then simply housing a smaller, more domesticated animal. Horses are large animals that come with an even larger responsibility for their owners. But for some people, ownership of miniature horses allows them to enjoy all that attracts them to horses, but on a much smaller scale.

Miniature horses are simply the result of hundreds of years of careful and purposeful breeding that has taken place all over the world. Today, The American Miniature Horse Association, established in 1978, continues to set the guidelines for these horses. To date, they are the only organization working to standardize the specifications.

In order to be defined as miniature horses, they must not reach higher than 34 inches in height. However, the differentiation between standard sized horses and these horses stops here; the physical features actually mirror that of their full-sized counterparts; but are simply in proportion to their size. If you were to look at one with no basis for size comparison, it would look like a typical, average sized horse.

Miniature horses are shown in competition just as their full-sized cousins. But their manageable size makes them especially instrumental in working with special needs individuals who wish to ride, but must avoid the larger animals for safety reasons. Because of their size, they are also child-friendly; children often learn to ride on these smaller, more controllable breeds.

Those who own miniature horses will also tell you of the unique opportunity they have to enjoy all that is special about a horse while still enjoying all that comes with having the ability to hold an animal in your lap!

The care is just as important as that for larger horses. Much of the standard care remains the same - including grooming, veterinary care, exercise and nutrition, and shelter - with special attention paid to eating. The smaller digestive track puts them at risk for intestinal problems; owners must be alert to the special feeding requirements of the breed. Owners will be happy to note, however, that the care for the horses costs significantly less than the care for full-sized horses.

For those interested in owning one, it is important to do a fair amount of research. Just as with any breed of horse, temperaments vary from horse to horse. Seek out and get to know a reputable breeder who can assist you in finding the horse that's right for you and your family.

Owning a horse of any size must be taken on only after careful consideration. But if you find that you enjoy all the characteristics of a horse, but are put off by its normally grand size, you may want to investigate miniature horses; all the beauty of a horse in one tiny package.

For more information on horses, try visiting [http://www.interestinghorses.com] - a website that specializes in providing horse related tips, advice and resources including information on the miniature horse [http://www.interestinghorses.com/miniaturehorse.html].

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2009 American Miniature Horse Champ Youth Jumper - 2

Miniature Horse Breeders Track Record

It really is thought that the 1st ancestor on the modern horse, Equus Caballus, was no bigger than a cat. Eohippus was thought to have a number of toes, a curved spine like a cat, a short neck and the ability to eat and digest leaves as opposed to grass. Over millennia, the horse grew, developed longer legs and neck and switched to a diet of grass when the grasslands began to push out forests. Miniature Horse breeders argue that they're taking the horses back to their original state. But who were definitely the 1st Miniature Horse breeders?

Depending on which Miniature horse breeder you talk to, you will locate a lot of theories as to who were the first Miniature horse breeders. Some say that Miniature Horses have always been close to and it was only a few men and women here and there throughout history that have been able to appreciate their small size. Some say that the Horse breeders didn't begin until the time of the filthy rich nobility in Europe that wanted unusual animals in their Royal menageries.

But one of my favorite stories is that the primary Miniature Horse breeders were definitely from Arab tribes. They bred the Horse for the delight of their sheiks and their kids. Despite the fact that horses were prized for horse back riding, there was also a require for horses to share the palace.

Backing up this theory is that of the rediscovery in the Caspian Horse breed, named due to the fact it was rediscovered from the area in the Caspian Sea. They ended up native to Iran and are considered the forefathers in the mighty Arabian horse breed. They look like smaller versions of Arabians, being the height of modern ponies but containing the slim features and bodily proportions of the horse.

Caspian Horses are depicted in ancient Middle Eastern art, where their shoulders are at the height of the man's waist. The breed was believed to have been wiped out, but a herd was discovered thriving in 1965 close to the Caspian Sea. They have since incredibly slowly trickled close to the world.

The initial successful and proven Miniature Horse breeders had been the Falabella family of Argentina inside 1880's. They admit, though, that they did add ponies to be able to bring down the breeding stock. Most Miniature Horses in North and South America today are derived from these intelligent and charming Falabella horses. It can be unknown, but theorized, that one in the breeds that made up the Falabella was the Caspian.

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Mini Horse Gets Lifesaving Prosthetic Leg

Miniature Horses Are Just Smaller Versions Of A Horse

There is no one breed of horses that are called miniature-this is just a term that is used to describe a horse that meets certain height requirements. Most breeds are measured in hands-where one hand equals four inches. However, minis are measured in inches or centimeters. They are measured from the ground to the base of the hairs on their mane.

Miniature horses are less than half the size of a regular horse and breeders select the smallest stallions and mares for breeding. This way, they hope to ensure that they have even smaller foals the following spring. A new foal weights about 18-22 pounds and stands 16 to 21 inches at birth-making it about the same size as a medium-sized dog.

They are basically the same as their larger relatives in their shape, appearance and personality. They come in every color a horse can be-black, bay, sorrel, palomino, solid colors, mixed or pintos. They have very long manes and tails and some of them even have tails that can touch the ground.

Miniature horses have been around for over 400 years; however, their origin is unknown. In olden days, they were pets in the palaces and revered by nobility. Throughout the decades, their popularity grew among the rich mostly because they were not useful as a worker-they were too small to carry a rider or a heavy load.

Eventually, the miniature horse found a job. They were used to pull loads of coal from mines since they were small enough to move safely through the tunnels where they gained the nickname of pit ponies. All was not lost on them because when they too old to work, they were often taken home as pets by the miners.

Breeders became interested in the miniature horses in the mid-1900s and several different herds were cultivated and the breed increased in size, popularity and value. The first registry was called the American Miniature Horse Registry and was created in 1972. They helped develop and document pedigrees for the miniature horses, some of them going back to the early 1940's.

Today, they are maintained as the result of careful breeding. Their gentle personalities make them good pets for children, elderly people and even for people with disabilities. In several communities, they are taken directly into schools rooms, nursing homes and hospital wards to help cheer up patients and to educate the children.

How often can children today spend a day on a farm and interact with the animals? There are miniature horse farms around the country that open their doors to visitors as one way to help finance their hobby of breeding these animals. Many of them even have special barns with a show rink where the miniature horses can demonstrate their skills to the public.

Think about spending a day visiting one of these farms and give your children an opportunity to see and interact with these beautiful animals. You may start a love affair with your children wanting to breed these lovely creatures when they grow up.

For more information on horses, try visiting [http://www.interestinghorses.com] - a website that specializes in providing horse related tips, advice and resources including information on the miniature horse [http://www.interestinghorses.com/miniaturehorse.html].

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Training a Mini Horse - 10 Exercises

Miniature Horse Breeds

People are often amused and surprised when they see horses, either at horse shows, country fairs, or even at the circus. The horse may seem like an oddity at first, but they are a result of hundreds of years of selective breeding.

"Minis" as they are affectionately called, are believed to have originated from Shetland ponies. They were bred specifically for a variety of tasks, including working in coal mines, as pets for royalty and as performers at traveling circuses and carnivals.

The first records of an individual owning miniature horses were kept in the mid 1600s. These horses were said to belong to King Louis XIV and were kept at his Versailles palace in France. The first minis arrived in the United States in the 1800s and worked in the coal mines of the Appalachian Mountains.

Miniatures horses are used for a variety of purposes today including livestock, pets, and companion animals for those who are disabled. Minis live to be between 20 to 30 years old, the same lifespan of their larger counterparts.

Various breeds are believed to exist in countries throughout the world. These include:

o UK Shetland Pony

o Miniature Shetland Pony

o Miniature Pony

o Miniature Toy Horse

o Midget Pony

o Micro Mini

o Dartmoor Pony

o American Miniature Horse

o Falabella

Like other breeds of horses, Minis must adhere to certain standards in order to be considered genuine members of their particular breed. These standards include being no more than 7 to 8 hands high, having rounded hooves, straight and parallel legs, widely spaced eyes and they must be well-proportioned overall.

There are horses for sale all around the globe, waiting to be purchased or adopted by loving families or individuals. A horse can be the perfect companion for anyone, young or old, who possesses a big heart for these little wonders.

There are Miniature horses for sale [http://www.jans-mcaminiaturehorses.com] all around the globe, waiting to be purchased or adopted by loving families or individuals. A miniature horse can be the perfect companion for anyone, young or old, a big heart for these little wonders.

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Chuckwagon Racing 2012 - Miniature Horse

Miniature Pets

by: CS Swarens

It is uncertain exactly when miniature breed animals first came about. Historical and archaeological evidence point to gargantuan rats and dinosaurs smaller than many chickens. What is certain is that miniature pets are a big business and offer big rewards, both financially and personally.

There may be many jokes among some men about miniature poodles or chihuahuas but the fact of the matter remains that miniature dogs are increasingly popular among people. Many people simply do not have the room to own a large dog. A small dog can be just as happy in a small house as it can be in a large home.

These days, you can find miniature horses, miniature pigs, and many other breeds that were very uncommon just a few short years ago. For some people it is simply a matter of the cute factor. Smaller animals somehow become "cute" even when their larger relatives are anything but good looking or popular among most people. Unless you live in the country, you probably never heard anyone bragging about their 1200 pound pig.

For some other people, the joys of owning a miniature pet is in no small part, due to the fact that they make much smaller messes. Anyone who has ever had to carry a plastic bag for waste removal every time that they took their dog for a walk will probably agree to this. Anybody who has ever had to housebreak a pet would also be hard-pressed to find the fault in this logic.

For some people, cost is a major factor. A large dog would eat large amounts of food every day. Over the course of time, those costs will add up to a large amount of money which to some people at least, shows no positive return for their investment. Other people may see the true value of their pets but just cannot afford to feed a large dog or other animal that will quite literally, eat them out of house and home.

Whatever reason people have for wanting a miniature pet, they have become big business as well. Contests, shows and major events regularly occur all over the world for miniature pet lovers. Some of these shows stress the importance of a lack of size but they are increasingly looking at other criteria for deciding winners as well.

Miniature horse shows have spawned entire new industries to keep up with the demands of that lifestyle. Miniature surreys are available as are carts, miniature saddles and other features that have no market outside that of the miniature horse.

Similarly, shows for the miniature pot-bellied pigs and other miniature breeds are becoming increasingly popular as well. Whatever your reasons are for wanting to own a miniature pet, remember that not only can you reap big rewards, you will also open brand new opportunities in ways you may never have imagined possible. There are many different reasons for owning a pet. Pet owners can enjoy a host of benefits that people without pets will never truly know or understand. Just remember that when you are looking for a pet, size really does not matter. Miniature pets really are big business that consistently reap big rewards.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

Research over 430 pet breed profiles http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

Miniature Horses | Farm Raised With P. Allen Smith

Do You Show Your Horse Love in The Winter?

by: Theresa Truscott

Let us say winter is here and you're warm and cozy by the fireplace, drinking the hot chocolate and reading a good book. Maybe you are enjoying some soothing music while ensconced in your favorite pajamas; all wrapped up comfortably in your soft blanket while the snow falls lightly outside.

What about your horse? Is your horse in a clean, warm stall in the barn, with fresh hay and clean water, protected from the elements? Did you remember his horse blanket? It's not as though he can waltz over to his little closet and take it out of the drawer! Your precious investment is depending on you to remember the particulars of his care.

A cold horse in winter is a pitiful thing indeed. If you decide to buy a horse, even if it is just for the sake of saying you own one, please take the time to provide proper care and housing, medical attention, and the right equipment. Part of that equipment and proper care involves the horse blanket.

A horse blanket is particularly needed in the cold, hard elements of the winter season. The horse has no way of actually saying, "Hey, could you hand me that blanket, please?" It is a living, breathing creation and is counting on the master of the estate to give it what it needs to survive.

The horse blankets need not be elaborate, expensive pieces of valuable art. They simply need to be functional for the animal. The function here is to hold in the animal's body heat in the winter. Of course, they are also used as cushioning underneath the saddles among other things. Which, by the way, is also needed in the winter and the blanket helps the horse stay warmer while being ridden outside.

Miniature horses have their own furry horse blankets in the winter. Even though all horses have thicker hair in the winter, the minis look woolly! They sometimes enjoy running in the snow just for fun! One type of miniature horse is the Falabella, which are said to be survivors of the Ice Age. They must have been an extremely tough breed of animal to survive the harsh winters from that period of time.

Maybe you are wondering if the horses of the Ice Age needed blankets. While I'm sure plenty survived without them, horses being gentled and tamed by mankind have also been bred somewhat spoiled or weakened, if you will. I suppose you could compare it to a dog that has been kept inside with the central heat since a pup. If you put the dog outside in the yard in the harsh winter, it will struggle against the cold. Besides, just because a horse survived the Ice Age doesn't mean he should be forced to endure the winter without a horse blanket now. Humans survived living in caves with no electricity or modern amenities, but now we've spoiled and pampered ourselves and most would have a hard time surviving harsh conditions of nature. So, care for your horse with the love and tenderness that is deserved.

Theresa Truscott has loved horses since early childhood and enjoys sharing her passion for horses with other horse lovers. She finds useful information and products and circulates it on http://www.horseridingblankets.com about horses and horse riding blankets.

For a free report on "How to Improve Your Riding" see Theresa's Horse Aficianado blog at http://www.horseridingblankets.com/blog

Einstein - The Smallest Horse In The World

Ponies Are Adorable

by: Theresa Truscott

Almost any baby is adorable. Okay, there are some that only a mother could love, but then beauty is in the eye of the beholder. How could anyone not fall in love with ponies? They have such a charm, children are attracted to them, children's books are written about them, and horse blankets are made for them.

Yes, that's right. There are horse blankets made for ponies! Some ponies do live in the wild and are without the luxury of a warm blanket for the winter. It is unfortunate, for only the strong survive, whereas struggling weaklings in captivity are given a chance to become stronger. These do tend to get pampered and loved and have their warm blankets to help them through their shaky developmental stages.

The National Park Service helps to protect the wild ponies. There is a small island near Virginia where the wild ponies are herded across the waters to another island once a year. This is a popular event, and the island is called Chincoteague (pronounced CHIN-ko-teeg).

An hour after they are born, ponies have the ability to walk. They may stumble and struggle at first, but they learn fast. The baby is called a foal and isn't considered full-grown until age 5 or 6. Most people who have horses will try to have the mare give birth in their barn, in a stall, and a warm horse blanket is provided for them after the birth. If the mother has trouble with the birth, it is easier to monitor and provide care in a barn.

Many people, who think it will be a good idea to give their child a pony, do not realize the special care a horse needs as it grows and develops. It is always good to sit down with your child and make a list of all the things any animal new to the family will need before purchasing. Horses especially will need plenty of room to graze and grow and will need their exercise and good medical care if a problem were to develop.

You may want to start with a small horse, such as a mini, if you do not plan to have your child ride a horse. The mini horse comes in a child-sized package! Don't forget the accessories that come with owning the minis. There are horse blankets made just for this size horse.

Miniature Horses were created from breeding small horses that were used for work in coal mines to the small Shetland Ponies. The babies were then bred to make even smaller horses. The miniature breed is not actually considered ponies just because of their size. Ponies are 14 hands high, compared to the 8 hand size of a mini. But the baby minis are called ponies until they are grown, just as other horse babies.

You shouldn't need as much horse tack for these mini horses because they are not used in the same ways as what is considered normal sized horses. There are places that sell tack just for the smaller breeds.

Theresa Truscott has loved horses since early childhood and enjoys sharing her passion for horses with other horse lovers. She finds useful information and products and circulates it on http://www.horseridingblankets.com about horses and horse riding blankets.

For a free report on "How to Improve Your Riding" see Theresa's Horse Aficianado blog at http://www.horseridingblankets.com/blog

Miniature Horse Does Dog Tricks

About Horse Saddles and Horse Blankets

by: Theresa Truscott

Horse saddles and horse blankets are something people usually associate together when the horse comes to mind. If you plan to ride your horse, you'll need both. Even if you don't have to use the horse blanket with the horse saddle, you'll still want a horse blanket for other times. You'll want one when your horse is kept in a drafty stall, when your horse is waiting out in the cold weather for a show, when your horse is waiting in a holding pen for vet's attention and it is cold outside.

When you think of buying a new horse saddle, consider the trial period in case you'll want to return it for a better fit. Surely you didn't think it would be as easy as just buying a universal saddle fit for any horse or rider?

No, my unsuspecting horse friend, it is, unfortunately more involved than that. Oh, but the journey for the proper saddle and blanket is well worth the efforts both for you and your equine partner. Buying a horse saddle that doesn't fit the horse, rider, or the occasion will only cause regrets and soreness that could be avoided by a thoughtful purchase. Ask any horse enthusiast and you'll find that buying the proper gear is a welcome investment!

You'll want to consider what type of riding you'll do. Saddles are basically wood or fiberglass in frame that is covered with leather. Although, you'll find technical advances have allowed for the more modern synthetic material in lieu of the leather covering. Regardless of what your saddle is constructed of, the quality and purpose and fit are most important. You'll want your money's worth.

There are several different choices to make before purchasing a blanket as well. You must have a blanket under a western saddle for the horse and rider to be comfortable during the ride. Blankets are made for performance, for miniature horses, and for show. Although the Navajo horse blanket is a popular choice is the western style is a consideration, there are others available. There are quilted blankets, foal blankets, antisweat sheets, and cooling blankets.

For your added comfort, there are softee seats, suede seats, and even shock absorbers, which might be welcomed after a lengthy time away from riding because of medical reasons. Whatever type of horse saddle or horse blanket you'll require be certain both will best benefit you and your horse.

The saddle must fit not only the size of the horse, but the size and shape of the rider as well. A poor fit can cause sure muscles, blisters, and bruising for you both. Not only should you consider this for yourself, but for children riders. The child will continue to grow, but the saddle should fit them at their current size.

Saddles used for other than pleasure riding include those bought for endurance, show, roping, barrel races, and ponies. There are many different brands of all these types of saddles. It's a matter of choice, price, and availability. Happy hunting!

Theresa Truscott has loved horses since early childhood and enjoys sharing her passion for horses with other horse lovers. She finds useful information and products and circulates it on http://www.horseridingblankets.com about horses and horse riding blankets.

For a free report on "How to Improve Your Riding" see Theresa's Horse Aficianado blog at http://www.horseridingblankets.com/blog

Liberty and Trick Miniature Horse Demo

Horse Whisperer?

by: Teha Hewines

I'm certain that you have heard of the Horse Whisperer, but do you really know what it could mean for your horse? I know you probably don't believe that people can talk to horses and not too many years ago I wouldn't have acknowledged that either. However, I have always talked to horses, sometimes without being aware of that fact. Now, I have made my business doing just that.

I remember having the ability as a child. It certainly wasn't accepted or normal back then so I quit talking about it and soon put in back in the far recesses of my mind. After recovering from a serious illness, I once again noticed the ability and began using it all the time. Soon it became normal to me again as well as a lot of fun. I "talked" to my own horses and found out so much useful information. I could learn what they needed to be nutritionally balanced, the training techniques that worked best for them, the saddle and bridle preferences or fit, or why they had issues with trailering, etc. This was fantastic! It made getting along and training my horse much, much easier. I began to see how helpful this could be for all horse owners. I was still hesitant since it was met with great resistance when I was young.

I started learning about Touch for Health: a technique which uses Applied Kineosology, Chiropractic, Lymph Drainage, and Accupressure for people. I then took a course that taught me how to use Touch for Health on horses. Now I had a more conventional way to work on the horses and still use my gift. I could tell the what owners what their horses needed or wanted without necessarily telling them that I was communicating with their horse. It took a few years before I became comfortable letting people know what I could do.

Now I am open to the world knowing what I do, secure in the knowledge that horses and owner need the information that can be provided by a middle man(that's me). I love what I do! I really enjoy talking to the horses and then giving their owners the inside scoop.

If this sounds like something you would be interested in knowing more about or actually having me provide you with this service then please check out my website. www.horsehelp.biz

Teha Hewines has been involved with horses since she was born and has done pretty anything you can do with a horse. Trained in Touch for Health and chiropractic, she also has an amazing talent of "talking" to horse. A fact you won't doubt once you give her a try.

2012 AMHR Miniature Horse Supreme Futurity Halter Champion AE Made In America

Dokra Craft And Dhokra Metal Craft - The Fine Art Of Excellence In Indian Handicrafts And Brassware

by: Nantaram Orubenga

Dokra craft - a kind of tribal Indian handicraft belonging to the genre of brassware handicrafts is made by socially backward tribes known as dokras or Dokra kamars in the tribal dominated mineral rich districts of central - east India.

Why is Dokra craft so highly coveted?

Anything that is hand crafted, sports excellent craftsmanship, boasts of a huge repertoire of designs, patterns and aesthetics and has a story to tell about a folk culture or indigenous native culture will always be highly coveted and a top draw in international art markets, art marts as well as in the domestic markets.

Dokra craft is so prized among collectors and discerning art lovers because of the shapeliness of design, because of its strength and starkness of design and because of its powerful yet simple and elegant motifs that have been inspired by folk culture. Studying Dokra craft, tracing its origin and collecting Dokra figurines are my hobbies. And though I am an amateur, I have noticed that the Dokra elephant is the most popular among animals followed by horses.

Other Dokra figurines which are popular happen to be containers with lids. Some of these containers look like intricately carved miniature treasure chests a few of which are provided with locks and locking devices as well. Other quaint Dokra items that are very popular are miniature replica of measures or manas, kings, human heads etc.

Finally, the piece of Dokra craft is ready for use or sale in local markets and traveling fairs. Some of the items of Dokra craft seen ubiquitously are pen stands, ash trays, candle stands, lamp stands, lamp holders, lamp shades, lamps, religious animals and birds, images of ritual deities like Durga or Parvati, lord Shiva, Ganesh, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik, Brahma, Vishnu, Narayan, exotic and exquisite tribal and ethnic jewelry with folk motifs and jewelry for Santhals.

The lamp stands that are often seen among Dokra masterpieces of art, feature intricate designs and patterns that heavily draw inspiration from the network of branches in trees and tree motifs or foliage motifs. I have also seen Dokra lamp stands where there are more than a 100 lamps within that 1 stand.

And as I mentioned just now, utilitarian items are also being made by the Dokra tribesmen without compromising on the essentially folk design aesthetics.

Nantaram Orubenga is an artisan working with metals and clays. He wants to do something to keep the ancient Indian Handicrafts alive and to let the world know about it. If you are interested in discovering more on fascinating Indian Arts and Handicrafts, exclusive brassware and dhokra metal craft, you must visit http://www.theindianhandicrafts.com.

Miniature Horse Driving Training tips....from an ammy!

Small Dog Clothes – A Brief History

by: Mike Hsiao

If you have a small dog, then you more than likely already know all about the various small dog clothes that are out on the market today. However, in case you are not familiar with the items that are available, you should know that they include collars, coats, sweaters, costumes, shoes, shirts and dresses. These things can protect your dog from cuts, scratches and bad weather. Once you see all of these items, you may be wondering just where all of these small dog clothes have come from.

The History Of Small Dog Clothes

The history of small dog clothes dates back to the time when King Arthur reigned Great Britain in 520 A.D. During this time, the knights' horses wore clothing to protect them from external elements and attacks. Dogs were also being used as part of the military and in law enforcement. They also wore clothing to safeguard them from the surrounding environment and in case of an attack.

Today, not only do narcotic sniffing police dogs wear clothing, but there are also entire lines of small dog clothes available for you to choose from. These small dog clothes are great for families who have dogs as pets. Of course, just as fashion changes over the course of time, so does the various styles of small dog clothes that are available.

The Beauty Of Fashionable Dog Collars

Every dog needs to have a collar for holding its identification because if it ever gets lost, you will want to make sure that it can find its way back home to you. However, beyond simply being practical, these collars can also be quite fashionable. As such, this can be the most fashionable part of a small dog clothes' wardrobe because, even when you do not have your pampered pooch all decked out in his small dog clothes, everyone can still see just how pampered and stylish he really is.

You can actually stop to think of this piece of small dog clothes as your dog's jewelry. With this thought in mind, you will definitely want your small dog to have several of these collars. There is definitely a collar available in every style imaginable and for every occasion you may have. Of course, the dogs that are owned by celebrities actually tend to have the most fabulous-looking collars. This is because, just like everyone else, the rich and famous truly enjoy splurging upon fashionable collars for their dogs.

The History Behind Fashionable Dog Collars

Over the course of history, people throughout the world have used fashionable dog collars that are made out of jewels, brass or velvet. This love of dogs is not something new. In fact, in the museum that is located inside of the Leeds Castle in England, there is a collection of dog collars displayed. These date as far back as to medieval times. These collars also contain some form of identification on them, much like we use on our dog tags today.

The Popularity Of Fashionable Dog Hats

Many people are shocked to see such small dog clothes as hats on dogs in their neighborhood. In fact, these small dog clothes oftentimes catch a lot of attention and admiration. Nevertheless, this is the most popular type of small dog clothes on the market today. The reason why people have their dog wear a hat varies from one person to the next and even from one culture to the next. Some of the most popular reasons for a dog to wear a hat are for protection from the weather outside or simply to make a fashion statement of sorts.

The History Behind Dog Hats

The history behind these small dog clothes goes back at least 27,000 years to the time of the Stone Age. At this time, small dog clothes were woven. They included such things as basket hats, caps, sashes and belts. There is archaeological evidence of this found in clay impressions. Evidence also exists in Eurpoe. At this time in history the people were dependent upon hunting and gathering for their food, so this type of clothing was more than likely an aid for them whenever they were getting their food supplies.

Then, in the late 1800's the term "underneath hat" came to mean "keeping something secret." This makes sense since women were the ones who wore hats in the late 1800's. Of course, this idiom is still in effect today. However, today it is usually the spies and celebrities who are wearing hats because they do not want to be recognized by anyone.

As you can see, hats tend to give us a sense of identity in this day and age. For instance, if you wear a baseball hat, you will know what team this person is rooting for. Of course, there are also hats that have the name of a famous designer on it or simply a phrase that will express who a person is.

Today, these things have also extended to small dog clothes. There are dog hats available for every taste and occasion. You can find dog hats with your favorite baseball, football, basketball or even hockey team's logo on it. If these are not what you are looking for, then you can even find more fashionable hats on the market, everything from furry to sheik is out there if you want to purchase it for your pet.

Conclusion

As you can see, there is a wide variety of small dog clothes on the market today. While only collars and hats were discussed above, there are also many other small dog clothes available. Some of the other small dog clothes that are available today include:

Shirts, sweaters, dresses, coats, costumes and shoes
Harnesses and leashes
Hair accessories

There are even beds, bowls and carriers available.

Regardless of the history behind these items, or why you would like to purchase such small dog clothes for your dog, there are some very beautiful items for you to choose from by visiting www.swankpets.com..

Mike Hsiao is an avid dog lover, and part owner of http://www.swankpets.com. This site is dedicated to keeping dogs looking cute and trendy with their huge selection of small dog clothes and accessories. The site is also a hub for other dog lovers to find information on toy breed dog care and lifestyles.

Miniature Horses | Farm Raised With P. Allen Smith

Small Dog Clothes – A Brief History

by: Mike Hsiao

If you have a small dog, then you more than likely already know all about the various small dog clothes that are out on the market today. However, in case you are not familiar with the items that are available, you should know that they include collars, coats, sweaters, costumes, shoes, shirts and dresses. These things can protect your dog from cuts, scratches and bad weather. Once you see all of these items, you may be wondering just where all of these small dog clothes have come from.

The History Of Small Dog Clothes

The history of small dog clothes dates back to the time when King Arthur reigned Great Britain in 520 A.D. During this time, the knights' horses wore clothing to protect them from external elements and attacks. Dogs were also being used as part of the military and in law enforcement. They also wore clothing to safeguard them from the surrounding environment and in case of an attack.

Today, not only do narcotic sniffing police dogs wear clothing, but there are also entire lines of small dog clothes available for you to choose from. These small dog clothes are great for families who have dogs as pets. Of course, just as fashion changes over the course of time, so does the various styles of small dog clothes that are available.

The Beauty Of Fashionable Dog Collars

Every dog needs to have a collar for holding its identification because if it ever gets lost, you will want to make sure that it can find its way back home to you. However, beyond simply being practical, these collars can also be quite fashionable. As such, this can be the most fashionable part of a small dog clothes' wardrobe because, even when you do not have your pampered pooch all decked out in his small dog clothes, everyone can still see just how pampered and stylish he really is.

You can actually stop to think of this piece of small dog clothes as your dog's jewelry. With this thought in mind, you will definitely want your small dog to have several of these collars. There is definitely a collar available in every style imaginable and for every occasion you may have. Of course, the dogs that are owned by celebrities actually tend to have the most fabulous-looking collars. This is because, just like everyone else, the rich and famous truly enjoy splurging upon fashionable collars for their dogs.

The History Behind Fashionable Dog Collars

Over the course of history, people throughout the world have used fashionable dog collars that are made out of jewels, brass or velvet. This love of dogs is not something new. In fact, in the museum that is located inside of the Leeds Castle in England, there is a collection of dog collars displayed. These date as far back as to medieval times. These collars also contain some form of identification on them, much like we use on our dog tags today.

The Popularity Of Fashionable Dog Hats

Many people are shocked to see such small dog clothes as hats on dogs in their neighborhood. In fact, these small dog clothes oftentimes catch a lot of attention and admiration. Nevertheless, this is the most popular type of small dog clothes on the market today. The reason why people have their dog wear a hat varies from one person to the next and even from one culture to the next. Some of the most popular reasons for a dog to wear a hat are for protection from the weather outside or simply to make a fashion statement of sorts.

The History Behind Dog Hats

The history behind these small dog clothes goes back at least 27,000 years to the time of the Stone Age. At this time, small dog clothes were woven. They included such things as basket hats, caps, sashes and belts. There is archaeological evidence of this found in clay impressions. Evidence also exists in Eurpoe. At this time in history the people were dependent upon hunting and gathering for their food, so this type of clothing was more than likely an aid for them whenever they were getting their food supplies.

Then, in the late 1800's the term "underneath hat" came to mean "keeping something secret." This makes sense since women were the ones who wore hats in the late 1800's. Of course, this idiom is still in effect today. However, today it is usually the spies and celebrities who are wearing hats because they do not want to be recognized by anyone.

As you can see, hats tend to give us a sense of identity in this day and age. For instance, if you wear a baseball hat, you will know what team this person is rooting for. Of course, there are also hats that have the name of a famous designer on it or simply a phrase that will express who a person is.

Today, these things have also extended to small dog clothes. There are dog hats available for every taste and occasion. You can find dog hats with your favorite baseball, football, basketball or even hockey team's logo on it. If these are not what you are looking for, then you can even find more fashionable hats on the market, everything from furry to sheik is out there if you want to purchase it for your pet.

Conclusion

As you can see, there is a wide variety of small dog clothes on the market today. While only collars and hats were discussed above, there are also many other small dog clothes available. Some of the other small dog clothes that are available today include:

Shirts, sweaters, dresses, coats, costumes and shoes
Harnesses and leashes
Hair accessories

There are even beds, bowls and carriers available.

Regardless of the history behind these items, or why you would like to purchase such small dog clothes for your dog, there are some very beautiful items for you to choose from by visiting www.swankpets.com..

Mike Hsiao is an avid dog lover, and part owner of http://www.swankpets.com. This site is dedicated to keeping dogs looking cute and trendy with their huge selection of small dog clothes and accessories. The site is also a hub for other dog lovers to find information on toy breed dog care and lifestyles.

2010 American Miniature Horse Champ Jumper