all write-ups by Christine Othitis

COLOUR BREEDS

APPALOOSA

PAINT

OTHER STOCK

MUSTANG

Even though people think of Mustangs as wild horses, they are not truly wild, more feral. The original Mustangs were of Spanish descent, the escapees of invading Conquistadors. Today, feral horses can be found in western parts of North America and in small pockets around the world.

Sometimes called broomtails, only the strongest of horses survive drought, hunger and harsh winters. Wild horses are also prone to disease and accidents.

QUARTER HORSE

"America's Horse" describes the history of the QH along with the pride many feel for it. QHs are known for their cool demeanor and cow sense. Although builds range from beefy to sleek, there is no mistaking the short head and powerful body.

There are actually different types of QHs. "Foundation bred" horses have minimal TB blood and are actively bred and promoted as such (http://www.foundationbreds.com). A QH crossed with a TB is an appendix QH; as is a QH bred to an appendix QH. Go Man Go is actually 15/16 TB, yet, like other appendex QHs, he worked his way into the registry by earning enough points and earning his ROM. Once a ROM is earned, the horse is considered a "pure" QH and may be bred to a QH or TB. Thus, the sleek looking QH so popular in QH racing is preserved.

Originally developed in the colonies, the QH moved westwards as flashy TBs became more popular, hence it's association with the American West. QHs are not restricted to their traditional work - they can compete in English events just as well. Only 13 colours are officially recognized.

Last, but not least, the Canadian Cutting Horse should get a mention here. They are not really a breed, more of a type of QH. Many horse books consider them a breed when they are actually not. In all the horse books I've seen, there only seems to be one specimen of this breed - it's a long backed solid grey horse with 4 socks. Surely there must be some other representative out there!