Norwegian Fjord Ponies & Fun Equine Gifts

the gentle people of the horse world FJORD FACTS, FUN & FANTASIES by Betsy Bauer

Gifts for Animal Lovers

Gene Bauer was my father and a man who signified the best of Norwegian Fjord Ponies. He was a major breeder, stressed the importance of pure breeding, sound training and produced the highest quality of the breed as possible. Unfortunately, he passed away May '96. There are many great links throughout the Internet to help you with your search for a quality Fjord and I encourage you all to check this great breed out.

My Dad raised more that 200 Fjords at Hestdalen Farms, in Round Lake, Illinois where he stood 50 Fjords in training, breeding and for pleasure.

As a young adult I was around my dad on visits home and was also taken by the Fjord's charm and level heading demeanor. And now I have retired from Fjord ownership as my daughter is older and no longer interested in riding. I was amazed that they are so easy to care for, as my father said years ago. Hay and hoof trimming and wormer is all you will need. Did you know they don't have to wear shoes & they only eat hay? Yep, low maintenance! Some breeders & owners have their Fjords shod if they work them hard. The breed has many qualities that make owning them a much easier and enjoyable sport: patience, strength, and a level headed approach to working with you. Our first from Hestdalen were Hakar and Ole stand 13.3 and 14.3 hands high. Yes, adults ride Fjords. They can be small for children or large for adults.

We also owned Peppertree's Arne who stood 15hh and my daughter enjoyed 3 day eventing and Arne LOVED that rolling across the open space jumping whatever she asked him to jump. **Never** refused a cross country jump Jr. Beg Novice level. He loved it. Plus his pace was perfect with that great "optimum speed".

When youngsters ride Fjords, though, you need to address the concern of the Fjord strength. Many youngsters get discouraged when the Fjords want to graze or go back to the herd, and all your riding ques are needed to direct those drafty necks and bodies where you want to go. So finding the right match with your child is important. Ask sellers to post videos on You Tube and you'll see previews as you make your choice. Then try to visit and get first hand experience with him or her.

Why have a Fjord pony? I began riding on a Morgan horse - boy when we hitched him up to the surrey watch out, step lively and jump in. He was off and rolling. I know that many experiences with horses offer different results, but we Fjord lovers, feel that a Fjord has a different "mind-set". If they have had quality training they will stand, as you hitch them, wait patiently while you all get into the carriage, as you adjust your reins and when you say "Walk On!" they will proceed. There are many traits inherent in the Fjord which make working with them a joy. They perform with big hearts, nuzzle you everyday, stand when there is trouble and are very forgiving.