EZ Gait Paso Fino Horses
Box 812 T9C 1R9 Vegreville, AB, Canada

WARNING: A TOUGH SUBJECT. There seems to be some shaming going on by the ‘people who never sell their horses’, towards the people who do. I have to say, I’m not... all that worried about promises of ‘forever homes’ when I sell my horses and I’ll tell you why. In my travels, I have come across many horses and ponies who are in ‘forever homes’. Some are good and loving homes, where the people are still interested in their horses, still caring for their health and whether or not they are over or under weight. Still wanting what’s best for their beloved animals, even if they’ve been outgrown, even if they are no longer able to earn their keep. Other ‘forever homes’ are purgatories of neglect. Grass founder, halters left on and making their indelible marks, untreated wire cuts, worminess, poor-quality feed, an iffy water supply, no shelter, not to mention unkempt feet and teeth. Too many are forced to live alone, without any other living animal for company. These horses will never again have someone excited to see them in the morning, dedicated to watching them eat, let alone dreaming of learning new skills together. No, they will not be the centre of anyone’s life and yet, they will never be sold. It is this endless uncaring, more than the thought of my horses eventually being sent on to new families, which saddens me. When I buy my horses or ponies, I can only do my best to give them the skills that will make them valuable enough to lessen their chances of a bad end. (My goodness, I wish more people understood this!) Then, when it is time to sell them, I can only do my best to find them the very best people possible. I can offer my ongoing support and education, along with all the pertinent information that tells these horses’ stories. I am open about sharing how best to contact me, in the event that they ever decide to sell. Then, for the new owners’ growth and for my own sanity, I have to let go. I can only pray that when my animal has done all he can for his humans, they will either repay him with undying care and appreciation or find him a new home, with new people who will love and honour him. Should neither of these scenarios be possible, then please, let them have the compassion to have him humanely put to sleep. Yes, that. If not for the people open to selling, I would not be able to give these horses and ponies their second chances. They might never go on to help other riders live out their dreams, or bring such joy. The beginning riders and children needing tried-and-true horses would never be able to safely ride. Horses are my job, yes, but please know they are also my passion. I do not take rehoming them lightly. Life goes on. Fortunes change. Good health comes and goes. All I know for sure is this: I will never be a horseman who judges others for having to say goodbye. When we make our promises, remember that forever is a very long time. Mike McLean. No pressure, but if you enjoy my stories, I'd sure like to have a virtual coffee with you! Here's the link: buymeacoffee.com/horsewoman

Check out my webpage if you are interested! I’ve been working on it a lot lately and would appreciate any constructive criticism if you have it! I still have a ways to go, but it is looking better day by day. www.ezgaitpasofinos.com

Advantages of mules Mules, having hybrid vigor, can grow taller than both parents. Weight for weight they are stronger than horses, and are much longer-lived wi...th much longer working lives, although maturing slightly later. They rarely become ill or lame or suffer wounds, can withstand extremes of temperature, can live on frugal rations, have tremendous stamina and resilience and are exceptionallysure-footed. Mules' temperament Mules have a reputation for being obstinate and bad-tempered, but as with donkeys, the mule's legendary stubbornness is in fact a manifestation of its talent for self-preservation. There are times when a human finds this 'talent' annoying, when he is disobeyed by a mule, but there are many other times when it can be a great advantage: if a mule takes care of itself, then it follows that it is also taking great care of its cargo, human or otherwise. It is not for nothing that mules are chosen rather than horses to take tourists down the Grand Canyon! By intelligent handling, it is quite possible to foresee occasions on which a mule is likely to be 'stubborn' and to avoid them. The undeserved reputation for bad temper is, I believe, due to the mule's unexpectedly sensitive and non-trusting nature. Until he has learned to trust a person, he is worried that the person may do him harm, and will take defensive action (never offensive) by kicking them, should he feel the occasion merits it. And mules are splendid kickers - they kick fast and accurately, and if a mule misses, it is because he intended to. Unfortunately many of the people who have worked with mules over the centuries have not appreciated this sensitivity, and have not understood another characteristic of the mule: that you cannot force him to do anything, but must persuade him, or organize his work so that he is only asked to do those things which he will want to do. Failure to appreciate this has led to many a battle between man and mule, and to the mule's bad reputation. Mules are highly intelligent - mule devotees would say more intelligent than horses - and are very quick to learn, with a grasp of a situation which often seems little short of miraculous. This means that their handlers need to be quick-witted to stay one jump ahead of them. A well-trained and handled mule is obliging, kind, patient, persevering, calm, tolerant, sensible, loyal, affectionate, playful - and also proud, jealous and calculating. Being so intelligent, a badly trained and handled mule can be a problem. ARE MULES DIFFICULT TO LOOK AFTER? They are very easy to look after in that they are rarely ill or lame, rarely need shoeing, are not fussy about their food and can withstand extremes of climate. ARE MULES DIFFICULT TO TRAIN? No, but their natures are different to horses';.you must gain your mule's trust and learn to understand each other, and then he will do anything for you. -- See more

It’s weaning time! Brought the foals home, swapped some mares and studs, and settled everyone in. Great day. Thanks for the help Zoey!

QTip finally arrived to the island this afternoon! So happy that her new owner Angela Nessel is smitten with her already.

This wonderful 2 year old filly is en route to Duncan, BC as we speak! Qtip is on a journey to her forever home to meet a wonderful lady who is DYING to love her. She should arrive at her destination on Friday afternoon. 3 trailers, 2 barns and stalls, and a ferry ride. And rocking it all like an old pro. I can’t wait for her to finish her journey. Angela Nessel