We are located in Northern Lower Michigan 20 miles southwest of Traverse City. We are between US-115 and US 31 on the west side of the state and are about 20 miles east of Frankfort/ Lake Michigan.
Our facility sits on 10 acres, and another 5-7 acres that my wonderful neighbor lets me use to graze the horses.
After allot of reading,research( always more to do there), and phone calls or emails I made the choice of using a foundation appaloosa stallion with Ulrich breeding. Reason being is that I found there was a consistence of temperament, willingness to learn and the bonus is their coat pattern. I will say this is common of foundation appaloosas who are hardy, versatile, and loving personalities, but there is that something special of the Ulrich lines for me. I will also incorporate other very fine lines such as Toby, Patchy, PatchyJr, Sundance, and Moneycreek and there are other greats as well.
The appaloosa has a rich heritage that has been tried and true for endurance, temperament, versatile and of course that famous coat pattern which makes them unique.
We have a herd of quality foundation appaloosas here at Betsie River Appaloosa with the best of care, consisting of one great stallion, and 3-4 good mares. Now in saying that our horses are not spoiled nor kept in stalls 24-7, they are outside to be healthy in mind and body.
I also train using natural horsemanship methods. There are great clinicians that teach safety and respect; also Dr. Miller is wonderful in the ways of imprinting a foal.
Many ask why we don't show in the arena? I say I show in a natural environment. I think many people could spot a well rounded horse on the trail, don't you? Personally I find it boring going around and around and stand around and around; all for the mighty blue ribbon folks seek. I say a horse that has his wits about himself on the trail is priceless. I don't need a trophy to know I have a good horse, thank you very much. The trail is full of obstacle to use whether its water crossing, using trees like barrels or weaving like pole bending, on the straight away's there is plenty of room for many transitions of gait. Its the best training ground one could find!! Of course to begin the young ones I don't mind the round pen for spell, and I get them out on the trail by ponying them with a seasoned horse; it sure does a young horse good!! Could you take one of my foals into the show ring? Sure you could, but I would hope you get them on the trail as well, and I think you would enjoy it more :) .
Thank you very much for stopping in and visiting.
Best Regards
Laurie Archbold
