A Fine Horse in New Country

Doogs (Rowley of Caenlochan)

14 year old grey Highland gelding.

Doogs is the alpha male in our herd. Gentle and wise, he inspires confidence in young ponies and novice riders alike.
As a long distance horse, he has many welcome attributes: calm in the heaviest traffic and (virtually) unspookable, he also loves travelling and will march indefatigably, ears pricked, to the next horizon. He is very confident in crossing boggy ground and crossing rivers, provided he is allowed to pick his own line - he knows best!

As you can see, he is extremely interested in his own welfare regarding his stomach. It is a good attribute in a travelling horse, as he will settle quite happily anywhere, provided there's something to eat...

In his younger years, Doogs had a successful show career, winning many classes both in-hand and under saddle. A born performer, he knew when he was being judged and could turn on the pizzazz accordingly. He also taught me quite a bit about dressage: although he could not demonstrate the huge flashy paces of a warmblood, we always picked up lots of marks for consistent and obedient performances - and he is always willing to try something new, which makes for a horse which is really fun to be around.
The pictures on the left show him winning at the Royal Highland show and the ridden championship at a local show.

An ideal pack pony:

* Will stand patiently to be loaded
* Is unfazed if the rope gets tangled
or the load shifts
* Will lead willingly off another horse
* If the track is suitable, will follow loose
* Does not panic if the packs brush against
trees or other obstacles

Doogs is a really fine pack pony, but
secretly he prefers to be ridden!

For more about Doogs' training, click here: