In the Pasture

We took Annabelle and her baby out to the pasture for the first time today, in an area that was partitioned off from the other animals.  We stayed with them for a few hours, to make sure they were comfortable, and to visit with anyone who stopped by to see the new horse.

After a little getting used to, the filly decided to run around the pen, nurse, and check out her new surroundings.  Annabelle got right to grazing.

It was all so exciting, and we could tell she was getting tired.  But she didn’t want to go to sleep! (Do you see gold bug?)

Finally, she couldn’t stay awake any longer and drifted off to sleep.  Annabelle stopped grazing and stood over her baby as she slept.  It was so sweet.

Little girl, you’ve had a busy day.

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Filly’s First Day

Nursing

Proud Mommy

Majestic, like mom

Sleepy eyelashes

Will you be my friend?

Barn swallow Mommy

Annabelle’s foal!

It’s a girl! When my dad went up to feed Annabelle this morning, he spotted extra little legs under the fence.  Annabelle had given birth overnight, cleaned the baby, buried the afterbirth, and both of them are happy and healthy.  I woke up this morning to a call from my mom that the baby had arrived!  Needless to say, I grabbed my camera and jumped in the car to see her.

She’s a spotted draft, just like her dad.

I can’t quite imagine how she ever fit in Annabelle’s belly.

Duke wanted to go in the pen, but it’s best if he stays away for now.

We were surprised by how clean both of them were.  Annabelle is proving to be a great mom.  She’s protective but will allow us to go in the pen and even briefly pet the filly.  Her fur is so soft!

So, it’s time for us to think of a name.  Options so far include Emma, Isabelle, Belle, and Bella.  We want their names to go together nicely.

Annabelle seems to know that we won’t hurt her baby, but we still want to give them quiet time alone.

Annabelle and her baby will move out to a separate pen by the farm market in a few days.  Until then, they have some privacy.

Don’t forget to visit Horse Tales for other posts about horses!

Annabelle’s Sister

Annabelle’s former owner, Jen, was so nice to send us this picture of Annabelle’s sister and her new foal.  What a nice preview! 

Annabelle had another visit from the vet last week.  He said the foal is getting big, and will probably arrive in June, ahead of schedule.

I’d love to hear about everyone else’s animals!