Déjà vu………..

Here we are again anticipating the safe arrival of Redhearts 5th foal!

 

Peyres Catori Cat is 330 days into her gestation today, although we use 340 days as her “due date” being an average of the average range of 320 – 365 days, we are not expecting her to actually give birth on her due date although that would be appreciated.

The foaling date is decided by the foal, dictating when they are sufficiently developed and ready to be born not by the calendar in the kitchen. At Redheart’s we have experience the earliest delivery at 327 days and the latest being 354 days.

At the present time she continues to be calm and content, looking forward to going out in the mornings and waiting to come in at night…..she seems so very normal in her character but we are seeing a few changes physically.

These broodmares certainly don’t make it easy for us to predict exactly when they are going too foal. The anxiety and sleepless nights are soon forgiven once the new-born has safely arrived, with the desired  “colour & spots” or  NOT?

 

I am sure I have been here before……….

Out and About…

 

Ben is now 12 days old and developing very nicely. He was imprinted at birth and been handled daily. He welcomes his head collar associating it with “time out”, as soon as the stable door is open he is there to greet you.

After a few days in the round pen, Princesse Pascale & Ben had developed a strong bond and it was time to progress to the field.

Again, the weather has been dry and ideal for them to gradually build up the length of time spent out. Initially we hand grazed PP which allowed Ben to “open his lungs” and stretch his legs.

 

 

 

 

PP has a wonderful laid back nature, it wasn’t long before she was let loose but remained content eating grass. It’s never long before Ben’s energy levels crash and the milk bar is required….

 

 

 

Ben has met the electric fence!

It’s a sense of relief knowing he has experienced a shock because he knows the boundary before he explores the open space.

 

 

 

They are both relaxed,

 it’s a wonderful site to see as they venture out and about…….

Run Redheart, Run……….

It’s certainly been fantastic weather, enabling Princesse Pascale and Ben, her new-born to be turned out in the round pen for 20 / 30 minutes. Our round pen is safe, secure and flat.   Situated away from any other horses, ideal for their first experience out in the fresh air. 

 Ben is a vigorous colt. Our previous foals were kept in for a few days from birth but Ben seems to be at the other end of the scale. PP is an experienced broodmare and her character is very placid, no chance of her giving Ben the run around or getting herself stressed, she really enjoyed having a roll and relaxing.

 

They are not left unattended, enabling me to capture some photos.

          

                                       

                  

 

 

 

Running Redheart Royale……..

Finally a foal and it’s a BOY!

Well it was no surprise for Princesse Pascale to be late delivering this foal, mares generally follow their own pattern of gestation and this delay was anticipated.

Princesse Pascale’s ligaments of her hindquarters around the tail head had softened increasingly over the last week, her udder had bagged up but no wax to speak of. We have been monitoring her every hour during the night as she has shown many signs of discomfort recently.

At 6.30am this morning PP was showing signs of restlessness, by 7 she had started foaling. We initially watched her on the CCTV camera, giving her minimal disturbance.

It wasn’t long before it became apparent PP was having difficulties foaling. A call for the vet was required and before 8 the new arrival was safe on the ground with a little help.

 

Can you believe this is our third foal born on the 21st April in consecutive years.

 

 

 

 

He is a big boy with very long legs. His arrival into the world was to say the least not what I expected or wanted but o boy he is “all there”. He really is “full on” for a new-born, cross nursing within 2 hours and running around in the round pen by 5.30pm. Full of life, very inquisitive and friendly.

 

 

PP is in very good health, loads of milk and being a fantastic mother again.

 

We’re relieved to see the safe delivery of 2015 Princesse Pascale

Stable name BEN

 

 

Pending registered name REDHEART ROYALE

 

Past and present…..

Breaking news……..

Last month it was announced the Veterinary Genetics Lab at UC Davis began offering the DNA test for PATN1.

“Since the discovery of LP, the main gene that controls appaloosa spotting patterns and associated traits, breeders have been anticipating DNA tests for the genes that work with LP to produce white appaloosa patterning.

We are happy to announce that the white pattern modifier gene with the largest pattern causing effect, termed Pattern-1 for “first pattern gene” or PATN1 for short, can now be DNA tested for.

A mutation in PATN1 was identified that is associated with increased amount of white in LP horses. This mutation (in combination with LP) behaves in a dominant fashion which means you only need one copy of the PATN1 mutation to observe large amounts of white as long as LP is present.”

 

Here is the link to their horse test page: The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL)

 

I am sure, I am not the only excited owner / breeder that has anxiously been awaiting their horse’s results. The Appaloosa Project team continues to teach us via their Electronic Classroom keeping us up to date when new information is discovered. The future in genetics continues to help improve the Appaloosa breed by allowing us breeders to act on their knowledge when offered to us. I am sure other test will be available soon but for the present moment here are the results to date and the past photos of the Redheart Appaloosas.

 

Peyres Catori Cat

Leopard Complex            LP/lp

Heterozygous, carries one copy of the Appaloosa LP gene. Is a carrier of CSNB

Grey gene                           gg

Negative for the Grey gene

PSSM1                                  n/n

Negative for the PSSM Type 1 gene mutation

Red factor                           E/e

Both black & red factors detected. Either E or e transmitted to offspring. Basic colour is black, bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

Agouti                                   A/a

Black pigment distributed in point’s pattern. Basic colour is bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

PATTERN-1                         N/PATN1

1 copy of PATN1, 50% of offspring will inherit the modifier mutation. In order for high levels of white spotting to be visible the foal must inherit the LP gene.

 Peyres Catori Cat     

Peyres Catori Cat (Past & Present)

Peyres Catori Cat

 

Princesse Pascale

Leopard Complex            LP/lp      

Heterozygous, carries one copy of the Appaloosa LP gene. Is a carrier of CSNB

Gray gene                           gg        

Negative for the Grey gene

PSSM1                                  n/n

Negative for the PSSM Type 1 gene mutation

Red factor                           E/E          

No red factor detected. Cannot have red foals regardless of the colour of stallion. Basic colour is black, bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

Agouti                                   A/a     

Black pigment distributed in point’s pattern. Basic colour is bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

PATTERN-1                         N/PATN1   

1 copy of PATN1, 50% of offspring will inherit the modifier mutation. In order for high levels of white spotting to be visible the foal must inherit the LP gene.

Princesse Pascale (Past & Present)

 

 

Hevans EV Catorrius

Leopard Complex            lp/lp            

Negative for the Appaloosa LP gene, has no appaloosa characteristics.

Gray gene                           gg        

Negative for the Grey gene

PSSM1                                  n/n    

Negative for the PSSM Type 1 gene mutation

Red factor                           E/e         

Both black & red factors detected. Either E or e transmitted to offspring. Basic colour is black, bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

Agouti                                   A/a           

Black pigment distributed in point’s pattern. Basic colour is bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

PATTERN-1                         N/PATN1        

1 copy of PATN1, 50% of offspring will inherit the modifier mutation. In order for high levels of white spotting to be visable the foal must inherit the LP gene.

In terms of breeding it is very beneficial here at Redheart Appaloosas to have Hevans EV Catorrius results. He is N/PATN1. There is no way to tell by looking at him if the gene was present or not. Bred from two heterozygous (LP/lp) horses it was hopeful but not factual. As a future stallion it is now evident he is quite valuable in terms of breeding and doesn’t deserve to be over looked because he doesn’t have spots! A stallion with the genotype PATN1/patn1 would most definitely produce foals with a higher level of white appaloosa patterning in comparison to the foals produced by a stallion without PATN1.

 

Hevans EV Catorrius (Past & Present)

3

 

 

Redheart Pascalius

Leopard Complex            LP/lp                     

Heterozygous, carries one copy of the Appaloosa LP gene .Is a carrier of CSNB

Gray gene                           gg 

Negative for the Grey gene

 PSSM1                                  n/n   

Negative for the PSSM Type 1 gene mutation

Red factor                           E/E  

No red factor detected. Cannot have red foals regardless of the colour of the stallion. Basic colour is black, bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

Agouti                                   a/a        

Only recessive allele detected. Black pigment distributed uniformly. Basic colour is black in the absence of other modifying genes.

PATTERN-1                         N/N    

No copies of PATN1

This filly was a deep black velvet colour when born without a coat pattern except one white spot on her back. She has all the characteristics and it is no surprise he result id N/N for PATN1 even though LP is present. She is two years old now and has roaned out beautifully.

4 (2)

Redheart Pascalius (Past & Present)

4

 

 

Redheart Cateaster

Leopard Complex            LP/LP

Homozygous, carries two copies of the Appaloosa LP gene and is affected by CSNB

Grey gene                           gg                          

Negative for the Grey gene

PSSM1                                  n/n 

Negative for the PSSM Type 1 gene mutation

Red factor                           E/e   

Both black & red factors detected. Either E or e transmitted to offspring. Basic colour is black, bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

Agouti                                   A/a          

Black pigment distributed in point’s pattern. Basic colour is bay or brown in the absence of other modifying genes.

PATTERN-1                         N/PATN1       

1 copy of PATN1, 50% of offspring will inherit the modifier mutation. In order for high levels of white spotting to be visible the foal must inherit the LP gene.

This filly has not changed much in coat pattern but her colour has lightened. We should see some spots appear after her winter / foal coat has shed, the skin pigment is certainly spotted on her hind legs.

Redheart Cateaster (Past & Present)

Testing for both LP and PATN1 is recommended for breeders interested in producing Leopard Complex-spotted horses.

The past has been guess work and the present has given us factual evidence enabling us to cross

Appaloosa x Appaloosa for the desired traits we seek.

Watching and waiting……..

 

The foaling box is ready, a deep, banked up straw bed that is warm and comfortable.

The wireless CCTV camera is linked to the TV in the bedroom.

Princesse Pascale

Princesse Pascale is in her 11mth of gestation, about 18 days pre her due date, true to form she has already started showing signs. Her udder has become distended, before turning her out in the morning it is quite obvious her udder has filled up over night while she is resting. Coming in from the field at night, her udder has shrunk due to her exercising.

 

Princesse Pascale

At the present time we are looking at a full term delivery, if PP repeats her last foal gestation time with Redheart Pascalius we will be waiting a further two weeks?

Princesse Pascale

Observing her on the camera is quite entertaining, witnessing the foal moving, makes her spots sporadically enlarge.

PP is now a mature six-year-old mare, standing at just over 16hh and extremely well-built. I believe the foal by RDF Ti Kha Atta Rain is going to be big……

Princesse Pascale

 

For the time being we pray for a safe delivery for PP and a healthy strong foal.

 

All we can do at the present moment in time is watch and wait!

 

Heads Up…………

With the day length increasing as the season progresses I believe everyone must be feeling better as we enter the spring months of March, April and May. Welcoming the sun and a general warmer climate, seeing the buds appear and witness the regrowth of the grass gives us all a lift of enthusiasm. More importantly, Spring is the start of reproduction in many animals but there is an awe of excitement here at Redheart Appaloosas as we anticipate the safe arrival of our two 2015 Redheart foals.

Peyres Catori Cat

Peyres Catori Cat

 

Peyres Catori Cat and Princesse Pascale are in their 9th & 10th months of gestation respectively. They are both in foal to RDF Ti Kha Atta Rain. Both mares are extremely well in themselves, looking very healthy in their coats and very well-conditioned.

Princesse Pascale

Princesse Pascale

Assuming both foals are born healthy, correct and without  complications, these foals will be for sale with the following;

  • An Equine Genetics report. All our horses are free from PSSM & Grey gene.
  • An Equine Parentage Report.
  • A Veterinary Health Check Report.
  • An APHC Certificate of Registration.
  • An APHC pedigree certificate.
  • A passport with the ApHC UK
  • Desensitised at birth, micro chipped, vaccinated, wormed and feet trimmed as required.
  • Insured until agreed day of collection or delivery by prior agreement.
  • Registered with the Foundation Appaloosa Association.
  • Princesse Pascale’s foal will qualify and be registered with the Foundation Appaloosa Horse Registry.
  • Registered and enrolled in the APHC Foundation Pedigree Designation (FPD) programme.

Princesse Pascale’s foal will be enrolled at 100% FPD

Peyres Catori Cat’s foal will be enrolled at 97% FPD

Both foals will be half-siblings to many other proven Atta foals. Please have a look at his NEW website WD Appaloosas.

Both foals due are from two successful mares who have obtained many competitive titles. Please view  their details and achievements Peyres Catori Cat and Princesse Pascale.

Princesse Pascale’s foal will be half-sibling to the 2014 Female Yearling Champion at the BApS National 2014 and multi Reserve Champion yearling, Redheart Pascalius.

Peyres Catori Cat’s foal will be half-sibling to the multi Champion and International Top 5 for 2-year-old colts, Hevans EV Catorrius.

Redheart Pascalius

Redheart Pascalius

Hevans EV Cattorius

Hevans EV Cattorius

Redheart Cateaster

Redheart Cateaster

 

With the prefix Redheart there is an opportunity for a prospective purchaser to name the foal. Due to the time scale of registration with APHC and the legal obligation to obtain a passport before 6months old. It is recommended your interest be confirmed ASAP for you to secure a name.

I would appreciate Redheart foals will be sold to those who understand and accept the expenses involved and are confident to take on a long-term commitment, valuing the Appaloosa x Appaloosa breeding we have here at Redhearts.

It is my wish that a Redheart foal will be sold to a loving home with the intention and passion to enhance its future by either competing, breeding or both and continue to support the APHC.

A foal is an exceptional opportunity to personally train, starting with a blank canvas is priceless.

 It is the “right” person that develops the “right” horse to build the “right” partnership.

Please contact me and register your interest.

 At the present time we can only give you the “Heads Up” ……..

International Recognition……..…..

One thing we set our selves here at Redheart Appaloosas’ is goals. They are realistic and based upon each individuals horses performance. Whether we are the only one in the class or party to a class split because of high entries, their performance is noted from the time each horse has eaten it’s breakfast to the time its eaten its supper.

The result of a day’s showing is not just about the performance in the ring. We can only measure our success from the previous outings and strive to continuously improve.

We use the utility classes to gain a measure of the horse’s attitude, the ability to extend their gait on the surface and become familiar with the new surroundings and surprisingly “odd” features.

We learn so much from these classes which in turn puts us “right” for the following classes that really do matter by gaining points.

One point……….

Redheart Pascalius

Redheart Pascalius

 

Hevans EV Catorrius

Hevans EV Catorrius

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The ApHC UK National show 2014

This proved to be a  successful day for Redheart Pascalius with Crystal Radford and myself with Hevans EV Catorrius.

 

What was not recognised at the time was the “one point” earned by winning the Stallion class. This  point was enough to put Hevans EV Catorrius on the International Top Five table. I have been notified recently about this International ranking and he continues to be present for the fourth month in a row.

APHC Journal December 2014

APHC Journal December 2014

APHC Journal January 2015

APHC Journal January 2015

APHC Journal February 2015

APHC Journal February 2015

APHC Journal March 2015

APHC Journal March 2015

 

This has been a surprise and we are very much delighted to learn of this International recognition.

Valentine’s Red Heart

The name “Redheart” has another meaning when it comes to Valentine’s Day.

Although in the “normal” sense many people will exchange cards, gifts or flowers for their special “valentine”.

Here at Redheart Appaloosas we honour the memory of the importation of;

Peyres Catori Cat from France in 2008 and Princesse Pascale from Austria in 2009.

Peyres Catori Cat

Peyres Catori Cat

Princesse Pascale

Princesse Pascale

 

Imports of 14th February 

 Today, we remember these fillies at six months old.

What they have achieved to date…..

The wonderful foals they have produced……

I am honoured to have such wonderful mares.

 

Catori & PP February 2015 AM

Catori & PP February 2015

 

Princesse Pascale

Princesse Pascale (Foal due April 2015)

Peyres Catori Cat

Peyres Catori Cat (Foal due May 2015)

 

Redheart Pascalius

RedheartPascalius

Hevans EV Catorrius

Hevans EV Catorrius

Redheart Cateaster

Redheart Cateaster

 

Redheart Pascalius, Hevans EV Catorrius (with his love Katkin) & Redheart Cateaster

February 14th 2015

Happy Valentines……….

Keep an eye on us……..

2015 is here and Redheart Appaloosas wish you all the very best.

The past is the past and nothing can be changed but on reflection all the horses have exceeded themselves and can only progress further. We had an exciting year full of ups and downs just like everyone else but we are all looking up at the same stars.

The memberships are renewed and the 2015 diary is slowly being edited for the show circuit ahead. The promotional advertising is currently in the making and my Christmas show shirt for 2015 has arrived.

 

2015

 

Heavans EV Catorrius

Reus will compete in the three-year old colt section this season, having a fruitful 2014 he has nothing to prove and we look forward to the prospect of licensing him as a Stallion later this year.

REUS

HEVANS EV CATORRIUS

Redheart Pascallius

Evee, had a nice introduction to the showing world in 2014. We look forward to her development during her two-year old season ahead.

EVEE

REDHEART PASCALIUS

Redheart Cateaster

Easter, now a yearling and is a precocious compact filly. 2015 will be start of her showing campaign.

EASTER

REDHEART CATEASTER

Peyres Catori Cat

Catori proved to be an excellent broodmare yet again in 2014. We greatly look forward to the safe arrival of her foal in May 2015.

CATORI

PEYRES CATORI CAT

Princesse Pascale

PP is was confirmed pregnant in 2014. We are excited to view the safe arrival of Redheart’s first Foundation foal.

PP

Princesse Pascale

Follow the future of these Registered Appaloosas as we aim to enhance the Foundation Blood Lines and prove their quality under the judges eye.

Or just Keep an eye on us……..