doors with the horses , so as long as there is a roof overhead they are happy !
Breeding program
By constantly studying the bloodlines and trying to predict the next generation of champions , the Farm Little Creek goal is to create a new , modern line of horses in Europe . Some very rare crosses and combinations were achieved in 2016 and the foals produced will enter the show ring this year . It ’ s a proud moment to hear horses called into the show ring with the farm prefix “ FL- Creek ”. These foals are now starting to compete and give people joy .
In a separate area of the stables , a foaling department was created . Everything designed around the needs of the mares and babies in case of an emergency . These six stalls allow the broodmares who are in their last month of gestation , to be stabled and feel safe in this area . 24 / 7 camera supervision , light therapy , heated stalls and an up-to-date foaling system allows Farm Little Creek to produce seven to ten expected foals safely into the world . Everything is discussed with veterinarians who are just a phone call away and this year the farm will also accept outside mares for labor and delivery .
All breeding taking place on the farm is just as natural as can be . The stallions run freely with their selected herd of mares and no hand-breedings are performed . This has given a success ratio of 95 % within the last two years . There have been no accidents from stallions or injuries with the broodmares- it is a more natural way for them to live together . No violence , only respectful behavior towards each other . There are four stallions that are currently stand at stud with some available to outside mares as well .
The diversity of a horse ranch – giving back
Horses have offered Kevin and Tanja so much joy and energy . They both wanted to give something back to society and bring children to the farm . The farm tours were started for kindergarten and primary aged children and schools visited once a year to learn about farm life . Children could cuddle with a rabbit , chickens , dog , cats and of course learn how to lead and treat Miniature horses in a respectful manner .
Another outreach project that the farm opened up to is a school for mentally challenged or handicapped people . The groups of six people come to work alongside Kevin and Tanja at the farm . Working with these wonderful people has produced some happy and precious moments , for example when the alfa mare ( who can normally be a bit wild and bossy ), approached a child with autism and the two became instant best friends ,
Up close and personal with Tanja Cremers
What is a little known fact about you ? I am a perfectionist . I will continue working on a small detail for hours without a break even forgetting to eat or drink . I won ’ t even sleep days before a show until I have checked that every single horse is perfect and I have reassured myself that they are in perfect condition .
When not working with horses I like to … Getting to work with Miniature horses is just the happiest of jobs ! And for me it is all consuming . To enjoy our little piece of heaven here in Belgium , lying in the pasture surrounded by babies who try to get your attention every single minute means the world to me . Through the American Miniature horse we have found friends all over the United States who welcomed us in every single town . We ’ ve seen beautiful country through the eyes of a citizen ( which is totally different than as a tourist ). We feel so lucky to have so many friends , some of whom come visit us as well . We love to host them and make them feel welcome in the old warm culture of Belgium and indulge them in the delicious european cuisine .
Best piece of horse advice you received ? My biggest joy is to share my passion with fellow enthusiasts through the clinics . Now when I see these same enthusiasts again at the shows and I see how they have evolved and are now successful ( and foremost have fun ) when they enter the ring it makes me very happy . Becoming a professional has opened a lot of new doors for me . I am grateful that I listened to a very wise women , who convinced me to give training a try .
Why do you feel Miniature horses are such an important part of your life ? Miniature horses bring so many different people together whether it ’ s shows , clinics , working in the stable , photoshoots , and so many other ways . They have enabled me to pursue my dream of helping people with unique abilities . These wonderful people who have mental and physical problems and have trouble finding a job in the work force , but at Farm Little Creek they have the chance to find their own little niche . They get the opportunity to work with animals all day and at their own speed , so no need to rush . The horses are very forgiving from nature and will never judge someone . Their happy smiles make it all worthwhile for my husband and I .
SUMMER 2017 Miniature Horse World 31