Recovered Racehorses from Slaughter and Auctions

Horse Owners are Helpless in Iceland

2010-04-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

Iceland's Volcano
Impact on Agriculture

Ellie Ross

I know this is off topic, however I felt it was important to draw some attention to the situation in Iceland where horses are trapped by the toxic ash that blankets their land.

The area hardest hit near the eruption is one that is agriculturally significant, is heavily populated by horse breeders and other livestock. Breeders in this area raise their horses and livestock in a free range manner so there is no where for these animals to be housed and shielded from the toxic ash clouds swallowing up the land. Reports state that some areas are pitch black in darkness during the day and most horse owners are left helpless. Winds are not expected to change for at least 2-3 more days.

Sounds of the eruption, combined with the lightning and bird cries are being described as 'something from a horror film'. This is the time of year when birds are migrating. Farmers report witnessing entire flocks of geese fly directly into the ash clouds, cry and then fall to their death.

'The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority released an announcement this morning, asking that all horse owners who keep their herds outside be on the alert due to ash fall. Where there is significant ash fall all horses must be sheltered indoors.'

The volcano emits toxic flouride gas and has a devastating effect on livestock and humans. The last time this volcano erupted in 1821, it lasted two years. This gas is easily absorbed through skin and eyes and a quantity as small as 28 mg per kilo of body mass is fatal.

Flourine poisoning will affect calcium levels in horses causing severe damage to teeth and bones in growing foals as well as hypocalcemia in pregnant mares - a life threatening condition. (One can only imagine the impact it has on children and pregnant women)

In past eruptions, it is not the eruption itself that causes the highest deaths amongst animals and humans, it is the toxic gases and ash that follow, continues for months and causes massive devastating effects on resources.

In 1783 it poisoned the vegetation, pastures etc. This resulted in a loss of approximately 80% of the sheep and 50% of the horses and cattle.

One fifth of the human population perished from starvation. Extreme winters followed the eruption due to the sulphuric gases. This combination of extreme winter and lack of livestock/vegetation/crops proved devastating.

The present volcanic eruption could continue to cycle through ongoing periods of rest and eruption over several months ultimately impacting water, hay and feed supplies.

So while most media reports seem to focus mainly on the impact on air travel, there are far more significant impacts occurring that could lead to a repeat of events in 1783.

Click here- http://dagskra.ruv.is/sjonvarpid/4497965/2010/04/17/0/ to see a local news report in Iceland. The report is not in English but language is not needed to understand the desperation of such an event. (Video will take a moment to load, middle of the video is just reporter talking but beginning and end provide a clear picture of a not so clear future)

Spring 2010 -

2010-04-14T10:31:00.001-07:00

Spring 2010
by Ellie Ross

A quick note first and I'll post a proper Blog later -

Does anyone have any information on the following Thoroughbreds -

T.V.Girl
Wooden Sticks

Any information about their history would be beneficial to their future!

Please don't post in comments - Email me privately at
fielddogs
@
gmail
.com

Thanks Everyone!

November 27th 2009

2009-11-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

AUCTIONS AUCTIONS AUCTIONS

ellie ross

What to do with so many horses becoming displaced?

There are many nice horses going through OLEX and other auctions. Just two weeks ago, I acquired two very very lovely, well bred, sound and sane Grey Thoroughbred mares. They are what so many people say they want. Over 16hh, moderate bone, nice build etc. There were others as well but simply put, I can not buy all of them.

The week before I acquired a 17hh, large boned TB gelding that was lacking groceries, to say the least. A monster size of a TB.
I am very happy to announce that this Big Red horse has moved on to his new home and would like to thank my friend S.K.B. for her generous offer to foster him for a few days and a bigger thank you to the person that can see the potential in this horse and happily took him home.

Just this week a lovely reining horses went through the ring. Sound, good body condition, appeared sane etc. Sold for 49 cents a pound.Do the math! He weight about 1150lbs...

Prices at OLEX are still low overall. Some horses unable to even fetch as little as 2 cents per pound. Several horses go through with no information. Its a hip tag and a weight. That is it.

It is understood that this is a meat sale. It is not marketed as a riding horse sale and that is clear, however, there are on average only two meat buyers and the balance of the people there are potential horse buyers. Doesn't the horse deserve a voice? A little blurb about its age, history, experience, anything? Its not the sale that is at fault, it is the owner of that animal. My grey mares came through with only their age and breed. The Big Red Gelding came thru with nothing at all. Just his weight.
All of these horses are broke to ride. All of them are sane. All of them have a history and if it was revealed, could have resulted in more people being interested in them. This is not limited to these three horses but to all the horses that continuously go through that ring that hold the potential to be some one's horse. I should note that this information sharing should not only be limited to the good history but the bad as well. I have endured injuries, as I'm sure many others have, 'taking chances' on these horses. We take the good with the bad but a little information would go a long way.

With so many auctions occurring and so many auctions under fire, one must remember this very important point - that auction is the horses opportunity to get bought for homes vs. heading to slaughter. Without those auctions, these horses would not gain any exposure and would essentially just disappear. Out of sight, out of mind. The Claremont Auction occurs every two weeks and while the setup is less than ideal in many horse owners' views, it is exposure and it is an opportunity. There were some off track TBs at the last sale hosted there. None were 'fresh' off the track from this season. Three had gone on to be polo ponies, another was a very well schooled mare that had been a well cared for, loved broodmare and the last had clearly been off the track long enough to get soft, grow a mane long enough to form a large collection of burrs. There was a lovely sporthorse type mare there, a very very attractive medium jumper pony, some registered APHA babies, QHs galore etc. The arena provides an opportunity to demonstrate the horses under saddle and the prices fluctuate. Some prices truly reflect the value of the horses while others were, in my opinion, a steal.

This Saturday is going to be one very packed schedule of horse auctions-

Some upcoming sales Saturday Nov 28th -

Wainfleet Horse Auction hosted by Nelson Bilyea
52119 Misener Road
Wainfleet, ON L0S 1V0 Call for details (905) 899-1559

Waterloo County Horse Sale
Held at OLEX, but it is not an OLEX sale
Info at http://www.waterloocountysales.com/about.htm
This sale is mainly buggy horses and work horses geared towards the Mennonite and Amish Communities however there are often some nice ponies and riding horses as well. Tack sells first. The St.Jacobs Farmers Market is on next door so makes for a full day out.

Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society Sale
Held at Woodbine
Info - http://www.cthsont.com/mixedsale.php
All Thoroughbreds of all ages and has had some great vendors present in the past.

Upcoming December 7th-
Appeared in the Acton Tanner

"Innkeepers Act Sale" It reads : I, Arthur McKenna will sell by Public Auction under the "Innkeepers Act", the property of Viviane Chagnon and Dominic Polsinelli of 136 Winges Rd #6, Woodbridge, Ont L4L 6C3
Notification and advertising have been completed as required by the "Innkeepers Act" by advertisement and registered mail sent to Viviane Chagnon and Dominic Polsinelli.
Public Auction to be held on the 7th day of December, 2009 at the hr of 11am at 14324 Fourth Line Acton Ont, L7J 2L8
Offered for Sale will be five horses known as Great Expectations (stallion), One Way Love colt (bay colt), One dark bay filly, One dark bay yearling filly, and One thoroughbred racehorse
Lien on the horses is approximately $10,000 calculated to the 7th day of Dec, 2009
Arthur McKenna (Innkeeper) Oct 20, 2009

Auctions can be quite intimidating to many that are not familiar with the process, bidding etc. Often people don't understand what the auctioneer is saying and then hesitate to bid when they don't even know what price they are coming in at. Please know, that I am always more than happy to assist anyone at any auction that I am attending, so please don't be shy.
Email - fielddogs @gmail .com (remove spaces)

Its for the horses...

Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends south of the border.

Fall 2009

2009-11-05T18:37:00.000-08:00

FALL 2009 SUMMARY
Ellie Ross

Well its been a while since I've updated the blog and I sincerely apologize.

The number of horses drastically plummeted at OLEX over the summer months as did the prices. For a while there it seemed that it wasn't worth the gas for people to ship their horses into the sale.
Some poor condition horses couldn't even sell for 2 cents a pound and were marked as ' no sale'. This gives the consignor the opportunity to take the horse back or have it culled at OLEX. Basically one must remember that it is a meat business. An underweight horse weighing 800lbs, that should weigh 1100lbs, takes up just as much room on the truck as the 1500lb horses so, its space that costs more than the payout at the plant. Essentially - it cost them more to ship the horse than they will get in meat.

The longstanding trend of Standardbreds being the most popular breed at the kill auction continues. Many look racing fit and several others look like they are coming off a breeding program. Many of these horses make great buggy horses for the Mennonite and Amish communities. It should be pointed out that once they are unable to perform their jobs as Buggy Horses, they more often than not, end up back at OLEX.

Current meat price, at OLEX, for the horses over 1000lbs, but are not draft type, is between 25-30cents a pound. Heavy horse prices have been hovering between 15-25 cents. Some horses are being sold by the pound, at either the discretion of the auctioneer or request of the consignor.

There have been large lots of horses coming into the kill auction containing feedlot horses from out west. These are horses that were born and raised solely for the purpose of slaughter. Most of these are not horses that can be safely handled.

There have also been large lots of horses coming up from the US that are predominantly Paint and QH youngsters. Mostly under the age of two. The body conditions vary from lot to lot. I have seen some very nice looking babies going through the sales and selling for as little as $23.00

I hear many stories about kill buyers at other auctions and if I had to compare, I would have to say that we should consider ourselves fortunate at the OLEX market. The main buyer consistently opts out of bidding on horses if a non-meat buyer commences bidding. In addition, any horses in his pen are available for negotiation with him immediately after the sale. Cooperation for which I am grateful for.

If you are on Twitter, I often 'Tweet' live from the sales. This past summer I tweeted live from OLEX, The Amish School Fundraiser Auction and even the Exotic animal auction. FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER .
For those of you that don't know what Twitter is - Click here for description.

We've had a very busy summer recovering and homing OTTBs mainly, from a variety of sources that include auctions, feedlots and direct from the Racetracks. I'm very happy to announce that at least 4 of these horses will be showing on the Trillium circuit next year!

Speaking of showing... I will be personally showing an OTTB at the Royal Winter Fair on Sat. Nov 14th. Please be sure to say hello to the Dark Bay Gelding 'Our Select' (affectionately known as Prince), that was so kindly arranged for me to have direct from the Racetrack.
You can't miss him with those 4 white socks and foal face! See photo -

At the request of several individuals, here is a repeat of the
News Video done by The Record's Matt McCarthy -

(not graphic)

If anyone is interested in acquiring an OTTB or would like assistance at an auction, please do not hesitate to contact me. I'm always happy to assist with bidding, selection etc. I know auctions can be most confusing and this prevents many from purchasing. Feel free to contact me -
fielddogs@ gmail .com (remove spaces)

Until next time....

QUEEN's PLATE RUNNER- Needs a Home

2009-08-16T09:02:00.001-07:00

2008 Queen's Plate Runner
'Silver Jag'
by 'Point Given' (2007 Horse of the Year) is in need of a home asap.

He's 16hh, well built, chestnut stallion.
4 years old.

He's off in the hind end. Owner does not wish to release papers for fear of someone running this horse into the ground.
They are trying to do the right thing here. Please help find a suitable home.

HE HAS A HOME! THANK YOU TO ALL THAT EXPRESSED INTEREST!

SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY PLEASE !

Time is of the essence here. A home was setup and they backed out last minute. His stall is booked for another horse at Woodbine and he HAS TO MOVE OUT. He is free to the right home.

OLEX JULY 7th 2009

2009-07-07T20:39:00.000-07:00

OLEX July 7th, 2009

Ellie Ross

Well it will be a full house (spectators) for the entire summer at OLEX auction as the Tuesday farmers market is open and the tourists are drawn to the sale. Some treat the sale as a sort of petting zoo, others are totally oblivious to what 'type' of sale this is and a few are just there to take photos.

There appeared to be a reporter present today but no one could advise what publication she was from.

The mare in the photo was a lovely OTTB mare with papers that had evented, shown dressage and was being offered up as a companion or broodmare due to a career ending injury. Sadly, she went for meat.

Just over 40 horses in today's sale and one Llama that was in great shape, friendly, halter broken and sold for only $45.

Tweeting live from the auction today on Twitter provided some opportunity for inquiries of horses present. Please note, that the auction happens fast. Very fast, so there is very little time to discuss or consider horses. If I post something of interest, it is imperative that you contact me immediately.

Notables -

There was an emaciated medium grey pony today that a local rescue org purchased to give him some TLC. 15 cents a pound.
A lovely TB mare that was bombproof, clean legs and oh so quiet- she was a steal at only $575!
Lovely qh yearling for only $100
A mare with foal on her side and IN FOAL. A pkg deal for only $260
A very nice cremello paint mare, sound but no info
Very very quiet lg pony rode through but was swayback. $325
Pretty palomino mare, sound but no info 37 cents sold to a horse dealer
Standardbreds going through for 15-31 cents per pound

Only one meat buyer was present today.

Next Tuesday there is a scheduling conflict. There is the Welsh Pony dispersal at Carson's as well as OLEX.

Preview is at 11 and the sale is at 3. I will do my best to cover both sales but no guarantees!

For anyone interested- there will be over 70 Sec.B Welsh ponies offered by Cllynncopa Stud
See catalogue http://www.davidcarson.on.ca/pdf/2009-07-14-Cllynncopa.pdf

Follow me on TWITTER

ellierosscanada

EU says You Must Promise that you will NOT EAT YOUR HORSE!

2009-06-23T20:48:00.000-07:00

'I promise I will not eat my horse'

June 24, 2009

by Neil Clarkson _ Horse Talk

The media has been having a field day over European Union legislation requiring horse owners to supposedly undertake that they will not eat their horse.

"I hereby declare that I will not eat my horse or pony," the mass circulation tabloid, The Sun, headlined its take on the story.

Describing the new EU rules as barmy, The Sun reported that horse owners must sign a pledge not to eat their pets - or face up to two years in jail.

United Kingdom Independence Party leader Nigel Farage was quoted as saying: "I'd like to be a fly on the wall when the Queen and Princess Anne are asked to sign a form saying they're not going to eat their horses."

Bloggers and the like have taken up the story with glee, providing yet more grist for the mill for those who delight in the obscure, quirky and sometimes downright bizarre twists and turns found in the growing mountain of EU regulations.

The "pledge" is part of EU regulations around horse identification which come into force in Britain on July 1.

The regulations recognise the fact that horses regularly enter the food chain in continental Europe.

The regulations will require all foals born after July 1, and horses born before June 30 that have not yet been issued with an equine passport, to have a microchip implanted by a veterinary surgeon when their owners apply for a passport.

Compulsory microchipping will aid accurate identification as it provides a permanent link between the horse and its lifetime passport, Britain's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs explains.

The microchips, to be placed in a horse's neck by a veterinarian, will match the passport.

"Horse passports will clearly identify those horses which are not eligible for the food chain if they have been treated with substances which are potentially harmful to humans.

"By strengthening the current passport system we reduce the risk to human health, avoid the withdrawal of key veterinary medicines, and protect the horse meat trade in this country."

Microchipping will also help recover and identify stolen and abandoned horses, as well assist with welfare cases.

The new EU regulation provides for a standardised format to exclude a horse from the food chain if certain medicines are used, or to suspend its slaughter for human consumption for six months if treatment is carried out with another set of listed medications. The passport must accompany an animal to slaughter.

The so-called pledge is actually about opting an animal out of the food chain.

The regulations state: "An equine animal shall be deemed to be intended for slaughter for human consumption, unless it is irreversibly declared as not so intended in Part II of Section IX of the identification document, by the signature of:

the keeper or owner on his/her own discretion, or
the keeper and the veterinarian responsible, acting in accordance with Article 10(2) of Directive 2001/82/EC."

A horse's passport can therefore be marked accordingly, or at a later date by a vet should medications be used that disqualify the animal from the food chain.

Actually, seeing the Queen and Princess Anne signing isn't so hard to imagine after all.

http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2009/06/146.shtml

OLEX June 16th, 2009

2009-06-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

OLEX JUNE 16th 2009

by Ellie Ross

I estimate there to be approximately 80 horses at the Ontario Livestock Exchange Auction today.
While I was busy discussing things like changes at OLEX with management, I missed the first 2/3rds of the sale.

Based on the last 30 horses I witnessed go thru the auction ring prices ranged from as low as 4 cents/lb - 55 cents/lb.

While there were a fair number of Standardbreds today, they were not the majority of the horses ---for a change.

For those of you on TWITTER - I was 'Tweeting' Live from the sale with descriptions and prices as they went through. Typing fast on a cell phone fast is not always easy!
You can follow me on Twitter by either clicking the 'FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER' BUTTON on the right side of this page or look me up - ellierosscanada on www.twitter.com

There were some horses sold by the dollar, as determined by the Auctioneer who continues to incorporate humor into the bidding process.

The following is a partial list of what sold while I was present -

Reg. Morgan Broke to ride. Nice $250
Nice Med.Pony broke to ride $300
Skinny, lame Belgian 25 cents/lb - meat
BIG Lame Belgian 10 cents/lb - meat
4yr Halter broke Standardbred 27cents - meat
12 yr old Pony Mare Broke 35 cents - meat
Small pony. Very flashy black and broke $350
Small Welsh pony. Quiet, broke but foundered $275
Nice Roan mare, sound and broke to ride/drive 39 cents - meat
9 yr Standardbred Driver, Sound 44 cents - home
BEAUTIFUL Welsh pony mare - see pic (doesn't do her justice) $550 Home
Mini Donkey - Jenny yearling $275 -home
Llama yearling $50
Fit sound Standardbred 31 cents - meat
Dutch Harness horse sway backed 30 cents - meat
8 yr QH broke and sound 28cents - home
Standardbred gelding no info 36 cents - meat
Beautiful Reg QH with papers, sound broodmare 46 cents - meat
5 yr Broke to ride QH gelding $500 - home
Percheron X Standardbred gelding sound, no info 34 cents - meat
Pretty yearling Paint with papers colt - $275 home
Aged paint gelding no info 36 cents - meat
Lame Paint mare no info 39cents - meat
4yr dappled grey Percheron. Nice looking and sound but no info 30 cents - home
4 yr Black Percheron, sound no info 34 cents - home
Standardbred gelding, racing fit 6 yrs old 28 cents - meat
Black Percheron Mare, sound, quiet no info 31 cents - home
4 yr old Standardbred gelding Broke,quiet and sound 39 cents - meat
Nice Morgan 2yr Registered. Mare. Green but broke 31 cents - meat
Yearling filly registered paint $275 - Home
Emaciated Standardbred gelding **** 4 cents a pound ***** - meat dealer but only after being pushed by auctioneer to take him home and feed him
Standardbred - 'slaughter only' sound - 39 cents - home
Beautiful Black Reg. QH Broodmare, sound 49cents - home

*The above is only a partial list and information is based on announcements made during sale

Prices seemed to be inconsistent as far as meat horses were concerned. There were two competitive meat buyers in attendance today.

I did not see any OTTBs today however, there were two TB geldings that were not tattooed. Their outcome is not known to me.

Special note to Jess - thanks for arranging to hang out and learn.

Looking forward to the Queen's Plate this weekend.
Special Thank you again to Down The Stretch Newspaper and their commitment to covering at least one 'rescue' story in each issue.
This is the only newspaper covering TB, Standardbred and now even QH racing in Ontario! Pick up your copy today and give consideration to this fine paper with your advertising needs!

OLEX JUNE 8 2009

2009-06-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

OLEX JUNE 8, 2009

About 85 horses sold at OLEX yesterday. Slightly up versus the last few weeks. And there was also a good crowd in attendance. Two main kill buyers were bidding on horses and between them bought the majority, just over 45. The top meat price paid was 56 cents / pound for a very good looking chestnut of decent weight and fitness. Another decent looking horse went for 51 cents / pound for kill, so meat prices were certainly up a little bit this week.

A few thoroughbred broodmares went through the sale this week. A good number of standardbreds, which is certainly not unusual. Bottom prices for meat were at 20 cents / pound for one horse, and 21 cents / pound for another but overall prices were up.

OLEX June 2nd 2009

2009-06-02T16:27:00.000-07:00

2009 -OLEX June 2nd
by Alex Brown

About 80 horses sold today at OLEX. A little over half of the horses were bought by the three kill buyers in attendance. The kill buyer who bought the most horses last week, the new one, did the same again this week. He bought about 30 horses. The highest price paid by the kill buyers was 48 cents / pound. For a very good looking horse. The lowest was 5 cents per pound for a horse that had "just been worked hard boys". The auctioneer was almost pleading for a bid. A thoroughbred was bought for kill at 38 cents / pound. I went to the pen afterwards to identify her. I misread the lip tattoo. All I do know is that she either raced recently or was getting ready to race. She looked fit. A one-eyed gelding sold for 35 cents / pound. Shame he had lost an eye. No doubt he would have been bought by a dealer or private buyer if he had good vision. Just looked like a cool horse with nice markings. Lost of standardbreds went through. Some going to dealers. One which did go for kill earned $138,000 and had had a couple of foals. A cool looking horse, who I think was called the ridge runner, or similar, went to kill. In fact a few horses with papers went the same way. Overall the demand for meat horses was pretty robust. Those ridden through the ring mostly went to dealers. A few ponies and a couple of donkeys went to dealers and / or private buyers.
_____________________

Note from Ellie!

She still needs a home! 10 yr OTTB Mare by Wekivia Springs
See pic http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3158700&l=a014da30b5&id=744880497
and
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3158112&l=788b08d306&id=744880497
Photos current. Taken today!

OLEX May 27th 2009

2009-05-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ellie Ross

This week has brought some interesting media! Be sure to check out the current edition of Down The Stretch for a heart warming story about an OTTB horse sent to slaughter, only to end up back 'home'. Click here for the Story! A life lost, a life saved...
I want to thank Shanya and Nith River Ranch/Paris for their assistance in trailering this horse to his new home.

Global TV in Calgary is also doing a 3 part mini-series of reporting on Horse Slaughter called 'From Stable to Table'. I was very pleased to see this story being reported and thanked Global TV for covering this topic.

Part one was, not graphic and was well reported providing both sides of the slaughter debate. However, Part two was not as well reported ,is somewhat graphic and they need to get their facts straight.
The use of the YouTube video showing the knifing of the horses' spines is not credible reporting. I have no doubt that it is a real video however -There is no time line of when that video was taken (and we know its not recent), nothing to identify where it is and for all anyone knows, it could be another continent. Was there even a video credit overlayed? I think not. It misleads viewers into thinking this is a recent, credible, investigative video by GlobalTV.
The Provincially run facilities in Mexico were not shown or remarked on. I'm not in anyway defending the slaughter practices in Mexico but I do believe that factual information be relayed.

To state that due to the horse slaughter ban in the US, horses are being turned loose, abandoned, starved etc. is nothing short of a false statement and propaganda for the anti-slaughter side. There are still kill auctions carrying on in the US, no different than before the slaughter ban. Horses can still go to the auction, just as they always could. So while the US is not slaughtering horses for human consumption, they are still slaughtering for other types of purposes (IE.feed for zoo animals). Those intended for human consumption get shipped to Canada and Mexico, so realistically, slaughter still remains an option.
The ASPCA and several states have reported that there have been no increase in stray horses.
Anyone that's ever attended a kill auction, will tell you how many emaciated horses they have seen go to kill. This defeats the purpose but also proves the argument that horses going to kill would have been neglected and starved if slaughter were not an outlet. Those horses were already neglected and starved - they showed up to the kill auction in that condition.

Part 3 airs tonight.

Please consider taking the time to write to Global TV to voice your opinions, support etc.

globalnews.calg@globaltv.com

Link to the stories -

http://www.globaltv.com/globaltv/calgary/video/index.html?categoryID=1132857376

On a final note -

On behalf of Horsemen For Humanity, I would like to express our thoughts, prayers and wishes to Jockey Rene Douglas, who was seriously injured in a spill at Arlington on May 23rd and at this time, is unlikely to ever walk again.

In memory of 16 yr. old, Frances-Anne Sweeny who lost her life
yesterday after suffering horse related injuries. CTV News Story

_________________________________________________

OLEX May 27th 2009 Report

by Alex Brown

About 75 horses were sold through OLEX yesterday. The main kill buyer bought about 20. Top price for him was 40 cents / pound. He went as low as 23 cents per pound, twice. There was another kill buyer actively buying who actually bought more horses (31) and was paying a little more for his horses (outbidding the main kill buyer). This led to speculation he was buying for the Ontario slaughter house in Proton Station. Less expenses to slaughter allowing for the ability to perhaps pay a little more. Speculation though. Assuming he was a kill buyer, which itself is pretty certain given the types of horses he was buying, then 2/3rds of the horses sold went to kill. A few horses went through the ring which did not attract the attention of the kill buyers at all. A 2yo Standard Bred filly. 16 cents / pound. An all white albino. One Thoroughbred was sold, with papers. A horse dealer bought him.

Overall a reasonably typical Tuesday at OLEX.

The other meat buyer,bought 31 horses. His top price was 46 cents / pound for a nice buckskin mare. He went as low as 18 cents / pound for a pretty poor looking horse. The main kill buyer bought 23 horses. His high price was 40 cents / pound. He went as low as 23 cents / pound, twice. Both were bidding against each other on the majority of horses that went through the sale. Between the two buyers they bought two thirds of the horses available. A few horses went to private buyers. And a few went to horse traders who will look to see if they can turn them around quickly for profit. And if not, they will likely be back.

10 yr 16hh OTTB mare ready for a home!

2009-05-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

She needs a home. Email if interested. Located just 15 min south of
Kitchener Ontario
Fielddogs@. Gmail dot com

OLEX May 19 2009

2009-05-20T07:31:00.000-07:00

OLEX May 19th 2009

by: ellie ross

Today's sale had well over 50 horses consigned. Prices overall were down. There was only one kill buyer in attendance who purchased at least 40 of the horses. His top price paid was 49 cents a pound, which was considerably higher than the avg. price.

OSPCA Inspector, CFIA Inspector and Min.of Ag. Inspector were all present.

Of course the majority were Standardbreds as can be seen in the photo taken of the kill horse pens.

Mentionable...

There was a lovely event horse that ended up selling privately. Very attractive horse with years of experience but a weak hock. I hope that his buyer is able to improve his condition.

A plain QH mare that appeared totally sound, very sane and well broke brought in by a dealer. She looked liked she would have made a nice first horse for someone.

A cute appy that was broke to ride, appeared sound.

There were 5 TBs in today's sale. I believe 3 went to kill and 2 were bought privately

A nice morgan cross that was well broke to drive and appeared sound

A lovely Percheron gelding bought by the kill buyer. I would assume the purchase was for re-sale and not for slaughter.

A skinny buy very cute and well broke clyde cross was bought by an Amish man. This is a nice driving horse that sold at a previous sale two years ago for $2200. The horse appeared sound and was simply no longer needed

There was an emaciated horse that I would hope the OSPCA would be pursuing neglect on the owner.

My apologies for not having more details on prices. Perhaps Alex will have them and post ?

There is a sale being held this Friday in Aylmer that I believe could be a kill auction. I hope to attend this sale and will post accordingly.
__________________________________________

Updates and Notes:

The OTTB mare by Wekivia Springs is still in need of a home. She would make an ideal broodmare or prospect for an experienced rider. She is broke to ride but needs re-schooling. Doesn't buck etc. Very attractive flea bitten grey. Solid build. Straight.

The EU will likely be imposing regulations on Canadian horse meat to implement a 60 day certification program on all horses to be slaughtered for human consumption/export.
This will result in horses bought for kill, to spend at least 60 days on a feedlot to pass certification. So, the EU has listened to the warnings about horse meat, the pharmaceuticals used on horses and the speculated risk of consuming such meat. Sadly, the horses will endure not only lengthy transport, but lengthy holding times as well.
__________________________________________________

OLEX Report

by Alex Brown

Today's auction was similar to auctions on recent Tuesdays in terms of the number of horses that were sold. About 60. In recent weeks 2 - 3 kill buyers have been in attendance. Today, only the main kill buyer was in attendance. And because of that he was able to buy horses almost at will. He bought about 40 of the horses at the sale. He paid from as low as 15 cents / pound, to as high as 49 cents / pound. The odd thing about the horse he paid most for today is that it is not the type of horse he typically buys for kill. It was a big black percheron. The only conclusion one can draw is that this horse was bought for someone else. He did pay 43 cents / pound for a gorgeous and very healthy looking horse. That price made sense and is what I would consider his top price for a meat horse today. In recent weeks the top price paid had been about 3 - 4 cents higher. Today we had the same number of horses, less bidders, and therefore lower prices all around. The median price was down about 5 cents / pound.

What becomes clear as a result of attending these auctions on a weekly basis is that kill buyers are like any other buyers. They pay a premium for healthy looking horses. Today the kill buyer paid as low as 15 cents / pound for a couple of horses. These horses were under weight. And there were other horses, poorer looking, that the kill buyer simply does not bid on. The point is, kill buyers are not simply buying up horses that have no other demand. They are bidding on healthy horses, paying more for those horses as they outbid private buyers and other horse dealers. And there are horses they simply do not bid on at all.

Today five thoroughbreds went through the ring. Three went to kill.

OLEX May 14th, 2009/ Carson's Sale May 9th

2009-05-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

OLEX May 14th, 2009

Post by: Alex Brown

The meat prices at OLEX seemed about at par with recent weeks. The top price paid by the main kill buyer was 48 cents / pound. The top price always goes to horses in good condition. The main kill buyer bought horses as low as 21 cents / pound. There was one horse that went through the sale, a particularly poor looking horse who was also unsound, that went for 5 cents / pound, and not to a kill buyer. No bidding on the horse buy the kill buyers. This is further illustration that the meat market looks for certain types of horses, not just all horses that do not have any other type of demand.

The second main buyer of the last few weeks was absent this week. While this did not have much impact on the overall prices paid, it did seem odd not to see the two guys bidding against each other. Another buyer, who also buys for meat but not always for meat so his intent is not clear, was buying plenty of horses, but I think they were his own. Odd behavior, which is not always easy to understand.

Overall there were plenty of horses at the sale. A mixed bunch. A few mares with foals. A few donkeys. A llama, I think, ($55). A nice 16 year old quarter horse mare. And so on. Many of these did go to private homes. I am guessing half the horses went to kill, that number goes up significantly if the second buyer was buying for kill.

CARSON's SALE May 9th 2009

Ellie Ross

There were over 170 horses consigned to the sale. Many quality horses that sold for over $2000. While I was only present for the first third of the sale, horses appeared to be selling well. A positive sign during this economic down turn.
I was most concerned about a middle aged OTTB that was quite thin, covered in wounds and was near the end of the sale. I am delighted to hear that he sold for $850 and got a home!

HORSE AVAILABLE - 10 yr old Grey OTTB Mare 16hh large boned and appears sound.
Sired by Wekivia Springs. Would make an excellent Sporthorse Broodmare. Is broke to ride but requires some re-schooling. Asking $900 obo. Trailering available at cost. Email me at
fielddogs at gmail dot com

OLEX May 5th, 2009

2009-05-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

OLEX May 5th 2009

By: Alex Brown

My trip to OLEX this week was cut short. I arrived a little late, and left a little early as I was dealing with some technical issues on alexbrownracing.com Fortunately they seem resolved.

Prices appear similar to recent weeks as far as meat horses. Top price I observed was 41 cents / pound, but I am told the top price at the auction was 46 cents / pound. Lowest price for a meat horse was 13 cents / pound (when I was there). And that horse looked very poor. There were some very nice looking horses at the sale today. Quarter horses that were being culled from a breeding program. Led through by their owners. A few went private, a few did not! A few horses that sold by the dollar, rather than the pound, went to kill. Top price for kill I observed was $450. One horse that did not go to kill sold for $1,000. That’s the top price I have observed since I have been going to OLEX. He was a lovely looking draft horse. He went to a dealer.

Overall more than half the horses that went through the ring went to kill. One main kill buyer, and three others who also do some horse dealing. And some lovely horses from which to select.

_________________________________________________________

By: Ellie Ross

Upon arriving at OLEX today, the number of horses consigned appeared to be below average, as did the number of people in attendance.

Initially, it appeared that there were less than 40 horses entered and it consisted mainly of Standardbreds, QHs and Crossbreds. There was also a family of white donkeys that had a very cute and mischievous weanling.

A lovely Hackney pony broke to ride and drive and a well bred yearling QH filly with papers. Absolutely nothing wrong with the little one.

One very eye catching horse was a Clyde gelding, show type. Very handsome and well broke to everything you can think of.

I believe I saw at least one mini!

The QH mares were a sad sight to see. Not that they were in poor condition, they were not. They were part of a very large QH breeding operation that needed to thin their numbers. Two were purchased and the rest were bought by kill buyers. These were nice horses.

There was an attractive large paint pony that at first glance appeared to be unsound in the hind end. Turns out the horse had just been gelded so he was sore. Not sure any of us understood the logic of gelding then sending to a meat sale?

An attractive buckskin gelding was ridden through and purchased by a known dealer.

Nearing what I thought to be the end of the sale turned out to be the middle of the sale as several horses appeared that were not seen prior to the start of the auction.

Two very lovely black Clyde mares that could have been in foal. If I had to guess, I would say that a Clyde Farm dispersed of their stock today as I have never seen so many Clydes go through before. :(

There were also some other horses that I believe were late arrivals as well.

Private buyers were few and far between today, making it a very unfortunate day for the horses. As Alex said, there were some quality horses there today.

I do want to point something out that needs to be said - many many of the horses for sale at the kill auction are underweight. There is an argument running that if horse slaughter were not an option, many horses would starve and be neglected. Well, horse slaughter is an option yet we see so VERY MANY horses that have been starved and/or neglected going thru the kill auction. So why is it that the owners starved and neglected their horses when slaughter was an option from the start?

It certainly doesn't make any logical sense to let the horse get thin when you are going to sell it by the pound!

TB Today

2009-04-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks to his former rider, he has been identified.
His name is Cobra Tongue
http://www.pedigreequery.com/cobra+tongue

He's had considerable training after the track and was even a pony horse at FE.

Now is anyone interested?

:-)
ellie

OLEX April 28th, 2009

2009-04-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

Post by Ellie Ross

It was busy at OLEX today. Standardbreds were plenty but not the majority.
Some nice QHs broke to ride, some BIG Belgians, ponies, youngsters, a very uniquely colored draft horse (Dappled buckskin, mottled ??), TB geldings, a beautiful Dutch Harness/ArabX, and a welsh pony stallion that was never handled and demonstrated his ability to maintain his balance on his hind end while his front end was in the air.
There seem to be a very high number of underweight (darn right skinny) horses today.
Prices were up and there were three main buyers in attendance.

This horse still has a chance! TB Gelding seen in pics below needing a home ASAP. He rode quietly in the ring, appears to be sound. Needs some groceries but he was quite nice to handle.
7 Years old. Tattoo # C25316. If anyone can look him up, please let me know who he is. I can't find him on the Lasix list. He is at OLEX and he needs to go somewhere. Time is running out! $475+GST- Please feel free to crosspost. My email is fielddogs@gmail.com if interested.

Another lovely and very quiet Chestnut TB gelding, 9 Years old, went through today - tattoo# B21203 He was sold to an individual private buyer. :-)

I missed posting Alex's OLEX report from last week and will do so tonight.

Again, reminding all, that anyone interested in going to OLEX to get a horse, I am happy to assist you!

2009-04-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

Tb gelding needs home asap at olex

2009-04-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

OLEX April 14th 2009

2009-04-14T17:27:00.002-07:00

OLEX APRIL 14th 2009

Post by Alex Brown

Overall prices seemed up about 2 cents / pound today for horses at OLEX. The top price for meat horses was around 47 cents. Last week it was 45 cents.

There were more horses at the sale this week, and standard breds, which seemed oddly absent from the sale last week, were back. There was a mixed bag of other breeds.

The two main buyers that were bidding on most of the horses last week were back and doing the same this week. They probably bought more than two thirds of the horses today. One is a straight kill buyer, the other a kill buyer who does a bit of horse trading. The straight kill buyer paid from as low as 19 cents to as high as 45 cents / pound. The other buyer, who seemed to be bidding on horses to create a load to ship to Montreal later today, bought horses from 23 cents / pound to 47 cents / pound. I know the horses are shipping to Montreal because I asked him afterwards about a horse he had bought, a thoroughbred mare named Highland Blush that sold for 39cents/lb.
If I wanted to buy her, I had to do it then and there, she would not be here tomorrow. One can only imagine the fate of the horses shipping to Montreal.

There were a few private buyers, and a few horses went through the sale selling by the dollar rather than by the pound. Obviously whether a horse sells by the pound or dollar serves as intent from the seller to maximize the options for the horse and his / her own return. It does not mean that a horse selling by the pound always goes to kill, and a horse selling by the dollar does not. The two buyers noted above bought at least three horses that were selling by the dollar.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Note from Ellie

I have someone looking for a couple TB mares for Sporthorse Broodies. If anyone has TB mares that would suit, please contact me.

Also, we may be 'acquiring' about 20 horses all at once. If anyone has a field with a shelter where we could temporarily put these horses, it would help immensely. They are in very poor body condition. We will supply all they need.

OLEX April 14th 2008

2009-04-14T17:27:00.001-07:00

Woodbine Opening Day Brings Support! OLEX April 7th, 2009

2009-04-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

NEWS!

This past Saturday was opening day at Woodbine. Down The Stretch had a table setup on the 2nd floor of the Grandstand where they were handing out pens, popular cartoons and Purple Ribbons with 'Save The Horses' printed on them.
Woodbine patrons generously donated $450 towards our ongoing efforts to recover ex-racehorses from slaughter.Almost 3000 people wore these ribbons in support.

Down The Stretch has started something very special !
See Photo Courtesy of Triple Dead Heat
and The Money Jar!

On behalf of Alex and I, we thank you Woodbine and Down The Stretch for this!

Its more than a donation. Its a horse's life.

Ellie Ross

_________________________

OLEX April 7th, 2009 -

Report by: Alex Brown

Horse meat prices were up at OLEX today, about 5 cents. Top meat horses went for about 45 – 46 cents / pound. The bottom price was about 11 cents / pound (an odd looking thing). The increase in price over last week can likely be explained by a “bidding war” between two buyers. One a straight kill buyer, the other a kill buyer who also does some horse dealing. The latter buyer was out bidding the former on quite a few horses early in the sale. Things seemed to even up later in the sale. Between them they bought probably more than 2/3rds of the horses sold.

There were also fewer horses sold than last week, at least a third fewer. The auction is usually overrun with standard breds, not so today, only a few of the horses sold were standard breds. It was basically a mixed bag.

Of the actual horses sold, there was one nice 4yo thoroughbred broodmare. I do not think she went to kill, she sold for $510, which would be just over the top for the high kill price. The buyer’s number was not one of the main kill buyer’s numbers anyway. There was a 10 month old thoroughbred filly sold at 22 cents / pound. I do not know whether she went for kill. A grey horse was sold for 15 cents / pound to the kill buyer. This dispels the myth that grey horses don’t go to kill. They do, if only cheaper. One horse I observed before the sale had a nasty cut over one of his eyes. The auctioneer described him as “a little short sighted”. He sold for 22 cents / pound, but was not bought by one of the two main bidders so I am not sure his fate.

--
ending horse slaughter: http://alexbrownracing.com

OLEX March 31 2009

2009-03-31T18:46:00.000-07:00

March 31 2009 OLEX

Posted by -Alex Brown

So today was my first trip to OLEX since November. Initial observations, many more horses, many more people in attendance and prices were way up. Top meat price was 41 cents, with a few horses going for 40 cents. This is about twice the price I was seeing in November. Probably two thirds of the horses sold went to kill, which is typical. There were three kill buyers in attendance, each with a contract with a different slaughterhouse.

I studied the “buying behavior” of one of those buyers. He probably bought about 25 horses, with prices ranging from as low as 19 cents / pound to as high as 41 cents per pound. He dropped out of bidding on horses whose price went above what he was willing to pay but not close to the maximum he paid, and he did not bid on some of the cheaper horses at the sale. He also helped others (non-kill buyers) bidding on horses that he was bidding on. Pointing them out to the auctioneer.

There were a couple of thoroughbreds at the sale. Broodmares culled from a breeding program as they did not get in foal. One sold for 32 cents per pound, the other 38 cents per pound. I am not sure if they went to kill. One was bought by a kill buyer who also does some horse trading. There were plenty of Standardbreds at the sale, which is typical of an OLEX sale. Some Percherons, Clydes and so forth. Some Minis, Shetland types -but those don’t go for kill, at least not here.

Be sure to stop by the DOWN THE STRETCH BOOTH on the 2nd floor of the Grand Stand on opening day this Saturday at Woodbine to get your 'For the Love of Horses' purple ribbon, Down The Stretch Pen and Perry & Mooch Cartoons

UPDATE March 27, 2009

2009-03-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

The week of March 17th -

I attended OLEX to pick up two TB mares.
One was a former Longrun adoption horse from many years ago, who has now been retired permanently.
The other was an unraced filly who now is enjoying some TLC and has a home.
There was a lovely TB gelding at the sale that day that did get a home. He was not tattooed.

Since I had to arrange for trailering etc. I was not able to stay for the sale so prices etc. are not available. There were approximately 40 horses in the sale last week.
March 24th 2009 -

This week's sale had approximately 45 horses on site.

There were about a half dozen TBs - Almost all went with the Kill Buyer

There was only one Kill buyer in attendance that I could see.
Prices were all over the map and there were many private buyers in attendance.
It was standing room only in the auction !

Some sale prices:

34 cents Lightweight horse in good condition
Pony $225
3yr Appy $325 Ridden
Fjord Broke to ride and registered $650 (not ridden)
Buckskin Gelding No Info 35 cents
Percheron - Nice looking horse and well broke to harness 39 cents
Palomino Appy Ridden in $450
Colored Mini $ 240
Standardbred in excellent shape 26cents
Heavy horse in poor condition 11 cents
Yearling QH $120
Nice looking, fit Standarbred Driver 38 cents
Crossbred driving horse in good shape 38 cents

*The above is only a partial list

If anyone is interested in attending the auction and would like assistance with bidding etc. Please contact me as I am always happy to assist.

There is a sale tomorrow at the OLEX building - Waterloo County Horse Sales
For more info http://www.waterloocountysales.com/about.htm
While it is mainly a buggy horse sale, there are often many good riding horses and tack available at this auction. Its a worthwhile visit and is located right next door to the St. Jacob's Farmers Market. Make a day of it!

CARSONS and OLEX

2009-03-13T07:54:00.000-07:00

Carson's Horse Auction

We attended the David Carson's Auction this past Saturday and acquired two TB's. One unraced gelding by Canyon Creek and a Grey OTTB Mare seen in the picture posted previously on the blog- Spring Feather sired by Wekiva Springs-

The mare is presently at my farm enjoying unlimited food and attention. (View her expressions of joy in video below)
Her teeth, feet and grocery requirements had been 'lacking'. She has been cleaned up and treated by our veterinarian and farrier. If you know of anyone that will be looking for a lovely grey TB mare, 10 years old, broke to ride, is very sweet and appears sound ---she will be available in the near future.

There were approximately 120 horses at Carson's well run auction. The stalls were very clean,had automatic waterers in them and a lovely supply of hay was available for feeding.

There were a few TBs entered into the sale. The first had a reserve that wasn't met. Bidding was up to $1350 - An attractive and very fit TB gelding with dressage training.
TB mare for $200.
Another TB gelding was listed in lieu of board payment, but did not show.
A grey TB gelding was listed but I am told was sold privately before the auction.
An uncatalogued VERY TALL TB gelding that had shown Trillium Hunter Hack sold for $7oo.

There were many nice ponies at this sale that sold well in the $1200-1500 range.
Crossbred horses were plentiful that included a Cleveland Bay cross. Crossbreds were the higher sellers of the day topping out at around $2300.

Overall a wide selection of horses and tack. A very well attended sale.
(note the above is only a partial summary)

OLEX Tuesday March 10th

Just under 50 horses were processed through the sale this past week. Good condition horses were averaging around 30cents a pound and as high as 37 cents a pound. Poor condition lightbreed horses sold for around 20 cents a pound.
A few nice horses under saddle went through the ring - an Arab gelding and a few QHs.
Sold for an average of $700.

There were only a couple of draft horses in good condition (weight wise) that sold for under 25cents a pound.

There were no known TBs at the sale. Standardbreds continue to be the most well represented breed. A few very nice looking Standardbreds, off the track with papers, went through. These appeared to be sound, quality horses.

There were three meat buyers in attendance and several new faces as well.

NEWS -

Great news!
Ft. Erie is looking for horses to run! May 2nd! Enter your horses now!
Accolades to the valiant efforts made by Darlene Pettipas and all the supporters including Perry Lefko from Down the Stretch!

2009-03-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

Need some help to get this starved ottb

2009-03-07T11:17:00.001-08:00

OLEX March 3, 2009 and updates

2009-03-03T19:13:00.000-08:00

Three weeks ago, there were approximately 70 horses for sale at OLEX, almost double from what was seen in the past couple months.

The last Claremont Horse Auction only had approximately 9 horses and prices were low.

Waterloo County Horse Sales hosted their monthly sale this past Saturday and had over 40 horses entered, none of which ended up in the Tuesday sale. They were quality horses and there were no Thoroughbreds present.

Last week at OLEX, the numbers dropped again to about 40 head and this week was even lower at about 35. Prices remain low -

Today's prices were -

Poor body condition horses sold for an avg of 11-17cents
Good body condition horses were selling approximately between 20-45 cents.

Horses that appeared in good condition and sound were sold by the dollar. There were some nice Registered Quarterhorses present at today's sale. A 3yr, just started under saddle gelding brought $700, which I believe was the top seller of the day. There were no TBs in today's sale.

A couple of nice ponies sold for less than $150. Both appeared sound and were quite attractive.
Someone is enjoying a very attractive black and white mini at home tonight. He was a feisty little guy, well cared for, that was not phased by the sale process. Well cared for and a steal at under $200

I am pleased to report that -There were a few new faces that were active buyers today.

Standardbreds once again were the most represented breed. Many were in very poor body condition.

As far as heavy horses go, there was an aged Belgian horse and a Crossbred that were very clearly uncared for. A very attractive registered 2yr Percheron gelding and a mature one as well.

This Saturday is Carson's Sale, which I hope to attend.

I would like to pass along our wishes for a speedy recover to the Standarbred Drivers and horses that were injured in that horrific crash at Woodbine last night. I understand that the horse injuries were minor, however three drivers suffered fractures.

I have saved the best for last...

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT DOWN THE STRETCH for a recent article written by Perry Lefko! Enjoy!

2009-02-24T10:18:00.001-08:00

OLEX February 3 2009

2009-02-05T06:17:00.000-08:00

There were approximately 50 horses in the auction.

Two thoroughbreds. One had no tattoo the other we were not able to check.
One went to kill (not tattoo horse), the other was bought by non-kill buyer.

There were some nice horses in the sale today. An 18mos. Show Clyde colt that showed at the Royal this past year. He was in great shape and it baffles me as to why he was there. He did not go for meat.
As usual, Standardbreds were the most prominent breed.

Prices were up slightly. Low end was 17cents/lb (heavy horse) and as high as 52 cents for a lovely Clyde cross.
Lightweight horses hovered around the 35cent mark.

There were more private buyers than what we've seen laterly
and three meat buyers in attendance.

The overall number of horses entered is still low for this time of year. I would assume it is because prices are so low.

I am told that the LaChute sale is down to about ten horses a week when they normally average 50. I have not verified this information but was informed by someone that randomly attends.

UPDATE: I am thrilled to advise that the TB mare I didn't purchase at Saturdays sale,I purchased on Sunday, after much consideration and turmoil.

This lovely mare, that had suspensory problems, wasn't ridden through and had no interest in her at the sale. The sale was not a meat sale. However, it is only logical to assume that kill buyers are in attendance at most auctions where there are horses not suited to that sale's market and sell for less than meat price. (This sale is geared towards the Amish and Mennonite community and is mainly buggy horses with little interest in TBs).
Special thanks to the network of TB people out there, a home was found for the Silver Deputy Mare named R. Magic Boots that I had originally passed up. (see photo above of Boots going home) Big thanks go to Darlene(Ft.Erie), Shanya and Ginny (Woodbine).
The home turned out to be her birth farm! It was not known at the time of arrangements that the accepting farm was her birth farm. The owners are thrilled to have their girl return home.

The TB Gelding we purchased in this sale - 'In My Court' is heading off to his new home today where he will be much loved by a lady waiting patiently the last few months, for a lovely quiet OTTB gelding.

I am pleased to announce that -All of the horses we purchased on Saturday already have great homes.

Waterloo County Horse Auction - Jan 31 2009

2009-01-31T15:03:00.000-08:00

WATERLOO COUNTY HORSE SALES

I attended the Waterloo County Horse auction today that is hosted at OLEX. It is a monthly sale that is predominantly geared towards the Mennonite and Amish community, normally filled with an assortment of driving horses, work horses, ponies and a few riding horses.
In the past, there have been many a great driving team as well as solid oak carriages, beautiful harnesses etc.

Today's sale provided quite an assortment and there were many quality horses consigned. We learned not to leave once the sale process had started because horses entered the ring out of catalogue order. Other than that, the sale was well run and appeared to be well attended by predominantly the Mennonite and Amish community.
This sale runs right beside the St. Jacobs Farmers Market so it may be attracting shoppers out of interest sake.
There are often good horses to be found in this sale and it is rare to see OTTBs there.

Perry Lefko from Down the Stretch was in attendance today.

Prices ranged from approximately $200 up to over $2500

There were three thoroughbreds (our main interest) entered by a local rescue. A 2 yr TB Mare, a 6yr OTTB and a 7yr OTTB gelding.
We purchased the unbroke TB mare and the very quiet and sweet 7 yr OTTB gelding. The third OTTB was purchased by someone else but has been returned and is now heading back to her birth farm.
Pics of the TBs are all posted below.

I also purchased the very first entry in today's sale. A 10 yr Welsh Pony mare, consigned by Calvin Kuepfer, that had been shown under saddle and in harness in the states and spent the last couple years as a broodie.

I am happy to report that all three of these look like they will have homes already!

*If you want to know what you missed...

Notables

Beautiful Dun (catalogue reads buckskin) QH mare that had a beautiful head, very clean legs and was well broke to ride Exceptionally nice horse.
Pair of well bred and correct Percherons
STUNNING Standardbred x Hackney gelding with lots of chrome and presence. Well broke to drive. I believe this horse was top seller of the day
A number of Clyde cross horses - where are all you people wanting Clyde crosses?
A matched pair of very nice and correct 2yr old Percherons
A rare Suffolk Punch Mare well broke to drive
An assortment of Standardbreds, well broke to drive, many quite attractive. It looked like a racetrack out back in the parking lot this morning with all the test driving going on! Majority entered were Standardbreds.

*The above is not a complete list

Upcoming Waterloo County Sales :

Saturday Feb 28 - Regular sale like today
Saturday March 28 - Regular sale
Saturday April 25 - Select Dutch Harness Horse Sale - exclusive
Saturday May 30 - Regular sale

Next report - OLEX February 3rd 2009

2009-01-31T09:15:00.000-08:00

2009-01-31T09:14:00.001-08:00

2009-01-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

Pony mindi

2009-01-31T08:45:00.000-08:00

2009-01-31T08:32:00.000-08:00

Today sale

2009-01-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

OLEX January 13th, 2009

2009-01-13T18:07:00.000-08:00

The sale today was somewhat quiet.

There were approximately 50 horses that went through.
Most of which went to kill buyers.
Attendance was down from last week by about 50% and the number of horses is also down, considering the holidays are over.
Prices remain below average.

There were no Thoroughbreds in today's sale.
We acquired a sweet little QH today.

The most prominent breeds were Standardbreds and Quarter Horses.
There were several Standardbreds -broke to drive and a couple were quite sound and traffic safe. ------Off track horses.
There were approximately 5 Standardbred youngsters.
Two very small pinto ponies broke to ride and drive sold well at about $275

Price range on the light - medium weight horses ranged from 20-40 cents per pound.
Approximate average dollar price on 'riding horses' was $350
Some horses were sold by the dollar, some by the pound.
There were no horses ridden through however, there was a lovely little black QH mare all tacked up -but was hand walked through?

I saw three heavy horses go through. I believe the price range was 16-32 cents.
A lovely Belgian mare, very fit, sound and well broke to work
Two Clyde boys.

There was a 2yr Dutch Warmblood (not sound IMO) and a lovely tall older gelding with the most beautiful head! ---He got a home.
:)

UPDATE -Our TB Stallion from last week is now a TB Gelding and doing fine.
Special thanks to Deborah for the surprise donation of two much needed winter blankets and some other items!
Special thanks to Heather AGAIN for fostering the two latest horses!
The mature OTTB mare purchased for Debbie, is doing fantastic. They reported that she is bombproof, dead quiet and has a lovely walk,trot and canter under saddle! She turned out to be the perfect FIRST horse for her owner.
Poppy (another OTTB) continues to be an absolute GEM!
Smooch (OTTB) has put lots of weight on and is really showing his lovely personality. He's a character!
The TB yearling colt is learning to lunge with tack at his new home. :)
The OTTB gelding with the hock injury has recovered and they reported that he is a total gentleman and sound to ride!

*The above may or may not include all of the horses processed and all prices listed are approximate values*

Anyone that would like to consider a horse from OLEX is welcome to join us on Tuesdays. I am always happy to assist in anyway I can.

NOTE: I will not be attendance at next week's sale, but a basic summary report will be posted the following day.

OLEX January 6th, 2009

2009-01-06T19:45:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone

The first sale of the year was nothing short of interesting.
There were well over 40 horses and for a change, the Standardbreds were not the prominent breed of the sale today.
I was very distracted after having bought a TB early in the sale. So I must apologize as the following info is to the best of my knowledge. The horse I purchased is in the photo included in this message. He required a great deal of attention.

Prices remain low. The few heavy horses that went through today were priced between 10-17cents/lb.
Light horses were 25-42 cents/lb.

The light horses consisted of an incredibly rare mixed bunch.
They consisted of ;
6+ well bred 2-3 yr old Solid Paints
5 COLORED Thoroughbreds! Two of which were double registered under JC and Paint Horse Assoc. A RARE find!
A few Heavy horses -Belgian, Percheron
A few ponies
7 Thoroughbreds without papers - broodmares, a 12yr mare well broke and a gelding (Unable to check for tattoos today) The broke mare was purchased as a riding horse, sadly the rest were purchased by kill buyers.
Some grade horses, a few I didn't identify and I believe there were less than 11 Standardbreds -One very nice Standardbred gelding presented well groomed and fit.

Attendance was remarkably large.

There were a few Clyde Crossbred ? horses arrived from Eastern Canada. No history is known. These horses were not processed through the auction. They appear a bit on the heavy side. If anyone is interested, they should contact Calvin at OLEX - (800) 265-8818

The yearling with the deformed face is doing great in his new home. Claudette reports that the vet check was clear and the horse's deformity was indeed a birth defect. His molars line up, although he is parrot mouthed, but eating is no problem. He's behaving like a normal yearling and has been named Pickel ! We wish him all the best at New Horizons!

The TB mare from last week's sale has proven to be a gem of a horse for her owner. Nothing but happy remarks about this lovely mare - While she was tattooed, she had never raced. She is a Kentucky bred mare and trained at Hoosier Downs. Since she is 16, its safe to say that she's been off the track for a long time. Her origin prior to sale is not known. If anyone has information on Bonnie Flair, please contact me Privacy assured. It would be nice to provide her new owner a history.

We are looking for a 2 horse trailer to transport the horses we recover from OLEX. Please contact me if you have a safe, affordable trailer or better yet, one to donate. Email ellie@wagntrain.ca

If anyone is interested in acquiring a horse from this sale, we are always happy to assist with bidding, selection, arrangements etc.

Today purchase Reg. TB

2009-01-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

Yearling with Facial Injury

2008-12-31T12:29:00.000-08:00

Arrangements have been made to secure this yearling.

Fee is $50 and there could be less than $20 in boarding fee.

Has to be picked up by Friday.

Please contact banhorseslaughter@gmail.com

ASAP.

Yearling at olex with facial deformity needs a home

2008-12-30T18:02:00.001-08:00

OLEX December 30th 2008

2008-12-30T17:05:00.000-08:00

Once again, due to the holidays, there were more buyers than horses! It was standing room only at OLEX today!

There were approximately 35 horses in today's sale.
Heavy horse prices were 15-20cents/lb
Light horses were 22-36 cents/lb. Avg price was approximately 28cents/lb

Standardbreds continue to be the most common breed at the sale.

There was a beautiful 8yr old Standarbred stallion right off the track. I have a pic of his brand but we can't quite find out his history. We were prepared to buy him but- this was not necessary as he was purchased by a non-kill buyer today.

There were two Thoroughbreds in today's sale.

A stallion that would not cooperate with to read his lip tattoo and he wouldn't hold still so all pics are blurry. (cell phone camera)

Luckily he was purchased by a non-kill buyer for 35cents/lb

The 2nd TB was a lovely Kentucky bred bay mare at 32 cents/lb purchased by the main kill buyer.

Fortunately... we were able to pull her from the kill pen and management was very cooperative with all of my requests. Even more fortunate was that Debbie and Sam had attended with full intent of recovering a horse from slaughter. This mare, now named 'Jasmine' is off to her new home as a trail riding pleasure horse! Great way to end the year! Her pic posted just prior to this post.

Approximately 12 horses appeared to be slaughter bound from today's sale.

If anyone is interested in a very lovely, quiet and friendly Percheron Mare (that LOVES puppies), she is available for $500. 4yrs old and just weaned off her foal.
She is broke to drive and I'm told broke to ride. She is presently at OLEX. Contact me if interested.

There were two no-sales today. One was a yearling colt that appeared to have a suffered a fracture to the face. Pics will be posted shortly. He is at OLEX, is very depressed and apparently unwanted. His fracture has healed leaving him deformed. Other than that, he appears sound and quiet.

There was a Belgian mare in great shape, fit and sound - sold to kill.
Standarbreds - some sound, some not - most sold for kill.

A paint mare and colt foal. Mare was crippled and went to kill buyer. Colt (reg. sorrel paint) sold.

There was a mini that sold for $50, a lovely small pony sold for $210 and a beautiful solid paint mare that was broke to ride for $300.

There were two Curly horses. A 4 yr old Stallion as well as a mare. Sorry but price was not available due to negotiating on the TB.

OLEX management has announced that in 2009 - ALL HORSES WILL BE SOLD BY THE DOLLAR. OLEX is making efforts to improve the sale, its reputation and conditions for the horses.

On behalf of Horsemen For Humanity - Happy New Year Everyone!

2008-12-30T10:55:00.000-08:00

Halflinger Stud at OLEX

2008-12-23T13:54:00.000-08:00

December 23rd, 2008

2008-12-23T13:40:00.001-08:00

OLEX SALE Dec 23rd 2008

As expected, the number of horses in the kill auction were remarkably low. A total of only 18 head went through. The good news is, there were more people, than horses for a change!

As usual, Standardbreds out numbered all other breeds. Less than a third of today's horses went to the kill buyer. There was only one kill buyer in attendance.

Prices were between 11-31cents /lb. Avg price was 28cents/lb. Lame or heavy horses were in the 11-16 cent range. Lightweight horses were in the 20-31 cent range.

There were three horses that had just been sold through the Carsons Auction on Saturday at today's auction. Two clyde cross fillies sold for $175/each today. Happy to report they were not separated AND they have a home. A very large clyde cross gelding broke to ride and drive, went to the kill pen. If anyone is interested in this horse, please contact me ASAP as he can still be recovered.

There were no Thoroughbreds through todays sale.

The sale consisted of Standardbreds, Clyde crosses, an Arab Stallion, a Haflinger Stallion, a lovely medium pony, a very well handled registered Percheron yearling, a stunning Anglo Arab gelding and a very sweet well broke sway back mare of unknown breeding.

Wishing all of you Happy Holidays and looking forward to change in 2009!

Clyde cross babies

2008-12-23T10:02:00.000-08:00

$175 each. Got a home!

Dec 16th, 2008

2008-12-16T19:12:00.000-08:00

There were approximately 55 horses at the Kill Auction in Kitchener today.
Avg meat price was 28cents a lb. Lower than last weeks price due to one less kill buyer bidding.
I'm happy to report that there was an increased number overall in non-kill buyers!

OSPCA Cruelty Agent along with Min. of Ag Animal Welfare officer were present writing orders on a horse. While details cannot be provided, it is refreshing to see that action is being taken to protect the horses going through the sale.

Again, the majority of horses that went for slaughter were Standardbreds.
There were no Thoroughbreds in the sale, however we did arrange to intercept/accept two TBs in the parking lot. I am very happy to report that they both already have homes!
One has moved to be a winter project horse for a wonderful family near London. The other will be an Endurance Prospect near Simcoe.

In addition to the above, our group purchased a 5 yr. QH gelding and a crossbred horse that was in the sale the previous week.

Carson's sale will be this Saturday and I expect to see some of the horses from today's sale there.
We plan to be in attendance and we will post a blog from the sale site live this Saturday.

Sorry that no pics were posted today. I'll be sure to get them up before the end of the week.

With the announced closure of Ft. Erie Racetrack, the future of many TBs seems bleak and there will be many people left unemployed as a result. Please be sure to write to the following MPPs and voice your concern and request consideration be given to support this track that has been running for over 100 years!

George Smitherman - gsmitherman.mpp@liberal.ola.org
Micahel Bryant - mbryant.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

Dec 9th, 2008

2008-12-09T18:58:00.000-08:00

Overall number of horses at sale were down today, which is typical for this time of year. There were very few buyers overall.
There were 3 kill buyers bidding and prices rose to an avg. 30cents/lb for light horses. Top meat price was 37cents.

One TB today. A mare whose pic is displayed below. Thankfully, she did not go for slaughter.

Again, most of the horses were Standardbreds. A couple of really nice Clydesdale Mares, a lovely Clyde/TB cross mare, a cute Painted Draft gelding and a few grade horses.

Top price of the day was 61cents on the Clyde cross mare, who had been shown, was well groomed and in good shape. She was bought as a riding horse.

A few of the Standardbreds that went through were in great shape, had good minds and looked like they could have been good riding horse candidates. Sadly they won't have that opportunity now.

My Little Kat

2008-12-09T10:49:00.001-08:00

At kill auction today sold for 35 cents

2008-12-08T20:47:00.001-08:00

Dec 2, 2008

2008-12-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

El Prado OTTB Mare recovered from OLEX

This 12 yr. old mare sold for $64,000 as a yearling
Her sires stud fee was $125,000 US

Today, she is worth only 32 cents a pound.

Underweight, covered in rainrot and severely cracked/weak feet... she hasn't stopped eating since arriving at her Quarantine barn.
Her foster mom says ' She is so polite. As hungry as she is, she never crowds or behaves rudely when the food is coming'

Updates will be posted weekly.

Poppy

2008-12-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

5 year old TB mare
Raced Woodbine and Ft. Erie

Discovered in the 'meat pen' at kill auction

See this story as it unfolded - http://news.therecord.com/videogallery/451314

Happy Ending!

Horse was sold for $160
We bought from meatbuyer for marked up price

Horse was adopted out to a loving home a week later.

Welcome

2008-12-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Horsemen For Humanity

We are a group of horsemen dedicated to recovering racehorses from slaughter.
We are not Animal Activists

To see a sample of us in action - Please see the video done by the News Media - The Record
http://news.therecord.com/videogallery/451314