On Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 07:06:33AM -0400, Karen Thomas wrote: > >>> seems to me that your basic farmer would have an easier time supporting > one equine useful for ploughing, carting, and riding, than one extra just > for riding. > > Has that scenario existed in Western Europe in the last 50-60 years?
i don't know. my father emigrated in 1937. still, having a horse around for riding has become even more of a luxury item meanwhile. > Haflingers almost were killed out during WWII (I'm fairly sure of that) and > had to be consciously cultivated to renew the breed. not correct, as far as i can tell from the web: "During the years of World War II, there was a significant shift in breeding practices, as pack horses were needed by the military and a shorter, draftier Haflinger fitted the bill. Following the war, the height and refinement of the breed returned with an emphasis on developing a small horse that was versatile for both riding and driving, with a strong constitution, a solid conformation with substantial bone, and an uncomplicated personality." perhaps you were thinking of the lipizzan, which was quite threatened. --vicka
