Ojibwe Spirit Horses Fundraiser at Abbey Gardens

Ojibwe Spirit Horses, also known as the Lac La Croix Indigenous Ponies or Indian Ponies, are the only known horse breed developed by indigenous people. Critically endangered, there are only 200 remaining in the world. They're shorter than other horse breeds, standing on average 13 hands. They have hard hooves and therefore do not require shoeing. The have fluffy ears and an extra nose flap to protect them from harsh Canadian winters.The breed met their demise when the settlers arrived in the early 1900's and culled them in order for agriculture to take hold on the land. By 1977, only four mares remained and were slated to be euthanized. A group of daring indigenous men smuggled the remaining horses out of the country to Minnesota to save the breed. Out of that the Ojibwe Horse Society was born. The organization aims to preserve, protect and raise awareness of the breed.Abbey Gardens was selected by Rare Breeds Canada as a suitable site for Chase and Sika, a Spirit horse pair who came to live there in 2012. Not long after, Maple was born and his parents taken elsewhere. A small white pony named Flapjack was brought in to keep him company. Sika's second colt, Sammy, came to live at Abbey Gardens as well. Now the three live a life of riley, with food, room to run and devoted caregivers. The horses are part of the curriculum for students of the Forest School and visitors can come by to spend time with them as well.But the truth is, feeding and caring for these unique animals doesn't come cheap. The cost of hay, medications and other essentials are rising just as they are for us humans.That's why Abbey Gardens is hosting a special fundraising concert on Saturday, July 4rth with local musician Carl Dixon playing in support of the horses. Angela Kruger, the Executive Director of Abbey Gardens Community Trust explains how the fundraiser came together and why it's a good cause.