SHABRAQUE

A family run breeding facility dedicated to propagating knowledge about "Le Petite Cheval en Fer" and restoring its numbers off the endangered list.

 

Mission

"Breeding Canada's Living History"

 

Description

Shabraque is a family run breeding facility dedicated to breeding Canada's National Horse, the Canadian. The Canadian Horse is one of the oldest breeds developed in North American. It was developed from stock sent to the colony in New France in the 1700's by Louis XIII. It incorporated such breeds as Andalusian, Arabs, various other saddle breeds, and heavy drafts. All of which were left together in big herds over the Quebec winters. Eventually the Canadian was developed into a proper breed with a distinct genome. The Canadian is known for its strength, even temperament, and ability to perform whatever task is asked of it; from pulling wagons to show jumping, the Canadian can do it all. As one of the oldest breeds in North American, many other breeds developed here have Canadian roots. Breeds such as the Morgan, Tennessee Walker, American Saddlebred, etc were developed from the Canadian Horse. Unfortunately, such widespread use of the Canadian is what led to its decline. Because of their strength, temperament, and utilitarian nature, many Canadian Horses were used in wars, such as the American Civil War, the Boer War, and WWI. As the animals were often killed or generally abandoned after the wars, the Canadian Horse is now on the endangered list.

Shabraque itself also follows a military history. Owner Steve Critchley served with the Canadian Forces, and upon retirement, sought to honour those who served while renewing Canada's History. The word Shabraque itself is old military parlance meaning "regimental saddle cloth". All foals born at Shabraque are named after fallen Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians).



Contact Information
http://www.shabraque.com/
On Facebook
Steve and Patii Critchley
403-631-2489
Torrington, Alberta
info@shabraque.com