Karen's Page

I am originally from East London and moved to Plett in March 2004. I'm an animal fanatic in general and grew up surrounded by all sorts of animals, expect horses! When I was still in school, I worked weekends at the SPCA and was very keen to become a Vet. Unfortunately, I am not the studying type and 12 years of school was enough torture. I entered the corporate world but soon realised that making good money was not a substitute for what I really wanted... to be on a farm and have my own horse.

Since coming to Plett, I have managed both the Wolf Sanctuary and the Crags Elephant Sanctuary, amongst other things. I've worked with cheetahs, other wild cats, wolves, African wild dogs, jackals, snakes...the list is a long one. I belong to the German Shepherd Dog Federation and used to train with GSD's in East London. All the while yearning to own a horse!

Well, the wait seemed endless but in the end, definitely worth it! Everything just fell into place and now I have Tonto, my Palomino Boerperd . I specifically wanted a Boerperd because they are hardy and easy to look after. I also believe in keeping horses as naturally as possible and the Boerperd was purposefully bred for South African conditions, and so doesn't need all the "extras" that come with owning say, a Thoroughbred. Also, I am very much a newbie to the world of horses so I wanted a horse that could tolerate my trial and error learning curve!

I also have Illusion, a 22 year old Bay, breed unknown! If anything, she looks like a Basuto pony! Funny little thing... she is my daughter's horse and is very patient and loving. Tonto is about 11 years old now and is an absolute honey, in colouring and temperament! I am on 17 hectares and there is no better sight than to look out over the fields on a sunny day, and see my golden horse, his mane and tail flying as he runs. As a beginner, I am truly blessed to have a horse like him to learn the ropes on. Nothing fazes him and it has been said that Boerperde are quick to pick up on the rider's level of expertise, and conduct themselves accordingly. Well, I can testify to that.

I look forward to many special years with him, because he is the horse who stole my heart.