Bugs

I am starting with the basics. Most everyone knows that a stallion is an adult male horse that has not been gelded or castrated or a horse kept for breeding, which is also known as a stud. A newborn or young male horse is referred to as a colt. Actually the word ‘’stallion” came from the time of Henry VII when uncastrated male horses had to be kept up or tied in stalls or (stalled-one). 

Stallions can be difficult to own. A stallion owner must have the facilities and space to be able to care for such a formidable animal. Also time to spend on training and building a relationship based on friendship and respect. That respect that comes from everyday horse keeping, where he learns what is expected and what is not tolerated.  They must be treated with fairness and not beaten into submission.

I have several friends that keep stallions. One in particular is a rancher, trainer, and breeder, Delton Jackson, who owns a black and white tobiano paint stallion that he raised from a colt. The horse’s registered name is Mr. Moody Bug. The sire was Moody Superman and the dam, Miss Bug Lily. Bugs, as he is called, is a very accomplished animal and very accustomed to his owner. Delton just has to whistle or point and he comes.  This horse has done it all and with no trouble or drama. He worked cattle on the ranch for 15 years, won saddles and buckles in halter, working cow horse, cutting, trail, and western riding at the horse events. He has been in parades; trail rides, and arenas most of his 23 years. Delton still rides him on occasion. Bugs has sired approximately 60 babies, not all black and white but all with his good looks and abilities. He is still set up for breeding.

Delton loves this horse.  He told me, one day after a ride with one of his colleagues, they dismounted and stood there talking and talking, as two old cowboys do, telling stories. All the while, Bugs was getting a little impatient and finally ran over to trailer and jumped in all by himself. He was ready to go home.  Delton says “he is family” and I can certainly see why.

A tobiano is a spotted color pattern that has white patches that cross over the horse’s spine at some point. As in the definition, a tobiano looks like a solid colored horse with a bucket of white paint poured over his back.