Aine Art,Killashee

If it had not been the demand for heavy horses in the past,for farmwork and on the battle field it is almost certain that most of the heavy breeds would not exist today.Most developed countries have their own heavy large horses,principally bred to pull the plow and other labour saving farm implements, and although their role has been superseded by machines,there are still jobs where the horse cannot be bettered. In remote mountain areas for example, where trucks and tractors could never be transported,mules are the only means of access.In forestry, horses can haul heavy lumber where wheeled motor vehicles cannot go or would not be safe,such as a dangerous incline.Even in highly developed countries that prefere a slower pace of life still farm with horses.The worlds countless miles of waterways,many barges and canal boats are fitted with engines,but the old barge horse plodding along steadily along the towpath is a cleaner, quieter and much more leisurely form of transport. At th...

We always think of our dogs as friends,I know I certainly do as I have three,they are indeed my loyal and faithful friends.We expect them to stand by us, to be understanding when we are down and to put our interests above all others.In return we allow them to share our lives and to join in the fun, but only when we say so, obedience is all.This is more than we expect from any other animal,the dog is tail wagging happy and loves to please us. One might imagine that this was a situation contrived by man to give himself a willing slave and courtier, but it seems likely that it was originally the dog who saw the advantage in throwing in his lot with human beings.Probably wild dogs first attached themselves to man by scavenging around his camp,or outside his cave and perhaps man first became aware of dogs usefullness when he realized that their barking gave warning of the approach of strangers or other animals.Dogs offered no threat to man and their presence was encouraged.They followed m...

The Royal Canal which was built in 1789,was first opened in 1817 and its scenic beauty can be enjoyed in many different parts of Longford.Perhaps the most significent section along the Longford stretch of this beautifull Irish Waterway is Richmond Harbour in Clondra,where the Royal Canal meets the River Shannon.Cruising the Royal Canal is a wonderfull experience and a perfect introduction to the laid back way of life that is synonymous with rural Ireland and its people.Draped in beauty,peace and tranquility, the heart of the Irish country side can be explored along this waterway. Clondra with its magnificent cut stone harbour, is an attractive village,with local pubs providing traditional Iriah mucic,excellent food and drink, and quality accommadition.You can also hire a boat from Clondra.One of the most scenic waterways,stretching all the way from Dublin,any visit to Longford would be incomplete without a visit to the Royal Canal.Hope you enjoy my painting of Richmond Harbour.