Have you ever wanted to meet a Friesian horse in person? Are they really as amazing as owners and enthusiasts claim them to be?
We welcome you to come and find out for yourself!
We welcome you to come and find out for yourself!
We love our Friesians - and we love to be able to share them with other people. If you're interested, please contact us directly to arrange for a meet-and-greet with these very special horses.
Please note: Weather will directly affect plans during the year. If there's the risk of any sort of inclement weather (high winds, strong storms and rain, high temperatures in excess of +80°F, low temps of under 35°F, etc.) we will need to postpone the visit to a later time for the safety of our animals and guests.
Please note: Weather will directly affect plans during the year. If there's the risk of any sort of inclement weather (high winds, strong storms and rain, high temperatures in excess of +80°F, low temps of under 35°F, etc.) we will need to postpone the visit to a later time for the safety of our animals and guests.
All visitors are required to sign a liability waiver prior to meeting the horses.
Does it cost anything?
No - the experience is 100% free! We do not charge fees of any kind nor ask for any kind of donation.
How long is the meet and greet?
We ask visitors to limit their visits to an hour or so, potentially 2 if there's a larger group. While we would love to offer more time - as a working farm - there's always chores to be done.
When do you allow for people to visit?
This is seasonal based. Spring usually means a lot of melting snow and unthawing of the ground. This leads to one of our least favorite things .. MUD. Once the pens and pastures begin to dry out, we would consider farm visits. Weather permitting, this usually will begin around May onto October.
What make you wanted to do this?
When I was younger, I really wanted someone to take me "under their wing" and teach me more about horses. I was never able to meet that person. So instead, I get to be that person. It's a great way for me to teach people of all ages about horses starring my favorite breed. And the Friesian truly is a wonderful breed of horse - unlike any other. Not only are they stunning to see in person, but they have such an endearing, charming temperament - also a little quirky and nerdy at times. It's difficult not to smile when you meet one!
How far out do you schedule?
As far out as needed as long as it's within the season and works with my schedule.
What if I need to cancel or there's a change of plans? What if I'm going to be late?
Please contact me right away in either circumstance. I can certainly try to reschedule if that day won't work or you can get back to me at a later time. If you're running behind, as long as availability allows, I may still be able to accommodate that day. However, please don't be offended if I cannot. Again, with my working farm status, I don't always have the flexibility that I would like.
How many people can come out? Is there an age minimum?
We recommend keeping the maximum group to around 4-5 people. This give everyone a chance to interact with the horses, take pictures, groom, etc. while still keeping within the requested time limit. There is no age minimum for visitors.
What should I wear?
Preferably anything you don't want dirty! Being around horses, getting full of dirt and hair are pretty much inevitable, especially if you're interacting with them. And weather appropriate.
I would highly recommend wearing covered shoes or boots - open toe, sandals, crocs, etc. aren't the best. While they certainly don't mean to, it's very easy for stray toes to end up underneath a big hoof! Your feet will be much better protected in a closed shoe than any sort of open-toe. Steel, composite, or aluminum toed are even better.
Shirts and pants or shorts of any kind are fine - whatever you're comfortable in! Just please be sure to be wearing them..
Are there any risks?
There is always some inherent level of risk involved. Horses are big and very quick! And it's not always possible for the handler to predict a horse's reaction. If the horse is out of the pen, always be sure to keep a safe distance away from all sides of the horse until you are invited in by the handler. Approach the horse from the front and only pet or groom in areas instructed. Horses have sensitive spots that may cause them to kick, nip, or stomp at.
Could I get kicked or could I get bit?
While it's not likely, it could happen. Our horses are pretty relaxed and wouldn't normally go out of the way to try to hurt you. They are usually reacting to something else such as a biting insect or sudden itch. However, the horse handler will always be watching just in case. We don't want you to get caught in the line of fire!
Can I take pictures?
Of course - we would hope that you do. And be sure to tag us on Instagram or FaceBook if you post them on either of those platforms - we love seeing them!
Can I ride a horse? Can I handle a horse myself?
Due to liability, we do not currently offer riding during a farm visit. We also do not allow people to lead/walk horses alone, again, for liability reasons. If something spooks or startles the horse, the handler will be able to react better in the situation to regain control without putting a visitor at risk.
Can I groom them?
Grooming is some basic hands on we definitely allow. Our horses *love* to be groomed! If you have a brush in your hand, they are adamant you use it on them. You will be shown all the different types of brushes, proper techniques and direction. However, we do not allow visitors to pick hooves or give baths - brush and comb grooming only.
Can I bring treats out?
If you do want to pack a small treat for the horses - carrots, blueberries, bananas and strawberries are good ones to bring. We have plenty of apple trees on site so don't go out of your way to bring them. Also, make sure you cut the fruit or veggies into small pieces to prevent the risk of the horse choking.
How do I contact you to schedule a meet-and-greet?
There are several ways available. Via the website - select the option "Other" at the top of this page and select "Contact" from the drop-down list. Fill out the form with your request and contact information. Through Facebook or Instagram - please send me a message directly under the NorthWoods Friesians' page. I, typically, am able to get back to
people within a day or two.
No - the experience is 100% free! We do not charge fees of any kind nor ask for any kind of donation.
How long is the meet and greet?
We ask visitors to limit their visits to an hour or so, potentially 2 if there's a larger group. While we would love to offer more time - as a working farm - there's always chores to be done.
When do you allow for people to visit?
This is seasonal based. Spring usually means a lot of melting snow and unthawing of the ground. This leads to one of our least favorite things .. MUD. Once the pens and pastures begin to dry out, we would consider farm visits. Weather permitting, this usually will begin around May onto October.
What make you wanted to do this?
When I was younger, I really wanted someone to take me "under their wing" and teach me more about horses. I was never able to meet that person. So instead, I get to be that person. It's a great way for me to teach people of all ages about horses starring my favorite breed. And the Friesian truly is a wonderful breed of horse - unlike any other. Not only are they stunning to see in person, but they have such an endearing, charming temperament - also a little quirky and nerdy at times. It's difficult not to smile when you meet one!
How far out do you schedule?
As far out as needed as long as it's within the season and works with my schedule.
What if I need to cancel or there's a change of plans? What if I'm going to be late?
Please contact me right away in either circumstance. I can certainly try to reschedule if that day won't work or you can get back to me at a later time. If you're running behind, as long as availability allows, I may still be able to accommodate that day. However, please don't be offended if I cannot. Again, with my working farm status, I don't always have the flexibility that I would like.
How many people can come out? Is there an age minimum?
We recommend keeping the maximum group to around 4-5 people. This give everyone a chance to interact with the horses, take pictures, groom, etc. while still keeping within the requested time limit. There is no age minimum for visitors.
What should I wear?
Preferably anything you don't want dirty! Being around horses, getting full of dirt and hair are pretty much inevitable, especially if you're interacting with them. And weather appropriate.
I would highly recommend wearing covered shoes or boots - open toe, sandals, crocs, etc. aren't the best. While they certainly don't mean to, it's very easy for stray toes to end up underneath a big hoof! Your feet will be much better protected in a closed shoe than any sort of open-toe. Steel, composite, or aluminum toed are even better.
Shirts and pants or shorts of any kind are fine - whatever you're comfortable in! Just please be sure to be wearing them..
Are there any risks?
There is always some inherent level of risk involved. Horses are big and very quick! And it's not always possible for the handler to predict a horse's reaction. If the horse is out of the pen, always be sure to keep a safe distance away from all sides of the horse until you are invited in by the handler. Approach the horse from the front and only pet or groom in areas instructed. Horses have sensitive spots that may cause them to kick, nip, or stomp at.
Could I get kicked or could I get bit?
While it's not likely, it could happen. Our horses are pretty relaxed and wouldn't normally go out of the way to try to hurt you. They are usually reacting to something else such as a biting insect or sudden itch. However, the horse handler will always be watching just in case. We don't want you to get caught in the line of fire!
Can I take pictures?
Of course - we would hope that you do. And be sure to tag us on Instagram or FaceBook if you post them on either of those platforms - we love seeing them!
Can I ride a horse? Can I handle a horse myself?
Due to liability, we do not currently offer riding during a farm visit. We also do not allow people to lead/walk horses alone, again, for liability reasons. If something spooks or startles the horse, the handler will be able to react better in the situation to regain control without putting a visitor at risk.
Can I groom them?
Grooming is some basic hands on we definitely allow. Our horses *love* to be groomed! If you have a brush in your hand, they are adamant you use it on them. You will be shown all the different types of brushes, proper techniques and direction. However, we do not allow visitors to pick hooves or give baths - brush and comb grooming only.
Can I bring treats out?
If you do want to pack a small treat for the horses - carrots, blueberries, bananas and strawberries are good ones to bring. We have plenty of apple trees on site so don't go out of your way to bring them. Also, make sure you cut the fruit or veggies into small pieces to prevent the risk of the horse choking.
How do I contact you to schedule a meet-and-greet?
There are several ways available. Via the website - select the option "Other" at the top of this page and select "Contact" from the drop-down list. Fill out the form with your request and contact information. Through Facebook or Instagram - please send me a message directly under the NorthWoods Friesians' page. I, typically, am able to get back to
people within a day or two.