Queen Elizabeth II is not only the longest reigning English monarch, she's also a bona-fide horse girl. Her love of horses has spanned decades, and even know, she's often seen either visiting the stables or in the saddle. So, when an adorable Shire foal was born at a Pembrokeshire horse farm on the Queen's official birthday, it seemed only natural to ask the monarch herself to do the honors of naming the new filly. The Queen was reportedly delighted to oblige, and Dyfed Guinevere is growing into a beautiful example of her impressive breed.
https://www.facebook.com/DyfedShires/photos/pcb.4239436176081664/4239436119415003
Dyfed Shire Horse Farm is a working farm, campground, and popular Welsh tourist attraction. Their focus is on preserving the Dyfed Shire bloodline and providing visitors with an authentic and enjoyable experience being around these gentle giants.
While the farm was in lockdown when Guinevere was born on April 21, they've recently been given the all-clear to once again open their gates to the public. Little Guinevere is not so little compared to a standard sized foal her age, and she's proven to be a hit among visitors.
Spunky and independent, Guinevere is the first foal from her mother named Dyfed Santorini. The birth was especially heartwarming, because with only one functioning ovary, Santorini needed specialized care to become pregnant. She carried and delivered her little girl without trouble, and today, the two make an impressive-looking pair.
https://www.facebook.com/DyfedShires/photos/a.768084693216847/4272655832759698/
Owner Huw Murphy told Horse & Hound,
“Our visitor numbers are a bit lower, which is understandable, but we’re holding our own and people do seem to love seeing the foals. They are very much a focal point for a lot of people."
Guinevere was named by Queen Elizabeth II, and she also represents the future of her rare horse breed. The Shire is native to Britain and has a long history of serving its countrymen. At one point, they were used by medieval knights because they were the only horses strong enough to carry a full suit of armor over long distances. They have also been used in wars, for farming, and for pleasure rising.
Today, the breed is on the rare breed watchlist, and every birth is important. Guinevere is growing every day, and she's sure to make her owners and the Queen of England proud.
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