Imddfest International Exhibits Scotland's animals |
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 3:19:31 PM - Middletown Ohio |
Scotland has given more than kilts and bagpipes to the world. The many breeds of animals originating in Scotland have made quite an impact as well. In the United States, our Black Angus cattle, source for the best of steaks, came originally from Scotland.
Local veterinarian Dr. Stephanie Burk, owner of the Western Hills Veterinary clinic on Mosiman Road in Middletown and committee member Nan Gough have searched through their network of animal owners to locate many of the rarest breeds originating from Scotland. They are bringing animals from the Dayton/Cincinnati area as well as from the Coshocton, Ohio and Valparaiso, Indiana areas.
Among the animals in attendance at Middfest will be three Scottish Fold kittens whose ears naturally fold down causing them to look like small owls. The Scottish Highland Cattle are unlike any we normally see on Midwestern farms. The Scottish Highlands have long shaggy red fur and large horns.
Besides those most rare animals, there will be Scottish Black Face Sheep, a Shetland Pony and Clydesdale Horse. There are 15 breeds of dogs claiming Scottish heritage including the Scottish Deer and several breeds of terriers along with the working dogs, Scotch Border collies.
In the interest of quiet and good neighbor relations, not all animals will be on display at the same time. In fact, area owners of Scottish breed dogs are asked to bring their pets for a parade of breeds on Saturday, October 4 at 12:30 pm and on Sunday at 2:30 pm when the dogs and their owners will walk across the stage as a narrator explains the significance of the breed. The dogs will not be caged in the display area.
The animal display area, between the United Way and Women’s Center buildings, is named Creatures Great and Small as a salute to James Herriott, author and animal expert who was raised and educated in Scotland.
Middfest International is a year-long international friendship educational program culminating in a three-day festive event in downtown Middletown, Ohio. The October 3,4,5 event includes entertainment, demonstrations and many ethnic and American foods. Admission is $5 for Adults. Children are admitted free. For more information, please call 513-425-7707, email middfest@siscom.net, or visit the website at www.middfestinternational.org. |
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