DORR, Mich. -- There is no shortage of Dutch people in West Michigan, but did you know there's royalty amongst us?
The Friesian horse is one of two royal breeds from the Netherlands. Their closely-guarded lineage goes back centuries. You'll find very few certified stallions in the U.S. because they have to be approved through the Netherland's KFPS stallion registry.
Tjaarda 483 is one of four approved stallions at the Friesian Connection in Dorr. He's one of 18 in the U.S. and he's the 483rd stallion to be approved in the lifetime registry which began in 1879.
"What makes them so special is they're very kind and very friendly. They're very sweet," said Friesian trainer Petra Zeeland. "And then even more special, is they come with a lot of hair and they look very fairytale like."
If you want to see these fairytale-like horses for yourself, the Friesian Connection is hosting their annual open house this Saturday, rain or shine. For more information check their website and Facebook page.
They will also be riding in Holland's Tulip Time Parade.
From the Friesian Connection website
