When a blanket of snow covers the lush green landscape surrounding Vista Verde Ranch, that is when Georgie gets to work. The feisty Haflinger is at his best when pulling a candy cane-red sleigh across snowy fields around the Clark, Colo., guest ranch.
The Vista Verde sleigh can accommodate four passengers and a driver. The route is groomed for ease of travel. Photo by Kate Bradley Byars
The pony pulling a one-horse open sleigh is straight out of a timeless Christmas song, and guests line up to take their turn.
“I think that watching people experience this sleigh ride is exciting,” says River Hofman, who is the Vista Verde Ranch herd health coordinator and drives Georgie and the sleigh. “I grew up thinking a one-horse open sleigh was part of a song, but then I got here and realized it’s a real thing! I think it’s great to see kids, especially around Christmas, excited to jump on. Everyone tells him he’s good, and he is so happy to hear that.”
River Hofman attends to harnessing Georgie. She works as the herd health coordinator and learned to drive horses on the Belgian team before taking the sleigh’s reins. Photo by Kate Bradley Byars
With quintessential Haflinger looks—fawn colored and adorned with an abundant flaxen mane and forelock—Georgie is straight out of a fairytale. When hitched to the sleigh and decked out in a holiday ribbon, the pony is more than memorable.
A Day’s Work
At Vista Verde Ranch, which is a stone’s throw from Steamboat Springs and nestled between towering Lost Ranger Peak to the east and Farwell Mountain to the northwest, winter visitors revel in the ranch’s many cold weather activities, enjoy evenings by the massive stone fireplace in the main lodge, and are treated to chef-made masterpieces at each meal. Many come to enjoy equine activities like trail riding and, of course, sleigh rides.
“We got Georgie in the spring of 2021 from a sale in Denver,” says Hofman. “He started as a riding horse for the summer, but he was trained to ride and drive. In the wintertime, he mostly does the sleigh. He [started] driving the winter of 2021-2022, and he seems to really like it. He gets excited to work but settles in later. Right out of the barn, though, he gets excited.”
As Georgie is groomed and hitched to the sleigh, his excitement emanates and is displayed through his ever-perky ears. He nods his head, tossing his fluffy forelock, which elicits smiles from those waiting to ride.
Georgie’s long forelock and eager attitude make him a joy to witness as he pulls the sleigh. Photo by Kate Bradley Byars
The sleigh is exactly as visitors imagine, and even comes with blankets to complete the picturesque ride.
“We’ve done a one-horse open sleigh for more than a decade,” says Hofman. “We’ve had the sleigh for a long time, and we just did renovations in the off season, redoing the wood paneling and fiberglass.”
Georgie prances from the barn to the sleigh, which can be a slick trek on ice. But Georgie’s winter shoes keep him from sliding.
“Georgie gets regular horseshoes, but the farrier adds Borium [tungsten carbide] that is melted on and creates traction points so he can get going on the trail,” says Hofman. “It helps him keep moving forward. Under the shoe is a ‘popper pad’ made of hard plastic. It covers the bottom of his hoof and keeps snow from getting stuck in there.”
Though shod similarly to other horses, Georgie’s shoes have Borium studs to help grip the snow and plastic poppers over his frog that keep ice from accumulating. Photo by Kate Bradley Byars
Once hitched, the ride of dreams gets sliding across the snow.
Good Boy, Georgie
Whether a day ride or early evening, the sleigh slides easily over the snow as Georgie follows a groomed track by the main lodge and out into the Colorado wilderness. The bells on his harness jingle along, and his footsteps crunch through the winder wonderland. The only voice to break the pristine silence is Hofman’s.
“Good job, Georgie,” she says as she navigates a curve. “He runs off ‘good boys.’ A thousand percent, people love him. The hair, his size, it all makes him approachable. He likes attention and likes to say hi to everybody. He is so cute—how can you resist?”
Watching Georgie pull the sleigh, he is the picture of confidence. Yet, the Haflinger isn’t as bold under saddle. He also aligns himself with larger horses in the pasture to help him out of the consequences of his antics, Hofman says.
“Out in the pasture, he runs around and tries to mess with people,” she says. “His friends right now are big horses. He hangs out with the Belgians that look like him, but bigger.”
Georgie (center) aligns himself with larger horses in the herd, especially the Belgians (left), who pull the Vista Verde Ranch feed wagon. Photo by Kate Bradley Byars
Much like the fairytale rides he gives visitors three or four days a week, Georgie is memorable. Visitors to the guest ranch often indicate their desire for a sleigh ride before even arriving. If anything, Georgie and the one-horse sleigh are a reminder that magic exists, especially when there are horses involved.
If a memorable winter adventure is up your alley, find a location to match your needs through Dude Ranchers Association, where Vista Verde Guest Ranch is listed. To ensure you meet Georgie, visit vistaverde.com.
Meet Haven! This darling Paint mare was rescued from a very bad situation and is seeking a peaceful new home. She is currently in the Humane Society of North Texas training evaluation program.
Haven stands well for the vet and farrier. She is up-to-date on shots, Coggins, dental care, farrier work, and is microchipped.
Fill out an interest in adoption form on the Humane Society of North Texas webiste today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Haven!
Photo courtesy Humane Society of North Texas
ASPCA Right Horse
ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.
Animals have always held a special place in Kara Lawson’s heart. Whether cats, dogs, rabbits, chickens, or horses, Lawson’s connection with animals has brought joy to her life and influenced major life decisions.
When she was 12, Lawson’s family moved into a renovated farmhouse. And horses were soon a significant part of her life. “I was lucky enough to be included in activities with friends who were active in the equine show community. I started taking lessons and trail riding as well as competing in local shows, and I was hooked,” Lawson says.
Kara Lawson, a licensed veterinary technician and owner of Infinite Equine Laser Therapy, LLC, performs therapeutic laser therapy on Tigo, a 7-year-old German Riding Pony. Photo by Julie Maddock
Recognizing a Need
Lawson’s love and respect for animals led her to pursue a career as a licensed veterinary technician, and she graduated in 2019. And it was while working at a veterinary clinic that Lawson was first introduced to photobiomodulation—commonly known as therapeutic laser therapy—and was impressed by the results and success stories she observed in the small-animal setting.
As she continued working at clinics, Lawson began to see the real need for laser therapy for horses.
“I took certification classes through the American Institute of Medical Laser Applications, which included medical laser safety, principles in the companion animal practice, and in the equine athlete,” Lawson says. She keeps current with all rehabilitation continuing education (CE) offered through the American Association of Veterinary State Boards as well as other Board-approved platforms. These CE credits cover rehabilitation, lameness, nutrition, and the management of arthritis and metabolic diseases.
Along the way, Lawson identified a problem.
“I did my research and realized that in Maine, there wasn’t really anyone who traveled to offer laser therapy services,” Lawson explains. “Most people have these services at an equine clinic when working up orthopedic or other issues, but can’t follow up with additional treatments necessary to make a difference.” And although she observed successful rehabilitation services, none included laser therapy with a veterinary-grade Class IV laser.
So Lawson began mapping out a course to open her own business focusing on laser therapy. Equipped with a business course and good relationships with medical laser device companies, Lawson transitioned to the role of business owner and officially opened Infinite Equine Laser Therapy, LLC in early 2022.
The Benefits of Therapeutic Laser Therapy
According to The American Animal Hospital Association, “therapeutic laser therapy is becoming an increasingly available option that veterinary practices can offer their patients.” Properly trained veterinary technicians can handle laser therapy appointments (if state regulations permit). Both quite easy and noninvasive, laser therapy can be a helpful addition to many treatment protocols.
“[Photobiomodulation therapy] uses wavelengths of light to promote cell regeneration, pain relief, circulation, inflammatory responses, and release acupuncture points for body harmonization,” Lawson explains. She uses laser therapy to accelerate the healing process on wounds, arthritis, pinched nerves, muscle strains, orthopedics, postoperative incisions, dermatitis, and more. “In other words, nose-to-hooves, ears-to-tail. It complements other rehabilitation and bodywork services, and can be used prior, during, or after exercising.”
The key benefits observed quickly include pain relief (release of endogenous endorphins), decreased inflammation, better blood flow, faster wound healing, and nerve regeneration. For orthopedic and other chronic conditions, expedited healing time is often achieved with multiple laser therapy sessions.
As a testament to laser therapy’s ability to speed up the healing process, Lawson saw incredible results after performing maintenance laser therapy sessions on a 5-year-old mare diagnosed with multiple suspensory tears. “A recheck ultrasound performed three months later showed very minimal tears, and in some areas, no tears at all,” Lawson says. “Most multiple suspensory injuries can take up to six months to fully heal on their own. Laser therapy cut this time in half, and my client is thrilled to be able to put her mare back to work.”
Since starting Infinite Equine Laser Therapy, Lawson has helped a number of horses.
“Henry, a 7-year-old Thoroughbred with kissing spine, is one of my long-term patients, and he has had a great experience with laser therapy,” Lawson says. She was able to help Henry with pain and discomfort before and after surgery (interspinous ligament desmotomy and wedge ostectomy) and now provides treatment as a bimonthly maintenance.
Henry, a 7-year-old Thoroughbred with kissing spine has greatly benefitted from laser therapy treatments. Photo by Allyssia Timberlake Photography
“We saw incredibly fast results, including pain relief, incision healing, immediate hair regrowth, and scar reduction,” Lawson says. “Now muscle maintenance is performed as Henry makes his way schooling First and Second Level movements.”
How Therapeutic Laser Therapy Is Performed
Therapeutic laser therapy is considered safe in all equine disciplines, and specific treatment protocols are applied depending on the patient.
“A wand connected to the device is used with either contact or non-contact to apply the treatment,” Lawson explains. “Treatments range from one to five minutes. The Class IV laser applies the highest power at a shorter amount of time, making it ideal for all animal patients and for working around movement, discomfort, or temperament.”
Lawson performs laser therapy using a wand with direct contact and hand-held device Class IV laser. Photo by Julie Maddock
According to the AAHA, “the FDA divides lasers into four classes based on their power. Class III and IV are the most common lasers used in veterinary practice.”
When a laser beam is directed to the patient’s tissue, the laser light is absorbed by the skin, muscle and bone. Penetrating at the cellular level, the light photons target water, hemoglobin, and cytochrome C oxidase within the bloodstream and mitrochondria. This stimulates cellular respiration, which plays a crucial role in wound healing, reducing inflammation, and managing pain.
Veterinary-grade Class IV lasers are specifically designed with a myriad of fine-tuned options, protocols, and even acupuncture settings (using a targeted laser beam versus needles). Treatment duration and laser power are recommended based on factors such as whether the injury is acute or chronic, the type and size of wounds, and even coat color (light penetrates light and dark coats differently).
Lawson uses a Class IV laser (veterinary-grade) with built-in anatomical protocols designed to deliver accurate therapeutics to specific indications or injuries. Photo by Julie Maddock
And how do the horses react to laser therapy treatments? “In most cases, equines with orthopedic injuries, muscle maintenance, acupuncture points, and generalized pain areas show a great deal of relaxation and releases when working on the area,” Lawson says. “Deep breathing, yawning, closed eyes, stretching, and sleeping can be observed. Some with severe injury or discomfort tend to shy away at first, show signs of annoyance, and then releases usually follow it. If the horse has not experienced bodywork before, they may take a few sessions to express any outward feelings about it.“
Even without seeing the signs of relaxation and enjoyment, the laser is still doing its job in treating the area of concern.
Katie Goodspeed, one of Lawson’s clients and owner of a 7-year-old German Riding Pony named Tigo, can attest to the advantages of laser therapy.
“Tigo has benefitted from laser therapy with everything from basic muscle work to reducing inflammation,” Goodspeed says. “Because it’s so noninvasive, Tigo finds it quite relaxing. We’re so grateful to have found Lawson and been able to incorporate this service into our monthly bodywork routine.”
Tigo relishes the release of tension during a laser therapy session with Lawson. Photo by Julie Maddock
Although Class IV lasers are very safe to use—even on sensitive areas like a swollen sheath due to an insect bite—they are contraindicated for pregnant mares and for treating cancer.
Lawson also provides kinesiology taping, which “provides immediate circulation to an area of interest, releases muscle spasms and strains. It is also used as a lightweight stabilization tool and joint support. It is inexpensive and easy to apply.”
Lawson balances a busy work/life schedule as her business grows. “I am very blessed to have an understanding family who knows my love and motivation for my business,” Lawson says.
And she makes sure to carve out time for her two horses—Wallace and Whiskey. Lawson and Wallace, a 13-year-old OTTB, enjoy showing at Second Level dressage. “Wallace came to me with a severe suspensory tear that took him out of eventing,” Lawson says. “I have used laser therapy on him in multiple areas, and he continues to move up the levels with no orthopedic limitations. I use laser to maintain muscle activity, hind end engagement, and relaxation through his poll.”
Kara and her horse, Wallace, at a 2022 USDF show in Maine. Photo courtesy Kara Lawson
Seeing the success of laser therapy in helping horses heal and experience noticeable improvement drives Lawson to keep pace with her active schedule. Lawson says, “I’m the ‘feel-good lady’… the horses are excited to see me because they know it’s time to relax on the crossties, relieve some pain, fix an issue, or simply enjoy themselves with no expectations.”
You can learn more about Kara Lawson and the benefits of therapeutic laser therapy for horses by following her adventures on Facebook or visiting her website.
Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 38, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Raquel Lynn—equestrian blogger, entrepreneur, and former co-host of Barn Banter.
To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Maya Proulx, founder and executive director of Hope’s Legacy Equine Rescue, Inc., about Uncle Timmy, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.
Raquel Lynn with her daughter, London, and her Paint mare, Fira.
Raquel Lynn lives in an equestrian neighborhood in Los Angeles with her husband Adam, daughter London, Paint mare Fira, Mango the Pomeranian, and six Silkie chickens. She runs two blogs: Stable Style and Horses & Heels. When she’s not riding through the hills, she’s sharing barn tours on Stable Style or packing up candles.
With an eye for design and a passion for candles, Raquel launched the Stable Style home collection in 2020. The collection includes luxurious candles with beautiful ombre painted jars, wooden wicks, thoughtful packaging and scrumptious scents. Named after the barn, but meant to be enjoyed at home, these candles make perfect gifts for equestrians.
Raquel also enjoys freelancing for a handful of popular equine magazines, including Horse Illustrated. She is the author of Stable Style: Barn Inspiration for All Equestrians (2020) and Stable Style Volume II (2024), both available on Amazon or stablestyle.shop.
Uncle Timmy. Photo courtesy Hope’s Legacy Equine Rescue, Inc.
Uncle Timmy is a 3-year-old Thoroughbred gelding who raced three times, most recently September 2024. He came to Hope’s Legacy through a seizure as a stallion and was castrated mid-September 2025. He is good for the vet and farrier, and relatively easy to handle. It is believed he has not been restarted under saddle, but there are no known physical limitations so Uncle Timmy is available as a training project with an experienced rider.
Stamford, Conn. — Synchrony (NYSE: SYF), a leading consumer financial services company, on November 18 highlighted its nearly two-decade partnership with Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, the oldest and largest private equine veterinary practice in the world, as the institute marks its 150th anniversary. Since 2008, Synchrony’s CareCredit has partnered with Hagyard to support its legacy of innovation and leadership in equine veterinary care, expanding access for horse owners to essential care provided by Hagyard and the broader equine veterinary community.
Hagyard is dedicated to providing the highest level of care through its consistent development and adoption of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. This commitment is exemplified by pioneering imaging techniques like the full PET scan in partnership with Churchill Downs, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods for precise and timely diagnoses. Hagyard also accepts referrals from equine veterinarians nationwide, ensuring broad access to its innovative treatments for horses of all types.
CareCredit’s commitment to expanding access to care, through finance solutions that help clients manage the costs associated with advanced veterinary services, has directly contributed to improved client retention for Hagyard. Hagyard clients utilize the CareCredit health and wellness credit card for critical procedures like colic surgery and advanced imaging services, notably MRI, supporting horse owners in pursuing comprehensive care. This enhanced accessibility and broader range of options are particularly impactful in retaining clients during the transition from field care to in-clinic services for advanced diagnostics and emergency/critical care.
“Hagyard is incredibly proud of its 150-year history and dedication to innovation in the equine industry,” said Ken Ford, CEO, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. “Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of veterinary medicine is deeply intertwined with the support of partners like CareCredit. Their financial solutions empower horse owners to access the cutting-edge treatments we offer, ensuring the best possible outcomes for their horses.”
Synchrony’s commitment to the equine industry extends beyond financing solutions, as it actively engages in research to inform horse owners about the true costs of care, highlighted in its Equine Lifetime of Care study. This research reveals that while many horse owners believe they are financially prepared, actual lifetime costs can significantly exceed expectations, particularly for unexpected veterinary needs such as colic or orthopedic injuries, which can range up to $10,000.
“At Synchrony, we are deeply committed to supporting innovation in the equine veterinary space,” said Boo Larsen, General Manager of Veterinary Industry, Synchrony. “Our partnership with Hagyard exemplifies this dedication, helping to enable horse owners to say ‘yes’ to innovative care. By providing flexible financing options, we empower veterinarians to deliver the highest quality of care and ensure horses receive the treatments they deserve.”
For more than 35 years, CareCredit has been a valuable financing option for all types of veterinary services, treatments, and diagnostics at locations in its network, giving animal caregivers peace of mind that they are ready to care for their animals throughout their lifetime. CareCredit is accepted at more than 27,000 veterinary practices and all public university veterinary schools in the U.S. For more information, please visit www.carecredit.com.
Tucked into the forests of northern Wisconsin is a family-owned and operated homestead known as Haven Pines. Run by Erin and Jonathan Sharp and their three children, the Sharps spend most of their winters operating a commercial sleigh ride business.
Erin and Jonathan Sharp, along with their three children, all pitch in to run the family business. Photo courtesy Sharp Family
Hosting groups on sleigh rides is one of the Sharps’ favorite ways to introduce people to the exciting world of horses. The Sharp family purchased their land in 2018, moved into their farmhouse in 2020, and have been running a year-round horsemanship program ever since. Noel, age 17, is an integral part of the business alongside her younger brother and sister.
“I grew up giving wagon and sleigh rides with my family within the horse program that my dad managed,” says Erin. “I loved it as a kid. Jonathan and I wanted our kids to be able to learn and enjoy the world of farming and horsemanship, while making the world of harness horses available for everyone to enjoy!”
Haven Pines is a family owned and operated homestead in northern Wisconsin. Photo courtesy Sharp Family
A Day in the Life at Haven Pines
Managing a farm and horsemanship business in all seasons is no small feat. The Northwoods region regularly experiences low temperatures in the negative teens, feet of snow, heat waves, and plenty of rain. Maintaining healthy horses in dynamic weather takes the entire family to be successful.
During a typical day of sleigh rides, Erin and Noel manage the driving horses while the rest of the Sharp family works to prepare the campfire, hot chocolate, warm blankets, and guest check-in process.
“We want guests to feel like they get to experience our farm as if they’re a member of our family,” says Erin. “Letting guests get to know the horses is a top priority for us. First, because our teams love the people, and secondly, because it’s so cool to get to know the horses that are the power behind the whole experience.”
Meet the Horses
In addition to their horses that are used for traditional English and western riding lessons, they have a string of driving horses.
“Oak and Maple, 5- and 6-year-old Belgian mares, are the stars of our 12-person sleigh,” says Noel. “Their kind and friendly personalities make them easy to love.”
Oak and Maple are the family’s 5- and 6-year-old Belgian mares who pull the 12-person sleigh. Photo courtesy Sharp Family
Driving horses of all sizes call Haven Pines home, including a Shetland Pony gelding named Sampson, a Pony of the Americas gelding named Jack, and a Haflinger/Belgian cross named Randy.
A Belgian/Haflinger cross named Randy is one of the family’s driving horses. Photo courtesy Sharp Family
Finding horses suitable for the work of sleigh rides is critical at Haven Pines. Pulling sleighs through snow is physically and mentally demanding work.
“The horse’s mind is the first thing I look at [when horse shopping],” Erin says. “Can the horse mentally live and work safely and happily in the environment I know will be waiting in my program? If the answer is yes, the second thing I look at is physical soundness. If the horse can pass a pre-purchase exam by a veterinarian, the third component is financial. Our equine programs must be self-sustaining. Ultimately, a prospective horse must be friendly, curious, forgiving, and healthy.”
Erin (right) and Noel with Oak and Maple. Photo courtesy Sharp Family
Young Entrepreneur
Noel loves spending time with her family in the horsemanship business. She grew up working with horses alongside her mom, and now often drives Oak and Maple on sleigh routes.
“We always like to have two people with the draft team to make sure we can tackle anything that needs to be done while always having a driver at the lines,” Erin explains.
Seventeen-year-old Noel grew up giving sleigh and wagon rides, and balances homeschooling with the family business. Photo courtesy Sharp Family
Since she’s still in school, Noel must balance learning and homework with farm work.
“The balance isn’t easy, but it’s worth it to do it for the guests,” she says. “Because I’m homeschooled, my education can support learning how to operate a business.”
On top of sleigh rides, Noel is involved in teaching riding lessons, doing chores, and managing her own herd of Nigerian Dwarf goats.
“One of my favorite parts of sleigh rides is working with the horses, and seeing how meaningful being around the horses is to our guests,” she says.
Keeping it Safe
Even when faced with challenges such as a record low snowfall in the winter of 2023-2024, the Sharps continue to invest in relationships with people and animals.
“Every sleigh ride business is unique, and learning what the exact perfect fit is has been a learning process,” says Erin. “We’ve had to deal with icy conditions, equipment breaking down, and other common issues that come with the territory of running a farm and managing livestock. Safety is a top priority for humans and horses. Our horses wear shoes with Borium cleats in the winter to ensure they can maintain good footing. We also conduct regular safety checks on harnesses, wagons, sleighs, and trails.”
Wagons and sleighs receive regular safety checks for the sake of both humans and horses. Photo courtesy Sharp Family
Only rarely do the Sharps have to cancel sleigh rides due to inclement weather. The Northwoods is known for long, cold winters. As long as there is quality snow, sleigh ride trails can be maintained to be beautiful and safe, and caring for people and horses goes hand in hand at Haven Pines.
It’s holiday shopping season and I’ve spent the last few months searching for unique or useful equestrian gifts. I’m so excited to share them with you. Most are small businesses; all are items that I’ve used personally and have loved—perfect for supporting these businesses on Small Business Saturday as you shop for the equestrians in your life. Happy shopping and happy holidays!
Hay Chix Buckle Safety Covers
I’ve been a huge fan of this company for years, both for the quality of products and their customer service. I have their hay nets in all of my stalls. But I do blanket, and the issue of buckles getting caught in nets has always been a concern. The crew at Hay Chix has come up with an easy and cost-effective solution: a pack of 12 buckle covers (in three different sizes) that easily Velcro over blanket buckles to lessen the chance of getting stuck. They’re super sturdy, the different size options have worked on all of my different blanket brands, and they’re super easy-on-easy-off. These make great gifts for barn friends—and you may as well pick up a pack or two for your own stocking.
Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse, and the Storm by Charley Mackesy
If you are an equestrian who has not yet heard of the British artist Charlie Mackesy, do your heart a service and check him out. His latest book Always Remember is the sequel to his first—The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse—and like its predecessor, is a gorgeous combination of beautifully-minimalist illustrations and simple, yet profound life lessons on friendship, kindness and resiliency. The messages in Always Remember brought me to tears, and I bought three copies for my dearest friends for the holidays… and caved and gave one early to a friend who I thought could use its inspiration sooner. This book is a work of art, and a gorgeous gift for just about anyone on your list.
Shop for $18.88 for the hardcover book on Amazon, or visit Mackesy’s website for originals, prints, cards, and other gorgeous gifts.
Venustas Fleece Heated Vest and More
Venustas is a newer competitor to the heated clothing market that’s definitely worth a look. I’ve been wearing their women’s heated fleece vest all fall and have been thrilled with the quality and the fit. It’s more tapered and less boxy than others I’ve tried—the most flattering heated vest I’ve come across. In fall temps, it’s great as an outer layer on its own, or layer it under a heavier coat during the coldest weather. It has three heat settings, and the battery life is long; I cranked it to the highest setting for the bulk of a chilly campfire and it kept me warm all night. The heating elements all the way up the neck made a really toasty difference. The company also has heated sweatshirts, jackets, gloves, and socks, so they’ve got gift options in a variety of price ranges so you can check off lots of loved ones on your list!
How many of us would love to own—or to gift—a custom horse portrait but are hampered by the cost? Most of us? I met the lovely Willow Barnes at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio and she’s come up with a genius, and gorgeous, way to cut the cost of a custom without sacrificing quality: embellished horse prints. Using photos of your horse, she selects a base print—high-quality prints of her own paintings—in the color that best matches your horse, then customizes it by hand, adding markings, matching colors, etc.
She took these chestnut base prints and customized them to my Palomino gelding, Moose, and they’re spot-on. Right now, her base prints are stock horse builds, but the reception she’s received to this idea has been so positive that she’s hoping to branch out to other breed types in the future. This would be a lovely gift for barn owners, trainers, or dear horse friends that they’ll cherish for years to come.
Horse Education Company is another company I’ve loved for a while. My bulldozer of a Fjord has had a HEC hybrid halter for years and I love the extra control from the front knots paired with the ease of regular halter features for things like leading and tying. We upgraded this fall to the Classic Leather Hybrid Halter ($136) with a custom name plate and matching lead, and—unsurprisingly—found it brought the same level of extra control in a stunning leather look with impeccable craftsmanship. This will definitely be our going-out-into-the-world halter, and would make a great gift for anyone who likes the added control of a rope halter with the ease of a traditional one.
The Original Muck Boot Company – Women’s Arctic Sport II
I’ve been a big fan of Muck Boots for years, and was in need of some new tall, insulated winter boots for working around the barn. These Arctic Sport II’s are really comfortable and very warm, and their neoprene is totally muck-resistant. They’re soft and flexible right out of the box, and the top has extra stretch (in really cute plaids) to hug your calf and keep out the cold. I went trick-or-treating in them (with my son the astronaut and Penelope the rocket ship) the day they arrived and they were so comfortable for our 1+ mile walk. Now we’re knee-deep (almost literally) in mud-season and these are my go-to for morning chores through night check. Put these on your own wish lists this year!
Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians – Monthly Membership
A unique, useful gift for the best of your barn friends just might be a monthly membership to Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians. You get so much from membership, including a comprehensive video library with over 100 videos (with new content added regularly) sorted into categories and lengths to fit a variety of needs. The video library includes everything from 5-minute mini-sessions to 75-minute intensive studies into different skills and focuses. And there’s something for the very newest yogis to more advanced students. There are also options for online live classes and an active and supportive online community. This gift would be perfect for a friend who could use a little zen, or who would be interested in exploring how the practice of yoga could positively impact their riding.
This simple little barn, with its wooden stable and eight colorful steeds has been a favorite of my 4-year-old son since he received it two Christmases ago. The littlest of hands will love sliding ponies in and out of their stalls (when you turn them around, they can peer out the barn window). Slightly older kiddos will love more imaginative play. And with the realistic colors and coat patterns like palomino, Paint, gray, Appaloosa, and more, you, too, can have a toddler who knows the difference between a chestnut and a bay! This is also a great addition to the lounge of any barn that caters to little kids.
Shop for $41.99 (currently on sale for $21.99) on Amazon.
Kiel James Patrick – Highland Fox Sweater and More
I’d been eyeing these wool-blend fox sweaters from Kiel James Patrick, wondering whether they were worth the hype and the price tag. Turns out they are! They’re high quality, the colors are gorgeous, and the wool is so soft and warm. They’ve got several fox options (pullover and cardigan-style sweaters) as well as some adorable fox socks, and a children’s line that’s just adorable. Their entire collection is worth a look.
Timothy, orchard grass, alfalfa, fescue, clover—so many hay types! What’s the right type of hay to choose in your particular climate, and for your particular horse? It can feel like a complicated question, especially if you’re new to horse ownership.
Of course you want to do the right thing for your horse and provide him with the best possible nutrition, but you may know more about riding or grooming than you do about the nuances of hay. Don’t feel overwhelmed—the topic is less confusing than you might think. We reached out to Rachel Mottet, Ph.D., the owner of Legacy Equine Nutrition consulting business, for help in navigating this sea of dried grass.
Photo by Fotema/Adobe Stock
Grass or Legume Hay?
Horse hay is generally divided into two main categories: grasses and legumes. Grasses often have long, slender stalks and perhaps a seed head on top; legumes are leafier, don’t grow as tall, and the stems are crunchier.
“The most common legumes fed to horses in the U.S. are alfalfa and clover,” says Mottet. “The most common U.S. grass hays are timothy, orchard, fescue, brome, and Bermuda.”
Legumes such as alfalfa, shown here, are leafier and have crunchier stems than grass hay. Photo by Diane N. Ennis/Adobe Stock
Mottet notes that grasses are then subdivided as cool-season or warm-season grasses, with cool-season grasses tending to be more palatable to horses than warm-season grasses.
“All are, however, acceptable choices for horses,” she says. “The main difference between grasses and legumes is that legumes tend to be higher in protein, energy, and several other micronutrients.”
So if legumes offer more energy, should you choose them over grasses? Not necessarily.
“Horses can do great on many types of forages,” says Mottet. “A good-quality grass hay can be the foundational piece of the diet for really any horse. A legume can be helpful for high-performance horses, those who are considered ‘hard keepers,’ and for mares that are gestating or lactating.”
Many horse owners use a grass hay, but may supplement with alfalfa (or an alfalfa mix) if the extra calories are needed.
“Alfalfa is usually [richer] in protein, energy, and micronutrient density, and is often not ideal as the sole source of forage in the diet,” says Mottet. “There are some situations where a large inclusion of alfalfa is a good choice, but in general, it shouldn’t be the only forage your horse is receiving if you have grass hay also available.”
Ponies, in particular, can be overly sensitive to the calorie content of alfalfa hay.
Choosing a Hay
You’ll find further options within the grass and legume categories. But you probably don’t need to worry too much about the exact hay species, since that is going to vary somewhat by your region. For example, don’t get too focused on whether to feed a cool-season timothy hay over a cool-season orchard grass mix.
“Finding what’s available in your region is a good place to start,” says Mottet. “Start by finding a quality horse hay vendor in your area that you can get a consistent source from. Check in with other local horse farms to see who grows horse hay in the area.”
She also suggests connecting with a local extension agent as a guide.
“Keep in mind that hay that’s appropriate for cattle and other livestock may not be the best match for your horses, so try to find a vendor growing hay specifically for horses,” Mottet advises.
Another major factor—probably more important than the specific type of hay you buy—is the age at which the hay was harvested. As grasses and legumes mature and the stalks become thicker, the nutritional value of the hay begins to diminish.
“There isn’t a certain species I typically avoid, as maturity when cut is the biggest influencer of nutritional quality in any hay,” says Mottet. “You can have good or bad quality in nearly any variety! However, there are a few situations that warrant specificity. In a number of horses, a low non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) hay is most appropriate [for horses with sugar and starch sensitivities or obesity]. The hay most appropriate for these horses is one that is more mature (stemmy), or a variety with known low NSC content.”
She also notes that pregnant mares can be sensitive to the endophyte fungus found in tall fescue grass, so fescue might not be the wisest choice on breeding farms.
Look for Quality
There are some basics you should look for no matter what type of hay you ultimately use. Mottet recommends finding hay that is free of debris, has minimal dust, and does not have discolored areas indicative of mold. She also advises that green hay is not necessarily the truest indicator of quality and nutrient composition.
“Sometimes you can have the most beautiful bright green hay, but your horse prefers the more brown/green option,” she says. “It’s hard to always explain why, but the point is to not get completely lost in finding the greenest hay available thinking this is the determinant of quality.”
Watch Their Weight
Mottet recommends regularly appraising your horse’s body condition, as you can gain clues about the quality of your hay and whether your horse getting too much, too little, or the correct amount.
“I suggest using the Henneke Body Condition Scoring (BCS) system to ensure your horse is getting adequate hay intake,” she says. “A good guide is to make sure your horse is receiving at least 1.5 percent of his body weight in hay per day, all the way up to free choice [about 2.5 percent of body weight in hay intake per day]. You can use your horse’s BCS to determine where to land within that range of hay intake.”
Once you have determined the hay that works best for your horse and have found a reliable supplier in your region, you should have an easier time next year, when you simply need to restock. Then your only question will be how to find enough helpers to unload the hay!
As horse owners, you know it’s time for that stinky, white crumbly grossness that comes with thrush – and even better, the hard-to-clean mess you make on yourself and in your barn with the typical treatment methods.
Except, what if we told you that there’s a new smarter, mess-free method for treating thrush?
“As horse owners ourselves, we understand how challenging managing thrush can be,” said Dan Buttrick, Equine Brand Manager for Absorbine. “We’re excited to offer riders a new option with Silver Honey® Thrush Foam – an effective solution powered by Manuka Honey and MicroSilver BG®, without relying on caustic chemicals and without leaving behind mess or staining. Our goal is to make caring for hooves easier and help improve the daily lives of both horses and riders.”
Since thrush is one of the most common issues horse owners face, it’s only right that there should be an easy-to-use treatment option that actually works – even without all the extra chemicals.
Silver Honey® Rapid Hoof Care Thrush Foam is the first and only thrush treatment to combine Manuka Honey and MicroSilver® BG, delivering powerful, natural antimicrobial action in an innovative expanding foam. Designed to treat and prevent even the most stubborn thrush, the foam fills deep cracks and hoof crevices for thorough, long-lasting coverage. It works without creating any mess or causing staining. The precision straw applicator allows easy, targeted application under pads, around shoes, or on barefoot hooves. Tough on bacteria and fungi but gentle enough for daily use, it’s a smarter, more effective solution for total hoof health.
This fast-acting formula delivers rapid results for both acute treatment and daily prevention, stopping thrush in its tracks before it can take over. The unique foam application allows the treatment to stay in place to actively fight infection, with the straw applicator ensuring precise, mess-free application in tight, hard-to-reach areas without running off or getting all over you or your barn.
With Silver Honey® Rapid Hoof Care Thrush Foam, thrush doesn’t stand a chance.
Registered with The Jockey Club as Three D Party, this unraced Thoroughbred mare has tons of potential. By the graded stakes winner and proven sire Desert Party, Hazel is also ready for success—just via an off-the-track career. She’s great for riding and could go into various disciplines.
Hazel also loves to be the queen of the herd and will likely want to be the first to greet you at the gate. She is up to date on vaccinations.
ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.
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