Horse Illustrated Magazine

Xanthus caught the eyes of many when he arrived as a surrender back in 2022. This adorable, 13.2hh buckskin was full of spunk and personality from the beginning. He loved attention from humans and was very intelligent, two qualities that still hold true today. It didn’t take long for him to become a favorite amongst the staff and volunteers at Longmeadow. After some time at the ranch, he was evaluated by their trainers under saddle.

Upon evaluation, Longmeadow’s trainers found that Xanthus had a hyper-sensitivity to poor saddle fit. They believe he has a history of ill-fitting equipment, which has now led to this sensitivity. After some training and a lot of patience from both their trainers and Xanthus alike, Longmeadow found that this pony does best in English saddles with a seat size of 15” and under. When being ridden under a saddle that fits him comfortably, Xanthus shows his true potential. He has gone on multiple trail rides at the ranch and does best with confident, balanced riders. His maximum carrying weight (including both tack and rider) is 165 pounds.

Xanthus is a mighty little pony and tends to be at the top of the pecking order in his herd. With our staff members and trainers, he is extremely personable and sweet. Since he has been known to test new people and handlers, he will require an adopter confident enough to be his leader. Xanthus has a “wants to please” attitude and would make the perfect pony for that perfect person.

Contact Longmeadow Rescue Ranch today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Xanthus!