Photo courtesy February Star Sanctuary

Adoptable Horse: Maggie, a 17-year-old, 15.1hh Missouri Fox Trotter mare
Organization: February Star Sanctuary, Knoxville, Md.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Maggie

Are you looking for a marvelous mare? Meet Maggie!

This sweet chestnut beauty is a 17-year-old Missouri Fox Trotter. She’s lots of fun and was quick to make friends with some of February Star’s other horses. Maggie has the potential to succeed in various disciplines and styles, but will be a true project. February Star believes she’ll do her best with an experienced, patient rider.

Contact February Star Sanctuary today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Maggie!

Photo courtesy February Star Sanctuary

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.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Maggie appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 40, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Olissio Zoppe, founder, director, and performer in Cirque Ma’Ceo.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Angela (Angie) Alspaugh, Executive Director of Easy R Equine Rescue, about Jake, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Barn Banter Episode 40 Sponsor: 4CYTE

Interpath Global, the makers of 4CYTE Epiitalis® Forte for horses is a revolution in joint care. Epiitalis® is their patented ingredient which is scientifically proven to enhance joint health in horses. Supported by world-class research, it is easily digestible and readily absorbed into the body.

How 4CYTE supports your horse:

◆ Supports normal joint function, mobility, and flexibility
◆ Helps maintain the health and resiliency of joints and connective tissue
◆ Supports normal recovery capacity post-work
◆ Aids with maintaining healthy cartilage development
◆ May help address occasional gait irregularity and unwillingness to travel forward
◆ Supports normal movement patterns
◆ Helps maintain career longevity and competitive edge
◆ Eases joint stiffness due to normal daily exercise and activity
◆ Supports ability to meet performance demands

An innovative approach to joint health made possible through research, dedication, and continued improvement. Now available through Allivet, Amazon, Chewy, Smart Equine and Tractor Supply.

Learn more about 4CYTE here.

Olissio Zoppe, Founder, Director, and Performer in Cirque Ma’Ceo

Photo by Stunning Steeds Photography

Cirque Ma’Ceo’s Creator and Director, Olissio Zoppe, hails from a rich Italian line of eighth and ninth generation bareback riders and equestrian performers, the Zoppes and the Zamperlas. He has been performing since the age of four. Olissio is one of the most well-rounded equestrian performers to grace the stage today. Throughout his varied experiences, he has mastered the arts of liberty, dressage, cossack riding, Roman riding, and the rare and dangerous art of bareback riding.

Cirque Ma’Ceo is an emotionally charging, up-close and personal, luxurious experience. The custom-designed Italian Big Top theater features brand-new, state of the art seating. The world of Ma’Ceo is proud to showcase mesmerizing acrobatic feats, aerial dancing, and exotic horses.

Find tickets for upcoming tour dates for Cirque Ma’Ceo February — through April, in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Madison Wisconsin’s Midwest Horse Fair — here.

◆ Cirque Ma’Ceo Website
◆ Follow Cirque Ma’Ceo on Instagram
◆ Follow Cirque Ma’Ceo on Facebook

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Jake

Photo courtesy Easy R Equine Rescue

Jake is quite the horse! He came to Easy R in November 2024 when a small long-standing rescue close in the Texas Panhandle. He was one of the last two horses left at the rescue.

A young Gypsy Vanner cross, Jake is a large, stout guy. He is friendly, curious, and is called an “overgrown toddler” by his foster mom. He is always into something; his personality is as large as he is.

The heartbreaking part of his story is that, even though he was trained under saddle several years ago, he has already developed Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD). At this point, it’s just in his back legs and the condition is not causing him any lameness. However, riding him would be unsafe for both Jake and a rider. Easy R is saddened by this because he has so much potential.

Of course, Jake is totally OK with just being an incredibly handsome yard ornament who loves his food and playing (a little hard sometimes) with his horse friends. His future adoptive parents will have to establish firm but fair boundaries with him so he doesn’t use his size and enthusiasm to push limits. He is ready to provide lots of laughs and eye rolls to his future family.

Learn more about Jake here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 40, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 40: Sponsored by 4CYTE appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Colorado Horse Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Callie, a 23-year-old, 16.3hh American Quarter Horse mare
Organization: Colorado Horse Rescue, Longmont, Colo.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Callie

Callie is looking for a quiet environment where she can feel at home. She does the best with other easy going, gentle horses — much like herself. She is blind in one of her eyes, so a consistent environment will serve her well. Callie loves being groomed and spending time with people. She is a lovely horse to spend time with, and will make a great buddy to both horses and people.

Contact Colorado Horse Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Callie!

Photo courtesy Colorado Horse Rescue

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.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Callie appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Easy R Equine Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Moonshine, a 14-year-old, 14.2hh American Paint Horse mare
Organization: Easy R Equine Rescue, Lubbock, Texas

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Moonshine

Moonshine came to Easy R in May 2025 as an owner surrender. The owner was having a very intensive back operation and could no longer care for the horses. According to him, Moonshine came to his house when the neighbor who owned her took a job that required extensive worldwide travel. Other than what they have been told, Equine R has very little information about her previous life and training.

Moonshine is a bit standoffish and leery of people. She is not mean or aggressive; she just acts as if she has had limited exposure to ground training and realizing what people are expecting from her. At this point, Easy R is working with her on standing nicely for the farrier, being caught and haltered more easily, and cooperating with any type of veterinary treatment.

She has what looks to be some arthritis in one of her back legs, which does cause her to be “off” at a trot and lope. After discussion with the veterinarian about potential soundness under saddle, it has been decided that it would be best for Moonshine if she was adopted as a non-rideable, companion only horse. The veterinarian expressed concerns that if she is lame without a rider, that it would cause too much stress on her injured leg to train her under saddle.

Moonshine gets along well with other horses—in fact, she is incredibly bonded to a mare at her current foster home. She is a very cute little Paint Horse and would be an adorable pasture pet in a home with at least one other horse.

Contact Easy R Equine Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Moonshine!

Photo courtesy Easy R Equine Rescue

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.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Moonshine appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Over the last five decades, Horse Illustrated has evolved with the times, adapting to the digital era with digital issues of the magazine, e-books, its Barn Banter podcast, a monthly webinar series, and an active social media presence. While expanding into these digital spaces, Horse Illustrated has stayed true to its roots, proudly producing a bimonthly print magazine in an era when so many magazines have disappeared or gone all-digital.

“We care deeply about each and every subscriber’s experience, and strive to put out an engaging magazine for horse lovers that is also beautiful to look at,” said Editor in Chief Holly Caccamise. “We listen to reader feedback and favorite topics in order to keep the publication educational and entertaining – something we’d want to read ourselves!”

Horse Illustrated continues to delight readers with expert horse care and health advice, training tips, breed profiles, and stories of fellow equestrians. Along the way, the magazine has earned respect and accolades throughout the equine publication industry, including various honors at the annual American Horse Publications conference. Among those awards include a 1st place in the General Excellence category in 2018 and 2025, as well as recognition in the same category in 2015 and 2021.

To mark this milestone, Horse Illustrated has launched a fresh new look to its website, horseillustrated.com, with a design reflecting the publication’s 50th year. There, readers can enjoy the equine-centric content the magazine is known for.

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Horse Illustrated will be releasing a special issue as a collector’s edition, with a limited quantity available (newsstand and online orders only). A walk down memory lane, the issue will feature the magazine’s iconic moments in print—including Horse Illustrated’s hallmark breed profiles, legendary covers, and more. Pre-order sales of the special issue will be announced soon, and the magazine will first be available in person at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event.

A limited number of advertising opportunities are available; interested parties can contact Rima Dorsey at rdorsey@egmediamags.com.

About Our Publications

Horse Illustrated, Young Rider, Western Life Today, HorseIllustrated.com, YoungRider.com, and WesternLifeToday.com are part of the EG Media stable. Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers. Young Rider educates horse-loving kids ages 8-15 with a combination of English and western riding lessons, horse-care hints, and stories about real-life young riders, plus fun, interactive elements. Western Life Today is the premier publication for all things western, from fashion and entertainment to destinations and more. Visit www.horseillustrated.com, www.youngrider.com, and www.westernlifetoday.com to learn more. Contact us at 844-330-6373 or horseillustrated@egmediamags.com.

The post Horse Illustrated Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Hooved Animal Humane Society

Adoptable Horse: Byron, a 17-year-old, 15.2hh grade gelding
Organization: Hooved Animal Humane Society, Woodstock, Ill.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Byron

Byron is a 17-year-old gelding known for his friendly, outgoing, and playful demeanor. He enjoys human interaction, is well-versed in groundwork, and is excelling in join-up and liberty work, which highlights his willingness to connect and communicate with his handlers.

Byron has been diagnosed with kissing spines, which makes him unsuitable for riding. However, he would make an excellent pasture companion, offering companionship to other horses while continuing to engage in groundwork activities that stimulate him both mentally and physically.

Byron is currently available for adoption to a suitable home that understands his needs and can provide him with a comfortable, stress-free environment. If you are looking for a pasture pal with a strong personality and a love for human interaction, Byron may be the perfect fit.

Contact Hooved Animal Humane Society today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Byron!

Photo courtesy Hooved Animal Humane Society

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.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Byron appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Susquehanna SPCA

Adoptable Horse: Belle, a 26-year-old, 12.0hh grade pony mare
Organization: Susquehanna SPCA, Cooperstown, N.Y.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Belle

Belle is a charming senior pony (estimated 25+) who is ready for a fresh start with someone who will enjoy helping her shine. After spending years alone with limited hoof care, she’s now discovering the world with new confidence. She can be shy at first, but a nibble of grain and a calm presence help her relax—and once she feels safe, her sweet, gentle personality shines through.

Despite her age, Belle has the energy and curiosity of a much younger pony. She enjoys stretching her legs, exploring her surroundings, and taking in everything happening around her. Her bright, independent nature makes her especially rewarding to work with.

Belle is still learning that farrier visits are a normal part of life, so she’ll need a patient farrier and a veterinarian who can provide sedation as needed to ensure her trims remain positive and low-stress.

She is looking for an adopter with the experience, steadiness, and understanding needed to help continue her journey. With consistency, kindness, and thoughtful handling, Belle will blossom into a confident and engaging companion.

Contact Susquehanna SPCA today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Belle!

Photo courtesy Susquehanna SPCA

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.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Belle appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 39, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Linda Nelson, a relatable adult amateur who returned to riding after a 30-year hiatus.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Carrie Wood, executive director of Kentucky Equine Adoption Center about Cyclone, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Linda Nelson

Barn Banter episode 39 guest, Linda Nelson. Photo by Josa Comstock Photography

Linda Nelson is a recently retired teacher who found her way back into the saddle after a 30-year hiatus. She has been tracking each ride since April 2022 with a convenient riding app and then online journaling. Her goal is to assess progress and remember the fun as she learns the art of dressage on a leased Lipizzan.

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Cyclone

Cyclone. Photo courtesy Kentucky Equine Adoption Center

Meet Cyclone, a charming filly rescued from the feral herds of eastern Kentucky. She is just beginning her training, but she already shows a big personality and a zest for life, especially when food is involved!

Though still young, Cyclone is already proving to be a willing and engaged partner. She ties well, picks up her feet, and has been excellent for our farrier. She also enjoys a rinse with the hose and accepts fly spray and fly masks without issue.

Cyclone is gaited but has also trotted and cantered freely in the field, and her trainer can encourage either direction. With her intelligence, energy, and eagerness to learn, Cyclone has a bright future ahead and is ready to grow alongside the right person.

Learn more about Cyclone here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 39, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 39 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Since its debut in February 1998 in Wichita, the Kansas Horse Council has proudly produced EquiFest of Kansas, the state’s premier equine expo. EquiFest of Kansas is more than an event—it’s the primary fundraiser for the Kansas Horse Council, which works to provide the Kansas equine industry with leadership and direction through education, promotion and public policy advocacy.

EquiFest of Kansas is proud to unveil an unforgettable 2026 lineup, celebrating the rich tapestry of Western heritage, horsemanship and cultural storytelling. This year’s program cover art was created by talented local Native American artist Isaiah Stewart, known for his striking work with country music talents and influencers. His artwork sets the tone for a year filled with meaningful “firsts” and dynamic entertainment.

EquiFest 2026 marks a milestone as Kansas once again promotes live horse racing, highlighted by a special appearance from 2009 Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird and owners Mark and Tawnya Allen. Their presence brings national racing history directly to Kansas fans.

Friday night features a brand-new theatrical storytelling production, blending music, lights, and live performance. Audiences will experience a sweeping narrative that introduces Vaqueros, a Chilean huaso, Native American horsemen, early American traveling shows, and modern-day cowboys. The fast-moving production includes guitar and singing on horseback, dancing, dressage-style maneuvers, trick riding, Roman riding, aerial artistry, and reining.

Photo courtesy EquiFest of Kansas

Saturday night brings the adrenaline with Bulls, Broncs & Bravehearts, featuring nine bucking bulls, nine freestyle bull fights (a parkour-style showcase of athleticism and courage), saddle broncs, and bareback riding. When the dust settles, the arena transforms for a concert and Dancing in the Dirt with regional favorite Tris Munsick & The Innocents.

Sunday closes with a matinée performance of the beloved EquiFest Ranch Rodeo, showcasing authentic ranch skills and teamwork.

EquiFest 2026 will also welcome a diverse lineup of celebrities and special guests, including:

• Dougie Hall, Native American influencer and actor on Landman
• Caleb Martin, musician and actor (1923, Landman)
• Ron McDaniel, cowboy poet and storyteller
• Liberty Cunningham, 15-year-old PRCA trick rider and aerial artist
• Dania Wahwasuck, Miss Indian Nation
• Chief Phillip Whiteman, Jr, former champion bronc rider
• Dennis Rogers, Native American historian
• Joe Merrick, owner of legendary Quarter Horse Easy Jet

Hispanic heritage will be represented by Charro Jerry Diaz & family and Chilean horseman Marcelo Guzman.

EquiFest continues its commitment to education with clinicians such as Craig Cameron, Cole Cameron, Chris Cox, Geno Middleton, Sally Batton, Marcelo Guzman and Daniel Dauphin, offering demonstrations and workshops for all ages.

Photo courtesy Amanda Overton Photography/EquiFest of Kansas

Competitions return in full force, including BreyerMidwest, the Kids’ Coloring Contest, KS State Parks Photo Contest, 4-H Judging, Extreme Cowboy obstacles, Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Bulls, Broncs & Bravehearts, and the EquiFest Ranch Rodeo.

“These are just a few of the many experiences awaiting guests at EquiFest 2026,” organizers said. “This year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most diverse, exciting, and culturally rich celebrations we’ve ever produced.”

Learn more about attending EquiFest of Kansas 2026 at www.equifestofks.com.

The post EquiFest of Kansas 2026 Features an Exciting New Lineup, Cultural Showcases, and More appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Humane Society of Ventura County

Adoptable Horse: Tundra, an 18-year-old, 14.3hh Arabian gelding
Organization: Humane Society of Ventura County, Ojai, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Tundra

Help the Humane Society of Ventura County find long-term resident Tundra his forever home! This 18-year-old gray Arabian gelding arrived at the HSVC on December 23, 2022, after being rescued by their Humane Officers in a case of abuse and neglect. Despite his past and medical issues of metabolic and thyroid problems, Tundra has a sweet personality and doesn’t let his setbacks stop him from trotting around. He would need time to acclimate to new horses, but Tundra would love to be someone’s pasture buddy.

Tundra has been saddled and is working with shelter staff to become more comfortable being ridden. He just needs a confident, patient owner who will move slowly with him until he’s relaxed. Due to his anxious nature, we don’t recommend he go to a home with a child rider. Tundra is also looking for an owner who will be mindful of his gut health and can supply his metabolic supplements and thyroid medications for the rest of his life.

Photo courtesy Humane Society of Ventura County

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.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Tundra appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.