Photo courtesy Wild at Heart Horse Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Pearl, a 13-year-old, 14.0hh pinto mare
Organization: Wild at Heart Horse Rescue, Lancaster, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Pearl

Say hello to Pearl, a stunning 2013 pinto mare with those unforgettable blue eyes that are sure to turn heads wherever she goes! She’s completed Wild at Heart’s groundwork training and is now stepping into her under-saddle journey.

Pearl has the brains, attitude, and willingness to make her next chapter exactly what you dream of. If you’re looking for a beautiful, smart, and eager mare to finish into your favorite discipline—whether that’s out on the trail or in the arena—Pearl is ready to shine.

Contact Wild at Heart Horse Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Pearl!

Photo courtesy Wild at Heart 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: Pearl appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 47, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with David Silver, founder and Executive Director of Detroit Horse Power.

To end the episode, Holly chats with Michelle Fedewa of Lucky 7 Horse Rescue about Natsu, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

David Silver, Founder & Executive Director of Detroit Horse Power

David Silver of Detroit Horse Power, Barn Banter episode 47 guest.

David Silver grew up as a competitive horseback rider in Westchester, N.Y. and graduated from Dartmouth College in 2012. He moved to Detroit through Teach For America and taught 4th and 5th grade from 2012-14. David then stepped outside the classroom and start Detroit Horse Power, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that teaches Detroit’s youth valuable skills through riding and caring for horses. Since 2025, programs have brought youth from the city to partnering horse barns outside Detroit for free summer camps and after-school program. Construction is now underway to repurpose vacant land in Detroit into a transformational 14-acre urban equestrian center. The center is scheduled to open in December 2026.

◆ Detroit Horse Power Website
◆ Follow Detroit Horse Power on Instagram
◆ Follow Detroit Horse Power on Facebook

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Natsu

Photo courtesy Lucky 7 Horse Rescue

Natsu is a talented young horse that is looking for his new person to take him on all kinds of adventures! He has been on many, many miles of trails and he has a very smooth and easy gait, as well as a smooth trot and canter. Natsu has energy to go, and the buttons of a well-trained horse. He is not for a beginner rider, and will require an intermediate to advanced rider because he is a forward and sensitive guy, but also extremely well-behaved.

He is a pro at trailering and camping, and knows when he’s working and when it’s rest time. He isn’t spooky, but he needs guidance from his rider the first time he’s at a new place until he falls into the groove of things.

Learn more about Natsu here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 47, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 47 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy US Equestrian

— Edited Press Release | Source: US Equestrian

The post Kate Shoemaker Breaks World Record at 2026 FEI World Championships Aachen appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Second Stride

Adoptable Horse: SS Nice Nicole AKA Athena, a 13-year-old, 15.0hh Thoroughbred mare
Organization: Second Stride, Prospect, Ky.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse SS Nice Nicole AKA Athena

SS Nicole Nicole, AKA Athena, never worked or raced.

She was originally in Second Stride’s program in 2016 when she arrived from an abandonment situation. She was sound at then and still appears to be now; Second Stride does not know her past injury history if any. Athena was adopted in 2016 sound and well-mannered under saddle. They are not sure if she has any breeding history. In her last home, she was being used as a reliable trail horse and was being ridden bareback.

Athena is a very sweet, kind mare that enjoys people. She is well-mannered for her grooming and bathing sessions and stands politely for the vet and farrier. She walks politely on a lead rope and gets along well with her friends in the field. She remains quiet in her stall and settles down quickly to graze.

Athena should be suitable for any age discipline. She is available to an adopter who agrees to keep her for life or return her to Second Stride if no longer able to care for her.

Contact Second Stride today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, SS Nice Nicole AKA Athena!

Photo courtesy Second Stride

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: SS Nice Nicole AKA Athena appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The Eventing Team podium at the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Ensuring the team’s second-consecutive FEI Eventing World Championships podium finish, Will Coleman (Free Union, Va.) and Diabolo (Diarado x Aljano 2), owned by the Diabolo Group and cared for by Erin Jarboe, also finished the championships as the highest-placed U.S. combination. The impressive pair locked up fourth place overall in the final individual standings and added nothing to their original dressage score of 30.0.

Under the leadership of Chef d’Equipe Leslie Law, the team stayed composed and focused on the technical show jumping course designed by Frank Rothenberger (GER), which would prove to be an influential conclusion to the competition. The winding track had a time allowed of 91 seconds and utilized much of the large grass arena of the main stadium, ultimately shaking up both the team and individual standings.

“We were quietly confident we could pull it off today,” Law commented, regarding the team’s bronze medal performance on the final day of competition. “All three guys rode to the standard we know they can ride to. They are all phenomenal riders in the show jumping phase.”

Coleman commented on the consistent performances of Diabolo, “Dabs”, a 2012 Holsteiner gelding, across all three days of competition, saying, “He was just himself all week—he is such a star. He is incredible. He knows the job and I knew he was going to do everything in his power to leave the rails up.”

Will Coleman and Diabolo on their way to a fourth-place finish, the highest placing of a U.S. horse-and-rider combination. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Coleman went on to express gratitude for his teammates after they moved up from sixth-place after dressage to land on the podium at the end of three intense phases.

“I think it’s a testament to the team. All four of us didn’t get off to the greatest start, but everybody kept a really cool head,” he said. “We kept chipping away throughout the course of the weekend. Our management, Leslie and Karyn [Schuter], exuded a certain amount of confidence and we fed off that. We made each day count as best we could.”

Coleman and Diabolo weren’t the only combination to secure a double-clear round for the Defender U.S. Eventing Team. Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) and Liz’s Nutcrackers’ Cooley Nutcracker, a 2014 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R. x Cobra), cared for by Stephanie Simpson, also posted a double clear round in the main stadium to keep the team well in the hunt for a podium finish. Martin and Cooley Nutcracker produced a dressage test which placed them in the middle of the standings at the start of the week, but their clear cross-country performance,  and double clear show jumping round proved to be influential in the rankings. The pair ultimately finished in 13th place, with only added time from their cross-country trip influencing the pair’s original dressage score.

“It was an emotional week to win a medal here in Aachen,” reflected Martin, who has a special connection to Aachen through his wife, Silva, a fellow equestrian athlete hailing from Germany, as well as a nod to Cooley Nutcracker’s former rider, Liz Halliday, who was his teammate in Paris.

Phillip Dutton (West Grove, Pa.) made his return to Aachen for a World Championship 20 years after he competed at the 2006 World Equestrian Games, where he represented Australia at the time. Aboard the 2015 Holsteiner gelding Denim (Dinken x Ibisco) owned by Ann Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran, and Neill Sites and cared for by Emma Yanek; Dutton showcased his experience and consistency. As the first combination in the order for the team, the pair played a critical role as they entered the electric stadium for their show jumping round, where all three scores produced by the team would count towards the final team score.

“It was a tough track, and the hardest thing is you want to be precise, but then you also have to think about the time allowed,” Dutton explained. “My mindset is obviously I want to be clear for the team, but then at the end of the day try not to overanalyze my round and then hopefully celebrate afterwards.”

Team member Caroline Pamukcu (Springfield, Pa.) and HSH Blake, the 2015 Irish Sport Horse gelding (BMC Tolan R x Kannan) owned by Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, Caroline Pamukcu, and Deniz Pamukcu and cared for by Chloe Teahan, did not compete following their unfortunate elimination on cross-country. She praised her teammates, “they carried the team. They’re unbelievable horsemen and it’s great to watch them and everything they did this week.”

Tamie Smith and Lillet 3 withdrew ahead of the second horse inspection following an impressive trip across the country yesterday. Lillet 3 finished with a badly placed overreach, with Smith and team making the decision to save her for another day.

— Edited Press Release | Source: US Equestrian

The post Defender U.S. Eventing Team Captures Bronze Medal at 2026 FEI Eventing World Championships; Will Coleman and Diabolo Finish Fourth Overall appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Horses’ Haven

Adoptable Horse: Abby, a 19-year-old, 13.2hh grade mare
Organization: Horses’ Haven, Howell, Mich.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Abby

With her striking grulla coloring and kind expression, Abby is the type of mare who effortlessly captures attention. Recently returned after spending the past three years as a cherished companion horse, she is now looking for her next forever home.

Abby is a non-riding companion mare with a sweet, calm personality. One of her volunteer grooms, who was new to horse care, described her as “a sweet girl with a calm personality” who was patient and forgiving while they learned. Abby walks nicely on a lead, stands quietly for grooming, and is the kind of horse that helps build confidence in the people around her.

Though mildly neurologic in the hind end, this doesn’t prevent her from receiving routine care, including farrier work and handling. In fact, it simply adds a little extra swagger to her step and makes her even more memorable.

Overall, Abby is a sweet and gentle girl who enjoys attention, companionship, and being part of a herd. She has been pastured with mares, geldings and mules in the past. She would be an excellent match for someone looking for a beautiful pasture companion, a friend for another horse, or simply a mare to love and spend time with.

Contact Horses’ Haven today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Abby!

Photo courtesy Horses’ Haven

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: Abby appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary

Adoptable Horse: Flying Comet, a 23-year-old, 15.1hh Standardbred gelding
Organization: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary, Ravenna, Ohio

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Flying Comet

Meet Comet, a wonderfully behaved Standardbred who’s ready to squeeze his way into your family.

Comet is an absolute gem. He is kind and always eager to please. This sweet soul enjoys long, leisurely walks down grassy roads and a quiet plod around the trails once or twice a week. He’s patiently waiting to begin his next chapter and start a new career. He tacks up very quietly and has plenty of “old-man energy” under saddle.

He’s the kind of horse you can let sit for months and come back to just as you left him. He’s steady, dependable, and full of heart. Keeping him moving, but still respecting his aging body will be the perfect combo for this boy.

With his gentle eyes and genuine personality, Comet has already stolen the hearts of those at Happy Trails… And now he’s ready to steal yours, too.

Please note that Comet is currently getting 1 tab Equioxx daily to help with his arthritis

Contact Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Flying Comet!

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: Flying Comet appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 46, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with author Terri Farley, who penned the internationally best-selling Phantom Stallion series.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Wild Rose Mustang Advocacy Group, Inc. about Skater Boy, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse, and the upcoming Wild Horse Symposium and Summit (Craig, Colo., Aug. 5-8).

Click here to listen on mobile.

Terri Farley, Author

Barn Banter episode 46 guest Terri Farley.

Terri Farley has always loved horses. She taught middle school and high school language arts and journalism in inner-city Los Angeles before moving to the cowgirl state of Nevada. Terri is the author of the internationally best-selling Phantom Stallion series, the 2026 Phantom’s Family picture book series (both from Simon and Schuster), and Horse Girl: How Velma Bronn Johnston Became Wild Horse Annie and Outsmarted the Mustang Killers of the West, a September 2026 biography from the University of Nevada.

She is an advocate for the West’s wild places and wildlife—especially wild horses. Through school and library visits, Terri continues to work with young people learning to make their voices heard. She lives in a 100-year-old house with her family, which includes her dog, Willow.

◆ Visit Terri’s Website
◆ Follow Terri on Instagram
◆ Follow Julie on Facebook

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Skater Boy

Photo courtesy Wild Rose Mustang Advocacy Group

Skater is a Mustang gelding from the White Mountain HMA in Wyoming. This butterball is about 13.2 hands of punk and sass. Thick in all the right places, and as sure-footed as a mule, Skater is a gorgeous palomino roan with long, thick hair. He is about 3 years old, and ready to develop with his person into a handy little horse.

Learn more about Skater here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 46, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 46 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy West Virginia Horse Network

Adoptable Horse: Dakota, a 20-year-old, 14.2hh grade mare
Organization: West Virginia Horse Network, Elkview, W.Va.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Dakota

Dakota is a 20-year-old grade mare who is broke to ride and is an amazing trail horse that is up for any level of trail.

She has a very big trot and a smooth canter that would look nice in the arena as well. She is a little forward and needs more miles, so Dakota is not suitable for a beginner but not hard to handle.

Dakota stands to be groomed, bathed and great for the farrier. She loads on the trailer without a fuss and backs off the trailer. She has been exposed to multiple obstacles and handled them like a dream.

West Virginia Horse Network can’t say enough nice things about Dakota. Once she bonds with you, she is an extremely sweet girl that loves attention.

Dakota is much happier in a pasture environment and is a little higher in the pecking order but not mean to other horses. She can be a challenge to catch, but once you have her, she relaxes and is easy for all necessary care and handling.

Dakota had to have an eye removed recently but she is adapting fine.

Again, Dakota isn’t for a beginner and will need at least an intermediate adopter. She is used to being ridden in a hackamore.

West Virginia Horse Network is able to allow potential adopters to speak to both Dakota’s current foster as well as her previous adopter to give additional perspective and answer any questions. Dakota is currently fostered in Maryland.

Contact West Virginia Horse Network today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Dakota!

Photo courtesy West Virginia Horse Network

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: Dakota appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo courtesy Wild at Heart Horse Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Jax, a 22-year-old, 14.1hh American Quarter Horse gelding
Organization: Wild at Heart Horse Rescue, Lancaster, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Jax

Meet Jax, a sweet gelding who is ready to find his soft landing. This handsome gentleman is looking for a companion home or a family who would love to welcome him as a cherished pet.

Jax has the kind, steady presence that makes him a wonderful barn buddy. He would thrive in a home where he can enjoy turnout time with other horses, soak up attention, and simply be loved for who he is. Whether he’s keeping another horse company or greeting you at the gate for scratches and treats, Jax is happiest when he’s part of the family.

At this stage of his life, Jax deserves a peaceful environment where he can relax and enjoy his days. He would be perfect for someone wanting a low-pressure horse to dote on, groom, and share quiet moments with.

If you have room in your heart and pasture for a deserving gelding who just wants to be someone’s special boy, Jax is waiting to meet you.

Contact Wild at Heart Horse Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Jax!

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: Jax appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.