Photo courtesy of Breyer

Unexpected Start

Breyer Molding Company, then based in Chicago, released its first model horse in 1950 as a special order for the F.W. Woolworth Company. Known as the No. 57 Western Horse, this model was created specifically to embellish a mantel clock.

However, it was the horse—not the clock—that captivated buyers.

Consumer demand inspired the company to change course and launch the Breyer Animal Creations^® brand of model horses and accessories.

Reeves International, a prominent name in the toy industry that was founded by Swiss entrepreneur Werner J. Fleischmann in 1946, acquired the Breyer Animal Creations brand in 1984 and continued to expand it. Breyer remains the company’s signature brand, manufacturing and selling millions of models and accessories each year.

Sizes of Breyer Model Horses

Breyer models come in several sizes:

◆ Traditional Horses at 1:9 scale                                       

◆ Freedom Series/Classics at 1:12 scale                                        

◆ Stablemates at 1:32 scale

◆ Mini Whinnies at 1:64 scale

The Traditional model is the largest, most popular size. Known as “portrait models” when representing a real horse, these are packaged and sold in Breyer’s colorful window boxes.

From the 1950s to 1970s, Breyer Animal Creations not only produced models of beautiful horse breeds and well-known horses, but also of famous dogs, including Lassie, Rin Tin Tin, Benji and Tiffany.

Storybook Inspiration

Through the years, Breyer has honored both fictional and real horses.

One of the earliest models inspired by literary equine heroes was Fury, released in 1962. Black Beauty became a model in 1979.

Marguerite Henry’s popular book, Misty of Chincoteague, was published in 1947, leading to the release of the longest-running model in the Breyer lineup. Misty of Chincoteague has been in continuous production since 1972, and it has appeared in numerous variations of coat pattern and color. Her foal Stormy followed in 1977. Misty and Stormy currently sell together as a gift set.

Numerous equine athletes have been memorialized as models: Favorites include Triple Crown champion racehorse Secretariat, show jumping legend Snowman, dressage great Valegro, outstanding Quarter Horse Wimpys Little Step, and many more.

Famous horses like dressage superstar Valegro are often made into Breyer models. Photo courtesy of Breyer

Selection Process

Breyer models currently represent over 190 different breeds.

Multiple factors play into how horses are selected to become portrait models. Proposals come from associations, fans, and owners. The company also does its own research and follows trends and stories in the equine industry.

Once a horse is selected, it takes about one year for that model to hit the market. Although new models are released throughout the year, special models are released every summer at BreyerFest.

The number of models made of each particular horse varies. Once a model is retired, no more are produced. In-demand models can sell for significant amounts after they’re out of production. Collectors often shop for these models online or at unofficial swaps held near the Horse Park during BreyerFest.

Model Creation

The manufacturing process starts with the creation of a clay (or sometimes digital) sculpture of the horse based on photos and videos.

“Breyer artists are specialists for their particular breed or discipline,” says Stephanie Macejko, vice president of marketing and product development for Breyer. “Some artists are passionate about Thoroughbreds, while others know all there is to know about American Saddlebreds.”

It takes about one year for a horse to go from sketch to store shelf. Photo courtesy of Breyer

All prototypes for each horse model, playset and accessory are designed at the company’s New Jersey location.

Using the original clay sculpture, a tooling pattern is cast and completed. A 1,000-pound steel injection molding tool is then created.

Breyer artists are experts in the breed or discipline of model horse that they work on. Photo courtesy of Breyer

For decades, artist Chris Hess sculpted many horses and other animals for Breyer. He also engineered the company’s original injection molding tools. Hess’ final sculpture for Breyer before his death was Secretariat’s model, which was released in 1987.

“Chris was a rare talent,” says Macejko. “He was able to see both the ‘positive’ three-dimensional horse, but also the ‘negative’ cavities that form the hollow shapes for each horse. There is a lot of art in the creation of the tooling to keep the integrity of the original sculpture.

“Breyer has had the privilege to work with some amazingly talented sculptors over the years,” she adds. “At this point, we’ve worked with at least a few dozen artists.”

To form each model, cellulose acetate is heated to liquid and injected into the molding tool where it forms the two halves of the model.

The halves are briefly cooled, then bonded together.

At least 24 hours later, each model is cleaned with Dremel tools, sanded, and cleaned again to remove any dust before heading to the paint department. 

Every model is hand-painted. Different airbrush artists paint base colors, manes, tails, dappling and other details.

“About eight to 10 painters work on each horse,” says Macejko. “From molding to pack out, about 20 different people have a part in the creation of each Breyer model.”

All About Alan

In 2023, Whitney Barnard of Paris, Ky., and her handsome mule, Alan A Day’s Work, became the first mule/rider pair to compete at a recognized jumper competition. Barnard just so happens to be the assistant managing director of education for the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA).

Barnard and Alan A Day’s Work became part of a successful effort to allow mules to compete with horses in nationally recognized jumping events. Photo courtesy of Breyer

When Barnard bought Alan in November 2012, the timid 4-year-old was barely broke to lead. After much groundwork and time in the round pen, she was riding the 13.3-hand john (gelded mule).

Alan’s love of jumping was revealed the first time she pointed him at a low cross-rail. He hopped right over with good form. In time, Barnard began taking him to horse shows and hunter paces.

Alan’s unique name has a fun origin. Barnard’s husband, Joey, who was her boyfriend at the time, said her new mule “looked like an ‘Alan.’”

Barnard felt the name fit him, but she still needed a show name. She credits a witty friend she’s known since grade school for coming up with Alan A Day’s Work.

Eventually, Barnard and Alan became part of a successful effort to allow mules to compete with horses in nationally recognized jumping events. 

“Alan really loves going to different places and seeing new things,” she says.

Barnard had no idea Breyer was considering Alan for a model until she received an email in June 2023. After a Zoom call during which she shared Alan’s story, Barnard was informed that he’d been selected to be a Breyer model if she agreed.

“Of course, I said ‘yes,’ but I couldn’t tell anyone until January 2024,” says Barnard. “I had to keep that secret for six months.”

Barnard submitted detailed photos showing Alan’s unique coloring and pattern.

“I literally took photos of every inch of his body—even under his belly, his chin, and on top of his back,” she says. “They sent me photos of the rendering to review, and I looked to see if all the spots coordinated. He’s a roany Appaloosa, so I had to see if the artist rendering matched Alan.”

Whitney Barnard photographed every inch of Alan’s coat pattern to send to the model makers. Photo courtesy of Breyer

Barnard was thrilled to receive a finished model in late April. In May, members of the Breyer team came to Kentucky, met Alan in person, and took photos for the Breyer website and social media pages.

“When I was 10 and living in Columbus, Ohio, I had a bunch of Breyer models,” says Barnard. “I remember thinking it would be so cool to go to BreyerFest, but Lexington was so ‘far away.’ It seemed impossible then, and here I am! I really appreciate that Breyer included Alan.

“I don’t think Alan really thinks he’s different from other horses,” she adds. “If he does know, he doesn’t seem to care. I want him to be an advocate for equestrians who happen to ride mules and want to showcase their talents.”

Expect more equine heroes to be memorialized as models in the future.

Learn more at breyerhorses.com.

This article about Breyer model horses appeared in the September 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The World of Breyer Model Horses appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 45, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise banter about Susan’s new children’s book, Swirl: My Wild Island Pony, as well as Holly’s encounter with the mules of Santorini, Greece.

Next, they chat with Kendy Allen, friend of the late Marguerite Henry, just in time for the annual Pony Swim. Kendy is a Chincoteague Pony breeder who lives near the island and founded the world’s only Chincoteague Pony Drill Team.

Last up, Holly chats with Bonnie McRae, director of After the Races in Maryland, about DrinkWithTheStars (“Cosmo”), a gorgeous 7-year-old bay Thoroughbred gelding who is a chill dude ready to take on any light career under saddle.

Don’t miss your chance to enter Horse Illustrated & Unicorn Trails’ giveaway for the riding trip of a lifetime at Yellowstone Ranch!

Click here to listen on mobile.

Kendy Allen, Founder of Chincoteague Pony Drill Team

Barn Banter episode 45 guest Kendy Allen with Misty’s Black Mist, great-granddaughter of Misty.

When she isn’t living her dream on the farm, Kendy Allen has been writing and telling her stories all her life. She has owned, trained, shown, and worked with Chincoteague Ponies for more than 30 years and loves them all for the very special ponies they are. She lives about half an hour from Chincoteague on a 100-acre farm with Chincoteague Ponies of all ages.

◆ Follow the Chincoteague Drill Team Facebook page

Adoptable Horse of the Month, DrinkWithTheStars (“Cosmo”)

Photo courtesy After the Races

DrinkWithTheStars is a coming 7-year-old, 16.1 hand, bay gelding that came to After the Races in partnership with Aftercare Charles Town. “Cosmo” raced 21 times and after racing, traveled down to the James River Horse Foundation where he spent a year in the care of Virginia DOC inmates.

While he has some changes in the upper joint of his knees, Cosmo has great range of motion, is very sound (even barefoot!). After the Races’ vet thought he’d do very well in any non-jumping career.

Cosmo has been lightly restarted at After the Races. He has an easy way of going and has been doing walk, trot, and some canter with (and has a lovely canter for a green OTTB). In addition to doing some ground poles, they’ve also taken him on his first trail ride at Fair Hill where he bravely crossed water and bopped around happy as a clam. They believe he’d do great in a pleasure home, low-level dressage home, and has the potential to make a great partner for trail riding.

Learn more about Cosmo here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 45, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 45 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 44, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise celebrate the magazine’s 50th anniversary by chatting with former Horse Illustrated editor, Liz Moyer, about her 20 years with the magazine.

During the episode’s banter, Susan and Holly discuss Holly’s ride in the Goodyear Blimp on Kentucky Derby Weekend and Horse Illustrated‘s big success at the 2026 American Horse Publication Equine Media Awards.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Marleen Bosch Hopkins, director of resources at Mountain Valley Horse Rescue, about Barbie and Buggs, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horses.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Barn Banter Episode 44 Sponsor

The CareCredit credit card is a friendly, flexible way to pay over time for veterinary care for your horse, dog, cat and other animals in your family. It’s your card for a Lifetime of Care. Subject to credit approval. To learn more visit here.

Liz Moyer, Former Horse Illustrated Editor

Barn Banter episode 44 guest, Liz Moyer. Photo by Rachel Milewski

Liz Moyer spent 20 years with the Horse Illustrated team as an editor, working up from Associate Editor to becoming Horse Illustrated‘s Editor in Chief for 13 years. After her two decades of dedication to the publication, Liz joined the United States Pony Club team as the Fundraising & Marketing Coordinator, a role she has held since 2019.

Adoptable Horse of the Months, Barbie and Buggs

Both Barbie and Buggs came to Mountain Valley Horse Rescue in Colorado a year ago as part of a law enforcement seizure case, and are the final two from the original group of six yet to find their forever homes. 

Barbie

Barbie. Photo courtesy Mountain Valley Horse Rescue

Barbie is a cute gray mare who likes to just make a quick check to see who is in charge, and loves clear expectations and direction. Being restarted under saddle, this loving mare is looking for a partner to build a bond with and get out to do some exploring. Are you looking for a tune up project who thanks you for every training session? Barbie is your gal.

Learn more about Barbie here.

Buggs

Buggs. Photo courtesy Mountain Valley Horse Rescue

Buggs is in her late teens and must have some Tennessee Walking Horse in her. She is in overall good health, but can no longer be ridden due to hind end issues. She is a sweet mare, loves grooming and to be doted on. She is gentle on the ground, great with her feet and would make a wonderful pasture pet and companion horse.

Learn more about Buggs here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 44, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 44: Sponsored by CareCredit appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 43, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Amber Marshall, the star of the Canadian TV sensation, Heartland.

Then, Susan and Holly chat with Cailin Caldwell, Director of ASPCA Right Horse Program, about Adopt a Horse Month.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Amber Marshall, Star of Heartland

Amber Marshall. Photo by Sarah Mavro

Amber Marshall grew up in London, Ontario, Canada, with a huge love for animals and theater as a child. She started taking English riding lessons at age 10, and by age 12, owned her first horse. When she was 18, she sent in a last-minute audition tape that her agent requested for pilot (first episode) of Heartland. The rest, as they say, is history. Nearly two decades later, the show is still running, and Amber’s portrayal of ranching horse trainer Amy Fleming is one of the most beloved TV characters among equestrians of all ages.

◆ Follow Amber on Instagram

Cailin Caldwell, Director of ASPCA Right Horse Program

Cailin Caldwell.

Cailin joins us to discuss the tremendous success of the ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Barn at Equine Affaire Ohio last month, as well as how you can help out during May’s Adopt a Horse Month—even if you’re not ready to adopt just yet!

◆ ASPCA Right Horse Website
◆ Follow ASPCA Right Horse on Instagram
◆ Follow ASPCA Right Horse on Facebook

In addition to Barn Banter episode 43, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 43 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 42, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with sidesaddle enthusiast and clinician Nicolle Glenn. Then, they talk with our sponsored guest Cassy Streeter, NIR Services manager for Dairy One/Equi-Analytical.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Jenna Sprague from Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary, about Spinner, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable equine.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Nicolle Glenn, Sidesaddle Enthusiast and Clinician

Barn Banter episode 42 guest Nicolle Glenn.

Nicolle Glenn is a passionate horsewoman who has become a sidesaddle aficionado. She foxhunts with a drag hunting pack in Illinois, riding in a sidesaddle, and she gives clinics to showcase the history, art, and athleticism of riding astride.

Follow Nicolle on Instagram here.

Sponsored Guest: Cassy Streeter, NIR Services manager for Dairy One/Equi-Analytical

Equi-Analytical Laboratory Services specialize in the most modern techniques for determining the nutrient content of forage and feed for horse owners. Because forage makes up at least 50% of a horse’s diet, knowing its nutritional make-up is essential for creating an optimum total feeding program. Thorough analysis is the only way to accurately evaluate your horse’s ration, allowing you to adjust both feed and forage for a healthy, balanced diet. This is vital to your horse’s well-being, because better nutrition means better health, stronger performance, and longer life.

Their facility, located in upstate New York, maintains an outstanding track record for accurate testing and responsive service. Their qualified staff are dedicated to meeting your analytical needs. Equi-Analytical offers a variety of analytical packages that are an indispensable part of the feeding program for all types of horses, from 4-H projects to championship-caliber performers.

Adoptable Equine of the Month, Spinner

Photo courtesy Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary

That’s right — this month’s featured equine is a Miniature Mule! Meet Spinner, who is ready to win you over.

Though that face is so innocent, Spinner is incredibly smart, and he knows it. Spinner is not for a beginner. He is quick, he can pull, he can bolt, he can spin… all of those funny silly quirks that these cute little fellas like to have.

If you are experienced and ready to take on quite a decent project, Spinner is for you. Happy Trails would love to find a confident home that will continue to explain to Spinner that humans are friends and that life can be fun.

Learn more about Spinner here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 42, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 42 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Photo by Gudrun Braun

What we often forget is that we humans send a wide range of signals to the horse with our body language. Body language is the interplay of posture, movement, direction of the gaze, and gestures, in combination with facial expressions. We are often not aware of these nonverbal cues and tend to give them unknowingly.

During groundwork, you must learn to use these cues deliberately. That’s the only way you’ll be able to apply your aids in a manner precise enough for the horse to understand your request and respond willingly.

You shouldn’t underestimate the fact that your moods can be easily detected by your horse. Tone of voice and body language are strongly influenced by stress, unhappiness, restlessness, anger, agitation, and fear. Naturally, these emotions can be mirrored by the horse, with obvious tension or insecurity in response to the aids, and this often results in poor performance of the task at hand.

Therefore, it’s essential that we as equestrians learn to practice self-awareness and self-reflection. When handling a horse, you must remain calm and mentally balanced, and must act controlled and level-headed, even in stressful situations.

Posture

Walk naturally and give a competent, self-assured impression that the horse is drawn to and which he follows respectfully and trustingly. Photo by Pauline von Hardenberg

◆ During groundwork, you should walk naturally upright and with light tension through your body. A deliberately straight, tense posture is as bad as a lax, sluggish one.

◆ Your head should be carried upright, with eyes forward.

◆ Your shoulders should be set parallel to the direction of travel.

◆ Most of the time, your body should be positioned at a right angle to the horse.

◆ The horse should always maintain a distance of about half an arm’s length from you.

◆ You should walk naturally, with self-confidence, and give a competent, self-assured impression that the horse is drawn to and which he follows respectfully and trustingly.

Keep your body at a right angle to your horse. Keep your head up and your shoulders square to the direction of travel, with the horse about half an arm’s length away. Photo by Pauline von Hardenberg

Movement

◆ Your movements should be smooth and uniform, not hesitant or faltering.

◆ Your pace should clearly match the rhythm of the horse’s gait.

◆ There shouldn’t be any rushing in the movement of your arms or legs.

◆ Especially while you’re walking, your arms need to be kept still; otherwise, they become driving aids.

◆ Your overall appearance to horse and observers alike should radiate self-assuredness and confidence in handling equines.

The Direction of the Gaze

◆ Your eyes should be looking ahead in the direction of travel, not at the ground.

◆ Even on bending lines or over obstacles, always look where you want to go.

◆ Try to avoid looking directly at your horse. Particularly in tense situations, this can make him feel threatened. Only in relaxed situations do horses appreciate direct eye contact.

Look ahead in the direction you want to go. Avoid looking at your horse, as this increases tension. Photo by Gudrun Braun

Gestures

◆ You should avoid unintentional movement of your arms and hands; it unsettles the horse.

◆ Your leading hand should be relaxed and slightly open. Closing it into a fist gives the horse an impression of tension.

◆ The guidance of the lead rope or the whip should always be applied in a controlled manner and slowly increase in intensity. The horse can tell which direction he’s supposed to go based on your body language. He must be able to understand the application of the aids. The aids should not suddenly startle the horse, and they should always be given with soft pressure at first.

◆ You should only apply specific cues, not create continuous noise.

◆ You should always apply touch precisely—in front of the shoulder joint, on the shoulder, on the back, or on the hindquarters, but never around the head.

◆ You should move only as much as you need to in order to act clearly and consistently, with the necessary inner calm.

The guidance of the lead rope or the whip should always be applied in a controlled manner. Photo by Gudrun Braun

Tarp & Slalom Game

Now you’re ready to try your first ground game! This sample exercise is executed at the walk.

Equipment:

◆ 5 cones

◆ 1 tarp

◆ 3 ground poles for the walk pole section

◆ 1 ground pole for the halt

◆ 11 ground poles for the U-shaped maze

◆ 30 ground pole anchors

Setup:

◆ Weaving section: cones 23 feet (7 meters) apart

◆ U-shaped maze: sides 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 meters) apart

◆ Walk poles: about 2.5 feet (0.8 meters) apart

How-to:

1. Enter at a walk, leading with the right hand on the left side of the horse.

2. Walk, tracking left, weaving through the cones on the long side.

3. Halt over the pole, and then walk off.

4. Proceed through the U-shaped maze of poles.

5. Change direction across the long diagonal, and then lead the horse over the walk poles.

6. Walk across the tarp.

7. Halt and end the exercise

This excerpt from Ground Games for Horses by Waltraud Böhmke is reprinted with permission from Trafalgar Square Books and originally appeared in the March/April 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Ground Equitation for Equestrians appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 41, sponsored by CareCredit, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with author Natalie Keller Reinert.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with April Perry, equine technician for Kentucky Humane Society in Simpsonville, Ky., about Demara, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Barn Banter Episode 41 Sponsor

The CareCredit credit card is a friendly, flexible way to pay over time for veterinary care for your horse, dog, cat and other animals in your family. It’s your card for a Lifetime of Care. Subject to credit approval. To learn more visit carecredit.com/3day.

Natalie Keller Reinert, Author

Barn Banter episode 41 guest Natalie Keller Reinert.

Natalie is a full-time author whose work has been featured in People, Variety, EQUUS, and Sidelines. Her fiction is deeply rooted in real-life horse culture, written for readers who crave authenticity, emotional honesty, and complex characters. She writes for the young women who never stopped loving horses, for the professionals keeping barn life alive, and for anyone who’s ever tried to make sense of their identity through the things they love.

Natalie’s new book The Jump from Flatiron Press is releasing March 24.

◆ Natalie’s Website

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Demara

Photo courtesy Kentucky Humane Society

Demara came to Kentucky Humane Society from a case where her owner couldn’t afford to meet her needs anymore, so she was very underweight and a State Investigator recommended the horses be signed over to KHS. With a dental, deworming, and a bit of pasture/hay/feed, Demara is much healthier and is even ready to be ridden again. She was good for her evaluation ride and seems to be a gaited Saddlebred. Demara would make a nice occasional leisure riding horse, or with a little bit of tuning back into a routine she could be a star on your lesson string (for someone kind, who doesn’t “use up” their lesson horses, of course). She clearly knows her way around the arena and just needs somebody to kindly bring her back into the swing of under saddle work.

Her DNA was sponsored by a kind person, and KHS found out she is registered as “Early Girl Tomato.”

Learn more about Demara here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 41, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 41: Sponsored by CareCredit 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.

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.

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.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Susan’s Equine Affaire booth.

Raquel Lynn, Equestrian Blogger and Entrepreneur

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.

◆ Follow Stable Style on Instagram
◆ Follow Horses & Heels on Instagram

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Uncle Timmy

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.

Learn more about Uncle Timmy here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 38, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 38 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.