The Gaucho Derby—deemed the “greatest test of horsemanship on Earth”—challenges riders’ wilderness survival and navigational skills as they race through of a network of estancias in the wilds of Patagonia (not to mention the test of camping outside each night).   

And for those brave enough to attempt it, these races are life-changing.

How Jessie Dowling’s Derby Preparation Began

In 2022, 40-year-old Jessie Dowling, an industrious cheesemaker and dairy farmer in Whitefield, Maine, was listening to a podcast while milking sheep and goats—unaware that soon she would embark on her own life-changing adventure, competing in the 2023 Mongol Derby.  

As president of the Maine Cheese Guild and owner of Fuzzy Udder Creamery, Dowling’s schedule was grueling. The pandemic forced her to think about where her life was going as a farmer and her happiness. She began spending more time with her horses—riding, training, attending clinics—and listening to podcasts.  

“I had heard of the Mongol Derby but thought it was for professional riders—I’m a backyard rider” Dowling says. “But on Warwick Schiller’s podcast, Stevie Delahunt talked about signing up for her Mongol Derby boot camp in Oregon—and I decided to do it.”

Dowling applied for the Mongol Derby, trained with endurance riders in Maine, completed her first limited-distance ride in 2022, and interviewed for the Mongol Derby the following day. “I told them I completed my first distance ride, was signed up for the Mongol boot camp, and they said I was in.”  

“I had zero endurance riding experience,” Dowling says. “I arrive at boot camp in Oregon; Warwick Schiller is there training for the Gaucho Derby. I went from listening to his podcasts in my milking parlor to riding Arabians with him.”

Falling in love with Arabians in the process, Dowling immediately acquired an Arabian gelding, Jelly Bean, as her new Mongol Derby training partner. “He has taught me so much about staying present, reading a horse’s energy, and regulating my energy.” 

Her year-long Derby preparation included running, yoga, completing farm chores wearing a hydration pack, using a balance board to strengthen muscles, and a three-day intensive riding clinic with Solange Ellis. “She totally changed how I ride with biomechanic adjustments—sitting a gallop and riding in stable positions for long periods.”

The Mongolian steppe is covered with little marmot holes. “I learned how to sit back as the horse falls into a marmot hole, picks themselves up, and keeps going,” Dowling says. She also learned to ride Western and fast over all terrain. “You’re galloping for miles at a time.”   

In addition to improving these various riding skills, Dowling took Mongolian language lessons and carefully planned her gear.

“You’re only allowed 11 pounds,” Dowling says. “I had a little saddle bag, a hydration pack, med kit, water purification tablets, snacks, two sets of clothes, rain gear, and comfortable hiking shoes.” She traveled to Mongolia and arrived at the starting line.  

The Adventure Begins

“On an average day, the topography changes a lot—mountains, lakes, rivers, rolling hills, grasslands,” Dowling says. “You pass freely roaming cows, sheep, goats, horses, a herd of camels.”  

Riding 12 hours a day works up an appetite. There’s no Panera along the route; Dowling quickly adapted to the local food provided by host families at the urtuu—the horse stations. “The diet is one of the hardest parts,” Dowling says. “They eat parts of the sheep that we don’t normally eat—intestines or sheep face.” She often snacked on traditional meat pies throughout the day.  

The race rules are strictly enforced, prioritizing the horses’ well-being and the riders’ safety. “Race hours start at 7 a.m. and end at 7 p.m. If you arrive at a horse station by 7 p.m., you give your horse back to the herder, enjoy some food, and sleep in a ger. But if it’s 5 p.m. and you realize you can’t make it to the next station by 7 p.m., you must find a random ger to stay in. But hospitality is huge in Mongolian culture—they usually invite you to stay and feed you if you show up at a ger.” 

On day five, Dowling came off her horse while attempting to put on a rain jacket. She was unable to get back on her flighty mount. “We were walking and walking; I couldn’t find a ger,” Dowling says. “I had to stop at 7 p.m. or else get penalized. So I watched the sunset with my horse; it was beautiful.” She messaged the vet who came to complete the required check on her horse, who she helped Dowling get water and find a ger to stay in that night. Per race rules, Dowling incurred a 2-hour penalty for receiving assistance.  

You Get the Derby You Need

A network of Mongolian herders provide hundreds of horses for the race. 

“You ride 29 different horses during the race,” Dowling says. “It’s a lottery which horse you get. Each horse goes 40 km (25 miles). At each horse station, a vet checks the horse’s heart rate. It must come down to 56 bpm within a half hour. They have the highest standards of ethical welfare for a horse. The vet checks the horse’s gut sounds and gait. A rider gets penalized if there’s any problem with the horse. You can’t override your horse. The race taught me how to rate a horse—a horse will help you know its fitness if you really listen to it.”  

Horse’s temperaments are another challenge many riders face during the journey, but this was an area in which Dowling shined.

“Some had trouble with their horse being spicy, but my superpower is that I love every horse I come across” Dowling says. “So, I would just take a deep breath, tell them that I loved them, find the spot they liked to be scratched, and connect with them.”

As for expectations, be prepared to be humbled. 

“People say you don’t get the Derby you want—you get the Derby you need,” Dowling says. Although she never reached her breaking point, day eight came close. “It’s mostly geldings—just a handful of stallions. On day eight, I pulled a stallion. Never riding a stallion before, I was a bit nervous. I headed out with other riders, tried to keep up, but he kept going slower. It was like he had never cantered before. Then we were down to a slow trot. Then a walk. I’m now the last rider. And if you get too far behind, you’ll get kicked out of the race.

“So I arrive at the only town on the race, and after eating boiled mutton face for a week, I had hopes of joining other riders at a café for chips and a beer… no other riders were there. Then my stallion would not walk over the bridge leaving town. An interpreter nearby helped by leading me across the bridge like I was on a pony ride. And he takes a picture. It was so embarrassing.

“At the next station, my horse checks out fine. I check the hospitality ger—all the food is gone. I just burst into tears. I took a deep breath, headed out to the horse line, and I picked number five. The herder had been waiting for someone to pick his prized horse all day. And I end up getting on the fastest horse! And that boy and I went straight out, galloping across the desert steppe, passed other riders, arrived at the next station less than two hours later, and I was back in the race.”

 Talk about getting the Derby you need.

“That day was the worst and best part of the race,” Dowling says. “I was hungry, demoralized, tired—but never gave up.” 

Forty-three riders started the race, only 25 finished, and Dowling placed 13th. She says the experience was life-changing. “I went from an intermediate rider to an advanced rider. Spending 12 hours a day in the saddle on difficult horses, I feel light years ahead in my riding,” Dowling says. “So I got home. The next week, our farm’s cheese wins Best in Show at the Maine Cheese Festival, but I felt hollow inside. I realized this wasn’t what I wanted to do anymore.” 

She promptly sold her business to pursue an equestrian career full-time—with zero regrets.

Dowling celebrated by riding the Tevis Cup—a 100-mile, one-day race in California. She opened Iron Ledge Farm, offering lessons and endurance training. Dowling visited Argentina to start training for her next adventure—the Gaucho Derby, which runs from February 18 to 28, 2026. Because the Gaucho Derby involves camping along the route, Dowling is figuring out how to pack a tent, stove, camping gear, and riding essentials in a saddle bag weighing no more than 22 pounds. “The Mongol Derby is the longest race in the world, but the Gaucho Derby has been called the toughest.”  

 And if anyone is up for the challenge, it’s Jessie Dowling.

Learn more about Jessie Dowling and her equine adventures by visiting ironledgefarm.com and following her on Facebook.   

This article about Jessie Dowling’s Mongol Derby is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post How Jessie Dowling’s Mongol Derby Adventure Paved the Way to More appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Moxie, a 10-year-old, 14.2hh Mountain Horse-type mare
Organization: Kentucky Humane Society, Simpsonville, Ky.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Moxie

Moxie is a beautiful, sooty chestnut Mountain Horse cross-type mare who was collected by KHS as a feral free roaming horse in December 2023. She was pregnant at the time but her foal was born healthy at KHS and has since found placement.

Moxie is a sturdy mare, very attractive in person, and hasn’t shown any unsoundness during her time with KHS. She was a very sensitive, flighty mare when she arrived but she’s coming around in handling with patience and time. Moxie would be a rewarding project for someone with training experience or could be adopted to someone who will send her for consistent training to develop her into the nice mare KHS knows she is destined to be. Adopters who aren’t experienced trainers or who don’t plan to utilize a trainer will not be considered for Moxie at this time for her best interest.

Moxie is currently in training in Wilmore, Ky. with Metcalfe Equine LLC. She has been doing extensive groundwork and learning a lot of the basics for the first time, like having her hooves picked out and trimmed, being caught and led daily, round pen work, etc.

She is most likely of Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, Rocky Mountain Horse, and Saddlebred genetics and may be gaited under saddle when the time comes. If you are interested in Moxie, please reach out to KKHS with any questions and check back for updates as she continues to learn the ways of life in domestication.

Contact Kentucky Humane Society today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Moxie!

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: Moxie appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The Importance of the Back

The back comprises three major regions: the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. Each of these regions has a specific function that contributes to improved rider stability, flexibility, and strength. However, maintaining a healthy back can often be a challenge, especially with the repetitive movements and demands on horseback.

Without strength in the core, back, and pelvic areas, our ability to communicate effectively with our partners diminishes, leading to discomfort and, even worse, potential chronic pain.

Back Pain in Riders

In the fast-paced, go-go-go world of equestrian sport and culture, we consistently push our bodies to the limit. Riders frequently suffer from back pain due to the rigorous physical demands of riding, which includes the need for dynamic balance and control.

This pain routinely hinders the ability to perform at your best, both in training and competition. It also directly affects your horse, as he can sense your discomfort and tension and compensates in his body as a result.

Exercises for Riders with Back Pain

Adding regular mobility exercises into your exercise routine ensures that your back muscles remain supple, strong, and pain-free.

Try this quick and effective mobility sequence targeting the back, helping you move more freely in all directions. Regularly practicing these few exercises, you can expect to improve your flexibility and strength, ultimately leading to a stronger and more supple back in the saddle.

Let’s explore these exercises in detail.

1. Child’s Pose

Start by kneeling on the ground with your knees and feet hip-width apart. As you push your hips back, allow the backs of your thighs to rest on your calves, and reach your hands forward as far as you comfortably can. This is known as the child’s pose, a staple in yoga that’s fantastic for stretching the spine, hips, and shoulders.

For riders, the child’s pose helps lengthen the spine, relieve tension in the lower back, and open the hips—common and critical areas that often become tight and restricted during riding.

Hold this position for two to five deep breaths, allowing your body to relax deeper into the stretch with each exhale.

The child’s pose is not only beneficial for the back, but also for mental relaxation. The deep breathing associated with this pose can help calm your mind, reducing stress and anxiety. This is particularly useful for riders, as a calm and focused mind is essential for clear communication with your horse.

By incorporating the child’s pose into your routine, you can improve both your physical and mental well-being, leading to better performance in the saddle.

2. Mid-Back Rotation

Once you’ve completed the child’s pose, move into the mid-back rotation. Get on all fours, ensuring that your wrists are directly below your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Inhale deeply as you reach one arm up towards the ceiling, allowing your eyes to follow your hand.

This movement stretches your chest, shoulders, and upper back, promoting independence between your hips and upper body. Hold the stretch for one deep breath, then switch sides.

The mid-back rotation is particularly important for riders because it enhances the mobility of the thoracic spine, the area of the back that often becomes stiff due to long
hours at the barn and time spent in the saddle. Improving the flexibility of this region, you can achieve better posture and more independence between upper and lower regions of your body.

Additionally, this exercise helps to balance and stretch the muscles on both sides of your spine, reducing asymmetries that can lead to discomfort, pain and even horse imbalances.

3. Thread the Needle

Return to your starting position on all fours for the thread the needle stretch. Push your hips back slightly, and then thread one arm under the opposite armpit, reaching as far through as you can. Allow your eyes to follow your hand as you lower your shoulder and rest your upper body on the floor. Hold this position for one or two deep breaths before repeating on the other side.

This exercise is excellent for stretching your upper back, shoulders, and neck. Once you’ve completed the stretch on both sides, return to the child’s pose for a final relaxation.

Threading the needle is a powerful stretch for riders because it targets your upper back and shoulders, areas that are prone to tension and tightness due to the various postures and positions developed while riding.

By regularly practicing this stretch, you will improve your range of motion, leading to a more balanced and effective seat. This also enhances better alignment of your spine, reducing the likelihood of chronic pain.

You can repeat this entire cycle from movements 1 through 3 a few times a week for optimal results.

The Importance of a Healthy Back

Riding requires a harmonious relationship between you and your horse, and a healthy back is crucial to this connection. A strong and supple back allows you to maintain proper posture for longer without fatigue, absorb your horse’s movements, and provide clear and consistent aids.

When your back is tight or weak, it adds stiffness in your seat, causing discomfort for both you and your horse. Discomfort leads to compensatory movements that place undue stress on other parts of your body, such as your hips, knees, and ankles, further increasing the likelihood of bad habits and issues.

By incorporating regular stretching and mobility exercises into your routine, you can ensure that you remain flexible and pain-free for years to come.

Learn more about rider fitness at ifafit.com.

This article about rider back pain appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Exercises for Riders with Back Pain appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Alma, a 17-year-old, 15.1hh Kentucky Mountain Horse mare
Organization: Wild at Heart Horse Rescue, Lancaster, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Alma

Meet Alma, a stunning Kentucky Mountain Horse mare with a story as remarkable as her spirit. Alma came from a wild herd roaming reclaimed Kentucky mine land. When toxic forage threatened the herd’s survival, the Kentucky Humane Society and ASPCA stepped in to bring them to safety—and that’s how Alma found her way to Wild at Heart Horse Rescue.

As one of the older mares in her group, Alma carried years of instinctive caution. Helping her learn trust again hasn’t been quick or simple—but it has been absolutely worth it. After three patient, dedicated years of gentle handling and relationship-building, Alma has blossomed.

Today, Alma is:
◆ Under saddle and confidently hitting the trails
◆ Standing calmly for the farrier, vet, and routine care
◆ Learning that humans can be safe and reliable partners

Alma is still a sensitive mare who will benefit from an adopter with patience, kindness, and a willingness to take things at her pace. But with the right person, she is ready to continue her transformation into a loyal and willing partner.

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

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: Alma appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Moven Van, a 4-year-old, 17.2hh Thoroughbred gelding
Organization: Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation, Guthrie, Okla.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Moven Van

Moven Van earned $27,612 during his racing career before being responsibly retired and joining the Horse and Hound Rescue family. This handsome guy arrived while recovering from an abscess, and he was an absolute gentleman during his treatment—patient in the stall and polite while soaking his foot.

Now that he’s feeling better, Moven Van is enjoying his downtime and making new friends out in the pasture. He’s sound, friendly, and soaking up the chance to just be a horse for a while. Once he’s had a bit more rest, Horse and Hound will begin his evaluation to see what direction he’d like to go in next.

Contact Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Moven Van!

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: Moven Van appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

As a longtime horsewoman and wellness advocate, I understand the well-being needs of equestrians. The winter months can be challenging: taking care of horses in cold weather involves additional chores, like blanketing, filling hay nets, keeping water troughs from freezing, et cetera. This, combined with less riding time, can take its toll.

The following tips will help you feel your best this winter, both mentally and physically.

Stay Warm

Keeping your core temperature up and keeping bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments warm is essential to feeling energized and maintaining immune health and range of motion; being cold depletes these things.

Don’t skimp on winter wear at the barn or during cold-weather rides. Most equestrians have a robust, all-season wardrobe, but from time to time it’s helpful to give your winter attire a little upgrade. Perhaps it’s time for a new pair of waterproof or fleece-lined boots, or maybe to invest in some insulated coveralls.

Using inexpensive boot and glove warmers is one of my favorite ways to keep my feet and hands from becoming uncomfortably cold. I’m also an advocate of base layers (long johns, thermals, and the like), and I’m a big fan of legwarmers!

It’s hard to beat the time-tested warmth of wool, whether it be thick wool socks or a heavy wool sweater. Top all that off with some waterproof gear, and you’re good to go! For those who get chilled easily or live in cold climates, heated vests and gloves are a nice option.

Finally, don’t forget to top off with a scarf, gaiters, and hat. With all the advanced winter gear, fabrics, and styles, you can find something to keep you cozy while enhancing your functional equestrian winter wardrobe.

Outdoor Time

Most horse owners don’t have the option to stay indoors all day, and that’s a good thing. Though it may not be as appealing to be outside in winter, there are benefits. Being in nature can have a grounding effect, plus sunshine and vitamin D are essential for mood and immune health.

If you’re feeling challenged by doing winter horse tasks, try shifting your attitude to be more appreciative of the added exercise, movement, and time in nature. Try reframing any complaining to, “Wow, I get to do this!”

One of my winter disciplines is to walk to my barn (½-mile round trip), regardless of the weather. Not only does this add more steps to my day, but I always relish the beauty along the way, whether it’s animal prints in the snow, the quiet, or a hawk flying above. And I’m always greeted with nickers from my horse, which warms my heart in any weather.

Pampering and Self-Care

On another note about keeping warm, hot winter baths are my go-to. A jetted tub or hot tub is even better, if available. It’s a great way to raise your core temperature, plus feel a little pampered.

A popular trend is installing a home sauna to heat up and detox, or perhaps take advantage of one at your local gym. Some people find the warmth and brightness of light boxes helpful in combating seasonal affective disorder.

I’m also a fan of hot teas. I call winter “tea season”—there are so many delicious, warming flavors, and it’s always fun to try new ones. (Some of my faves are Egyptian licorice, ginger, and elderberry.) Drinking a warm beverage from your favorite mug adds to the experience; you can even make it part of your self-care ritual.

Stretching

Nobody enjoys raking, carrying buckets, or pushing a wheelbarrow and tweaking a cold muscle. But if you don’t have the option to farm out your chores, you also can’t afford downtime with an injury or strain.

Taking even just a few minutes for some warm-up stretches before heading out into the cold can make a big difference—not only for comfort, but for safety as well. Stretching a cold muscle is like trying to stretch a piece of gum that’s been in the freezer: it’s not too pliable and easily snaps and breaks.

Additionally, if you’re stiff when riding, you restrict your horse’s movement. You’ll have a better-moving horse if you’re warmed up and moving optimally. Since you warm up your horse at the beginning of a riding or training session, don’t forget to warm yourself up, too!

A few overall body stretches can go a long way. You don’t have to be a yoga expert to include some gentle stretching into your daily routine. By incorporating deep breathing and mindfulness into your stretches, you’ll glean the added benefits of being more centered, calm, and focused, which your horse will also appreciate.

Hydration

Winter is a common time to become dehydrated. With the cooler weather, you can feel less inclined to drink water since you’re not feeling overheated. Adding a slice of citrus or cucumber adds interest as well as some healthy properties.

Being in a heated house or office can be very drying and dehydrating. Proper hydration is essential to feeling well and reducing brain fog, fatigue, and headaches, as well as promoting a better functioning immune system. Grab that favorite water bottle, keep it full, and keep sipping throughout the day, even when you think you’re not thirsty.

Eat for the Season

Nutrition experts suggest that our diets should change with the seasons. Warmer, hardier, higher-calorie meals can go a long way in sustaining energy, which can often get depleted trying to stay warm.

Energy and immune health can be supported by nourishing your body through a proper diet, and perhaps by adding immune-building supplements for an extra boost.

Continue Learning

Winter is an excellent time to learn new skills. Whether it’s an instructional book, an online fitness class, a virtual clinic, or perhaps an interesting podcast, you can stay on top of your game even when you’re not in the saddle as much. Not only is learning new skills helpful, but continued learning keeps us mentally engaged and plugged in.

In addition to these suggestions, getting good sleep and reducing stress are also part of self-care. The bottom line is to stay committed to wellness, as a lot falls under that umbrella.

Sometimes when you’re feeling sluggish or unmotivated during the winter, you have to dig deeper to stay proactive, but I believe you’ll find it’s a worthwhile investment. Come spring, you’ll need less of a tune-up. Work with what you have, do what you can, and stay engaged, warm, healthy and well.

Further Reading

◆ Winter Fitness Tips for Equestrians
◆ Improve Your Riding Through Your Everyday Life
◆ Core Strength for Equestrians

This article about equestrian winter wellness appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Equestrian Winter Wellness appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

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.”

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.

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.”

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.”

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.

This article appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post A One-Horse Open Sleigh at Vista Verde Ranch appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Haven, a 12-year-old, 14.1hh American Paint Horse mare
Organization: Humane Society of North Texas, Fort Worth, Texas

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Haven

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!

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: Haven appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

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.  

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.

“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.” 

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).   

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.”   

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.” 

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. 

This article is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Helping Horses Heal Using Therapeutic Laser Therapy 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.

Raquel Lynn, Equestrian Blogger and Entrepreneur

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 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.