Not long ago my horse Radar was suffering from ulcers, and I was suffering from sleepless nights trying to figure out how to help him.
I rescued my horse, Twisters “Quick” Tari, from an abusive ranch four years ago. He’s been slow coming around to trusting a human again, but through patience, spending a lot of time in his world, and offering treats (pretty sure the treats are the secret!), Quick and I have bonded. He now shows his trust by choosing to come to me when I’m nearby.
I started endurance riding as a hobby. I’ve always enjoyed riding the trails, and endurance fit that love to a T. I love the bond it creates with my horse, but also with my endurance family.
Recently, my mare Misty experienced some health issues that proved challenging for both of us. Misty was cribbing constantly, losing weight, and had three episodes of gas colic within eight weeks. She was dull, irritable, and refused to move forward when I was riding.
My barrel horse buddy is a powerhouse. He’s high-spirited and full of life! The first time I rode him, I felt sure he would take me to greater levels of competing. Buddy will do anything I ask, no matter how scary it may be for him.
My mare Zika used to pin her ears every time I’d saddle her and tighten the girth. Her attitude issues didn’t stop there, though. When I tried to ride her, she wouldn’t listen and rode tensely.
My filly Jin and I had a special connection from the day I brought her home as an unhandled 10-month-old. She’s always been very trusting of me, and I of her.
My horse Spaz is an athletic, beautiful horse. He’s affectionate and very respectful, and while he doesn’t trust random people, he’ll let me do nearly anything I need to.
