Our commitment to quality and our skilled welding and installation team has made us a leader in manufacturing corrals, round pens, pasture shelters, hayfeeders, farm and ranch fencing, and many other helpful agricultural solutions. We bring your ideas to life, ensuring that every product we create meets your needs and is durable and safe. We’re dedicated to delivering solutions that fit your needs.
More than 15 years of experience, our team understands the importance of performance and longevity, and we make it our mission to prioritize both in every aspect of our work. Farm & Ranch Fencing too!
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From the Publisher
As I write this letter, the darkness of shorter winter days is hard to imagine on this day — a perfect late summer day with crisp air, blue skies, and breezes to keep away the bugs. To help you start preparing for winter, we’ve put together helpful advice starting on page 10.
To banish some of the darkness, try installing solar lights to light up dark areas in the driveway, parking, and barn entrance. These motion-activated lights are easy to attach to buildings and fences, charge during the day, and are inexpensive. When I’m on my way in or out of the barn in the dark, these powerful and bright lights help me to see my way. The lights will also come on for wildlife, loose horses, and any other movement. Filling in nighttime lighting needs without the expense of an electrician can be truly brilliant.
Have you seen those battery-operated “light switches” you can stick to a wall or door? They’re super bright, inexpensive, and are quite handy in the barn if you
need to feed in the dark during a winter power outage or if you don’t have power in your backyard barn. I have one in the feed room and one in the main barn.
Soon autumn will bring her cool days, bright blue skies, and colorful foliage . . . a perfect time to get out there with our horses before the short days of winter are here.
Peanut at Pocketful of Ponies Farm.
To the Editor:
This spring I was featured in Community Horse. It was wonderful to reflect on my journey into horses/dressage and also the merging of my wonderful career in occupational therapy. Thank you Community Horse for the feature.
Lindsey Parkin, Insight Equestrian East Greenwich, Rhode Island
To the Editor:
Thank you Community Horse and Sally Feuerberg for helping spread the word about my new location/business venture on the Community Horse Facebook page. I’m literally living my childhood dreams and I’m grateful for my wonderful, supportive clients/farm family, and the owners of this incredible property for sharing it with us!
We’ll enter you to win a $75 Cheshire Horse gift card! All letters received by March 5 will be entered in the drawing. Send your letters to: letters@communityhorse.org or CommunityHorse, 99 Bissell Rd., Williamsburg, MA 01096
Prepare for Winter
by Stephanie Sanders
For horse owners, every season has its challenges. In summer, pesky flies are an issue, along with sweltering temperatures. Spring brings boot-eating mud and those irritating no-see-ums. Autumn, the most favorable season for trail riding, has the fewest flaws, except, of course, it’s all too brief. Then there’s winter: frozen water, ice underfoot and -hoof, mounds of snow with nowhere to put it. Several years ago, a December ice storm caused extended power outages and many of us learned how to take care of our horses without electricity — no well water, no lights, no water heaters — for weeks.
As you watch the temperatures slowly drop, awake to hoar frost on the earlymorning pastures, and find yourself in pitch dark by the six o’clock evening feed, questions of winter barn management creep to the front of your mind.
Planning ahead for the winter can go a long way to making your barn and your horses healthier. You’ll also have more time to enjoy those gorgeous winter days for riding your horse.
Winterizing the Barn
In our region, where winter can seem never-ending, it’s essential that your barn be well stocked should you be snowed in. If you have room, store enough hay for the season. Hay is generally less expensive in summer, when you can buy it off the field, so stocking up will save you money
as well as worry about whether you have enough hay to last through the current blizzard. Store hay in a clean, dry, and convenient area so when the snow falls, it’s easy to get to.
Maintain enough grain for two weeks to avoid running out when you’re unable to dig out the truck and get to the feed store.
Store a minimum of two weeks of bedding in a dry and easily accessible spot.
Insulate aboveground piping with wrap-around insulation. Check electric pipe wraps used in previous winters for wear and tear and rodent damage. Remove temperature-sensitive liquids and medication and store in more suitable conditions to prevent damage.
Declutter tack rooms, work areas, aisles, and indoor arenas by storing fans, fly spray, bathing equipment, fly sheets, and other warm-weather items for the winter.
Check barn drains, pipes, and gutters to avoid potential problems. Clean the gutters so they are free of leaves and debris.
Pack any holes in stall floors with fill so they don’t collect water and freeze, making for slippery footing and colder stalls.
Stock up on some extra barn supplies like double-end snaps, screw eyes, extra gate latches, and a short length of chain. In an emergency, you can use a length of chain and double-ended snaps to keep a gate closed until you can get it fixed. It’s also a good idea to have a few extra fence
Alessandra Corbett
posts and rails or boards on hand in case a winter ice storm brings a tree down on your fence or your beaver-like horses chew through a rail or two.
Put tire chains, snow blowers, and blades on your tractor before the first snow, not the morning after. Keep a can of silicone spray handy to coat the surfaces of metal parts to help prevent snow buildup and to lubricate chains.
Drive markers into the ground on each side of the driveway and parking area before the ground freezes. Set up snow fencing where snow is likely to drift across driveways and paths.
Place a bucket of sand (without salt) and a shovel at each barn doorway.
Create an emergency and winter storm plan. Flashlights, extra batteries, fuel for generators, car charger for your mobile phone, and battery-powered radio/weather radio are a few supplies to have on hand. Invest in a battery-powered headlamp to keep your hands free while performing chores during a power outage.
Lastly, know your barn and indoor arena roof snow loads. To estimate the weight of snow on your roof, go to fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-07/ fema_snow_load_2014.pdf. It’s a thorough, easy-to-understand PDF to help you avoid a collapsed roof.
Water
We naturally monitor our horses’ water intake during the hot summer months,
but some of us relax that vigilance during the winter. Getting enough water during cold weather is just as important as it is during a heat wave. Yes, horses need less water during the winter, and therefore drink less. However, often they drink too little. To counter that tendency, simply offer your horses warm water during the winter.
There are correlations between decreased water consumption and fecal impaction colic. Increasing the amount of water a horse drinks is an easy and inexpensive way to keep the horse at the peak of health during the winter.
A project completed at the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center demonstrated that ponies, when offered either warm water or near-freezing water, drank 40 percent more warm water. This statistic remained constant whether the ponies were offered water that was kept warm constantly or the buckets were just filled with warm water twice daily. The ponies drank the most within three hours after feeding, or after the water buckets were refilled.
At Pocketful of Ponies, during the coldest weather, I bring hot water in twogallon containers to the barn after feeding in the morning and in the evening — one in each hand. (Campingsupply stores stock containers of various sizes that are flexible and don’t crack in the cold. Each container has a cap, so water doesn’t splash onto your clothing on the way to the barn.) If you’re wonder-
Alessandra Corbett
ing how warm or cool to make the water, remember, if you wouldn’t drink it, don’t ask your horse to drink it. My horses will actually leave what’s left of their hay to come drink what I call “horse hot chocolate” — warm water.
For a bucket filled with water outside while the horses are turned out, it helps to place a small rubber ball or two in the water — dog toys about the size of a tennis ball are good. They will float on top and keep the water moving so it doesn’t freeze as quickly.
Air Quality
When you feel frozen solid no matter how many bulky layers you wrap yourself in, it’s tempting to close the barn up tight and smother your horse in fluffy blankets to make him cozy. Before you decide to shut out the cold, though, consider your horse’s needs — he may be more at ease in the elements than you think.
Many of us think that if we’re cold, our horses must be cold too. Not necessarily so. Nature has provided horses with an effective thermal blanket in the form of a coat that increases in both length and density as the days grow shorter. In addition, healthy horses can fluff out their coat in cold weather, and their body heat warms the trapped air, creating a layer of insulation against the cold.
Stalls and barns needn’t be heated — a healthy horse’s body heat will do the trick. But be sure to eliminate drafts by sealing up cracks in the walls and windows in your horse’s stall. Horses in the wild will hunker down with their heads
growing outer coat isn’t ruffled, allowing the trapped air to escape, and a healthy herd will survive the most brutal temperatures. In a stall, however, drafts can whistle through at high speeds and from all directions, ruffling hair from odd angles and breaking the insulating benefits of the winter coat.
However, don’t completely seal up the barn. An indication of poor barn ventilation is the smell of ammonia, especially in the morning, before doors and windows are swung open. Another is moisture buildup on the inside of windows. Good ventilation is always of the utmost importance for the health of your animals, even in the bitter cold.
If your hay is stored above your horses in a loft, as you feed hay throughout the season, instead of emptying the hayloft from one end to the other, keep the hay more evenly stacked across the loft floor, giving some insulation to the horses below.
Heated barns are an enticing option, but are generally an appropriate solution only for a large barn in which all horses are clipped and working. Horses are naturally happy and healthy in fresh cool air. A good solution for keeping your bones warm in between chores? Heat the tack room!
To Blanket or Not to Blanket
That’s the question countless New England horse owners ask themselves each fall. Horses simply don’t get as cold as we do in the same weather conditions
Alessandra Corbett
that make us shiver and get out the insulated overalls. Although some horses have special requirements because of a thin coat or age-related internal thermostat problems, most are quite comfortable until the temperature dips below zero degrees Fahrenheit or the wind-chill is below zero.
Your horse’s breed plays a big role in how much winter coat he grows. For example, a typical thin-skinned Thoroughbred who doesn’t grow much of a winter coat uses a lot of the energy he gets from his feed to keep himself warm. In this case, to save both your feed bill and overfeeding your horse in order to keep on sufficient winter weight, consider blanketing when temperatures (wind chill included) are lower than 25 – 20 degrees. Then there’s his pasture buddy of nondescript breeding, who come December turns into the abominable snowman with a coat so thick you could lose your hand in it: no need to blanket him at all.
Aside from horses that have been clipped and those that need a winter blanket because they have an insufficient coat, many are blanketed by owners who simply want to provide their horses with that extra bit of warmth or protection from precipitation.
If you decide to blanket your horse, be sure to remove the blanket daily to check for blanket rub marks. It’s good to let your horse’s hair fluff up and let his skin “breathe.” At the very least, straighten the blanket and run your hand beneath it to make sure your horse isn’t sweating.
Check your horse’s body condition frequently during the winter months, as a blanket and/or a thick winter coat can easily hide if he’s gaining or losing weight. Horses kept in pastures need a simple south-facing, three-sided shed for protection from the elements. The average horse, when not blanketed, will grow a sufficient winter coat, and will appreciate the freedom to go in and out of a run-in shed.
At Pocketful of Ponies, the herd spends windy days and nights in the runin shed, or if the wind direction is such that it makes the shed less comfortable,
huddled near a stand of trees that acts as a wind block. When the air is calm, the horses are always out and about, even in the heaviest of snow; they seem to enjoy moving and investigating rather than standing in the shed. As the sun rises, they congregate in the shed’s open south side, soaking up the early morning sun, their coats fluffed out. Sunny mornings after breakfast are spent in front of the shed with the winter sun warming their coats as they lie down or enjoy a quick nap on their hooves.
Clipping for appearances should be kept to a minimum, as a long coat and facial, ear, and fetlock hair form a barrier that protects the skin from the snow and cold air. Fetlock hair also protects your horse from the sharp edges of ice-covered snow. If you ride frequently and your horse works up a sweat, consider clipping his body only in the areas covered by his blanket when he’s at rest.
Winter Feeding
Feeding high-quality hay year-round is important, but it’s especially important in the winter months, as even the best barn ventilation can’t ease the chronic breathing problems many horses develop by inhaling moldy and dusty hay spores. Increase hay intake during especially cold days to fuel the horse’s inner furnace — the process of digesting fiber keeps him warm. Hay digests slowly, so constantly providing him with plenty of hay will have him generating heat longer. Slow feeders are an excellent solution here, as they enable a horse to feed on a controlled amount of hay all day long.
There’s no need to increase the amount of grain in order to increase the number of calories in healthy horses: The horse processes grain quickly, and too much puts him at risk for colic and other digestive issues. He’ll do best with some extra hay to keep him busy, warm, and full.
As you adjust your horse’s intake, keep an eye, or rather, a hand on his weight under his blanket or through his thick winter coat.
Before I started feeding hay in smallhole hay bags and hay pillows 24/7 for my horses, I fed them extra hay when the
weather was brutally cold. The horses got extra hay morning and evening, and, when the wind was a factor, they received a supplementary feeding of hay at 10 p.m. to help them stay warm through the night. Now that the horses have hay 24/7, I still add extra hay but the small-hole hay bags mean it’s a more continuous supply to help them generate heat more evenly. With the small-hole hay bags, they all have maintained a healthy weight.
Don’t forget the salt! Year-round free access salt is essential to meet a horse’s requirements for sodium. Your horse will self-regulate what his body requires to keep his electrolyte system in balance. Many horses have a difficult time acquiring enough salt from a salt block. These were invented for cattle, with their coarse tongues, not for horses. Offering both a white salt brick and free-choice loose salt will enable your horse to do what he does best: balance his natural chemistry.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
During the winter, leave your horse turned out as much as possible to ensure sufficient digestive stimulation. You won’t be endangering his health in other ways, as a horse in good condition with a heavy winter coat or adequate blanketing and access to windbreaks can withstand temperatures as low as 40 degrees below zero Fahrenheit.
Staying consistent with turnout is a virtually impossible task when the weather begins to change; any schedule you developed in the warm months will be thrown to the blustering wind. Checking the weather obsessively, you debate whether to leave the horse in for the day or risk him getting caught in a freak blizzard. Unpredictable and unforgiving weather inevitably cuts down on outside playtime, but it’s important to get your horse outside whenever you can.
Regular exercise will invigorate your horse’s appetite, tone his muscles, increase lung and heart capacity, help develop reflexes and coordination, and create sufficient digestive stimulation. Safety is always the first thing to keep in mind. If the ground is frozen and slippery, don’t attempt a full workout. Riding in fluffy snow, however, can be fun and a
good workout for both of you. Using a longe line, when the footing is good, is usually a good way to get your horse moving. Just a few laps out on the line will get his blood circulating and muscles working. Even hand-walking around the farm or indoor arena is better than no movement at all, especially if you have some good hills to tackle.
Provide some sort of shelter: It’s your horse’s ultimate defense against the wind, snow, sleet, and rain. A run-in shed in the pasture will enable your horse to take cover when he needs it. A run-out paddock that still gives him access to his stall is an excellent setup, one that gives him the freedom to go out in the weather or to stay in, where it’s dry. If your situation doesn’t include an effective shelter, be wary of turning out your horse when the forecast is for threatening weather if you won’t be home to bring him in should the need arise. Sometimes keeping a horse inside for a day is the safe thing to do.
Regularly allowing horses to play in moderately soft footing will likely minimize problems that could occur when they’re turned out in deep snow. Horses that are given ample exercise are mentally content, and rarely develop vices such as pawing, stall kicking, and wood chewing. Make sure your horse is staying active out in his pasture or paddock as well, not just planting himself in front of a hay feeder all day. Create paths through deep snow for him to walk along, and feed hay along a track by setting heaps/slow feeders at a distance from one another. This will encourage him to wander from pile to pile, almost like when he’s grazing.
Barefoot or Shod?
Winter hoof care is largely dependent on what your horse’s activity level is going to be. If he wears shoes and you’re not going to do much riding, farriers usually recommend removing a horse’s shoes in the winter — that is, if the hoof conformation allows for it. Going barefoot provides increased circulation to the hooves, which in turn produces stronger, healthier hooves. Going barefoot is good for a healthy horse, and will be a little easier on your wallet.
If your horse is shod throughout the winter months, borium studs welded onto the shoe for traction and snow pads, which keep the snow from balling up in the shoe, are common winter shoeing solutions. Hooves collect snow and ball up with regular shoes without snow pads because snow melts from the warmth of the hoof and refreezes to the steel.
Barefoot horses normally lose the snow and ice that gets trapped in their hooves because there's nothing to freeze to; however some snow and ice create the perfect storm where the snow balls up in barefoot horses.
Be careful bringing your horse into the barn after being outside. Snowballed hooves are very slippery. Preferably, dig out the snow at the barn door prior to entering.
Dressing for a Winter Ride
There’s something special about being out in the woods and cantering across snow-covered fields in the winter. Don’t let Mother Nature chase you inside when
the temperatures drop and there’s snow on the ground. It takes only the right clothes and the right attitude to get yourself outside and mentally jazzed during the long and frosty New England winter months. You can still take those long trail rides with your horse and your friends. It’s simply a matter of dressing right to stay toasty warm and comfortable.
When dressing for winter riding, be aware that cold weather requires considerable care in dressing. Heat loss is not stopped by clothing. Instead, the clothing will trap the heat generated by the body and slow down its loss to the environment. Wool is still one of the best insulators and, unlike most other materials, it retains much of its insulating properties even when wet.
The secret to staying warm is to use loose layers of clothing, leaving lots of room for air pockets to trap heat where it’s wanted. Never underestimate the penetrating power of the cold, especially when your body is not strenuously working its muscles, such as when you’re on a leisurely trail ride. So, layer, layer, layer!
First, you’ll need to put a thin, nonabsorbent layer next to your skin to avoid chilling yourself if you sweat. Synthetics such as acrylic, Lycra, and polar fleece and natural fibers such as wool work just fine for your first layers.
Whatever you do, don’t wear blue jeans. Don’t wear cotton outside in winter; keep it for lounging by the fire. Cotton tends to absorb sweat and moisture and clings to the body, robbing you of precious body heat and giving you the chills. If you want to be an active rider year-round, invest in silk or polypropylene long underwear.
Next, cover your thinner, inner layers, top and bottom, with one or more bulkier layers. Think insulation and you’ll get it right. In addition, this layer should have a streamlined (not tight) fit. A wool or acrylic-blend sweater, or, better yet, thick and toasty polar fleece does the trick. Polar fleece is nonabsorbent and keeps you dry.
The key words regarding outer layers
of clothing are windproof, waterproof, and breathable. Gor-tex™, Thinsulate™, or a similar outer shell is excellent. You’ll want to have pants as well as a jacket. Some snowmobile suits are lightweight enough to be flexible for horseback riding.
As with other winter riding clothes, avoid cotton outer shells, even those that are treated with water-repellent material. Snow may land on you, and when it melts, it can soak down through the layers and chill you to the bone.
Because of the need to manipulate reins, gloves are typically better than mittens, and you can always pack more than one pair in your saddlebags or in your pockets in case the first pair gets wet. Look for gloves that are insulated and waterproof.
Wool or synthetic-blend socks will make you so much more comfortable than cotton. You can also buy thin silk or polypropylene socks to wear under an outer, wool pair. Don’t cram your feet
into boots, however. Layer but don’t overdo it, as overlayering can impair circulation and actually make you colder.
Your riding helmet alone isn’t enough cold-weather protection for your head. Approximately 30 percent of one’s body heat can be lost through the head. The neck is also a place of easy heat loss, so keep that scarf on as well and wear a turtleneck. Consider buying winter headwear accessories designed specifically for the winter rider that go over a riding helmet. If you don’t want to make the investment, simply put your scarf over your helmet and ears and tie it under your chin. Then both your head and neck are protected from winter cold.
Dressing appropriately for winter weather conditions gives you the chance to watch frosty blue skies and a winter sun turn the snow a dazzling white, or a plump gray sky full of snow clouds burst forth with flakes the size of silver dollars dusting and covering you and your horse as they
fall. It’s a fabulous experience. So bundle up, tack up, get out, and enjoy winter.
Winter is just another season to enjoy your horse . . .
In the morning after a heavy snowstorm, take pleasure in the gentle sound of your horse’s hooves packing the snow as he greets you at the gate for breakfast. The sight of a horse rolling in the snow for a bath in the flakes brings a smile: he’ll leave behind loose hair and dirt — a special snow angel — and his coat will sparkle and shine. When he leaps up with a happy squeal and a lively buck, what better proof that your winter efforts have paid off?
y
Stephanie Sanders is the publisher of Community Horse and has had horses on her 12-acre farm for more than 30 years and has been a equestrian publisher for more than 25 years.
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by Sally L. Feuerberg
HFarm
Healing Hoofbeats of Connecticut
ealing Hoofbeats is located on seven sprawling acres in Bethlehem, Connecticut. It’s home to Hoofbeats’ “Animal Healers”: three horses, two Miniature horses, four goats, a flock of chickens, several friendly barn cats and kittens, a certified therapy
dog and finally, Hazel the pig. The farm features an indoor space for therapy sessions, several paddocks, a round pen, trails for hand-walking the horses, and a charming pergola nestled among lush blueberry bushes, where clients can meet with their licensed clinicians.
We spoke with Renee Bouffard, Founder and Executive Director at Healing Hoofbeats, and Ashley Kenney, Director of Development, about the farm’s diverse range of therapeutic services and how its animals, clinicians, and unique environment create a space for healing, growth, connection, and support for individuals facing complex and life-changing challenges.
CH:
You offer Animal and Equine Supported Psychotherapy, both indi- vidual and group, as well as couples and family therapy. Could you explain some of the key aspects, as well as the differences, between these programs?
Renee and Ashley: The differences between individual, group, couples, and
family therapy are really geared toward the focus of the treatment. As you might imagine, individual therapy is very tailored to the individual’s needs and goals. When entering a group therapy setting, there’s a mutual goal people are working toward. For example, this may be learning frustra-
tion tolerance, managing symptoms of depression, or socialization for those with autism. Participants not only have the opportunity to work with a therapist but also gain a sense of community and understanding, knowing that they’re not alone in their experiences. When working in groups, a transition occurs where the members take on more of a leadership role. When engaging in couples therapy, the goal is to enhance the relationship by working on mutually agreed-upon goals. And finally, in family therapy, the goal is to enhance the entire family unit rather than one individual within the family. When incorporating the animals into any of these therapies, we do so very intentionally to help support the goals initially established in order to help clients learn how to build and maintain healthy, mutually beneficial relationships.
CH: Your farm offers a unique, sen- sory-friendly environment. Could you elaborate on how this environment
Renee and Sparky.
Cali, Evie, and Teddy.
can be particularly beneficial to indi- viduals who may find other settings overwhelming?
Renee and Ashley: At Healing Hoofbeats, our farm provides a naturally sensoryfriendly environment that can be profoundly beneficial for individuals who may feel overwhelmed in traditional clinical or indoor settings. The open, peaceful setting of the farm offers a calming alternative to fluorescent lights, crowded waiting rooms, and the noise of busy offices. Here, individuals are surrounded by nature — fresh air, gentle animal sounds, open skies, and rhythmic movements — all of which can help regulate the nervous system. Interacting with animals in this low-pressure, nonjudgmental space encourages grounding, self-regulation, and emotional connection, which is especially helpful for individuals with sensory sensitivities, trauma histories, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, or PTSD. Our clinicians are trained to be attuned to sensory needs, offering flexibility in session structure, environment, and
pace. Whether a client prefers to sit quietly with a horse, walk through the pasture, or engage in hands-on tasks, we honor their sensory needs and comfort levels.
This sensory-friendly setting is not only soothing — it’s empowering. It allows clients to engage in therapy in a way that feels safe and manageable, helping them build trust, self-awareness, and resilience at their own pace.
CH: Can you tell us about the Healing Hoofbeats team that works with your clients?
Renee and Ashley: Our highly skilled clinical team has a combined seventy years of experience between our five therapists. Three of our therapists are lifelong equestrians who own horses and ride regularly. Our therapy team uses their equestrian knowledge and ample years of experience as LCSWs and LMFTs to provide traumainformed therapy that goes beyond the walls of an office. We started slowly and methodically built up this organization, starting with renting space on a local farm and eventually adopting our own animals
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Complete Line of Farrier Supplies In Stock
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and owning a property dedicated solely to this type of therapy.
CH: You also offer team-building workshops and homeschool work- shops. What do they encompass?
Renee and Ashley: Every team has something they can enhance to increase productivity, whether that be leadership skills, empathy, communication, or many other factors. When incorporating the animals, we tackle these goals from a relationship-first perspective. The animals also help us to think outside the box and in nontraditional ways, which can often be the missing link to enhancing productivity. Homeschooling has become very popular over the years, where families are taking their kids out into nature and learning through experiences. We provide that. We can tailor the work with the animals, the garden, and any part of nature to fit the lesson from learning how plants grow by planting seeds to understanding the muscular system of a horse or the digestive system of a chicken. When kids get handson experiences, the learning is endless!
CH: I understand that clinical supervi- sion is available for individuals working toward their LCSW, as well as for therapists with other licenses. Could you explain how this program supports their professional development?
Renee and Ashley: Because therapy is such a person-to-person profession and experience, engaging in professional development is always important. Part of our commitment to ethical practice is continually enhancing our knowledge and ensuring we do what is best for our clients. Engaging in supervision allows us to do this because we have a skilled third-party therapist working to help and sometimes challenge our thought process, thereby enriching the therapeutic alliance.
CH: I’ve read that you can also tailor field trips in coordination with area elementary, high school, and colle- giate visitors. What will students gain from these opportunities?
Renee and Ashley: At Healing Hoofbeats we love welcoming student groups of all ages and planning our field trips to align
with their educational goals and developmental needs. Whether it’s an elementary school exploring animal care, a high school diving into mental health awareness, or a college group studying psychology, social work, or education, each visit offers a unique, hands-on learning experience.
Students gain exposure to the therapeutic role animals can play in emotional healing and human connection. They learn about empathy, communication, and the importance of building trust-based relationships — not only with animals but also with people. Our team explains how trauma-informed care and animal-assisted interventions work in real-world therapeutic settings, providing insight into mental health careers and practices that are not often seen in traditional classrooms.
Field trips to our farm foster emotional intelligence, teamwork, and self-awareness while also helping students regulate stress in a calming, sensoryfriendly environment. For many, it’s a memorable experience that opens their minds — and hearts — to new ways of learning, healing, and supporting others.
CH: Can you tell us about your Operation Warrior Horse Funding project and what it provides for our veterans?
Renee and Ashley: Our Operation Warrior Horse Fund provides low-cost and free therapy to veterans at Healing Hoofbeats. This fund ensures that veterans seeking additional support beyond what the VA offers can access our unique, traumainformed equine therapy. This approach has proven to be especially effective for individuals experiencing PTSD. This program has changed lives, and ongoing donations ensure that we can continue to serve those who have served us.
This fall, we’re excited to launch our first-ever Operation Warrior Horse Retreat, taking place September 13–14. This overnight program will be held on our farm and offered completely free of charge to ten veterans, thanks to generous sponsorships from our community.
CH: Are there sponsorships, corporate giving, and volunteering opportunities at Healing Hoofbeats?
Renee and Ashley: Yes! Healing Hoofbeats offers several meaningful funding opportunities designed to appeal to both corporate and individual donors.
The first is our Financial Aid Fund. Currently, 76.5 percent of our clients are considered low income and access our therapy services through HUSKY, Connecticut’s state-funded healthcare. For those without insurance, we offer a sliding scale based on income and expenses. We created this fund so that we can continue providing therapy without turning anyone away and remain financially sustainable.
Next is our Animal Welfare Fund, which supports the care of our beloved animal healers — five horses, four goats, a flock of chickens, barn cats, a pig, and a certified therapy dog. These animals play a vital role in our therapeutic model, offering comfort and connection to more than sixty-five clients each week. This fund covers their feed, preventive veterinary care, farrier and dental work, and provides a crucial cushion for emergency medical needs.
In addition to financial support, Healing Hoofbeats thrives on corporate volunteerism. We’ve had wonderful experiences partnering with Eversource, M&T Bank, Thomaston Savings Bank, and several local high schools. These groups not only raise funds for specific projects — such as our community garden or new pergola — but also spend time on the farm helping bring those projects to life.
Volunteer days like these are fun, meaningful, and a great way to experience the heart of our work.
We currently have an urgent need for new members to join our board of directors. We’re seeking passionate, proactive individuals who are eager to join a dedicated and dynamic team that has helped us grow into the impactful organization we are today.
To support Healing Hoofbeats, visit healinghoofbeatsofct.org.
Sally L. Feuerberg is a freelance writer, horseback rider, and a lover of everything equine. A longtime resident of Newtown, Connecticut, her hobbies also include painting, crafting, and spending lots of time with family, friends, and her dog, Munch.
EXPERT TIPS
When looking for a property, prioritize the land over the home. A home can be renovated and updated, the land’s topography, drainage, soil quality, and zoning restrictions are much harder or sometimes impossible to change.
When selling your farm, work with an equestrian-savvy Realtor that reaches the equestrian community. Not all Realtors understand the uniqueness of the needs of horse owners.
Selling homes and farms one family at a time
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As an Equestrian Specialist with William Raveis, Amanda is passionate about helping her clients realize their dreams. She’s a Realtor who grew up on the Cape and has won numerous awards in sales and customer service. Dedication, honesty, and passion all describe Amanda.
Equestrian homes are where dreams gallop across fields and your horses find their true home.
Tyngsborough
Supporting Clients through Tramatic Life Events or Challenges Moonlight Ranch
by Diana Bezdedeanu
Moonlight Ranch is a privately owned 23-acre farm in Tyngsborough, Massachusetts, nestled on land once part of the Indigenous Pennacook territory. With a mix of woods, wetlands, meadow, and ledge, it provides a peaceful sanctuary for native wildlife and a beloved herd of horses, miniature donkeys, goats, and chickens. The ranch partners with licensed therapists to offer a wide range
Major and Laura. “Major was an amazing older Belgian rescue who lived at Moonlight Ranch for three years before he crossed the rainbow bridge in
of animal- assisted mental health services for individuals, families, and groups. In this interview, Laura McLaughlin, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), and Certified Equine Interaction Professional-Mental Health (CEIP-MH), and founder of Moonlight Ranch, offers a glimpse into the heart of her farm, a place where people, animals, and the land are interconnected.
CH: Why the name Moonlight Ranch?
Laura: Moonlight Ranch is named after the first pony I ever sat on — my older sis-
ter’s Shetland named Moonlight. I wasn’t formally trained as an equestrian; I’d just hack around the backyard or the state forest when my sister wasn’t riding. Later, when I was about 12 years old, our horses were gone, and my sister had moved out. One day, I was at the mailbox picking up the mail, wearing my mom’s slippers, when a pony came trotting down the street. The pony had clearly been neg-
2023,” says Laura. “He was an oak — a stabilizing presence for all. He was loved beyond words by so many.” At right, Whiskey and Waylon.
lected and spooked easily, but nobody ever came to claim it — even after I put out flyers and newspaper ads. So, I cared for it the best I could. That experience really marked the beginning of my relationship with unridden, misunderstood horses.
Years later, I bought the house I grew up in. When we had to take down trees, I realized the space where our old barn used to be was still calling to me. In 2013, I rebuilt it and started exploring how to incorporate horses into my therapy work. I googled “EMDR and horses,” (EMDR: Eye Movement Desensitization and
Reprocessing) found Sarah Jenkins and Equilateral in Arizona, and went down a deep rabbit hole of learning. Thus, Moonlight Ranch was born.
CH: What equines call Moonlight Ranch home?
Laura: Moonlight Ranch is home to four therapy horses, each with their own unique story.
Dream, a 17-year-old Morgan-draft cross, was our first horse and has a calm, grounded presence. Smokey, about eight years old, is a curious and sensitive soul who came to us fearful of humans but has blossomed through gentle training. Dublin, a retired Thoroughbred and former lesson horse, is now in his late 20s and has been with us since 2020. Elvis, a 28-year-old Standardbred, former pacer, and absolute sweetheart, came to us through a former local rescue that has since closed.
We also have three Miniature donkeys: Waylon and Whiskey, who came from an ethical breeder in Connecticut, and Adam, a 21-year-old Mediterranean Miniature donkey who joined us via our veterinarian. Our animals participate in sessions on their own terms. They live in a liberty-based environment, with 24/7 access to come and go as they please, which makes their engagement with clients even more meaningful.
CH: What therapists does Moonlight Ranch partner with?
Laura: Robin Risso, a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and AAMFTapproved supervisor, is here two days a week. She and I are similarly trained. Robin started this journey alongside me back in 2014. When I was looking for colleagues to jump into this work, she immediately raised her hand and said, “Let’s do this!”
Robin works with individuals and families, commonly incorporating modalities like neurofeedback (a type of biofeedback that uses real-time measurements of brain activity to help individuals learn to regulate their own brainwaves), deep brain
reorienting, and EMDR. Kate Ford, LICSW, CEIP-MH and Lauren Petrilli, LICSW, lead provider retreats and group consultation days throughout the year — lovely experiences that usually happen on weekends. Between the four of us — Robin, Kate, Lauren, and myself — we bring a range of approaches, all grounded in deep collaboration with the herd.
CH: What client population(s) does Moonlight Ranch serve?
Laura: We work with youth starting around age six, as well as adolescents, adults, and some seniors. Our clients are private pay and come to us seeking support as they work through traumatic life events or significant challenges. For example, it may be a specific learning difficulty or other experiences that can be deeply overwhelming and disruptive.
CH: How does Moonlight Ranch differ from other equine-assisted therapy programs?
Laura: We’re a therapeutic barn, first and only. Sessions are one-on-one, never overlapping, and the space is intentionally quiet and private. You can’t see our neighbors. Wildflowers grow everywhere, and wildlife — foxes, deer, birds — often wander through, sometimes even joining sessions.
What also sets us apart is our depth of experience. Both Robin and I have been working in the mental health field for more than 25 years, with specialties in trauma and dissociation. We’re trained in a range of modalities and can shift between them based on each client’s needs. If the weather’s not right for being outside with the herd, we can move indoors, use our offices, or incorporate tools like neurofeedback. Our work is grounded in nervous system regulation and healing, empirically supported bodybased work.
One unique modality we offer is deep brain reorienting, a modality in which not many equine professionals are trained. In this work, horses often
Saddle Fitting
respond to shifts in the client’s physiology — the horses will create space, offer presence, or support the release of stored shock. Combined with equine-assisted EMDR and neurofeedback, our work is deeply rooted in both neuroscience and connection to nature.
When some people hear the phrase ‘equine therapy,’ they may assume it means therapeutic riding, and picture clients hopping on a horse, hair blowing in the wind — and voilà, healed in 45 minutes. I say that a little cheekily, but truthfully, what we do isn’t magic. What the horses do isn’t magic. It can be magical — synchronous, deeply connected, and full of unexpected beauty — but horses are living, breathing animals.
From the start, we clarify our values and responsibilities. Our responsibility is to keep people safe; theirs is to help keep themselves safe. We step into this work together, grounded and connected. Real healing begins when we see the animals for who they truly are — not fantasy but partners.
CH: How have you seen the equineassisted therapy field evolve?
Laura: Robin and I serve on the Certification Board for Equine Interaction Professionals (CBEIP), a volunteer group dedicated to raising standards in the field. Robin is the treasurer, and I’m the co-chair. Together, we’re working to ensure consumers understand what kind of services they’re getting, whether it’s equine-assisted learning or equine-assisted therapy. We want people to have clarity around what to expect from a provider and to feel confident that the work is rooted in professionalism, strong ethics, and a commitment to both human and animal welfare.
CH: What are the qualities that poten- tial clients should look for in an equine-assisted therapy program to determine if it’s the right fit?
Laura: For anyone considering equineassisted therapy, whether at our program or elsewhere, I’d encourage them to ask questions. What’s the provider’s training? Are they certified? How do they care for
their animals? Do they practice at liberty? Understanding both the provider’s values and their approach to safety, ethics, and animal care is key to finding the right fit. I also recommend checking the CBEIP directory. While it’s still a small list, the practitioners there have been thoroughly vetted and are held to high standards of care and professionalism. What’s great is that certification is model-independent, so no matter what approach a provider uses, they can be certified if their work aligns with those core values and responsibilities. The directory can also be a great resource for making connections even if someone isn’t local. They may not be able to see a practitioner directly, but they could reach out and get a recommendation for someone reputable in their area.
CH: What is your biggest challenge running Moonlight Ranch?
Laura: I wholeheartedly believe that our biggest challenges are also what makes our work so important. We’re not in a high-end area where we can ask exorbitant fees, so we intentionally keep our rates as low as possible and provide services to as many people as we can. In a very plain way, the biggest challenge is just keeping the fences up. It sounds simple, but it’s real. We bought a property with 30-year-old PVC fencing, so there’s rarely a day we’re not out there securing something to make sure everyone stays safe and sound.
Of course, that’s not unique to a ranch that offers equine-related therapy. There are always weather issues, time constraints, and making sure we’re putting the needs of the horses and the clients first. Sometimes, those priorities are at odds with each other, especially when financial limitations come into play. But again, that’s part of what makes this work matter so much.
CH: What is a long-term goal you have for Moonlight Ranch?
Laura: We can conduct meaningful research using neurofeedback equipment, especially in connection with
Bud Allen MS DVM Equine Chiropractic & Acupuncture
(413) 268-9312
Haydenville, Mass. famvet@comcast.net
deep-brain reorienting, EMDR, and equine interaction. We’ve just never had the time or funding to pursue it. It would be incredible to access grant support and contribute to the growing body of knowledge around how healing in nature — particularly in the presence of a herd — can create real shifts in people. It’s been on our wish list for a long time, but we’ve been too busy fixing fences.
CH: Are you currently taking new clients?
Laura: Yes! We don’t have a waiting list; we take on new clients if our schedules align and we believe we can be helpful. It all depends on fit and availability. To learn more, visit moonlightranch.org.
A native of Westwood, Massachusetts, Diana Bezdedeanu is the founder and lead practitioner at Horses Offering People Education (HOPE in MA, LLC), an unmounted equine-assisted learning program. Diana is the proud owner of two retired bay off-the-track Thoroughbred mares, Coffee and London.
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Farm
Equi Evolution Peace, Love, Horses
by Geena Monahan
Equi Evolution is more than just a name for Samantha Thorpe’s Rhode Island farm and holistic healing business — it’s a symbolic reminder of Sam’s evolution and the journey Sam has been on in the six years since she started her equine-inspired learning and wellness program. What began in 2019 renting a single stall at Remembrance Hill Farm in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, offering equinefacilitated programs alongside her first horse, Chase, took an unexpected turn when a fire destroyed the barn in early
2020. Weeks later, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and the need for human connection in outdoor spaces suddenly sky-rocketed. What was born out of the uncertainty and chaotic moments of those early years is a peaceful, idyllic farm located on four-and-ahalf acres in Cumberland, Rhode Island, where Sam lives with her husband, three children, and four horses. Offering a variety of coaching and wellness programs for adults along with Reiki, horsemanship classes, activities, and events aimed at promoting healing and personal growth, Equi Evolution serves to support both horses and humans to live empowered and fulfilling lives.
“Like the name of our business says, we have been evolving throughout all of it,” says Sam.
CH: What inspired you to start Equi Evolution?
Samantha: In 2019, when we were kicking it off, my primary focus was to share the experience that I had in the spaces where I got to be with horses. I was lucky growing up that I had access to horses in a lot of different ways. My aunt and my uncle had horse farms, so we did a lot of local horse
shows, and I got to spend my summers barefoot and bareback on the farm. My parents lived across the street from a horse farm in North Attleborough, Massachusetts, where I eventually ended up boarding my own horse. That was my first opportunity to do what I wanted with horses, which was just giving her a bath and hanging out in the field.
I worked at Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center in Rehoboth during high school, and after graduation I enrolled in a veterinarian program at UMass Amherst before transferring to the Equine Studies program at Johnson and Wales. I was going
Cumberland
Sam Thorpe with Jackie and Lia Catanzaro with Rosie. Jackie hanging out during a session.
to study veterinary medicine, but I ended up a single mom. Three kids, a husband, and a degree from Bryant University in business and psychology later, I wanted to go back to horses, but I didn’t know what that looked like. My original track was veterinary medicine but with what those schedules entail, it didn’t really suit my lifestyle. I decided to go back to the Equine Studies program at Johnson and Wales, but this time it was about networking and getting comfortable in the horse world again, and the idea for Equi Evolution came shortly after.
CH: How did you find your way to Cumberland and expand your business?
Sam: We moved in the beginning of 2021, and Cumberland has been phenomenal. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient — we’re right between Boston and Providence; we could not have landed in a better location. One of the important considerations in offering wellness and mental health-type programs is that people need to have access to it. If you can’t get to it, it’s not going to benefit anyone.
PBS contacted us within the first year we were here to be in a show about Cumberland, and I realized quickly I wasn’t going to be able to do all this work myself as we were growing, so I decided to hire a practitioner. Lia Catanzaro was finishing up a 12-week coaching program with me, and the timing aligned. I told Lia, “You know what? You get it. You get the work.” There’s so much nuance to the way we approach this; it’s not traditional therapy. It’s a different space, which Lia understood.
Lia: I have a background in psychology, mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and in leading workshops and classes. I was new to horses, so that was the piece I had to learn, but that came intuitively. I was going through a hard time, so I also had a weekly therapist I would talk to, and then I would come to the barn and see the same themes come up with the horses and be able to put the work in with real beings that weren’t human. It was so eye-opening and
it just catapulted my own healing, using the two in conjunction together, and that’s why I’m still here four years later. I run the coaching programs, teach classes, and teach horsemanship programs.
Sam: We have four practitioners now: Lia, me, Christopher Botelho, and Terri Brophy. We also have an assistant practitioner, Christine DiLuglio, and a Reiki master, Ruthanne Hawkins.
CH: Can you tell us more about the services offered at Equi Evolution?
Sam: The coaching program is our original, core 12-week program on equineinspired learning and wellness with a focus on helping individuals reach their goals. We’ve been trained through the HERD Institute (Human-Equine Relational Development) and incorporate mindfulness, somatic exercises, and nervous system regulation. It’s about getting people to be safe in their bodies so they can access real healing. I’ve also started offering business coaching, along with workshops and hosting corporate events.
We saw a need for expanding accessibility in our programs, because our horsemanship and private coaching programs are more expensive with bigger time commitments. So, to offer an opportunity for people to experience some of this work on a smaller scale, we have pop-in classes that are essentially the elements of our private coaching program but broken into small, focused classes capped at eight students: meditation, yoga, group Reiki, wellness with horses, mindful connection, and open farm time. We also now offer a membership option that allows unlimited classes and gives clients 10 percent off workshops.
CH: What does your horsemanship program entail?
Sam: We noticed themes popping up again and again within this work, and we recognized those patterns as well in the industry standards of managing and caring for horses. We’ve seen a lot of evolution in that part of horsemanship, which we talk about in our program, about how domi-
nance theory was a big thing. Even back in the ‘80s when I was growing up that’s how I was taught, with just a touch of “be kind” to the horse. Then we had natural horsemanship and Monty Roberts and The Horse Whisperer, and people really started to look at how we can hold more space for these animals. Now, we’re learning so much about neuroscience and animal behavior and saying, “Hold on, there’s even more we can be looking for here,” and that’s how we’ve developed our horsemanship program. It’s relationship-based, consentbased, compassionate horsemanship. It’s about the conversation and relationship with these horses.
CH: What type of clientele does Equi Evolution cater to?
Sam: We have a lot of neurodivergent clients who have really struggled to fit in with workplaces, friendship groups, family dynamics, and relationships, so we create safe spaces here to allow them to play out and have those experiences. We have a large social media following, which was never really part of the plan, but it’s been great because now we have this global reach. I’ve had someone come from New Zealand; that’s the farthest we’ve had someone travel.
We practice deep work involving internal reflection through a trauma-informed lens, which is beneficial to everyone, regardless of age. We created a space that is specifically for adults. It was a consideration to work with children, but it’s not in alignment with what we’re really wanting to do. There’s a lot of other practitioners and barns that are doing children’s programs, so we don’t feel the need to tack on to that. The biggest reason is that we talk about adult themes here, that’s the reality of it. It’s just not appropriate for children to be in on those conversations.
CH: How many horses do you have on the farm?
Sam: Currently we’re at four horses: Chase, a Quarter Horse in his 30s; Drifter, a 21-year-old ex-police horse; Teddy, a Haflinger in his 30s; and our only mare Jackie, a kill-pen rescue who is in her teens
to early 20s. They have 24/7 turnout, unlimited hay, fresh water, shelter, and enrichment, which is another piece of our horsemanship program and how we manage our horses with all those little considerations. Having the opportunity to experience so many different barns over my lifetime, I really had a good idea of what I wanted this space to be when I moved in. We had to clear the entire front paddock, we did all the fencing and intentionally redesigned and restructured the barn so the horses can have as much opportunity for choice as possible. When the weather doesn’t cooperate we can still have sessions in the barn. We put up a stall guard so the horses can be present and hang out with us.
We had Rosie, a Belgian Draft, and Vinnie, a Miniature donkey, who were very close, so it used to be a herd of six. That’s another experience we’re moving through and share with our clients because they develop relationships with the animals, and these animals will pass. These are senior animals with health issues, so it’s not a secret — we know it’s not so far off in the future. Grief is something we all face, and we’re sharing real world experiences here while making the environment safe for people to experience it in a way that’s beneficial to them.
Our next project that’s in the works is to get the horses out in the woods; we have our little pasture in the front and our two dry lots with their run-ins, and we want to put in a track system out in the back for movement, more enrichment, and exploring new environments. We just want to continue evolving.
Geena Monahan is a life-long equestrian and freelance writer currently residing in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. She enjoys trail riding her semiretired Quarter Horse mare and watching her two children grow up around the magic of horses.
Double B Ranch
We train horses and their owners. Natural horsemanship is all about the human nurturing a relationship with the horse so strong and close, so as to earn the horse’s complete trust. We do this using soft and quiet techniques, which are always in the best interest of the horses.
Licensed and certified horse trainer and clinician with more than 40 years experience in all disciplines. Uses natural horsemanship to solve your horse’s problems. Beginning with ground work to achieve harmony and trust, you’ll then move on to riding for that balanced partnership so essential to all phases of riding.
If you want help with your horse, or to hold a clinic, please contact us. Call for a free demonstration!
Jeannette
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Jeannette
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Horseperson
by Sally L. Feuerberg
CDr. Jenifer Nadeau
onnecting with University of Connecticut’s Associate Professor and Equine Extension Specialist, Dr. Jenifer Nadeau, is always a pleasure. Not only do you get the latest updates from the university, but you’re also reminded of its extensive educational opportunities in the equine field, excellent facilities, and ever-evolving curriculum.
Jenifer’s energy is infectious and enviable. Her steadfast dedication to her work is genuinely inspiring, and her sense of humor is delightful. No wonder her classes continue to fill up.
CH: Your work and accomplishments with horses are extensive. Please share some of your previous experiences that have made your work so rewarding and ultimately prepared you for your journey?
Dr. Jenifer Nadeau: I’ve come a long way from the little girl who got to ride a horse on her birthday at age eight and said, “Mom, I really love this, and I want to keep doing it!” We had no money, so my mom asked if I could work for rides. I started out cleaning stalls, tacking horses, helping people mount, riding as a backup rider, and working my way up to the leader by the age of 15 in Albany's Pine Bush, which was a
great place to ride. When they closed, I cold-called people until I got a job at a hunter jumper stable, where I managed the farm from 6 a.m. to noon, feeding, watering, cleaning, and so on. I recall one time when I had a horse tied in the aisle, and the owner came and told me not to do that, as that horse was worth $40,000. That was when I learned that horses had different values.
I initially wanted to be a veterinarian, so I worked as a farm manager, doing the same tasks I had at the hunter jumper stable during the summer in my first three years of college. During my last two years of undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky, I secured a job working at Elmendorf Farm, where I was employed by Jack Kent Cooke, who at the time owned the Washington Redskins. I was the night watch, checking on horses and mares ready to foal from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., one night a week.
I worked for a summer helping with horse-related research projects at the University of Tennessee as I pursued my Master’s degree and eventually my PhD work there. I feel like everything I did prepared me for this job, working with horse owners who may have any type of horse. As a student at SUNY Morrisville, I learned how to train and drive draft horses, so I
Storrs
could talk the talk and walk the walk at my job interview when we popped in at the Draft Horse Plow Match held at UConn. An internship in the Cooperative Extension System that connects the public with the resources and research generated by land-grant universities, for a summer in Wilson County, Tennessee, helped to prepare me for my position. It’s all been super rewarding, and I’ve met many wonderful people along the way.
CH: When did you begin working at UConn and what was your position?
Jenifer: I was hired as an assistant professor/ equine extension specialist in August 2001, 11 days after my graduation with a PhD in Animal Science from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.
CH: You’ve been at UConn for 24 years. How has your role changed in that time?
Jenifer: In 2007, I was promoted to associate professor. I’ve spent 18 years as associate professor and six years as assistant professor. I’ve been Equine Extension Specialist for 24 years.
CH: We’ve heard about some new offerings from the University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. What are some of the features of the new Bachelor of Science in Equine Science and Management major? Can you tell us what that curriculum will include?
Jenifer: I’m very excited to be a part of its debut. The major will combine a scientific foundation with practical experiential learning opportunities in equine nutrition, physiology, reproduction, breeding, genetics, and management. It also includes practical aspects such as marketing, finance, communication, and leadership. We have a lot of connections within the community to help students find internships. The students can also participate in the UConn Equine Club, which aims to provide a professional networking and educational experience for students interested in pursuing careers centered on horses.
CLEARING THE WAY FOR EQUESTRIANS
Brush Clearing & Forestry Mulching
Specializing in Bridle Path Creation, Fence Line Clearing, Property Boundary Clearing, and Pasture Restoration.
CH: How do you envision this program shaping the careers of students?
Jenifer: It will provide them with a depth of knowledge learned by working in the field. Students will understand the scientific reasons for the things we do in the equine field.
CH: What opportunities will it provide for them to excel in the equine field?
Jenifer: Students will gain a wide range of knowledge, which will enable them to tailor their career to whatever area is of interest to them. They can also minor in Equine Business, Therapeutic Horsemanship Education, or Equine Sports Rehabilitation if they choose.
CH: As an Associate Professor and Department of Animal Science Extension Specialist, could you elaborate on the resources and support you provide to area horse owners and enthusiasts?
Jenifer: I’m available to answer questions about horses that horse owners and enthusiasts have and to guide them to resources if I don’t know the answer. I prefer not to get involved in health-related questions, but I can pretty much direct the owner or answer them on just about any other topic. I also give presentations to equine clubs and organizations.
CH: You’re also a designated Equine Extension Specialist for the State of Connecticut. Can you tell us about the responsibilities that involves and how it benefits the equine community?
Jenifer: When I first started, it’s kind of funny, but no one knew exactly what an Equine Extension Specialist did, so they gave me a list of three people and told me to call them and ask about it. From there, it grew into what it is today. I do everything from consulting with individual farms on specific issues to organizing symposia. The Connecticut Horse Symposium is probably my signature annual event, usually held in March or April. In 2026, it will be on March 7. I invite a clinician from the
region to speak, and we focus on a topic related to horsemanship. The clinician chooses an area of focus, such as building confidence in riding, and teaches one ground session, one session for beginner to intermediate riders, and one advanced session. Participants can bring their own horses or ride our horses at UConn if they have experience. The symposium is open to spectators, and there’s a vendor fair showcasing regional businesses as well.
CH: What are some of the other equestrian educational programs that you have created?
Jenifer: I have developed a Canter Curriculum. Two online courses are currently available: one on Equine Nutrition and another on the Equine Skeletal System and Disorders. I chose the topics based on a survey of those involved with my program. Additionally, I create peer-reviewed fact sheets on various horse-related topics, which are available free online, targeting both horse owners and enthusiasts.
I also teach Behavior and Training of Domestic Animals (including horses), in the spring and Horse Science in both the fall and spring, with approximately fifty students enrolled each semester, along with three independent study classes offered every semester.
CH: What are some of the other organizations you are involved with?
Jenifer: I work extensively with the Connecticut 4-H Horse Program. Emily Alger is the Horse Program Coordinator for the state. We collaborate to offer contests such as Horse Bowl, a Jeopardy-like game where participants buzz in, all focused on horses.
I also coordinate the Regional FFA (Future Farmers of America) Contest at UConn. We have youth from across New England and the East Coast participate, and my students lead the horses in the ring. We groom them, and I organize the classes (in hand and performance), ensuring they run smoothly during the contest.
CH: Are you also involved with UConn’s Connecticut Trail Program?
Jenifer: I lead the Trail Riding Program at UConn. Riders must pass a trail test and demonstrate they can walk, trot, and canter in control before going on rides. We offer trail riding from April through the first week of December. Rides take place in the UConn Forest, where participants can ride in a hunt seat, dressage, or Western saddle. In inclement weather, we ride indoors working on equitation, trail obstacles, and gymkhana games.
CH: What keeps your passion energized?
Jenifer: I love working with my students; they keep me young and give me fresh perspectives, and I enjoy working with them. Also, the constant learning is very engaging. I’m super excited about my upcoming study abroad course, Comparative Study of the Horse Industry: Environment and Culture of the United States and Scotland. We will offer a course with background provided in Spring 2026, followed by a 13-day trip to Scotland in June 2026, featuring hands-on horse experiences and cultural activities. Another energizing aspect is that I work with wonderful colleagues at UConn who are all deeply committed to education. They all work extremely hard and strive to do their best every day. A special shout-out to all of them, especially my equine-related team: Dr. Pedram Rezamand, Dr. Sarah Reed, Alena Meacham, Lisa Nulton, Sharon Aborn, Dr. Mary Anne Amalaradjou, Kim Syme, and Emily Alger.
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Sally L. Feuerberg is a freelance writer, horseback rider, and a lover of everything equine. A longtime resident of Newtown, Connecticut, her hobbies also include painting, crafting, and spending lots of time with family, friends, and her dog, Munch.
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203 . 685 . 2308 newenglandsaddlefit@comcast.net
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Horseperson
by Kaitlin Morin
FJeffrey DeMoura
Founder of Equestrians Anonymous
rom the saddle to the storefront, one Massachusetts entrepreneur has turned his passion into purpose. The founder of Equestrians Anonymous, a thriving tack shop in Carver, Massachusetts, has built more than just a retail space — Jeffrey DeMoura has created a community hub, a haven and a gathering place for all genera-
tions of equestrians. Armed with decades of entrepreneurial experience, a heart for mentorship, and a 1,500-pound partner named Drakkar Noir by his side, Jeffrey is redefining what it means to live in stride with the horse community.
We sat down to talk about everything from falling back in love with riding to building a business from scratch to honoring the people and horses who shaped his journey.
CH: How did your love for horses begin?
Jeffrey: When I was a kid, my parents had ponies and horses, so I was always getting on something. It was second nature. But then life happened — college, work — and I drifted away from riding. I’ve been selfemployed for 30 years and had the freedom
to try lots of things, which has been amazing, but horses were always in the background.
CH: Was there a turning point that brought you back into riding?
Jeffrey: Yes, my doctor literally told me I needed a hobby! Around that time, a childhood friend had a barn here in
Carver, and I started hanging around the barn mucking stalls and doing chores. It brought me right back to my roots. I got serious again at age 47, and the passion reignited. It was like finding a part of myself I didn’t know I’d been missing.
CH: Was there a particular horse that made a major impact on you?
Jeffrey: So many, but one stands out. I had a Morgan mare who had spent 12 years in a paddock doing nothing. I started riding her, and she turned out to be a blast. Trail rides, beach rides, even foxhunting, she was up for anything, even showing and bringing home the blues. I retired her at 20 to a lovely home. After that, I was looking for my next horse. A friend called and said, “I found your horse.” Four weeks
Carver
Ruth Baltopoulos
later, I had Drakkar Noir, a Friesian Percheron cross. He’s everything I ever dreamed of — flashy, sweet, and totally game for anything.
CH: Tell us more about Drakkar Noir; he sounds majestic.
Jeffrey: He really is. He’s all black with a tiny white star and commands attention everywhere he goes. He’s flashy on the ground but calm and focused under saddle. We participated in the Marion Horse Show even though I’d only ridden him once during the week beforehand due to the store’s expanding construction. We had a great day with five blues: he’s a showstopper.
CH: You wear a lot of hats — rider, entrepreneur, community leader. How do you balance it all?
Jeffrey: It’s a lot, no sugarcoating it! I have a family and I’m also involved in several organizations: the South Shore Horsemen’s Council, Norfolk Hunt Club, President of the Marion Horse Show, and I just finished
serving on the Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council board. I’m lucky to be surrounded by supportive people who understand the juggle. It’s organized chaos, but it works.
CH: What inspired you to open your own tack store?
Jeffrey: I was working in corporate as head of marketing, and the role was expanding in ways I hadn’t signed up for. I missed working for myself, and I missed the equestrian community. I noticed our area didn’t have a tack shop that catered to all disciplines, especially not one focused on community. I talked to some former local tack shop owners, explored franchising with a large corporate tack shop, but the franchise fees were too high, so I decided to do it myself. Within 30 days, I’d signed a lease, painted, stocked shelves, and opened in April last year.
CH: What were some of the early challenges?
Jeffrey: Everything was on me, from photographing inventory to cataloging and
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shelving it. We now have nearly one million dollars in inventory, and I’ve touched every single item. There were stressful moments, but the community showed up. Friends helped. Family helped. Even my sons pitched in. Our saddle fitter, Madalaine Baer, is amazing. Charlene Robbins is our phenomenal Customer Experience Coordinator. Both have given so much support. That kind of support is priceless.
CH: You recently changed the store’s name. Why the shift from Jeffrey’s Horse and Hound to Equestrians Anonymous?
Jeffrey: Funny story. I wanted to name it Equestrians Anonymous from the start, but I didn’t think I could get the name. So, I went with Jeffrey’s Horse and Hounds, inspired by foxhunting. People called it “Jeffrey’s,” but I still wanted that original name. Six months in, I checked again, and the name was available! We’ve slowly transitioned. Equestrians Anonymous is inclusive. It’s not about your discipline or
Equine Athletes to Backyard Companions
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Lameness Workups Including Digital Radiography, Ultrasound, and Lameness Locator
gear, it’s about loving horses. We now host monthly meetups with snacks, drinks, guest speakers, and horse talk. It’s my favorite thing we do.
CH: You’ve made saddle fitting a big part of your store philosophy. Why is that so important?
Jeffrey: Because the right saddle changes everything for both horse and rider. We’re a Total Saddle Fit dealer, and Madalaine focuses on ergonomically correct tack. We also do in-store and on-site fittings. We’ve partnered with Santa Cruz Saddlery for fully adjustable custom saddles. They used to make saddles for the big brands and now offer gorgeous customs starting at $3,500 — half the price of most big brands. It’s about quality without breaking the bank, built for you and your horse.
CH: Have you personally had a tough saddle journey?
Jeffrey: Absolutely. My horse has a big build, and nothing fit him. After trying multiple saddles, I landed a custom saddle
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made with Santa Cruz Saddlery. It’s totally different when you have a saddle built for you and your horse, and in my case, it’s made all the difference. I always tell people, “If you’re going to spend the money, make it count. Build the bougie saddle of your dreams!”
CH: You’ve mentioned strong community support. How has that shown up recently?
Jeffrey: We’ve been doing renovations, and people are literally shaking the walls trying to drop off consignment items. We had to pause intake temporarily, but we’re planning a big re-grand in August. The expansion is already filling up. This store belongs to the community as much as it belongs to me.
CH: What’s your proudest offering?
Jeffrey: Definitely the saddle fitting service. It’s educational, it’s honest, and it genuinely helps people ride better and keep their horses healthier. That’s something I believe in deeply.
CH: What do you see as the biggest changes in young riders today?
Jeffrey: They’re pulled in so many directions. When we were kids, we were barn rats. We stayed all day. We knew what our horses ate. Now, most kids ride for an hour and leave. It’s a shift, and not always for the better. That’s why we’re trying to foster a deeper sense of connection here.
CH: Your store also emphasizes affordability. Why is that important to you?
Jeffrey: Because horses are expensive, and many families are paying for hockey, gymnastics, and riding. We stock 75% consignment and 25% new. We’ll have kids' consignment jackets that are $150 new for $60. When kids outgrow something, we encourage them to consign it and pass it along. Inventory moves daily. We also offer discounts on safety gear during show season and carry a full range, from budget-friendly to top-tier. We only sell new helmets. We will not consign used helmets, because safety isn’t negotiable.
your horse
CH: What role does safety play in your business?
Jeffrey: Safety plays a big role. We carry air vests, hard-shell vests, MIPs helmets, you name it. We educate parents and kids alike.
CH: You’ve created deep friendships through this business. Any that really stand out?
Jeffrey: Saddle fitter Arlene Davis is from Rhode Island and is legendary in the equine community. She walked in before we opened, sat down with her notepad, and said, “Let’s see what you’ve got.” She’s been with me ever since. She consigns and is still active in fitting high-end saddles. If we don’t have something, Arlene may, and we always reach out to her.
And then there’s Susan Messenger, a longtime friend and supporter. She was always making sure I was a safe rider. After I had a fall last year, she sent me an air vest for safety. Susan passed last September. We’re planning to start the Susan Messenger Fund to support equestrians in crisis. That’s the legacy I want to build.
CH: What advice would you give someone looking to start an eques- trian business?
Jeffrey: Start with passion. If you don’t love it, don’t do it. Be ready to hustle. Be ready to bet on yourself. You don’t need all the answers, just the courage to try. If it fails, pivot. But don’t spend your life wondering, “What if?”
CH: What’s next for Equestrians Anonymous?
Jeffrey: Someday, maybe a 10,000-squarefoot location with garage doors so we can take in carriages and trailers. But right now, I’m living each day as fully as I can. I’ve lost people I loved. I’ve learned how fast life can change. So I build, I ride, and I give back, while I still can.
Kaitlin Morin spends time riding her Spotted Saddle Horse, Scout, and exploring the outdoors with her trusty standard poodle, Fin.
by Diana Bezdedeanu
AHorseperson
Alicia Cugini Prospect Hill Farm
licia Cugini, owner and head trainer at Prospect Hill Farm in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is a lifelong horsewoman who has dabbled in a bit of everything from the hunter/jumpers on the local level as a child to the Arabian and American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) regional circuits to tack shop ownership to professional training and
ing right into the short stirrup division. I participated in my first horse show when I was eight, and aside from a maybe sixmonth break at 16, horses have remained a constant presence in my life.
CH: What disciplines did you ride as a junior, and how did that evolve over time?
farm management. With a focus on hunter/jumpers, equitation, Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA), and developing young riders and young horses, Alicia runs a tight-knit, hands-on program where education goes far beyond the saddle. In this conversation, she shares how her diverse experiences shaped the program she runs today and the lessons she hopes to pass on to the next generation.
CH: When and how did you first get into horses?
Alicia Cugini: My father bought me a gift certificate for Christmas when I was five years old to take lessons at Fleet Run Farm in Chepachet, Rhode Island, with Kit Gustafson. I don’t remember starting out showing on the lead line or walk-trot like kids do today. My earliest memory is jump-
Alicia: When Fleet Run Farm closed, I moved to a different local barn and started doing schooling shows like the West Greenwich Horseman’s Association, Woodstock Fair, and Tri State Horsemen’s Association. My parents bought me what would have been my mini medal horse, but he was injured within a couple of months and was never sound again.
After that, I was given an Arabian to ride and ended up showing the Arabian circuit as a junior with Alladins Fame under Jennifer Zendzian in hunter under saddle, equitation, western, and native costume up to the regional level and qualified for youth nationals. When I went to Johnson & Wales to get my Equine Business Management degree, I rode dressage with Lou Denizard.
I also dabbled in the AQHA world, taking lessons and showing with Alex
Lincoln
Black Friday, Called to Duty, Mr. Monsoon, and Alicia Cugini.
“Bud” Bishop at High Acres Farm in Woodstock, Connecticut. I was always drawn to the hunter/jumper discipline and started riding under Melanie Conley.
CH: What inspired you to go professional, and when did Prospect Hill Farm start?
Alicia: I had opened a tack shop around September 2001 and ran that for a few years, but eventually decided I wanted to get back to working with horses full time. I was working part time for Pilot Point Farm in Chepachet, Rhode Island, doing barn chores when Melanie Conley left. I was asked to teach some lessons and gave myself two weeks to decide if I wanted to give up my amateur status. I freelanced for a few years after Pilot Point Farm, and then I officially opened Prospect Hill Farm in 2004. We’ve been here in Lincoln since 2007.
CH: What programs do you run at Prospect Hill?
Alicia: We primarily do hunters, jumpers, and equitation. I have two additional trainers who work with me: Talia DiCostanzo, who helps coach our IEA team, rides and teaches, and Melanie McGarrahan who brings along our littlest riders. She’s so amazing with them. We start students as young as two years old and go all the way up to adults. Talia and I also do western, hunter pleasure lessons, and training. We have about 30 horses on the property and offer boarding, lessons, training, sales, consignment, and rehab.
CH: What sets Prospect Hill apart from other barns in the area?
Alicia: We’re on 80 acres with all-grass turnout — one of the few farms in northern Rhode Island that can say that. We’re not a show-up-and-ride kind of barn. From day one, kids learn to tack up, groom properly, care for equipment, and understand the responsibility of horse ownership. We have a tour before new riders start — we talk about what they expect from us and what we expect from them. Lessons are subscription-based, not pay-asyou-go, so it’s more of a commitment. We’re
also big on community. The families are tight-knit, and I hold my staff to high standards when it comes to horse care and cleanliness. I would like to think that my barn reflects my values and the programs Prospect Hill offers, and that when you walk in, the organization and cleanliness make you feel like we know what we are doing.
CH: What does the competition side of your program look like?
Alicia: We show mostly in Connecticut. Connecticut Horse Show Association (CHSA) Finals are more inclusive with everything from walk trot to the 2'6" divisions, which gives our students variety. We also do Connecticut Hunter Jumper Association (CHJA) finals, Massachusetts Hunter Jumper (MHJ) Finals when the schedules don’t overlap, and we show at Fieldstone Show Park in Halifax, Massachusetts; HITS Vermont Summer Festival in Manchester, Vermont; and Fairfield County Hunt Club’s June Benefit Show in Westport, Connecticut. We show at the Woodstock Fair annually — I’ve been going and showing there since I was a child. Every child should get to show there. We also run an IEA team, and host three shows a year. We’ve gone to the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio, and while we go to Florida to watch and shop, we haven’t shown down there yet.
CH: Are there any horses that stand out as particularly meaningful in your equestrian journey?
Alicia: RF Prince Phillipo, Alladins Fame, Grand Central, Bud the Weiser, Equity Line, and Mr. Monsoon are a few who pop into my head immediately. They all have meant something to me. Each horse I’ve worked with or had the pleasure of caring for has taught me valuable lessons or shaped me in some way.
Black Friday is probably the one people know now. I bought her as a six-month-old and brought her along to the 3'. In 2022, Shae McGarrahan showed her, and she won both the CHJA and CHSA Children’s Medal 2'6" finals.
Solo, aka History Made, is my heart
horse. He came into my barn with several injuries and a reputation for being dangerous. He’d bucked a rider off who landed on a mounting block and broke her back. But he wasn’t bad — he had a rib out, a torn supraspinous ligament desmitis, inflammation in the navicular bones, osteoarthritis in sacroiliac joints and stifles. I rehabbed him and he became an incredible schoolmaster, especially for teaching lateral work and counter canter. He’s 21 years young now and recently had surgery at Tufts for an aneurysmal cyst in his jaw. They had to do a bone graft from his hip.
CH: How do you think horsemanship has evolved since you were a child?
Alicia: It’s very different. When I was a kid and was dropped off at the barn, I was expected to help — clean stalls, do chores — and in return, I got to ride. Kids today aren’t always raised with that mindset. I try to find a balance. If they’re here all day, they’re expected to help. No cell phones. I want them to ride out of the ring, trot up a field, take a risk. They’re so afraid to make mistakes now. Social media has created a world of perfection — no bad jumps, no naughty ponies, only great rides or should I say, edited videos and pictures. I want these kids to know mistakes are okay; that’s how we learn and grow. Horses are supposed to be fun.
And the grooming isn’t what it used to be. Grooming is how you bond and create a relationship with a horse. We stress deep grooming, not just top grooming. If a rider’s horse isn’t properly groomed or tacked, the rider and horse are sent back to the barn, not as punishment, but to learn that their horse works hard for them and deserves proper care.
CH: Do your students tend to stick with horses long term?
Alicia: Talia started riding with me when she was seven — she’s 25 now. Same with Sofia Esposito who recently just came back from an internship at Kentucky Equine Research. Some students who rode with me as kids now have horses in their backyards. Others went off to college or started
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careers and are now riding again in their 30s. What you do with horses may shift, but they tend to stay with you in some form forever.
CH: What is your long-term goal for Prospect Hill?
Alicia: My heart is in rehabilitating and training young horses, and I’d love to run a smaller rehab facility, working with veterans to bring horses back from injuries and surgeries. But the reality is the hunter/ jumper market is what allows us to thrive in New England. We’ll continue teaching, matching students with lease horses, and building their education and confidence.
A native of Westwood, Massachusetts, Diana Bezdedeanu is the founder and lead practitioner at Horses Offering People Education (HOPE in MA), an unmounted equine-assisted learning program. Diana is the proud owner of two retired bay off-the-track Thoroughbred mares, Coffee and London y
Horse Logic
Finding Rhythm with Maestro
by Nicole Birkholzer
As my client Danny and I walk up to her horse’s pasture gate, a smile blooms across her face. “Meet Maestro,” she says. “Well, his full name is Call Me Maestro.”
She’s grinning from ear to ear, the kind of grin you only see on a horse-crazy, nine-year-old girl about to show you her first pony. It was contagious. I loved it.
“Do you think Maestro would be okay if we took off his fly mask?” I ask.
“Wait ‘til you see his face,” Danny says, practically bouncing as she walks toward her horse. “He’s so handsome.” She gently removes the mask and steps back, presenting him like a grand unveiling.
Instead of diving back into the big hay trough in his run-in shed, Maestro turns toward me. A rich copper coat shimmers over a strong, slender frame; a long, elegant neck leads to a face that is not just handsome, it is beautiful. White markings accentuate his bright, attentive eyes.
“Well, aren’t you a looker!” I say to him, admiring him openly. “Look at that coat,” I say, tracing the length of his healthy, solid body with my eyes. Maestro is vibrant, expressive, and talkative.
“I’m one of those special Thoroughbreds,” Maestro offers, clear as day. With his words came a vivid image of a Thoroughbred that is not only athletic but also grounded—mentally, emotionally, and physically balanced. “The way a Thoroughbred is intended to be,” he declares, with quiet pride.
I nod and relay the message to Danny.
But Maestro isn’t finished. He steps even further into the conversation, explaining in his clear, matter-of-fact way that the reputation Thoroughbreds often have as unruly, high-strung, or unmanageable isn’t actually true of Thoroughbreds at all. It’s the result of how they’ve been handled and how they’ve been misunderstood. Maestro says he is an example of a
Thoroughbred who has made it through unscathed — mentally, emotionally, and physically intact.
I translate his words to Danny. And then, quietly, almost without thinking, I pose these questions in my mind: Why are you telling me this? What does this have to do with Danny? With today?
Maestro answers without hesitation, “Because you seem like the kind of person who gets around. Now you can share this information about Thoroughbreds.”
I laugh out loud, both at his delivery and at the depth behind it. And I promise him that I will share this message with others.
Turning back to Danny, I tell her Maestro feels she likes Thoroughbreds — but he wants to tip her all the way into love. He knows he is that special.
Danny smiles brightly. Maestro is her first Thoroughbred, and she already adores him. Their partnership, still new —
Lillian Rose Photography
about a year in — is just beginning to unfold.
Satisfied he had made his point, Maestro wanders off to graze a few feet away, near the fence line.
“Danny,” I say, “I don’t know what your plans are with this guy, but I keep seeing you riding him on the trails. Loose rein. Long neck. He says he’s great at balancing himself — so don’t crunch him up.”
“I think he’s talking about dressage,” Danny says. She’s spent most of their time together building Maestro’s topline with thoughtful groundwork.
In response to Danny’s explanation, Maestro sent me another image: Danny riding him with a long, relaxed rein, her hand resting lightly on the buckle as the sound of a rhythmic walk filled my mind: clop-clip, clop, clop, clop-clip, clop, clop.
I share this sound with Danny, speaking the rhythm aloud, clucking softly to mimic the sound Maestro has sent me.
By the time I say the second round of clop-clip, clop, clop Maestro has lifted his head. By the third clop-clip, clop, clop he’s
making a beeline toward us. When he arrives, he nudges my arm with his nose, and, clear as day I hear, “Yes. That’s it.”
I laugh, and say to him, “You like that? That’s what you want?” I cluck my tongue again, mimicking the rhythm, clop-clip, clop, clop, and now Maestro is nudging Danny, confirming the message. This horse — what a hoot.
As Maestro wanders back to nibble the grass, he shares one further comment: Longeing is boring.
Danny laughs and says, “He doesn’t like it, especially when I try to change direction. He won’t walk past me; he wants me on his right side.”
“Well,” I say, smiling, “I wouldn’t worry about longeing too much. Once your saddle fitter adjusts his saddle, hop up there and ride — straight lines, slow walking, arena or pasture. Let him stretch his neck and back.”
I can’t help myself and cluck clop-clip, clop, clop twice. Sure enough, Maestro lifts his head, takes a breath, and returns to us. This time, he walks up on my left side, lick-
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ing and chewing the moment he hears the clucks, stopping right at my shoulder.
Danny and I burst out laughing.
This horse isn’t just being playful; he has clear ideas about his training and isn’t shy about sharing them.
“One of the first exercises you can do,” I tell Danny, “is let Maestro show you how he moves. Soften your seat and hips. Follow his rhythm. Does he sway your hips right to left? Forward and back? Maybe like a figure-eight? Or a gentle wave?”
I thought of the late Sally Swift, the founder of Centered Riding, who described how a horse’s movement flows through the rider’s pelvis in a soft figureeight — if we allow it. She believed that by letting the horse move through us, instead of trying to manage the movement, we become true partners in the dance.
I paused to let the image settle. “Allow him to show you, and then adapt to him,” I say. “That’s how you’ll help him use his beautiful back to build strength and muscle tone.”
Maestro chimed in again: “Check the saddle again in three months. I’ll have changed a lot.” And he tosses this comment over his left shoulder, “I’m a fast burner. Make sure my diet is adjusted, or I’ll start to look thin.”
I nod, taking it all in. “Sounds like you know yourself pretty well,” I tell him.
“I’m a professional,” Maestro says matter-of-factly, before dropping his nose back to the sweet grass.
And honestly, he is. Maestro knows what he needs and how to communicate it. And, even better, he knows how to wait for the right human to listen.
The gift of partnership is not just training or retraining, it’s learning together. Danny is doing just that — meeting Maestro with curiosity, patience, and joy. And Maestro? He’s showing her, step by step, what’s possible when there is mutual trust.
This is where animal communication fits in. It gives voice to that which Danny already senses in her body and heart. It
BARN CONVERSATIONS
Where Horses (and Humans) Feel Heard
Let’s Gather at Your Barn — your horses, your people, your questions. I’ll spend about an hour with each horse-human pair, blending animal communication, energy work, hands-on practices, and under saddle insights, if you’re riding. Many of the techniques I use were taught to me by horses themselves. I’ll translate what your horse wants to communicate, support their body and nervous system, and help you tap into your own intuitive knowing.
What You Can Expect:
• You’ll walk away with clarity, practical tools, and a sense of partnership.
• And the horses? They’ll feel heard. You’ll see it in their sighs, licks, and long-overdue releases.
I’ll be the one with the essential oil pouch and the open mind. Want to bring me to your barn? Let’s chat.
offers a way to check in, not just when things go wrong, but when the relationship wants to grow.
Now that a channel has been opened for Danny and Maestro, it isn’t a one-time conversation. It’s a path, a way for Danny and Maestro to explore new ideas together, clarify questions, and tend to concerns before they become problems.
And for Maestro, being truly heard means everything. He now knows he has a human who’s not only riding him but also listening closely and choosing to walk beside him as a partner.
That’s how trust is built. It’s how a mindful connection begins — and deepens.
One rhythm. One conversation. One yes at a time.
Nicole Birkholzer helps animals say the things they’ve been trying to tell us all along. When she’s not translating for wisecracking horses like Maestro, she’s writing, teaching, and clucking in rhythm just to see what happens. Find her podcast and her booking schedule at mindful-connections.com.
by Stacey Stearns
TTrail Guide
UConn Forest Fenton Tract
he 1,400-acre UConn Forest has tracts in Mansfield, Willington, and Coventry. The 580-acre Fenton Tract, adjacent to the main campus in Storrs, is the largest of these. The tract is named for the Fenton River that runs alongside the acreage. Standing atop UConn’s iconic Horsebarn Hill, you can look down to the eastern side of campus, beyond the horse and livestock facilities, and out to the Fenton Tract. UConn’s
Sugarbush and Outdoor Classroom both reside within the tract, along with eight miles of trails. Equestrians have access to five of these miles.
There are two options for riding the Fenton Tract. Equestrians can either explore on their own or ride the trails with Dr. Jenifer Nadeau, the UConn Equine Extension Specialist and trail practicum instructor.
“People enjoy riding with us because we get to enjoy riding the wonderful UConn horses in the beautiful UConn Forest,” says Jenifer. “We have anywhere from middle school students to retirees all enjoying their shared passion for horses. We ride up and down hills, cross streams, search for flowers, and see wildlife. The UConn students and I strive to keep the trails maintained.”
A Leg Up
Information about the Fenton Tract and the other parts of the UConn Forest is available at forest.uconn.edu; the Fenton Tract map and additional information is at
forest.uconn.edu/meet-the-forest/fenton/. The standard rules and guidelines of all trail systems exist in the forest, including to respect private property, not make new trails, pack out what you take in, and to park in designated areas. (See the Fenton Tract map for a complete list of rules and guidelines.) The Fenton Tract has research projects and occasional forest management operations as well; all trail users are asked to respect and avoid these areas.
Most parking areas for the Fenton Tract are on campus; they are inaccessible to private horse trailers, however, as the university has strict animal biosecurity protocols in place. Those interested in riding the Fenton Tract on their own can park at a small pull-off near 266 Gurleyville Road in Mansfield. Coming from campus and Route 195, the driveway is on your left just before the sign for the Torrey Preserve that’s on your right. You’ll see a small brick structure with a fence around it and a telephone pole. There is plenty of parking and its U-shaped driveway makes it easy to pull back out at the end of your ride.
Horses aren’t allowed at Torrey Preserve and on the blue-blazed Nipmuck trail in the UConn Forest. This is the section along the Fenton River; stay on the remaining five miles instead. Several of these trails, including the Blue/white and Orange trails, also traverse along and near the river.
The other way to explore the Fenton
Mansfield
Stacey Stearns
Tract is by riding with the trail practicum through UConn’s Department of Animal Science. Trail sessions are $70 each or $260 for a package of four.
“The trail practicum in the UConn Forest is perfect to learn skills and gain confidence,” says Florence Marsal of Hebron, a trail practicum participant. “The horses are safe, Jen is a great instructor, and the games she prepares when the weather is too bad to go outside are a lot of fun,”
Out Riding It
I rode with the trail practicum group on a sunny weekday morning in May. We met at the Lorentzon Stables on Horsebarn Hill Road and arrived before the practicum start time to meet our assigned horses and tack up. My mount for the day was UC Mi Amigo, a 2017 registered Morgan gelding bred at UConn. I groomed him in his stall, tacked up, and then adjusted the stirrups on his saddle. UConn offers both English and Western riding lessons, and some horses like Amigo are available for either seat.
We rode out from the stables, along Horsebarn Hill Road, past the arena and then down through the driveway of campus buildings to access the Orange trail. The spring rains had left a small stream crossing part of the dirt road as we rode our horses through it and into the woods. Here, the Orange trail goes right for a short distance; this can be ridden as an out-and-back to add mileage, but we headed left toward the outdoor classroom.
The UConn campus in Storrs is massive, with over 21,000 undergraduate students and hundreds of buildings. But shortly after riding into the forest, the campus slips away and it’s hard to believe it’s all still right there, minutes away, as you enjoy all the forest has to offer. UConn is unique from other universities because the animal units, including the horse barns, are all within walking distance from the main campus.
The Orange trail intersects both the Yellow and Green trails; we continued onto the Green trail, looping past the outdoor classroom. Then, we continued straight on the Orange trail, traveling alongside the Yellow trail, before heading north toward the Fenton River again. The trails in this section of the woods weave together throughout the forest, and while many are marked, riding with a map is useful if
you’re on your own. Fortunately, I was riding with Jenifer and just enjoyed the time with Amigo and my fellow equestrians.
We continued on the Orange trail down to Beaver Meadow, where we had views of the Fenton River, before connecting onto the gravel access road. Roberts Brook also runs through this section of the forest, and we had several chances to cross it as we meandered through the woods and then climbed back up the hill toward campus. Our return trail provided new paths to explore; some sections were single track whereas other places we could ride side by side. The forest was quiet, and on this weekday morning we saw only one other person, down near Beaver Meadow.
“I love seeing the forest at different times of the year and showing the riders how to have fun riding,” says Jenifer. “I enjoy their company as we see all the sights. No ride is ever the same and I always make different loop rides.”
Those riding the Fenton Tract alone can head out from the parking area on Gurleyville Road on the access road, traveling parallel to the Nipmuck Trail and Fenton River. A short section of unblazed trail travels over to the Blue/White trail, continuing parallel to the river. This connects to the Green trail, where sections of Orange, Yellow, and Red can be explored as out-and-back trails, before returning along the Blue/White trail. Back at Beaver Meadow, go right on the Orange trail to view another part of the forest. This connects to Green, where you’ll go right and head toward campus.
Near campus, Green meets Yellow and Orange, go right on yellow, heading north again, and back to the access road. Once there, you can go right, following the access route to Gurleyville Road and riding a short distance down to your trailer, or go left and take the section of access road back to where you entered the forest. Either way, the UConn Forest is sure to delight.
I live in Mansfield and have only explored the Fenton Tract a handful of times. This is a missed opportunity, and my first time riding these trails certainly won’t be my last.
Happy trails!
Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian living in Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses. y
Erving
by Stacey Stearns
ETrail Guide
Erving State Forest
rving, Massachusetts, is in Franklin County, east of Greenfield and just south of the New Hampshire border. It’s a small town and part of the Bay State’s forested landscape. In mid-June the Erving State Forest, which spans Erving, Warwick, and Orange, comes alive with the sights and smells of Mountain Laurel. The 48-
acre Laurel Lake is named for them. In summer, the lake area is teeming with guests staying in one of the 27 camp sites, private cottages on the far side of the lake, and day visitors. The 2,422-acre forest also has roughly eight miles of trails and with additional parking lots away from Laurel Lake, equestrians can enjoy the state forest year-round.
This region is even more special because of the 13 state forests in Franklin County. Erving State Forest connects to Northfield State Forest to the north and Wendell State Forest to the south on the other side of Route 2 and Millers River. In fact, you can ride unpaved North Road from Laurel Lake Road and follow it from Erving into Northfield. Mount Grace is nearby too.
A Leg Up
Many equestrians were disappointed when the horse campground in Warwick was sold
a couple of years ago, as they camped there and accessed Erving State Forest. There are several other parking options though. The first is a dirt lot on Wendell Road in Warwick. Use 929-933 Wendell Road in Warwick in your GPS. The parking lot will be on your left coming from Route 2A and the area near the park headquarters; you
must enter from this direction with a horse trailer because of the driveway’s angle. It’s a dirt lot with large rocks serving as a boundary. Arrive early and park strategically to ensure you can exit. I pulled in and circled around with a full-size pickup and bumper pull trailer. Download a trail map at mass.gov/locations/erving-state-forest, although there were some maps at the trail head on my ride.
A second parking option is to drive toward the forest from High Street or North Street via Route 2, bearing right near Kusicks Pond. Follow this to the unpaved section and drive past the unpaved Great Swamp Road on your left. The road becomes paved again and there’s a parking area on your left. Use this parking lot if you want to explore both Erving State Forest and Northfield State Forest. Horse trailers cannot park at Laurel Lake or the campground. Horses are also pro-
Stacey Stearns
hibited on Camp Road and in the campground area; avoid these during your ride. Bring water for your horse. Insect repellent, and hoof protection are also a must in this part of the state. Stay aware for wildlife; the Franklin County forests are home to bears, coyotes, and bobcats, as well as many smaller mammals and birds that would be more fun to share the trail with. As with any ride, be sure to clean up around your trailer before you leave.
Out Riding It
I headed out from the Wendell Road parking lot going south on the Moss Brook Trail and over to Moss Brook Road, going right onto the road when I arrived. I found a wild blueberry bush with ripe berries along the trail. This was a peaceful section and a nice way to settle into riding after the busy roads on my route, with birds singing as I rode along on a summer morning. Moss Brook Road was redone with gravel, and I was grateful for hoof protection as the rocks are tough. There is a steep drop-off on the side of the road down to Moss Brook, which I could hear babbling through the forest, mingled with the sound of traffic on Wendell Road beyond it. Moss Brook Road leads you out of Warwick and into Orange as it traverses parallel to Moss Brook.
This part of the state is very hilly; remember you are often climbing or descending. The trail continues south before looping around and going west into Erving. The next section I rode was a planned out and back; however, in the offseason (November through March), you can ride up near the campground and Laurel Lake and make a loop in that section. Moss Brook Road ends at Route 2A, but before that, you can go right on Mountain Road, another unpaved road. This leads you north and back into the heart of Erving Forest. Mountain Road passes over Forest Brook, and you’ll see the intersection of Cross Road on your right. Just keep going on Mountain Road. This is another section of the forest that reminds you how many remote areas we can enjoy in the Bay State, especially in Franklin County.
There were few other trail users out and about on my ride and I enjoyed listening to the sounds of my horse’s hooves, the wind in the trees, and birdsong as we continued north on Mountain Road. The tranquility is one of the reasons I ride.
I passed the Swoop Trail on my left and at the next intersection I went left on Pinnacle Road, again heading west. Sidewinder, an unpaved road that is a loop off Pinnacle Road, was on the left, and I followed that loop back over to Pinnacle, before going right to retrace the route back toward my trailer. Many of the trails were blanketed in either pine needles or oak leaves, and there was an abundance of Mountain Laurel along the trails and gravel roads. I can only imagine the sights and smells in mid-June when the flowers are blooming.
Back at Mountain Road, I went right so I could avoid the campground area and followed the same unpaved route toward Forest Brook. At Cross Road, I went left and followed that up through the forest and back into Warwick where it meets Cut Off Road. I went right on Cut Off Road and then left onto Foster Road. This short stretch took me back to my horse trailer after a couple of hours meandering in the forest and enjoying all it has to offer. Along the way I saw large, old trees whose circumference is a testament to the age of the forest.
The sheer number of options to ride in Franklin County, along with the region’s natural beauty make it a favorite destination for many trail riders. Erving State Forest is one that deserves repeat visits. The well-maintained trails, peaceful setting, and solitude while riding make it an enjoyable destination. If you’re a Mountain Laurel fan, start planning for a mid-June ride, or a fall ride for the foliage. Like any place, you need to see it in multiple seasons to really know it.
Happy trails!
Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian living in Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses. y
by Stacey Stearns
TTrail Guide
Carolina Management Area
he eastern section of Rhode Island is home to a variety of trails and preserved space that rival the Ocean State’s well-known beaches but remain a delightfully quiet place to explore. Carolina Management Area and its popular Carolina Trout Pond offers 15 miles of trails for equestrians in its 2,359-acre expanse. It’s an upland forest with mostly mixed oaks and pines.
I rode these trails years ago with one of the local equestrian clubs and often reminisced about the beautiful area but had never made it back. This spring, I contacted fellow Connecticut equestrian Celeste Santos-Rivera, who rides there regularly with her friend, Melissa Winsor of Richmond, Rhode Island. Both are active with the trails and local equestrian clubs, Celeste rides her Morgan gelding, and Melissa drives her Miniature horse.
Melissa checked the parking lot for downed trees after the storms we’d had earlier in the spring, and we made a riding plan. “It’s truly a hidden gem in southern Rhode Island,” says Melissa. “Such a variety of trails and scenery.”
The DEM created a recreation area at the four-acre pond and nearby land in the 1950s. Before that, its history included being part of the American Fish Culture Company, a business founded in 1877 that raised trout
and developed pelleted feed and out-ofseason fish spawning. The pond is still a popular fishing destination, especially for families, and is restocked each spring. Abandoned stone walls in sections of the forest tell the story of its agricultural past as well.
A Leg Up
Use 257–259 Kenyon Hill Trail in Richmond, Rhode Island, in your GPS.
There’s a brown DEM sign at the entrance. The gravel road isn’t wide; drive slowly and watch for other vehicles. Drive for a half mile, and you’ll see a brown gate where you can ride into and out of the forest. Keep following the driveway as it curves left; the trout pond and parking area will be on your right. Make a loop in the parking lot to turn around and then pull off on one of the sides as close to the edge as possible. Parking along the driveway isn’t allowed. The driveway dead-ends at the end and although you can turn around there, the best option is turning around up near the trout pond. The Washington County Fairgrounds at 78 Richmond Townhouse Road in Richmond is another parking option.
While DEM has some information available on their website, TrailForks, a popular outdoor recreation site, has the best map. It’s available at trailforks.com/
Richmond
Stacey
Stearns
trails/carolina-trout-pond-access/ and I recommend screenshotting or downloading it in case you lose signal out on the trail. Avoid riding at Carolina on opening day of fishing season, unless you plan to park at the fairgrounds. You can get to the pond in several places to water your horse, although it may be easier to pack water. The footing varies and there are rocks and roots on the trails; I recommend some type of hoof protection. Bring human and equine insect repellent and clean up around your trailer before you leave. There are no restroom facilities available.
Out Riding It
Melissa had to work the day of our ride, so Celeste and I rode down the driveway to the dead end and popped out through the brushy area and onto Kenyon Hill Trail. We took a right and followed the gravel road up to the Kenyon Connector Trail, also on our right. At the intersection of the Jerue Trail, we veered left and followed that out to the T1 Loop, where another left took us up to the North South Trail. Here, we went right and followed this south, down toward Pine Hill Road and the other parking areas. This trail runs alongside Meadow Brook in places and is intersected by several other trails that I’m looking forward to exploring on another day.
One of the reasons I wanted to come back to Carolina, and why I previously enjoyed riding it, is the different types of trails we ride there. We explored singletrack, dirt roads, fields, and wide, shady paths through the woods. Each offers something new to explore and a change of scenery. We saw a couple of other people in the parking lot and on the trails but mostly had the place to ourselves.
Continuing our ride, close to Pine Hill Road, we took a right on the North South Alternate Loop, and this leads north again and back toward the parking area. This loop goes all the way up toward Switch Road and you stay on it for a good distance before veering left at the fork to head toward Essex South. A right on Essex South brings you to the junction of Chicken Head. My best guess, since a query came back with no results, is that this trail is named because it makes what appears to be a chicken head on the map
or there was once a chicken farm in the area. Either way, we went left on the Jerue Trail and then right to follow that back up to the Kenyon Hill Connector. This brought us back up the Goodness Trail on the left, and we followed that over to the parking lot. Altogether, this ride is about 10 miles total mostly on the perimeter, with extra distance if you explore some of the other looping trails of the interior.
“Riding at the Carolina Trout Pond Management Area is full of magic and wonder for me,” Celeste says, reflecting. “A land where time slows down. Dotting the woods along the tall rock formations and cisterns, many foundations from the farming era are scattered about too, and it makes you wonder who lived off the land there. Crossing over Pine Hill Road to the turf farms is a must. I love the opportunities for canter stretches there. The dirt roads lead over to Meadow Brook Pond for a water break, and a portion of the North South Trail includes an old cemetery.”
A shorter option would have been taking a left instead of going right on Jerue. The left at the North South trail intersection brings you back to the brown gate at the access road. After riding around the gate, you can go right and ride over to the parking lot and your trailer.
There are trails on the other side of Pine Hill Road too, but you must ride down the road and over a bridge to access those. Ride carefully if you choose to explore the trails on the other side too, as the cars go fast and the road is narrow. The trails on the other side of the road are among farmland, both corn and turfgrass fields. It’s important to stay on the trail and not ride through the fields as these are working agricultural lands. You can easily ride about 15 miles without repeating too much trail if you combine both sides of the road.
Sometimes repeating an experience can diminish our memory of it, but Carolina Management Area was just as much fun on my second ride as the first, and I’m looking forward to returning soon to explore again.
Happy trails!
Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian living in Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.
Youth Awards
The Community Horse Youth Award is given to the junior exhibitor who has shown the best horsemanship and sportsmanship at an equestrian competition. This is the youth who is working hard with a great attitude. This junior is taking good care of their horse, cheering on their friends, and helping others.
To request a free Community Horse Youth Award for your upcoming equestrian competition in Connecticut, Massachusetts, or Rhode Island, visit communityhorse.org/youth-awards.
y Twelve-year-old Charlotte Lynch won the Youth Award at the Apple Knoll Farm Spring Horse Trials in Millis, Massachusetts, riding Dutch, a Morgan cross. “I started riding at age three,” says Charlotte. “Dutch is my first horse. We’re working on getting our C1 in Pony Club.” Congratulations, Charlotte!
y Maggie Moynihan, 14, of Hatfield, Massachusetts, won the Youth Award riding Arabian Midnight Lace (a.k.a. Lacy) at the Westfield Riding Club’s June Show. “Lacy is 29-years-old and this was her first horse show,” says Maggie. “We have found Lacy’s passion with showing and you would never be able to tell how old she is when she’s in the ring.”
y Ella Bolduc, 12, of North Scituate, Rhode Island, won the Youth Award at The Pines riding Arabian Waiting for Elijah (a.k.a. Eli). Ella rides with trainer Talia DiCostanzo at Prospect Hill Farm in Lincoln, Rhode Island. “In just a few short months, Ella and her horse Eli have come so far, making incredible progress,” says Talia. “Ella's passion for becoming a better rider and building a stronger partnership with her horse shines through in everything she does.No matter the setbacks, she keeps pushing forward with heart, patience, and a quiet strength that inspires everyone around her.” Congratulations, Ella!
y Sixteen-year-old Bianca Boie of Whitinsville, Massachusetts, won the Youth Award at the National Barrel Horse Association (NBHA) Massachusetts District MA-01 Event riding Quarter Horse Red Dragon. Bianca is a NBHA World Qualifier for 2025! Congratulations, Bianca!
y Avery Rockefeller, 13, of Ellington, Connecticut, won the Youth Award at the July Pines Open riding Holsteiner Clairborne. Congratulations, Avery!
y Two-year-old Lead Line rider Diana Wren Brown, of Williamsburg, Massachusetts, won the Youth Award at the Hampshire County Riding Club Games Night in July. Pictured with mom Robin, Diana rode Blaze in all three of the Games Night series. Congratulations, Diana!
Special thank you to J.R. Liggett’s, jrliggett.com, for sponsoring the Youth Awards!
Overherd
News in Our Community
Fairfield June Show Highlights
The Fairfield June Show offers four hunter derby events at varying levels in addition to equitation and high-performance jumper competition, which returned to the schedule in 2025 following a brief hiatus.
For 18-year-old Campbell Hudkins, galloping her longtime partner Diara Rouge in open space has been a regular part of the mare’s routine. The pair frequently spends time outside the arena, galloping through the woods of their Farmington, Connecticut, farm. That made the USHJA National Hunter Derby at the Fairfield June Show an ideal opportunity for Campbell to show off her mare’s versatility. The pair captured the feature derby event of the competition, impressing judges Rob Bielefeld and Carla Sharp over the course of two rounds on the grassy hunter course. Wynatte Chu and Contador finished second, followed by Kristen Abbatiello and Idylle FZ.
Campbell and Diara Rouge set the tone with a smooth and stylish classic round before returning as the final combination in the handy. Campbell did not shy away from the pressure that comes with the position, opting for an inside turn to the trot jump that no one else attempted.
“I wanted to be a little bit more handy. I tried to do a tight turn back from [fences] two to three, and then I did an
inside turn to the trot jump, which no one else had done,” she says. “It was a little tight, but we made it work, and I was happy I did it, just kind of testing the handiness.”
Overall Grand Hunter Championship was shared, with amateur rider Brenda Tananbaum and junior rider Valentina Wu sharing the Sunny Pierson Perpetual Trophy.
“She’s just very brave and so much fun to ride,” says Campbell of Diara Rouge, with whom she’s been partnered for nearly eight years. “She’s just been an amazing horse for me. I’ve done everything from the Big Eq finals to the jumpers with her — and now a hunter derby.”
Both riders finished their divisions with 44 points, with four victories and a thirdplace finish each. Brenda’s top results came aboard her Red Notice in the 3'3" Amateur Owner Hunter 36+ division, while Valentina excelled aboard her own Neptune Edition in the 3'3" Junior Hunters.
“My biggest takeaway is that I was able to ride through some nerves today and get things accomplished,” says Brenda. “My other horses were all really good today, so that makes me feel really good.”
SEL Photography
Valentina Wu and Neptune Edition received the Robyn Pavone Grand Junior Championship Trophy.
SEL Photography
Three-time Olympian Daniel Bluman and Rebelline de Kwakenbeek won the $15,000 Grand Prix.
Brenda has ridden at Fairfield County Hunt Club Stables with trainer Jenny Martin-Rudaz for nearly 40 years, first coming to the club in 1987.
“I’ve been training with Jenny for that whole time,” Brenda says. “It’s a great partnership and friendship. I just love being here. It’s my home. I live about a mile from here, and I can’t imagine riding anywhere else.”
Valentina’s trip to Fairfield, meanwhile marked her first horse show experience in Connecticut. The 14-year-old from Long Island, New York, has been partnered with Neptune Edition for four years, and the nine-year-old Holsteiner by Numero Uno was Valentina’s very first horse when the gelding was just five years old.
“He’s always been my favorite,” says Valentina. “He’s a little spicy sometimes, and he has a little bit of energy over the fences, but he always helps me. He had never [shown] on the grass before, so this was a great experience for him.”
For Daniel Bluman, jumping at the Fairfield June Show was a new experience
— something that doesn’t happen often for the three-time Olympian.
As he entered the arena for the $15,000 Grand Prix, he did so not only as a competitor, but also as a part of the organizing committee. Bluman Equestrian formed a strategic partnership with Fairfield County Hunt Club Stables at the onset of the year, committing to bringing a new era to the historic riding program and its horse shows.
The June Show — recognized by U.S. Equestrian as a Heritage competition, the highest honor a horse show can receive in the United States — was the first major event hosted by the Fairfield County Hunt Club since the alliance was formed, welcoming the greater equestrian community and the general public for five days of competition in Westport, Connecticut. Most notably, Grand Prix show jumping returned to the schedule after a brief hiatus.
“The conditions were perfect,” says Daniel. “We had beautiful weather, and the Fairfield County Hunt Club has worked really hard to get this field where it is today.
Yard Hydrants Utility Trenches Drinking Posts
I know how much work everyone is putting in to make this event happen. We really enjoyed it out there, and we’re looking forward to continuing to have this show for many years.”
Daniel used the Fairfield June Show as an opportunity to both support the event and further the development of an exciting eight-year-old Rebelline de Kwakenbeek. The pair topped the $15,000 Grand Prix Saturday, adding to a victory in Thursday’s $5,000 Welcome Stake.
“We thought it was a great class to bring her here, to jump a little bit in the grass field,” Daniel says. “She’s really game and always wants to jump clear rounds. The idea is that she starts to jump her first international competitions this year.”
“The best part about today’s jump-off was that we were competing among family and a lot of really cool friends, so we were having a great time,” Daniel says. “I wanted to do what was best for my horse. I know there were some people that could have gone a little faster and sometimes it just goes your way. My horse jumped great.”
Looking for a way to get more involved in your equestrian community? Listed here are nonprofit clubs, associations, and rescues in your neighborhood. Each listing’s heading is color coded by state.
yConnecticut y Massachusetts yRhode Island y New England
y Arabian Horse Club of Connecticut ahcofct.org
y Barre Riding and Driving Club barreridingdrivingclub.com
y Bay State Trail Riders Association bstra.org
y Camp Marshall 4-H Center campmarshall.net
y Charles River Dressage Assoc. crdressage.org
y City to Saddle citytosaddle.org
y Connecticut Barrel Horse Assoc. ctnbha01.com
y Connecticut Color Breed Assoc. connecticut-color-breed-association. mailchimpsites.com
y Connecticut Draft Horse Rescue ctdraftrescue.org
yConnecticut Dressage Assoc. ctdressage.org
y Connecticut Dressage & Combined Training Assoc. cdctaonline.com
y Connecticut Gymkhana Assoc. facebook.com/connecticutgymkhana
y Connecticut Horse Council cthorsecouncil.org
y Connecticut Horse Shows Assoc. chsaonline.com
y Connecticut Morgan Horse Assoc. ctmorgans.org
y Connecticut Renegades ctrenegades.com
y Connecticut Trail Rides Assoc. cttrailridesassoc.org
y Epona Safe Haven facebook.com/eponasafehaveninc
Partners
y Granby Horse Council granbyhorsecouncilct.com
y Granby Regional Horse Council granbyregionalhorse.org
y Greenwich Riding and Trails Assoc. thegrta.org
y Hampshire County Riding Club hampshirecountyridingclub.org
y Hanover Hunt and Riding Club briggsstable.com
y Hanson Riding Club hansonridingclub.org
y Hay Burr Inn Equine Rescue & Sanctuary hayburrinn.org
y H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut horseofct.org
y Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council mahorsecouncil.com
y Massachusetts Morgan Horse Assoc. massmorgan.com
y Massachusetts Quarter Horse Assoc. massqha.com
y Middlebury Bridle Land Assoc. middleburybridle.org
y Myopia Hunt Club myopiahunt.org
y Nashoba Valley Hunt nashobavalleyhunt.org
y New Canaan Mounted Troop newcanaanmountedtroop.org
y New England Equestrian Center of Athol neeca.org
y Newtown Bridle Lands Assoc. nblact.org
y North Shore Horsemen’s Assoc. facebook.com/profile.php?id=1000646517 23107
y Northeast Icelandic Horse Club www.neihc.com
y Old North Bridge Hounds oldnorthbridgehounds.org
y Peace For All Animals peaceforallanimalsrescue.org
y Pomfret Horse and Trail Assoc. pomfrethorseandtrail.com
y Reddington Rock Riding Club reddingtonrockridingclub.org
y Rhode Island Arabian Horse Assoc. riarabianhorseassociation.com
y Rhode Island Federation of Riding Clubs rifederation.wixsite.com/rifrc
y Rhode Island Horseman’s Assoc. rihorseman.com
y South Shore Horsemen’s Council sshconline.org
y Southern New England Horsemen’s Assoc. snehassociation.com
y Tanheath Hunt Club tanheathhunt.org
y West Newbury Riding and Driving Club wnrdc.com
y Western Massachusetts Appaloosa Assoc. westernmassapp.weebly.com
y Western New England Professional Horsemen’s Assoc. wnepha.com
y Westfield Riding Club westfieldridingclub.org
In every issue, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island equestrian-related nonprofits can be listed here and have their events listed in the Events Calendars. Each member of the nonprofits will receive a free one-year online subscription. Club officers and board members receive a free one-year print subscription — thank you for volunteering! Would you like to see your local organization or nonprofit listed here? Email partners@communityhorse.org.
13 MSPCA Large Animal Emergency Rescue Training Central Tree Stable, Rutland. centraltreestable.com.
13 – 14 Lynne Kimball Davis Clinic Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
14 WNRDC Adventure Trail West Newbury. wnrdc.com.
14 Myopia Polo South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
Hunter Shows
May 4 . June 29 . July 13 August 3 . September 21 . October 26
Jumper Shows
April 19 . May 7 . May 21 . June 4 July 2 . July 16 . July 30 . Aug. 13 . Aug. 27 All Hunter Shows at Grazing Fields Farm in Buzzards Bay, Mass. Classes for Lead Line through 2'6" Hunters and Equitation. Ideal shows for novice exhibitors and riders on school horses. Annual Banquet . High Point Awards! All Jumper Shows at Valinor Farm in Plymouth, Mass. Wednesday evenings under the lights. Find us on Facebook at *South Coast Series Horse Shows* More information at southcoastseries.com or email mel@grazingfields.com Celebrating Our 12th Season!
Apple Knoll Farm Events
Lynne Kimball Davis Clinics
Aug. 9 & 10 . Sept. 13 & 14 . Oct. 18 & 19
Cole Horn Clinic August 11 - 15
Jerry Schurink Clinic August 14 - 15
Area I Schooling Horse Trials Championships September 6 Poker Run September 27
Charles River Dressage Association Show: Sept. 28 • Janet Foy Clinic: Nov. 21–23 crdressage.org
USEA-Recognized Horse Trials October 4
New England Dressage Association Fall Kickoff Show: August 31 neda.org
Halloween Hunter Pace November 2
Independence Stable
Dressage Schooling Shows
14 Show Series Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com.
14 SSHC Show Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay. sshconline.org.
14 Dressage Schooling Show Series Independence Stable, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.
14 NEECA Gymkhana Athol. neeca.org.
14 Merrimack Valley Dressage Show Haverhill. bradfordequestriancenter.wordpress.com.
14 Dressage Show Lakeville. belandstables.com.
14 BSTRA Western Themed Ride Upton. bstra.org.
14 BRDC Open Show Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.
14 WNEPHA Show White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com.
14 Buckles and Boots Ranch Show Briggs Stable, Hanover. (781) 622-4322 (text).
17 Schooling Dressage Show Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.
17 CCDS Meeting and Potluck with Speaker TBA. colonialcarriage.org.
18 – 21 Eastern States Horse Show West Springfield. thebige.com.
19 SNECDA Mini Drill Team Meeting Blackbridge Farm, Southbridge. snecda.org.
19 Games Night Orange. crimsonacres.org.
19 – 21 NHHJA Fall Classic Northampton. nhhja.com.
MHC Pleasure Classic Finals
JOIN US!
The Western New England chapter of the Professional Horsemen’s Association of America holds Hunter and Jumper Shows.
HUNTER/JUMPER/EQUITATION SHOWS
Aug. 31 . Hunter/Equitation, Northampton
Sept. 1 . Just Jumpers, Northampton
Sept. 7 . Harmony Hill Farm, G. Barrington
Sept. 14 . White Horse Hill, Richmond
Sept 21 . SJH Equestrian, Canaan, NY
Sept. 28 . Harmony Hill Farm, G. Barrington
Oct. 4 & 5 . FINALS, Northampton
Oct. 19 . Harmony Hill Farm, G. Barrington
More dates at wnepha.com!
See 2026 Show Dates at wnepha.com
EQUITATION FINALS
October 4 & 5
Northampton, Mass.
Walk Trot Final. Beginner Equitation Final
Short/Long Stirrup 18” Medal Final
Pre-Child/Adult 2’ Medal Final
Children’s Equitation 2’6” Medal Final
Adult Equitation 2’6” Medal Final
Modified Junior Equitation 2’9” Medal Final
Junior Equitation 3’ Medal Final 18”, 2’, 2’6” and 2’9” Hunter Classics
20 NEECA Hunter Pace Athol. neeca.org.
20 Sunrise Ranch Horse Show Series South Hadley. coatofcharms@gmail.com.
20 USEF MHC NEHC SEHA MHJ Show Medway. nv-farm.com.
21 Myopia Polo South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
21 SCSS Hunter Show Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.
21 New England Hunter Trials Norfolk Hunt Steeplechase Course, Medfield. norfolkhunt.com.
21 Two-phase & Dressage Show Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
21 HRC Open Show Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.
21 Schooling Event & Dressage Show South Hamilton. grotonhousefarm.com.
21 BSTRA Sue Brainard Memorial Fall Hunter Pace Douglas. bstra.org.
23 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
DECEMBER
2 WGHA Christmas Party TBA. wghaweb3.wixsite.com.
l Connecticut l Massachusetts
l Rhode Island l Region
Directory Listings
CAT SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC TEAM Mobile Feline Spay/Neuter Clinic
ANIMAL-ASSISTED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Moonlight Ranch
Tyngsboro, MA; (978) 328-7346; moonlightranch.org
Hosting licensed therapists that provide mental health services to individuals, groups, and families. Each provider brings with them their own unique experience and training. All animals are provided a safe environment where liberty is respected when provided the opportunity to participate in therapeutic work.
ANIMAL COMMUNICATION
Mindful Connections® with Animals
Nicole Birkholzer; nbirkmc@gmail.com
Phone consultations; barn calls serving MA, CT, and RI Is your horse suddenly shying at the mounting block? Not getting along with a pasture mate? There’s a reason for it. Ad on page 55.
APPAREL
Double J Western Store
West Springfield, MA; (413) 732-8800; doublejwestern.com
Carrying an excellent selection of western boots, hats, and apparel from top brands including Justin, Dan Post, Wrangler, and Scully. One of a kind Navajo and Zuni jewelry. And now carrying TuffRider English riding apparel. Special orders always welcome. Ad on page 17.
ART AND GIFTS
Lisa’s Art & Horses
Lisa Guarino; (401) 475-2749; lisa@lisasart.com; lisasart.com
Looking for a special gift? Lisa’s Art & Horses offers a variety of artistic gift items. Equine paintings, T-shirts, portraits. Find that perfect gift!
ASSOCIATION
Southern New England Horsemen’s Association
Glastonbury, CT; snehahorseshow.com
SNEHA hosts a series of six open horse shows at Glastonbury Hunt Club. Remaining shows on September 21 and October 5. Classes for all ages, levels, and disciplines. Year-end prizes.
Uniform, clean, semi-dry hardwood and softwood bedding; mixed sawdust and shavings in bulk. Large quantities available as low as $10 per cubic yard. Decorative mulch as low as $10 per cubic yard. Firewood blocks $100 per cord. Pick up (we’ll load your truck)/local delivery available. Call for more information and pricing.
Pasture restoration, field mowing, fence line clearing, underbrush clearing, bridle trail creation, forestry mulching. We’ll manage your overgrown land. Ad on page 39.
Throughout Connecticut; (888) FOR-TEAM; everyanimalmatters.org TEAM brings affordable spay/neuter and vaccination services for cats to more than 25 communities statewide. Any Connecticut cat — domestic, barn cat, stray, or feral — is welcomed aboard. Call now to book your appointment.
Find your dream equestrian property or sell your farm. Amanda is passionate about helping her clients realize their dreams as an equestrian specialist with William Raveis. Ad on page 27.
Equine Homes Real Estate
Sally Mann; (800) 859-2745; equinehomes.com
Featuring equestrian and country properties in New England and Florida. Our team of Realtors understands and appreciates the unique nature of these properties and looks forward to matching you to the property that is right for you. Ad on page 8.
Expert witness testimony, I.R.S. audits, settlements, pre-sale or purchasing, donation and proper placement, dispute resolution, business and strategic planning, educational workshops, and conference speaker. Since 1980. Free consultation. Ad on page 66.
EQUINE-ASSISTED SERVICES
Blue Rider Stables, Inc.
South Egremont, MA; (413) 528-5299; bluerider.org
Where happy horses help make happy humans. A holistic educational environment in which people and animals can safely interact, and through their mutual therapeutic experiences, broaden the scope of their lives. Programs for all ages, with and without disabilities.
New Canaan Mounted Troop
New Canaan, CT; (203) 966-0634; newcanaanmountedtroop.org
We are a 501(c)(3) youth development and therapeutic equestrian center. We operate a comprehensive horsemanship program for youth ages 7 to 17 and a therapeutic program.
EQUINE CARE
Fig & Honey Horse Care
(413) 464-3485; fighoneyhc.com
Based out of Pittsfield, Mass. with ability to travel. Prioritizing the health and well-being of your horse is our mission. We specialize in providing personalized, high-quality care tailored to the needs of both you and your horses. Household pets and other farm animals are applicable for all services. Ad on page 18.
EQUINE DENTISTRY
Nashaway Equine Veterinary Wellness
Laura Parisio-Wood BVetMed MRCVS CVMMP
Serving MA, CT, and NH; (978)732-9502; nashawayequine.com
Offering routine dentistry including oral exams, dental floating, and minor tooth extractions. Diagnostic imaging including radiology and oral endoscopy; veterinary certified chiropractic therapy for horses of all breeds, disciplines, and life stages. Ad on page 63.
Northeast Equine Veterinary Dental Service
Leah Limone, DVM, DAVDC/Eq; Kim Allshouse, DVM; Kate Frazier, DVM Topsfield, MA; (978) 500-9293; nevds.com Board-certified equine dental specialty practice veterinarians licensed to practice in MA, NH, ME, RI, and CT. Comprehensive oral/dental exams, routine maintenance, advanced diagnostics with digital radiography and oral endoscopy, basic and advanced extractions.
EQUINE LAUNDRY
Dirty Sox Equine Laundry
Lily Ramsay; (401) 742-6963; Serving RI, CT, MA
Inspired by our horse, Sox, who loves the mud, we wash, repair, and waterproof blankets as well as many other barn laundry items. We can schedule pick-up and delivery in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts or arrange for customer drop off in Bristol, RI. Find us on Facebook as Dirty Sox Equine Laundry.
Naughty Pony Blanket Laundering & Boutique
Serving MA,CT, and RI; (401)255-0395; naughtypony@aol.com
Large facility capabilities and specializing in courtesy group farm pick-ups. We offer full laundry services such as wash, waterproof, and repairs. We air dry and individually package. We are a Nikwax dealer. We are trusted by Smartpak and Greenhawk. Ad on page 9.
EQUINE RESCUES
Connecticut Draft Horse Rescue
East Hampton, CT; (860) 467-6587; ctdraftrescue.org
CDHR rescues, rehabilitates, retrains, and rehomes at-risk draft horses in the Northeast. We host gelding clinics, educate horse owners about responsible care, and help struggling horse owners. Ad on page 54.
Rescue, rehabilitate, retrain, and rehome at-risk horses. Adoptions, sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities. Lessons, summer programs, fun, and education. Free programs for veterans. We give horses a second chance at life.
EQUINE RETIREMENT BOARDING FACILITY
Oak View Farm
Washington Depot, CT; (203) 733-8358; joegitterman@me.com
Staff and owners live on this small farm with their own horses. Large paddocks and fields with water on demand. 24/7/365 turnout. Daily hands-on checks, grooming, supplements. Same love and attention we give our own steeds. References available.
EXPOSITIONS & SALES
Equine Expo & Tack Sale
Topsfield, MA; Kay at (978) 768-6275; kljoreo@aol.com
April 25, 2026 in the Arena Building at the Topsfield Fairgrounds. Large vendor marketplace selling new and used items, services for the horse, rider, and driver. Vendor space available. Ad on page 76.
Serving Southeastern MA Farm excavation, yard hydrant installation, drinking post installation, utility trenches, grading, stump removal. See ad on page 65.
FEED & FARM SUPPLIES
A.W. Brown’s
144 Shaker Rd., East Longmeadow, MA; (413) 525-2115; awbrown.com
Employee-owned A.W. Brown's has all your equine needs covered! We’ve got high-quality feed and grain from brands including Tribute, Poulin, and Sentinel, to hay, straw, bedding, and more. Come to East Longmeadow now to get only the best for your horse. Ad on page 46.
Benedict’s Home & Garden
480 Purdy Hill Rd., Monroe, CT; (203) 268-2537; benedictsgarden.com
Serving Monroe and surrounding area since 1950. Feeds: Blue Seal, Nutrena, Triple Crown, Kalmbach/ Tribute, New Country Organics. Hay, shavings, straw. Horse/pet and poultry supplies.
Blue Seal
Find a dealer near you at blueseal.com. Ad on pages 32 and 33.
Lucerne Farms
lucernefarms.com; (800) 723-4923
Lucerne Farms is a proud producer of superior, all-natural horse forage feed. Whether you’re looking for a grain complement, fiber supplement, or hay replacement, we’ve got you covered. Learn more about the benefits of adding Lucerne Farms forage blends to your feed program at lucernefarms.com. Ad on page 83.
Poulin Grain
Find a dealer near you at poulingrain.com.
Premium feeds and personalized service since 1932. Formulated to meet the unique demands of the Northeast. Latest cutting-edge technology and industry-leading research in every bite — so you can always be sure they’re getting the best. Ad on page 47.
FINANCING & LOANS
Country Living Loans from Farm Credit East
240 South Rd., Enfield, CT; (800) 762-3276; countrylivingloans.com
Loans for building a country life. Financing for farms, home construction, land, and equestrian facilities. Our lending experts specialize in financing rural properties. Ad on page 15.
INSURANCE
A & B Insurance Group
Licensed in MA, NH, VT, ME, CT & RI (978) 399-0025; abinsgroup.com
Insurance for all your equine needs. Farm and equine, equine mortality, horse owner’s liability. Our agents have been serving the equestrian community for a combined 50 plus years. Ad on page 13.
American National
Find an agent at (877) 544-0301 or americannational.com. Flexible, tailored coverage for equine operations. Ad on pages 20 and 21.
JUMP EQUIPMENT & TACK BOXES
Salty Dawg Equine Services
Serving MA, CT, and RI; (508) 259-6924; saltydawgequine.com
Custom-made jumps, tack trunks, bit boxes, and more. Great for year-end awards. View photos at saltydawgequine.com and on Facebook. Ad on page 4.
MANURE REMOVAL
Associated Refuse Hauler
Newtown, CT; (203) 426-8870; associatedrefuse.com
Containerized manure removal for one to 100 horses; containers from 4- to 30-cubic yards. Serving Fairfield, New Haven, and Litchfield Counties in CT. Ad on page 75.
Mitrano Removal
Shirley, MA; (978) 425-6181; mitranoremoval.com
We provide large and small horse farms with a manure removal program that suits the farm’s needs. Retain a 10- to 30-yard container and we provide removal service. Choose to stockpile your manure and we provide removal service. Ad on page 51.
ROUND PENS, HAY FEEDERS, FENCING
Colonial Corrals
(774) 4-HORSES; colonialcorrals.com
Located in Wrentham, MA; Serving the Northeast
Practical, durable, and safe round pens, pasture shelters, corrals, hayfeeders, dog kennels, livestock pens, and custom fabrication available. Made in Massachusetts. Five-year workmanship warranty. Complete line of farm and ranch fence and installation services. See ad on page 3.
SADDLES & SADDLE FITTING
New England Saddle Fit
Lise Krieger; Serving New England (203) 685-2308; newenglandsaddlefit.com
Certified saddle fitter for English and western saddles. Saddle assessments, fitting evaluations, flocking, repairs, consignments, and sales. Ad on page 41.
TACK & EQUIPMENT
Briggs Tack Shop & Trailer Sales
Hanover, MA; (781) 826-3191; briggstackshop.com
Full-service tack shop with everything for the horse and rider. Authorized dealer of Kingston Trailers. Ad on page 49.
Cheshire Horse
Swanzey, NH; (877) 358-3001; cheshirehorse.com.
English and western tack, apparel and footwear, horse clothing, pet food and supplies, feed and supplements, stable supplies and fencing, horse/utility trailers, chicken coops, and gifts. Ads on pages 2 and 9.
Equestrians Anonymous
A Jeffrey’s Horse and Hounds Company Carver, MA; (508) 465-0272; equestriansanonymous.com
Equestrians Anonymous offers new and consignment tack, blending quality and value. Find saddles, bridles, and riding gear for every budget — perfect for riders of all levels. Ad on page 47.
Triple Crown Tack Shop
West Boylston, MA; (508) 835-2773 triplecrowntack.com; info@triplecrowntack.com
In the community for decades and our owners and staff are riders, here to serve all riders of all levels. We carry hunter/jumper casual and show apparel, as well as items for eventing, dressage, trail riding and foxhunting including boots, helmets, tack, cleaning supplies, supplements, blankets, horse treats, collectibles, and gifts.
TACK REPAIRS & LEATHER WORK
Awl for the Horse
Fran Hornick; (203) 371-5635; awl4thehorse@gmail.com
Repair work for English, western, harness, and more. Refinishing, conditioning, custom work, leather carving. By appointment only.
Empowering wellness support through the simplicity of massage therapy and allied holistic healing techniques. Understanding the jobs of muscles, skeletal form and function, and how they appear in the psycho-soma of locomotion, students will learn ways to choose what massage techniques best address problems, both performance and behavioral, that are identified.
TRAILERS
&
TRAILER REPAIRS
Briggs Tack Shop & Trailer Sales
Hanover, MA; (781) 826-3191; briggstackshop.com
Authorized dealer of Kingston Trailers for more than 50 years! Fullservice tack shop with everything for the horse and rider, plus we’re a Stübben Custom Authorized Dealer and Fitter. Ad on page 49.
We come to you for complete trailer service! New and used trailers for sale, trailer consignments, pre-purchase inspections, gooseneck and hitch sales and installation, truck modifications, brake controllers and repairs, and wheel/tire replacement. Ad on page 43.
TRAINING, LESSONS & BOARD
Apple Knoll Farm
Millis, MA; (508) 376-2564; appleknoll.com
Our mission is to provide a safe and well-equipped facility for riders to develop the skills and confidence required for the sport of eventing. Facility rentals. USEA horse trials, jumper show series, clinics, and more. Ad on page 71.
Back Bay Farm
Ipswich, MA; (978) 356-0730; backbayfarm.com
A premier hunter equitation training and boarding stable. Riding lessons, showing, training, full board, sales, and leasing. Horse shows on farm; beach and country rides off farm. Travel to USEF local shows. New riders welcome! Ad on page 75.
Bob Burrelli Natural Horsemanship
Plymouth, MA; (508) 224-9430; bobburrelli.com
Natural horsemanship trainer and clinician with more than 40 years experience training and teaching all disciplines. Create a better partnership with your horse through gentle, effective, and traditional Vaquero training methods. Starting colts, helping problem horses, and helping horse and rider partnerships. Ad on page 37.
Bradford Equestrian Center
Keith & Lynda Angstadt; Haverhill, MA (978) 374-0008; leangst@comcast.net
Dressage training and instruction, full-care facility, individualized programs, excellent footing, indoor and outdoor arenas, ample turnout, reasonable rates, dressage competitions and clinics.
Carrier’s Farm
Nancy Carrier; Southampton, MA; (413) 527-0333
Indoor arena, outdoor riding ring, round pen, fields, obstacles, trails, individual or group turnout, friendly adult atmosphere. All disciplines welcome, owner lives on premises.
Cathy Drumm Kindful Training
Teaching throughout the Northeast (413) 441-5278; cathydrumm.com
Clinician, trainer, and coach of western dressage, working equi-
tation, and mountain trail. Kindful training for horse and rider. Happy, relaxed horses and riders are my objective.
Lessons, training, clinics, drill team, horse shows, game nights, boarding, and summer camps. We provide a safe educational environment. Dare to Dream Educational Farm Program. Ad on page 77.
Double B Ranch
Plymouth, MA; (508) 746-8545; doubleb-ranch.com
Horsemanship for all disciplines. Natural horsemanship training, lessons, boarding, and certification. Ranch/trail obstacle course, cow work, ranch roping, team penning, reining, flat work/jumping, and equitation/classical dressage. Ad on page 37.
Fox Ledge Farm
Ann Guptill; East Haddam, CT; (860) 873-8108; foxledgefarm.net
USET Pan Am Dressage Team Silver, USDF Certified Instructor and Examiner, USPC Graduate A, and USDF “L” Judge Graduate. Training, lessons, board, clinics. All levels welcome. Wooded trails and open, rolling fields. Ad on page 69.
Intimate boarding environment and quality care. Matted stalls, recently renovated indoor arena, jumping field, outdoor arena, trails, group or individual turnout, indoor wash stall. Because it’s not just your horse, it’s your family.
Horse Power Farm
Ann Bowie, BHSII(T); Canterbury, CT (860) 334-1772; horsepowerfarm.info
Eventing farm specializing in lessons, boarding, clinics, and test and tune. Cross-country derbies, perfect for the green eventer and the professional with a young horse. Dressage, stadium jumping, and cross-country training. Ad on page 69.
Horses With A Heart
Shana Holland; Chester, MA; (413) 354-7744
Infants through advanced riders. Problems, restarts, mounted and unmounted, horse therapy. Horses connect and communicate through body language, energy, and space. Body riding is safer, more harmonious, and healthier for horses. Licensed. Will travel.
Independence Stable
Dottie Foreman; Belchertown, MA (413) 284-0371; independencestablellc.com
Dressage schooling shows with traditional and western dressage tests. Riding and carriage driving instruction. Board and training with personalized attention for each horse and rider. Ad on page 72.
It’s a Pleasure Training
Peter Whitmore; Orange, MA (978) 652-2231; itsapleasuretraining.com
Peter specializes in starting young horses correctly. More than 25 years experience starting horses as well as fixing existing problems. Available for clinics and events. Board and internship program. Ad on page 45.
Specializing in starting young horses for riding and driving. Boarding, lessons, training, and coaching. Dressage and carriage driving focus. Devin is a USDF bronze medalist. Ad on page 54.
Farm calls and trailer-in appointments. Preventative care, medical diagnostics, dentistry, sports medicine, ophthamology, surgery, alternative medicine, vaccinations, reproduction, and emergency services.
Central MA and beyond; (508) 885-4205; equiddocvet.com
Veterinary care for your horses including 24/7/365 emergency coverage for our clients, preventative health care, lameness exams, parasite management, radiography and ultrasound, dentistry, prepurchase exams, geriatric exams, and more. Ad on page 74.
South Deerfield Veterinary Clinic
Samantha C. Clay, DVM; Andraya Cole, DVM
Alexandra Durant, DVM; Aiden McGrath, DVM
South Deerfield, MA; (413) 665-3626; sdvconline.com
We provide preventive care and medical care for large and small animals. We’re accepting new clients! Ad on page 19.
SRH Veterinary Services
Helen Noble, VMD; Robert Orcutt, DVM; Elizabeth Lordan, DVM
Large and small animal medicine and surgery. Serving the North Shore since 1951. A Heritage Veterinary Practice. Ad on page 76.
Tri-State Veterinary Services
Lisa Dauten, DVM; Litchfield, CT (860) 459-0986; tristatevetservices.com
Mobile large animal veterinary practice serving CT, MA, and NY. We provide skilled and reliable veterinary services to equines, cattle, swines, small ruminants, and camelids through science-based medicine, client education, and management ingenuity.
