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From the Publisher
meet Kris Bramley, Meg Wood, and Lindsey Parkin — interesting women doing great things — starting on page 38.
Horse Logic columnist Nicole Birkholzer writes about how our horses are the ultimate riding instructors on page 52. How can we improve our emotional connection and how do we become mindful partners with horses?
Happy spring! Sunshine, light breezes, shedding ponies — it feels so good. One of my horses had anaplasmosis in 2023, and in 2024 he had symptoms that appeared to be Lyme disease or anaplasmosis, yet neither was detected. He responded to antibiotics but what was the mystery illness? Was it tick-borne? This led to a lot of reading and research for me and resulted in the feature, Tick-Borne Illnesses, starting on page 10.
I enjoy visiting other barns — backyard and larger equestrian facilities. It’s so interesting how each stable is kept, what the social environment is like, and how each horseperson makes their land and buildings work for the needs of the horses in their care. Read about three farms — Rose Meadow Stables, Gemstone Show Stables, and Horse Play Rescue and Sanctuary — starting on page 22. What interesting equestrians live in our neighborhoods? In this issue you’ll
Trail Guide columnist and explorer Stacey Stearns visits Cabbage Hill Preserve in Connecticut, Winnekenni Castle in Massachusetts, and Blue Shutters and East Beaches in Rhode Island. Turn to page 56 to get common-sense advice for driving, parking, and riding out. Be sure to check out our Community Horse Youth Award winners on page 62. These riders represent the future of our horse community, and that future looks bright! (Want a free Youth Award for your upcoming equestrian event? Visit communityhorse.org/youthawards.)
You’ll find news in our community starting on page 63 and a listing of the equestrian organizations in our region on page 66.
Find a book recommendation for your summer reading with Something to Neigh About on page 67.
Looking for something to do with your horse? Check out the Events Calendars for each state starting on page 68.
Happy Spring!
y Congratulations Madison Wasiuk, 9, of Lunenburg on winning the Community Horse Youth Award at the Middlesex County 4-H Fair on Welsh Quarter Horse Bob. See more Youth Award winners on page 62.
Your Letters
To the Editor:
I really enjoy your publication as it’s just the right size for me and love the color. I don’t know who does your covers but each issue I say to myself, “How are you going to do a better one!”
And the Youth Award is the best thing going since sliced bread. I had a lot of parents come in to say what a wonderful idea it is but I do pass that along to you. I just give it out!
Felicia Knowles Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council co-vice president
To the Editor:
The Fall/Winter issue was devine timing. I dedicated the article about me to Rudy, my partner for 22 years, a steadfast and a compassionate soul. Forever in my heart.
Suzanne McPhail
Let us know your thoughts!
We’ll enter you to win a $75 Cheshire Horse gift card! All letters received by September 5 will be entered in the drawing. Send your letters to: letters@communityhorse.org or CommunityHorse, 99 Bissell Rd., Williamsburg, MA 01096
Tick-Borne Illnesses
by Stephanie Sanders
TSymptoms, Testing, Treatment, and Prevention
icks, blood-feeding relatives of spiders and mites, can transmit serious diseases through their bites. Horses are susceptible to two tickborne diseases that are widespread in the Northeast — Lyme disease and equine granulocytic anaplasmosis.
Ticks have been around for at least 100 million years, long enough to have fed on (and perhaps spread disease to) dinosaurs. You won’t be able to eliminate them from your horse’s environment, but this article has information on the symptoms, testing, treatment, and prevention for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis.
Blacklegged Biters
Many kinds of ticks carry disease, but blacklegged ticks pose a danger to horses because they carry both Lyme disease and equine anaplasmosis. These ticks are widespread in the Northeast where they are commonly known as deer ticks.
Wood ticks and blacklegged ticks can be identified by their size, color, and lower back area. Wood ticks range from 3 to 15 millimeters in length depending on how full they are; blacklegged ticks only reach 3 millimeters in size. Wood ticks are reddish-brown with white markings while blacklegged ticks are reddish-orange with black markings. Wood ticks have a black lower back and blacklegged ticks have a red lower back.
Blacklegged ticks go through three life stages — larva, nymph, and adult — and need a blood meal before molting from one stage to the next. They pick up disease-causing bacteria as larvae and nymphs by feeding on infected mice and can pass the bacteria on to their next victim, be it horse or human, dog or deer.
The ticks overwinter in leaf litter and emerge again in spring or whenever the temperature is above 40° F. Sunny days in the middle of winter can bring the ticks
Dusty
Perin
Tick Size Comparison
out to look for a meal. Because ticks attach tightly when they bite and then stay in place, feeding slowly for days, the bacteria have plenty of time to move into the new host’s bloodstream.
Ticks are expanding their range, potentially putting more horses at risk. What’s behind the increase? Changes in wildlife populations, landscape, and climate all play a role. Ticks can’t travel far on their own; instead, they hitch rides on deer and other wildlife hosts. As deer and other hosts increase in number and move into new areas, the ticks ride along. They drop off and become established wherever they find conditions to their liking — for instance, former farmland that’s reverting to brush and forest or the shrubby borders of fields and yards. Researchers have noted correlations between warming climate trends and the ticks’ spread farther north. Warm winters are also helping them emerge earlier in spring and stay active longer in fall, which translates to greater risk of infection.
Lyme Disease
The prevalence of Lyme disease can lead to long-term confusion, concern, and high costs for horse owners. Improved testing, confirmed treatments, and alternative holistic adjuncts provide some answers to help alleviate symptoms and combat the suffering caused by this insidious, often perplexing disease.
First detected in 1975, a unique form
1
3 2
1. American dog tick, female
2. Blacklegged tick, female
3. Blacklegged tick, nymph
of multiple-joint arthritis started to afflict residents in Old Lyme, Connecticut. The bacterium responsible was discovered in 1982, by PhD student Willy Burdorfer, in a deer tick on Long Island, New York. The tiny spiral organism, Borrelia burdorferi (Bb), a spirochete, is named after him. Almost 50 percent of adult horses in certain parts of the Northeast are infected or have been infected. It’s unknown, however, how many develop clinical signs of Lyme disease.
Lyme disease can be difficult to pinpoint, as symptoms range from mild to severe in physical, behavioral, even neurological issues that mimic those of other conditions.
The most common symptoms are stiffness, sporadic lameness, shifting lameness, muscle tenderness, resentment of touch or pressure, increased reactivity to sensory stimuli, sudden behavioral changes, unwillingness to work, lethargy, grumpiness, poor coat condition, and weight loss or muscle wasting. Inflammation within the eye and neuroborreliosis (a neurologic disease caused by Lyme) are occasionally seen as well. Fever and edema are unlikely symptoms; these are more likely a result of Anaplasma phagocytophilia infection, another tickborne illness, or a simultaneous infection. In horses, Lyme can present in subtle but debilitating ways over time. The Lyme spirochete, a corkscrew-shaped bacterium, can work its way from the
bloodstream to joints, bones, and even nerves. Researchers believe it ingeniously mutates once inside the host to avoid detection by antibodies mounted by the immune system and antibiotics. The belief is that it disguises itself in a dormant cyst state and then activates later.
When a tick is attached, the spirochetes undergo the sophisticated process of upregulating and downregulating specific antigens that will allow them to enter and survive in the horse. They then migrate mostly through the skin and connective tissue to joint and synovial membranes. Some also go to the covering of the brain and the spinal cord (the meninges) and to the eye.
Lyme spirochetes continue to alter their structure from moment to moment. This may contribute to the multiple symptoms that of Lyme disease, as well as its resistance to treatment. Spirochetes travel faster in collagen, the thin membrane covering all the muscles, than in the bloodstream. This accounts for the common symptom of generalized body pain. Lyme disease also appears to suppress the body’s immune response.
The simplest diagnostic test is the C6 SNAP, a quick stall-side test that detects the presence of antibodies to Bb bacteria. It provides an instant result but does not provide quantitative results.
Laboratory ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) tests measure antibody levels with high levels (200–300 units and above) suggesting infection. However, this test doesn’t always discriminate well between antibodies to Bb and those produced in response to certain related organisms. A Western blot test, which detects antibodies produced against certain proteins in the Lyme bacteria, is more specific.
While these tests have long been used to diagnose Lyme disease, they share two limitations. First, because the horse’s immune system can take several weeks to produce antibodies to a new infection, tests run soon after exposure may yield false-negative results. Second, because antibodies can continue to circulate long
after the bacteria are gone, a positive test may s indicate past exposure to the bacteria, not active disease.
When Lyme is suspected (soreness or obvious tick exposure), most veterinarians draw blood and send it to Cornell University’s Animal Health Diagnostic Center. Introduced in 2011, Cornell’s Lyme Multiplex Assay aims to identify the infection’s stage, but it still can’t clearly identify all cases, nor does it indicate the degree of symptoms a horse has. What it can do is help to determine the timeline of the disease and distinguish between vaccine antigens and tick infection.
Previously, it was difficult to sort out which horses were recently infected, which had been infected for some period, and those that had been vaccinated with the canine vaccine.
Although the Multiplex test doesn’t give exact answers, it guides veterinarians in the right direction. An idea of how long the horse has been infected as well as the degree or severity of the infection helps veterinarians determine which antibiotic to use and, to some extent, duration of the treatment. Successive tests can help monitor response to treatment and response to vaccination.
For example, during initial infection Bb bacteria express outer surface protein C (OspC). Antibodies to OspC are thought to develop about three to five weeks after infection and disappear within four to five months. Because OspC antibodies indicate recent infection, some veterinarians suggest treatment based on positive test results even if the horse isn’t showing signs of active Lyme disease. The goal is to prevent the disease from developing. However, the horse may not develop Lyme disease, so treatment could be unnecessary. It may make sense to consider preventive treatment if the horse is in an area of proven tick activity and has been exposed.
Once infection is established, antibodies to a different protein, OspF, appear. OspF may be present for a very long time — years in some cases — whether the horse is treated or not. A positive test for
OspF, then, doesn’t necessarily indicate active disease that must be treated.
For Bettina Wagner, the Cornell researcher who pioneered the Lyme Multiplex Assay, the goal was to help veterinarians with what she calls the biggest issue they face: when to treat for Lyme disease. If the test indicates an early-infection state before clinical signs, it is recommended to treat the horse.
Treatment is usually successful when done early. Approaches to treatment vary, and the owner’s dilemma remains whether to treat a horse that shows no clinical signs of disease.
The gold standard for treatment is intravenous oxytetracycline for 28 days. Tetracyclines are the most frequently used drugs for treatment of equine Lyme disease and highly effective in eliminating B. burgdorferi. However, this route is expensive: it calls for daily farm calls and intravenous (IV) medications. A catheter can be used but managing an external port and the infection risk need to be
considered. IV treatment is usually followed by a course of oral antibiotics.
Because of the expense, veterinarians and horse owners sometimes treat with IV oxytetracycline for 7–10 days and follow that with oral doxycycline for up to three months. Alternatively, veterinarians may recommend a 30- to 45-day course of oral doxycycline or minocycline.
Doxycycline isn’t always effective. It may need to be administered for longer stretches initially or after retesting. In the study at Cornell, reinfection was common in the doxycycline group but not in the oxytetracycline group.
Once a horse is treated it will likely test positive after the active infection has cleared or get reinfected. There isn’t a truly negative test posttreatment; often the horse will have successive positive and usually higher antibody-level tests.
Doxycycline has powerful anti-inflammatory properties (some veterinarians prescribe doxycycline for swelling or soreness when phenylbutazone (bute) or
Banamine is not an option), so a horse may show improvement because arthritis or another inflammation feels better, not because the infection is gone.
Horses that relapse may not have been treated long enough. Bb migrates to places without good blood flow, making it that much more difficult to reach, which suggests treatment for a minimum of 90 days.
When Lyme disease is recognized and treated early, the outlook for recovery is good. Some horses suffer recurring attacks of Lyme disease, and it’s not clear whether they are reinfected or are harboring the bacteria between attacks. In any case, the longer the disease goes untreated, the greater the risk of lingering effects and lasting damage to joints and other areas.
Neurological effects often take months to appear, although they have been reported anywhere from 2 to 730 days after infection. These effects are not common. It’s very difficult to confirm a diagnosis, however, so there may be more cases than are reported. The diagnosis is confirmed by examination of brain tissue after the horse’s death.
There is no FDA-approved vaccine for Lyme disease in horses, but some veterinarians use canine vaccines to protect horses. However, there is limited data on how horses respond to these vaccines, and the protective effects are short-lived. Still, in an effort to prevent or interrupt the cycle of infection, many horse owners opt for the vaccine.
Typically, veterinarians will check the Multiplex test before vaccination and after the series of vaccines. The antibody that correlates with the vaccine does increase significantly in the majority of vaccinated horses but without studies, it’s unknown exactly how efficacious the vaccine is.
Anaplasmosis
The bacteria that cause equine granulocytic anaplasmosis, Anaplasma phagocytophila (formerly Ehrlichia equi), take the same route as the Lyme bacteria — picked up
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from mice or other small animals by ticks in the nymph stage and passed on when the ticks seek their next blood meal. As with Lyme, the risk is highest in the areas and at the times when the ticks are active — and as those areas and times increase, so do reports of the disease.
More cases of anaplasmosis are being seen in horses. Since ticks are often coinfected with Borrelia and Anaplasma, ticks can transmit both in the same bite.
Once in the horse’s bloodstream, the Anaplasma bacteria attack white blood cells called granulocytes. Symptoms typically appear a week or two after a tick bite. They include a fever, which may be high (103°–104° F) for the first one to three days, depression and lethargy, loss of appetite, reluctance to move, swelling in the lower legs, and muscle stiffness. Older horses may be more severely affected.
If the horse’s history and physical signs point to anaplasmosis, blood tests can confirm the infection. A PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test detects segments of Anaplasma DNA; other tests check for levels of antibodies produced to fight the infection.
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The tetracycline antibiotics used to fight Lyme disease are also effective against anaplasmosis without the need for prolonged treatment. Treatment with IV oxytetracycline often causes a very quick resolution of clinical signs — within 24 to 48 hours or even less. Many veterinarians will initially treat anaplasmosis via IV and then switch to one of the oral tetracyclines, such as doxycycline or minocycline.
With treatment, horses generally recover from anaplasmosis promptly without lingering effects, and they seem to develop a natural immunity that protects them from this disease for up to two years. There is no vaccine against this disease. Reducing exposure to ticks is the best defense.
Alternative Care
Several homeopathic medicines fit many tick-borne illness symptoms quite well. Ledum palustre (part of the
Rhododendron genus) can be used to help horses with Lyme disease that are sore and grumpy. Homeopathic kalmia latifolia (mountain laurel) is helpful for horses with Lyme disease that become agitated and fearful.
A Lyme nosode (a remedy made from diseased tissue) may be used as an adjunct to other remedies. The nosode can help trigger the immune system and aid healing. Nosodes can be useful, but care needs to be taken that the source is of high quality.
Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) is an invasive plant in the states but is beneficial in supporting horses with Lyme disease. It has a naturally occurring constituent known as resveratrol, a potent antioxidant, that has anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective properties. All of these are important for Lyme disease because there is significant inflammation in the body during a chronic infection. Japanese knotweed enhances and modulates immune function, is active against several bacteria, is anti-inflamma-
tory for both bacterial and arthritic inflammations, and protects the body against endotoxin damage. Knotweed enhances blood flow, especially to the eye, heart, skin, and joints. This makes it especially useful in Lyme disease as it facilitates blood flow to the areas that are difficult to reach to kill the spirochetes.
Western herbal protocols have also been used successfully. In general, the same herbal formulas should not be used on a continuous basis, since the spirochete is capable of developing a tolerance to the herbs. A rotation of formulas every month is best.
Prevention
Perform daily checks, especially on the neck, underneath the muzzle and jaw, at the base of the mane, and under the tail and ears. If you find any culprits — nymphs and adults — use fine tweezers to grab each tick as close to the skin as possible. (Do not twist or crush the tick. This can cause the tick to release its saliva, potentially increasing the risk of infec-
tion.) Then pull straight out slowly and steadily. Once you’ve removed a tick, apply alcohol or an antibiotic ointment to the site. Some horse owners will keep a small container of alcohol in the barn to drop removed ticks into as killing ticks by hand can be difficult.
To reduce mouse and tick habitat, move any leaf and brush piles, which the white-footed mouse loves, away from paddocks. Mow fields to minimize the rodents and to reduce the vegetation on which ticks like to climb. Use spray or wipes with permethrin on your horse’s legs and tail.
Retail bait boxes expose wild rodents to an acaricide (killer of ticks). However, acaricide is toxic to birds who may eat the treated rodents. You can make your own: Apply permethrin to cotton balls and put them inside cardboard paper towel or toilet paper rolls. Mice take the cotton balls home for bedding and the ticks are killed. None of these is harmful to mammals or to your soil but, if aerosolized, it is harmful to birds and bees. The best times to place these are in spring, when nymphs feed on the white-footed mouse, and in late summer, when newly hatched larval ticks feed on them.
OWNERS AND TRAINERS now recognize mild clinical signs of Lyme disease and anaplasmosis as more information comes to light and diagnostic tests improve. Preventive steps and vigilance can help reduce opportunities for ticks and perhaps eliminate the expense of testing and treatment. Although they, too, are costly, adjunct herbal and homeopathic therapies provide additional routes to restore our horses to health and vitality.
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.
A special thank you to Joyce Harman, DVM, MRCVS for her knowledge and assistance with this article. Joyce’s company, Harmany Equine (harmanyequine.com) provides education, supplements, homeopathics, and other products to promote your animal’s health.
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by Sally L. Feuerberg Farm
Rose Meadow Stables
Each member of the horse community has unique, specific requirements in mind when looking for a barn that’s the right fit. As a parent, you may be searching for a safe and caring environment for your young aspiring equestrian, or your child may want to hone
their skills and compete. Perhaps you’re the one who wants to get back in the saddle again. Maybe you’re looking for a place with trails nearby or an indoor/outdoor option to accommodate all four seasons and changeable weather conditions. Or you may be seeking guidance from an experienced trainer to help you improve your relationship with your equine companion. Lauren Santoro owns and manages Rose Meadow Stables in Harwinton, Connecticut, a facility that’s prepared to answer these needs and so many more.
CH: Rose Meadow Stables offers a unique blend of services. Let's start with your exceptional facility! Lauren, could you share some history about the property and the standout ameni- ties at your stable?
Lauren: The property’s history dates to 1925, and, of course, it’s seen many updates and improvements since then. Rose Meadow Stables offers full care and semi-rough board. We have a 30-stall barn
with fully matted stalls, a spacious indoor arena, and an oversized, lighted outdoor arena. We also have a round pen, tack lockers, and horseback riding access to the Roraback Horse and Nature Trail in the Roraback Wildlife Management area, a favorite activity for many boarders.
CH: Rose Meadow offers lessons for even the youngest riders. What’s your approach for starting the youngest of students on a path to success? How do your teaching methods adapt to the rider as they progress, develop, and advance?
Lauren: I’ve worked with riders as young as age three. When you see that they really have the bug for horses, the best thing you can do for those young riders is to keep lessons engaging and fun. Teach them about the horses they ride, colors, the proper terminology for mares and geldings, and parts of the horse. We also add in games like a version of Simon Says — reach for your horse’s ears or bend over and touch your toes. These seem simple, but they are great confidence boosters for kids to realize they can change their position in the saddle without falling. We’ve also been known to play a rider’s favorite music if they feel extra nervous. If you’re singing, you’re breathing!
I take this approach with students of all ages. Riding should always be fun! As they
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progress, we work on more advanced techniques, such as collection, leg yielding, and obstacles. These more advanced tasks give students a deeper understanding of how to effectively communicate with their horse to have a safe and fun ride, no matter what discipline they choose.
I’ve found an enjoyable challenge in learning about all my students’ different learning styles and having to tweak my phrasing or break down tasks to make them easier for some students to complete. My goal is to encourage independent thinking and strong problem-solving skills in all my students no matter their level of riding.
It’s a thrill watching them move through the levels of riding and building their confidence!
CH: Do you offer show participation?
Lauren: Absolutely! Horse shows are the highlights of our year! We promote a positive and hard-working mentality with our show team. It’s our philosophy that the ride and the horse are always more important than the ribbon, and you’re always
there to support your teammates. Our students come to each show with a specific goal in mind, whether it be finally getting their diagonals, moving up a division, or as simple as having a clean ride.
The best part of last year was when two of my most dedicated young riders came to me and practically begged to help us load horses in the morning and do morning set-up at the shows. They and their wildly supportive parents met us at the barn at five in the morning dressed for the day and ready to work! What I love about this profession is helping to raise the next generation of riders to not only enjoy riding but also enjoy the setup, the practice, and the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to make a barn full of happy horses.
CH: How about the more mature student reentering the horse community after a brief or even more extended hiatus? How can you help them with the readjustment?
Lauren: Many of the more mature riders who have come to me are trying to return
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after a bad fall or a hiatus so long that they have lost all their riding muscles and confidence. These students learn just as much as my younger students about the horses they ride and their physiology. These types of riders need the security of a strong, wellbalanced seat and the knowledge that they can control their horses and de-escalate any spooking incidents. We do leg-yielding, lots of circles, and groundwork to build a strong bond and understanding between horse and rider. If they can communicate clearly, both partners will feel more secure and confident in each other’s presence.
CH: Rose Meadow Stables offers quite a diverse program. What disciplines of horsemanship do you teach?
Lauren: We offer jumping, western pleasure, hunt seat, equitation, driving, groundwork, and natural horsemanship.
CH: Your career started at a very young age. Tell us a little about your back- ground and some of the horses that shaped you as the horseperson and trainer you are today.
Lauren: Before I was even born, my mother had been praying for a daughter so that she could get back into horses. So, my love for them really did start in the womb, and I started riding when I was only two years old. We tried lessons at a few different barns before finally deciding it was time for our own horse. The family purchased Sunny Acres Most Wanted (aka Jesse), a 2002 Palomino Morgan and my career got a little more pointed. We went to local shows, showing mostly western at first. Jesse was a bit of a handful as a young horse, so we put him in training and leased a few different Morgan show horses for me in the meantime. I loved each and every one of them, constantly begging my parents to buy them for me. But I would always move up a level, or one would get sold, and I would jump on the next horse my trainer pointed me to, ready to ride anything.
The one constant was that I loved to ride the tough horses, the project horses, or the horses that were too forward for the other kids. I even got to show my trainer’s sale horse at Morgan Grand Nationals in
Oklahoma City when I was nine and brought home some blue ribbons. Eventually, I got old enough to start riding Jesse, and decided I was ready for the challenges he gave me. I left my trainer's barn and went home to ride my own horse. We worked hard. Some shows would be great, and others we would have some trouble, but my mother always told me after our classes, “You may not have won, but there isn’t a kid in your class that would be able to ride this horse,” and I loved that. I enjoyed working hard and seeing my efforts pay off.
The next horse we purchased was Bodini, a 2009 Morgan we met at our friend’s barn. He was initially going to be a Morgan hunter/pleasure horse and had been a trainer’s horse that had been put on the back burner, so to speak, so he was a very green horse at age five. The first time I got on him, our friend/trainer said, “This is going to be the hardest horse you ever ride!” And he was correct at the time. Bo spooked and jumped, had trouble going down the rail, and I found his canter a mess. But in just a few rides, I had fallen in love with him. He was timid and green but was also the most personable and sweetest horse I had ever met. We took him home, and he ended up being a fantastic threefoot jumper and a bit of a trick pony!
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and Lauren Santero’s primary focus is producing supple, respectful equine partners who enjoy their jobs — horses that their riders love spending time with. She is passionate about working with any horse and students of all ages, whether their goals include competing in the jumper ring, having fun at home, or simply filling that equestrian desire for the “right fit” for human and horse.
Sally L. Feuerberg is the president of the Middlebury Bridle Land Association and a longtime resident of Newtown. Trail riding and continuing her lesson programs are her passions, along with the care of her family, horses, and farm.
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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South Shore, Cape Cod & the Islands
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.
by Jennafer Maselli
FPutting the Horses First Gemstone Show Stables
rom an early age, Gemstone Show Stables’ Carolyn Jette learned the importance of putting a horse’s health first. With the help of her parents and a black and white blanketed Pony of the Americas named Peacock, Carolyn learned the fundamentals of horse care and how to appreciate every lesson your horse teaches you. Even when that lesson is a tough one. That beginning and those
lessons have shaped Carolyn’s equestrian career into something incredibly successful, by both human and horse standards. Carolyn runs her top notch show program, Gemstone Show Stables, out of the Four Winds Farm in North Oxford, Massachusetts. In more ways than one, Gemstone Show Stables has given Carolyn the opportunity to grow.
Specializing in hunters and equitation, Carolyn also excels at developing young horses and new riders of all ages. Her experience starting both young and green horses has given her the tools needed to help challenging horses to reach their full potential. Focusing on top-tier horsemanship and
foundational riding techniques is at the heart of Gemstone Show Stables’ program.
CH: Where did your journey with horses begin?
Carolyn: I started riding at two years old when my mom bought me my first pony. Growing up, my parents and I rode as a family, and did competitive trail riding together. On weekends, we would take
our camper and set up portable fences at horse campgrounds. We would pack our lunches and ride for 25 to 50 miles a day. It was a great way to get into horses. It wasn’t until I was 18 years old that I got into jumping.
CH: How did starting as a competitive trail rider shape your equestrian career?
Carolyn: Competitive trail riding is so different from what I do now in the hunter jumper world. In competitive trail riding, you push your horse for four hours, then at the end of it your horse goes through a thorough vet check for soundness and
Copper and Gold GSS, Carolyn Jette, and “the man who supports me 100 percent’ Jonathan Stevens.
What A Gem 3.5 months after foaling Copper and Gold GSS.
fatigue. Competitive trail riding taught me a lot about horse care — checking for wind puffs, stone bruises, knowing proper heart rate and respiration, and other potential problems. The proper care of an equine athlete, things we don’t always learn in a typical barn setting, gave me a solid foundation for what I do now.
CH: How did Gemstone Show Stables come to be?
Carolyn: Back in the day, I had my own barn in North Brookfield, but I got burned out. When I was 35, I decided to step back and keep only one horse. He and I were doing Grand Prix show jumping until he got injured and I retired him. Then I bought my current horse, a Hanoverian mare, What a Gem (Gemma); she’s who the show stable is named after. She’s quite special. I bought her as a twoyear-old and started her myself.
In 2020, I was in law school, having decided that horses would be a hobby instead of a career. At the time I was just
enjoying Gemma. When Covid hit, a friend asked if I would teach one of the riders at her boarding barn in Oxbridge. I agreed, thinking it would be just the one student; instead, it led to me going from law school back to teaching riding lessons. That one student grew to about 20.
In _____, I went to Four Winds Farm in North Oxford to look at a horse with one of my students. The horse was great, but I advised my student to lease the horse first to make sure she had the time to put into it. Four Winds Farm was not far from the boarding barn in Oxbridge, so I was able to make the trip out frequently to check on my student and the horse she was interested in. My student didn’t end up purchasing the horse. However, Karla ________, who was leasing Four Winds Farm at the time, asked me to come on as an instructor and trainer. I moved from Oxbridge to North Oxford and all my students followed me. I resumed training and teaching full time, and law school became a part-time endeavor. I have just one class to take to graduate and I intend to finish my law degree.
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Nanci brings energetic creativity to all that she does – from the design of her stable and the pattern‐based work of her equine physical rehabilitation practice, to her teaching.
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In 2022, I was showing at the Big E, getting ready to walk in the ring when I got a phone call from Karla saying she wasn’t going to renew her lease at Four Winds and that she’d like me to take over the lease. I talked with some of my fellow equestrian professionals at the show. One of my long-time mentors, Frank Perla, looked at me and said, “You have to do it now if you’re going to do it.” So, I did.
CH: You have earned a reputation for transforming particularly challenging horses. How did that come about and what are your goals with these horses?
Carolyn: It wasn’t ever something I was really aiming for; I think it came about because of what other people saw in me. I spent a lot of time working with babies and handling young horses for inspections. Along the way, people started asking me if I would work with their difficult horses. I had some success with a few of them and started showing at schooling shows with these horses, and it grew from there.
If there is a horse in Central Massachusetts that bucks or rears, I frequently get the call. At this point, half of the horses in my barn are horses that didn’t thrive in other environments. It requires a lot of time and patience and being there to support the horse from a physical and medical perspective. I have a really great team of professionals, from my vet and farrier to my chiropractors and massage therapists. We take a holistic as well as realistic approach to determine what it will take for each horse to be successful. Sometimes, it’s just not possible to bring a horse to that point so being realistic about it is important, especially from a safety perspective.
CH: What is your biggest challenge and how do you overcome it so you can live each day loving your job?
Carolyn: The hardest part of my job is working with clients who are unhappy, and one or both of us feel like they’re not fitting into the program. It doesn’t happen often, but it’s the hardest part of the job. I’m lucky; my clients are great, and they’re all very understanding. We strive for open communication between everyone in the barn, and my password for the farm’s wi-fi is “no barn drama.”
After dealing with burnout in this business once, I make sure to balance horses and my business life with my personal life. Nine months out of the year, I am entirely committed to my business with showing, clinics, whatever the event may be. But I give myself three months to take the time I need to reset. I’m still around the barn but I also make plans with my family and travel, which isn’t possible any other time of the year. My clients were nervous the first year I did this, but they saw how I delivered on what I promised for the other nine months, and now they understand and support me.
CH: What are you looking forward to most this year?
Carolyn: I get goosebumps just thinking about it — some of my young riders have acquired some amazing horses recently. These are kids who started with me as tiny peanuts and are now looking forward to
the mini medal classes. It’s amazing to me that I get to develop both the kids, the horses, and my adults as well. I have several adults who haven’t shown because they haven’t had the opportunity. I’m excited that I have a great group of students, both kids and adults, that will be blossoming this show season.
It’s an exciting upcoming show season for me personally as well. I have Gemma’s son that I foaled out myself, Copper and Gold GSS. He recently got his Hanoverian branding done and the inspectors say he is a stallion candidate. So, as long as he stays respectful he will remain a stud, and should have a bright future ahead of him. At Gemma’s inspection she was ruled a premium mare candidate and was the high scoring horse. The under saddle portion of her mare performance test is coming up at her next inspection.
I also have Reckoning, a Holsteiner gelding that was a bit of a problem child but made his debut last year in the three-
foot hunters’ division at the Big E. This will be his first true three-foot season. It’s rewarding to take a horse that didn’t really want to do anything and turn him into a great show horse. I have some fantastic horses right now and I’m excited to see what they will accomplish.
AT GEMSTONE SHOW STABLES, students learn horsemanship to the fullest capacity and receive ample opportunity to compete, both individually and as a team interscholastically. Carolyn’s success is a direct result of her outstanding ability to balance the care of the horses, her students, and herself.
Jennafer Maselli, a freelance editor and writer, lives in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. As a horse owner and rider, Jennafer enjoys everything from trail riding to reining to playing polo, and is an active USEF competitor with her Irish Sport Horse and Thoroughbred-cross geldings.
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Saunderstown
Farm Horse Play Rescue and Sanctuary
by Geena Monahan
Horse Play Equine Rescue and Sanctuary in Saunderstown, Rhode Island, opened its doors more than 26 years ago, originally operating as a place where people dealing with emotional turmoil could experience the healing power of horses. Upon the move in 2007 from Exeter, Rhode Island, to its current location, Deidre Sharp, Horse
Deidre Sharp, president and founder of Horse Play Rescue and Sanctuary with Sabio.
Play’s president and founder, turned her focus solely to equine rescue. To date, the rescue has saved more than 405 horses from grim situations. Located on 82 acres and surrounded by 380 acres of land protected in a trust, the rescue horses who arrive at Horse Play have no shortage of free space to decompress and remember how to be a horse again. Whether they’re an ex-racehorse saved at auction, a wild Mustang captured in a round-up, or an elderly horse in need of a home to live out its final years, Horse Play Equine Rescue exists as a sanctuary for all.
CH: Can you tell us about the amenities at Horse Play?
Deidre: Our horses are kept in a natural environment, in a large field with run-in
shelters. Our current herd of nine horses lives on eight acres, so there’s plenty of room. We have trails, an outdoor ring that’s lighted, and another smaller field that we fence off for grazing or to use as an additional riding ring. Our horses receive top-notch care with routine visits from the vet, hoof trimmer, and equine dentist. We’re low-key and focus on proper nutrition
Post zumba class at the farm from left to right: pony Tommy Lee, Deidre Sharp, Harry, Jan Gregroy, and Meri Brady.
through a forage-based diet supplemented with vitamins and minerals, and of course, medications for those who need it.
CH: What does the rehabilitation process look like when a horse first arrives at Horse Play?
Deidre: The first step always is to go back to the beginning and allow them to just be a horse again. We like to use the Carolyn Resnik Method where we hang out with the horse and share territory for a while. Over time, we gradually work on establishing a relationship where we don’t use a lot of restraint. When they begin to trust us, then we can add a halter to do in-hand work. Our horses are barefoot and bitless, and we require them to stay that way when they get adopted. We find it works well,
because when we get to the point of asking them to engage with us and eventually progress to riding, they’re much more willing because we’re not forcing it. They’ve developed that trust and a bond.
CH: What’s your favorite success story?
Deidre: We had an ex-racehorse, Raza, who was saved in Pennsylvania while on her way to slaughter. We took her in and placed her in a quarantine stall so she could recover from two different bacterial lung infections. Raza was neurotic, constantly weaving back and forth like she was in a trance. It was painful to watch. Once she recovered, we were able to turn her out with two other mares to start, and then ultimately out with the big herd. She was initially very head shy but let us work with her in the field and started letting us touch her head, eventually dropping her head down for the halter. Within a month of being turned out in a natural environment, she was completely different, like a pony-ride type of horse.
CH: Does Horse Play host events?
Deidre: We have a lot of fundraisers to keep the rescue afloat. In the summer, we hold an open house with a band, vendors, food, raffles, silent auctions, and pony rides. We like to have a meet-and-greet with the horses where people can come out into the field to pet the horses and hear their stories.. In the fall we have another open house; it’s more low-key with the focus on a food drive to benefit our community. Around Christmastime we offer photos with Santa Claus and another meet-and-greet with the horses, which is always a great way to recruit new volunteers.
I’m a Zumba instructor, so I like to teach classes with the horses. I have a portable speaker, and we all go out and dance in the field. The horses seem to like it; some of them hang out; others prefer to keep their distance. In the future, I’m hoping to host a holistic healing day with tai chi, meditation, a hike in the woods, and maybe some dance or a drum circle — all with the horses who choose to participate.
CH: Can you tell us more about your background with horses?
Deidre: My aunt and uncle had horses, and I was riding from the time I was 16 months old. I was raised with a great deal of respect and love for horses, believing that they are a part of our family and that we are partners in this journey. There was never any pressure to compete, but I did three-day events and some endurance. I grew up splitting my time between Virginia and the Caribbean and ended up sailing for a living, spending my summers in Newport, Rhode Island. When the time came for me to stop sailing, I went to work for a highgoal Argentinian polo player, and that gave me some amazing opportunities. I was sent to England to take a six-week course with Monty Roberts, and also learned to do barefoot trimming while I was there.
CH: What were the driving forces behind starting a horse rescue?
Deidre: Horse Play started when I took in two Thoroughbreds who were on their way to auction. My initial goal was not so much a rescue, but more as a therapeutic program for people with mental and emotional challenges. We started adding more horse rescues and surrenders three years into it, but when we moved from Exeter to Saunderstown in 2007, we turned our focus to being an equine sanctuary. Most of our horses now come from owner surrenders, but sometimes from SPCAs in the area as well.
It’s a lot of work with endless ups and downs, but the horses are what keep me going. I enjoy waking up in the morning to go out and feed, and the horses are always happy to see me. I like that every day is different, enjoy thinking about all the fun projects we can do, imagining the improvements we can make to the farm, and how we can save more horses.
CH: What would you like the community to know about the work you do here?
Deidre: If you’d like to volunteer, you don’t need to know a thing about horses; we will teach you. We currently have about
Leah Limone DVM, DAVDC/Eq
Kim Allshouse, DVM . Kate Frazier, DVM
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Let us be part of the health care team to help achieve your goals for your horse’s health and performance.
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15 people who volunteer regularly and can always use more to help with projects such as fence repair, rebuilding shelters, and clearing overgrown trails. There are morning and evening two-hour shifts where we need help with horse-related chores like feeding, watering, and mucking stalls.. We can always use volunteers with experience in marketing, fundraising, grounds maintenance, and event planning.
Donations are what keep our doors open. We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; all donations are tax deductible and go to supporting the nine horses we have on property and the 18 horses we support that are currently placed in foster homes. I would like to be able to open our doors to a few more horses, maybe in the spring or summer.
CH: What are your goals for the future of Horse Play Equine Rescue?
Deidre: One of my biggest goals, something I would love to do, is show people that you don’t have to ride to enjoy your horse. Horses are social animals, and there are so many other cool and rewarding ways to enjoy your equine partner. Here at the rescue, we believe that all lives are sacred. I have the most fun with my blind Mustang, who is only sound for very light riding; he gives everyone so much joy.
In the past we have offered lessons to the public, but it’s weather dependent because we don’t have an indoor arena. However, we’re thinking of starting a full lesson program in the spring, geared toward horsemanship. My focus is sharing our knowledge and feelings about horses, here at the farm through workshops and online to reach a wider audience. To learn more about us and our upcoming events, visit horseplayrescue.org. and our Facebook page.
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
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!
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Horseperson
Kris Bramley Equanimity Show Stables
by Sally L. Feuerberg
At Equanimity Show Stables of Monroe, Connecticut, owner Kris Bramley believes in fostering enduring relationships between riders and their trainers. Her goal is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where both horse and rider can thrive. I’ve been training with Kris for more than nine
years, and in our time together I’ve gone from a once timid student to a more confident, relaxed, and happier rider. My experience with Kris has been exceptional, and it’s a bond I cherish and value. As an older rider now, I appreciate this partnership with my trainer more than ever.
My conversation with Kris about her beginnings, philosophies, influencers, and teaching methods was enlightening. It deepened my appreciation of the immense amount of time, dedication, discipline, and continuing education that goes into her work.
CH: Kris, please tell us about your early involvement with horses.
Kris: I began riding at the age of five at Anderson’s Acres in Kent, which was the barn’s minimum age requirement. I’d been watching my older sister take lessons for two
years, so when it was finally my turn to ride, I got on and started posting to the trot.
CH: Who were your role models in the horse world as a young rider?
Kris: As a child, I was in awe of all the top Grand Prix riders of my time — Michael Matz, Leslie Howard, Margie Goldstein, Peter
Leone, Ludger Beerbaum, Pierre Durand, and Ann Kursinski — too many to name!
CH: Who were some of the people who influenced you the most?
Kris: I would watch the Grand Prix riders in the warm-up ring before a big class. The composure and specific warm-up routine that each one of them had before entering the ring opened my eyes to why proper home training was so important. Homework is done at home, and the specific warm-up at a show is individualized for both horse and rider.
CH: Did you have a mentor who helped shape your career?
Kris: I was a freelance trainer throughout my career, so I have worked for many top barns. Cynthia Williams, owner of New England Farm in Westchester, New York,
Monroe
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Richard Killian
Kris Bramley at xx.
Sophia Salerno, her beloved Cornelius, and Kris at CHJA Finals Children’s Hunter.
opened a door for me by hiring me. She then opened my eyes to the top of the sport, as well as introducing me to so many other top professionals I’m happy to have worked for throughout the years both in the Northeast and Wellington, Florida. Those experiences showed me why trainers at the top of the sport are so successful. That opportunity brought what I had already accomplished as a self-taught professional to a higher standard, one that I continually strive for.
CH: Can you summarize your approach to successfully developing both horse and rider?
Kris: First and foremost, let’s start with the horses. I train horses for their specific riders. I want my clients to be successful, and because we all have our own riding style and habits, I train my clients’ horses in a manner best suited to their particular rider. I also do extensive research on feed and feeds available. As a result, I’m super confident in my feeding program — my horses are healthy, look amazing, and have sound minds. Regarding developing riders, we all ride at our best when we are confident. My work is to instill trust in each one of my riders that they are safe on their horses and can achieve their goals for that day. I push my kids when they need to be pushed because I know what they are capable of, but I also know to tread lightly when working with fear or confidence issues. If a rider wants to be competitive at the horse shows, then we’re going to train at home to be the winner at the shows. Many of my adult clients want to be able to trust that they are in a good place, both mentally and physically.
CH: You recently received the 2024 Fairfield-Westchester Professional Horsemen’s Association’s High Score Trainer’s Award for Adult Amateur Hunter 36 and Older Equitation. You’ve had a successful equestrian career. Have there been challenges?
Kris: Ha! Of course! There have been challenges; every business has its challenges, and as we know, the horse world has its own challenges — the challenge of keeping horses safe and sound on a daily basis. The challenge of teaching lessons and ensuring each horse and client learns
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We cater to everyone, whether you’re the seasoned competitor in a show program, or just getting back into riding. We provide custom programs specifically for each individual horse and rider team.
Contact Kris Bramley to discuss your customized program (860) 601-0670
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something that day. The challenge of going to a horse show and striving to set each horse/rider combination up just right to succeed — the challenge of resolving a soundness issue in a horse or a confidence issue in a rider. Finding the facility that will best suit your horses and clients. The challenges are grand, for sure.
CH: Has overcoming these challenges make you a better trainer?
Kris: Overcoming challenges is our job once we decide to become trainers. I would say that the more challenges I have successfully resolved, the more successful I have become as a trainer.
CH: When you’re not teaching, you’re riding and training your clients’ horses. You also keep abreast of changes and advances in everything equestrian. How important is that in today’s ever-evolving world?
Kris: Staying on top of the most recent research is of utmost importance. The world we live in today is advancing so fast, and knowledge is at the end of our fingertips, as long as you are studying reputable sources. If I want to be more successful, I must know how to do that. I always want to know the “why” of my questions, so I research. Just because something in the horse world is trending doesn’t mean it really works.
CH: You’ve traveled internationally- helping clients find the right horse. Can you share a little about these experiences?
Kris: I’ve been to Germany several times. What an experience! As a kid, the Germans always led the way in the Olympics, so I have always admired what they do and how they do it. I’ve bred horses, so [a horse’s] breeding has always been essential to me. I study lines of good quality and temperament. After going to Germany, I had an even greater respect for what they do and how specifically they breed and train their horses. My biggest takeaway was their deep understanding of the horse. My best way to describe it is that Americans have dogs, and Germans have horses.
CH: Can you help your students find the horse that’s a match for them?
Kris: Of course. Part of what I strive for in my program is to do just that. Horse shopping is a tedious task, but with patience and perseverance, the right horse is out there for everyone. Most of my clients are looking for that one horse to suit them, so I strive to find the one that will last.
CH: How about the individual who has been away from riding and needs the equestrian fix they’ve been missing? Can you help them as well?
Kris: Yes! I’m so appreciative of adults who have put their equestrian lives on hold for family and work and are finally in a place to treat themselves to what they deserve. I have several clients who are just getting back into riding or even starting out a bit later in life because it’s something they’ve always wanted to do.
CH: You recently moved Equanimity Show Stables to Monroe, Connecticut. Please tell us a little about the farm.
Kris: It’s a beautiful and professional facility. I’ve known the facility since I showed there when it was Crickerbrook. One of my former clients bought it, and I worked for her on and off throughout the years. After that I worked for one of the farms that leased it, and now I’m back here with my own business. The horses love the facility, and so do the clients. It’s a nice balance of horse show clients and clients who just want a professional place to ride.
OBSERVING KRIS’S INTERACTIONS with horses and riders at various competition and training levels is inspiring. Her skills are continually evolving, leaving me in awe. Her patience, expertise, and communication with her clients and their horses are genuinely exceptional, and witnessing this has significantly influenced my approach to riding.
Sally L. Feuerberg is the president of the Middlebury Bridle Land Association and a longtime resident of Newtown. Trail riding and continuing her lesson programs are her passions, along with the care of her family, horses, and farm.
by Diana Bezdedeanu
IHorseperson
Meg Wood Saddle Fitter
n this interview with Meg Wood of Redwood Equine Services, located in central Massachusetts, Meg shares her journey to become a professional saddle fitter, the challenges of saddle fitting, and her advice for horse owners seeking the best fit for their equine partners. Read on to learn more about her insights into this often overlooked, yet vital, aspect of horse care.
CH: Are you an independent saddle fit- ter or do you represent a specific brand of saddles?
Meg Wood: I’m an independent saddle fitter. I also represent four different saddle brands, which gives me a good range of saddles to offer my clients.
CH: Do you primarily work with English or western saddles?
Meg: Primarily English right now. I’m planning to take some western saddle fitting classes later this year because there’s a huge need for it in the Northeast, and I’d like to be able to offer both English and western fitting once I get a little more education.
CH: How did you begin your journey as a saddle fitter?
Meg: I started in 2018. I had an event horse that was particularly difficult to fit, and after buying her a couple of custommade saddles that didn’t work, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I didn’t understand why everyone was saying the saddles fit perfectly when she clearly wasn’t comfortable. I ended up taking a saddle fitting course through Saddle Guy
Certified in South Carolina, which unfortunately is no longer running. At the time, Mike Scott, who ran the program, offered a six-month course for English saddle fitting. After getting certified, I began saddle fitting in 2019.
CH: How did you come up with the name for your business?
Meg Wood: It’s a mix of my last name, Wood, which is easy to remember, and the horse I struggled to fit, my big chestnut mare. She was my “big red horse,” so I combined the two and came up with “Redwood.” It stuck.
CH: Why are saddle fitters popping up all over?
Meg: It’s because the horse world is really getting on board with the idea of horse welfare,
which is wonderful. Many people are looking for ways to work with horses. Online courses offer saddle fitting training and certification; however,a lack of hands-on education can lead to doing more harm than good. A poor saddle fit has serious consequences for both horses and riders, so it’s important to have a deep understanding of what you’re doing.
CH: In addition to saddle fitting, do you offer any other services?
Meg: I used to offer clipping and braiding, and I still help a few clients with that. But as my saddle fitting business has grown, I’ve had to cut back on the other services because saddle fitting takes up most of my time.
CH: Do you have a specific service area?
Meg: I cover the New England area but I’m not sure I’ll be making it to northern Maine anytime soon unless there are a lot of horses up there who want to get seen on the same day.
CH: What would your advice be for someone who might be on the fence about hiring a saddle fitter?
Meg: They absolutely should invest in the service as the saddle is a piece of equipment you put on your horse that you have control over, just like a well-fitting bridle and bit. A well-fitting saddle can improve a horse’s mental state, their movement, and reduce the risk of injury. It’s something that should be on your regular checklist, alongside the farrier, vet, dentist, and bodyworker.
CH: How often do you recommend people get their saddle checked or refitted?
Meg: Horses in heavy work should have their saddles checked every six months. For horses in lighter work, at least once a year.
CH: Over the past few years, what has been the biggest surprise you’ve encountered in saddle fitting?
Meg: A lack of overall care for the horse’s welfare. I’ve seen clients who say their saddle doesn’t fit anymore, but the horse has no top line or may be geriatric and not sound. Some of these horses are still jumping, and it’s painful to see. I believe in doing what’s best for the horse. It can lead
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to some tough conversations about ethics, which is a challenge but I’m glad to be the horse’s advocate.
CH: Are there any stereotypes about saddle fitting that you've encountered?
Meg: Definitely! The biggest one is with higher-end saddle brands that claim their saddles will fit anything. Horse owners trust these sales reps, but they’re not fitters, and that’s where things can go wrong. There are barns I go into where horses are constantly kicking the walls or biting at the kids while they tack up. It’s a red flag for me. The false marketing from these brands is probably the most frustrating stereotype I encounter.
CH: Does your work include reflocking saddles to customizing saddles?
Meg: Yes, I offer minor repairs, reflocking of wool saddles, and custom options. One brand I work with allows for completely custom trees, which gives me the flexibility to meet a horse’s specific needs. I also offer consignment saddles, demo saddles, and new saddles.
CH: Do you find that your clients mostly come from one discipline over another?
Meg: It varies.. I’ve seen an increase in clients from the hunter/jumper community, especially those who are getting frustrated with their horses being sore in the saddles provided by sponsored saddle brands, which is encouraging. I also work with a lot of dressage riders and eventers.
CH: How do you collaborate with other equine professionals (veterinari- ans, farriers, bodyworkers) when working with a horse?
Meg: When I evaluate a horse, especially if it’s sore, I like to know what treatments they’ve had, what areas of soreness their bodyworker has noticed, and if they have any recent diagnostic information, like x-rays. I’m not a vet, but if I can see from their records that there are issues like kissing spine it helps me understand the type of saddle that will work best for the horse.
CH: Speaking of kissing spine, are there any horses you won’t work with?
like your horse
Meg: It really depends. I’ve worked with horses that have kissing spine, and as long as the horse has been diagnosed, treated by a veterinarian, and cleared for work, we can work on making them comfortable. On the other hand, I also work with horses who are severely under-muscled or in too much pain. If a horse doesn’t have the muscle to support a saddle, no fitting is going to work. I’ve had to turn down clients because of that, and it’s been a tough but necessary stance to take.
CH: Is there a minimum number of horses for you to come out to a barn?
Meg: No, not at all. If I can fill a day, like if I’m in central Vermont and I can line up a few barns, I’m happy to do that. I’ll even travel for just one horse if the owner is willing to cover the travel costs.
CH: What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Meg: Honestly, I don’t have a ton of free time. My partner and I are building a barn at our home, and I enjoy leather crafting. I’m looking into taking western saddle-
making courses and other leatherworking classes to be more versatile for my clients. When I do get a break, I love hanging out with my horses and dogs. I try to attend clinics every spring with my younger horse, and I’d love to get him out to do some dressage and eventing this summer, but time is always a challenge.
CH: What’s your vision for your busi- ness moving forward?
Meg: I’d love to get more organized, which is a common goal for many business owners. But I also want to continue my education to stay up to date with the latest in saddle fitting and horse care. Being more informed for my clients is important to me, so they can trust that I’m always working with current information.
y
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.
Horseperson
Lindsey Parkin Teaching the Individual
by Geena Monahan
When Lindsey Parkin, a life-long equestrian from Clarkston, Michigan, made the move after high school graduation to pursue equine studies at Johnson and Wales in Providence, Rhode Island, there was nothing standing
in her way. Lindsey was on the fast-track to achieving her goals of becoming a professional in the equestrian world, graduating with an associate degree and quickly landing a working student position with prominent dressage riders Bill Warren and Bill McMullin. During this time, she also started working as a therapeutic riding instructor. What Lindsey never could have foreseen was that at the age of 22 she would be dealt a card that would forever change the trajectory she was on— a cancer diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Lindsey moved back to Michigan to finish treatment and focus on her health and healing before eventually moving back to Rhode Island. She had a mare with her that she rode throughout her cancer treatment. She never gave up on her dressage dreams, competing through third level and training with United State Dressage Federation (USDF) silver medalist Diane Catanzaro. During this time Lindsey also began pursu-
ing a career path in the field of occupational therapy, driven by her newfound appreciation for health and wellness. For the past several years, Lindsey has paired her training in the world of therapy with her extensive dressage background to create Insight
Equestrian , a unique teaching style that that caters to riders of all levels and divergences.
CH: When and where did your love for horses begin?
Lindsey: My grandmother was an avid rider, so I credit her and my great aunt for introducing the passion of horses to me. I started taking hunter/jumper lessons at a young age, and when I was in middle school I took it upon myself to find work at a big dressage barn in my town. They would let me catchride and take lessons occasionally; that’s where I got the bug for dressage. In the summertime I worked in Michigan State Parks as a trail guide. They would buy horses at the auction for the summer program, and it was our job to ride and test them out. Looking back, it’s wild that I would do that, but I took just about any opportunity I could to ride.
CH: Where is Insight Equestrian located? What services do you offer?
East Greenwich
Cassie
Holm
Lindsey and Quinn.
Lindsey and Cameron.
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Lindsey: This past January I moved to Pamela Maloof’s Faith Hill Farm, located in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Diane Catanzaro recently sold her farm in Hope where I had been training, boarding, and running my lesson program for 15 years. Pamela was kind enough to let me move in and run my program out of her farm. Faith Hill Farm is a beautiful facility, with a covered arena, dressage arena, and acres of fields for hacking out.
I offer three different lesson packages: beginner private lessons for riders who need help with grooming and tacking up, private lessons, and private mini lessons. Lessons range from thirty to sixty minutes, mounted or unmounted. I also travel a fair amount to local barns to teach lessons.
In-hand horsemanship lessons are a favorite of mine to teach; I have a few older neurodivergent children who participate in these lessons, and it’s been working out exceptionally well. Throughout the years I’ve also taught students looking for vocational training, folks wanting to improve their overall horse care skills, and even people who don’t want to ride but still want to enjoy the benefits that spending time with horses can offer.
CH: How has your dressage back- ground and occupational therapy training shaped your teaching philosophy?
Lindsey: The years I spent training with Diane were invaluable. She taught me how important it is to give people a system and a clear plan. It’s important for the rider and the horse to be on a path that’s consistent every single time so there are no surprises. In 2016, I received my associate degree in occupational therapy from Bristol Community College. The degree focused on different learning styles and adapting activities for people to be successful.
My work as an occupational therapist has given me a deep understanding of anatomy, kinesiology, and how the human body works. Working at Butler Hospital for eight years and becoming a PATH-certified therapeutic riding instructor have both given me great insight into how the human brain works and individual learning styles. My experience in both mental health and
physical rehabilitation settings has helped me learn to read people and determine how I can best help them in reaching their goals.
CH: How many horses do you have?
Lindsey: I have two horses right now; one is my personal horse, and one is my lesson horse. Corina, my lesson horse, has been in my life for twenty years, and I’ve owned her for about ten of those. We met when I was teaching therapeutic riding, but she kind of flunked out of that and has been with me ever since. Hamish is my personal horse; he’s a Paint/draft cross who I’ve had for about a year. He’s super green, but I’m hoping to compete with him in the future and move up the levels. I’m excited to see how far we can go together.
CH: What do you love most about what you do for a living?
Lindsey: I feel lucky to have two professions where I’m following my calling and doing the work I love. I recently had an opportunity to switch lanes in my occupational therapy field and start working with cancer patients in lymphedema therapy,
but I still get to teach lessons and work with adults and children. I love working with neurodivergent riders and I feel that teaching them is something I’m good at. My goal is to meet people where they are, even if it’s just for that day. I want everyone to feel comfortable when they’re at the barn and it helps that I understand how to teach people who think differently.
CH: What are your goals for the future of Insight Equestrian?
Lindsey: I’m hoping to expand a little and take on more students. I don't want to have a huge lesson program, but I am open to taking on more students who really want to learn. I love Rhode Island and the connections I’ve made here in the horse community make me excited for the future and want to stick around.
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. y
Horse Logic
Horses The Ultimate Riding Instructors
by Nicole Birkholzer
As horse people, we know that horses are extraordinary creatures capable of perceiving the smallest details in their environment and within their own bodies. They can feel the faintest touch of a fly landing on their skin, so it’s no wonder they’re highly attuned to their rider’s balance, posture, and energy. This sensitivity makes them not only incredible partners but also profound teachers.
In my work as an animal communicator, I’ve witnessed time and again how horses notice and respond to imbalances — both their own and their rider’s — and care deeply about keeping everyone safe. When a horse feels physically unbalanced or uncomfortable, they may hesitate to allow a rider onto their back. It’s not stubbornness or defiance; it’s their protective instinct kicking in. They don’t want to hurt their rider, nor do they want to make their own discomfort worse. In these moments, they’re sending us clear messages about what they need. The trick is, we have to learn to listen.
Subtle Lessons in Balance
from feeling the balance and support needed to understand the cue. The left hind leg doesn’t get the signal to step under and push off for a balanced transition into the right lead. This subtle, often overlooked detail shows how a horse’s reactions and feedback can teach a rider to be more aware of their own body, balance, and communication.
A Horse’s Body Understanding
Picture this: A rider is frustrated because their horse isn’t picking up the correct lead at the canter. The aids are applied over and over, but nothing happens. When I ask the horse what’s going on, the answer is as clear as day: “The rider’s left butt cheek isn’t connecting with me or the saddle.”
The rider immediately says, “Oh my goodness, I’ve been seeing my chiropractor for weeks to fix my left hip.”
What the horse is saying is profound. That lack of contact prevents the horse
Another horse recently gave their person a very specific lesson. This horse explained that his right shoulder was tight — something his rider had noticed but couldn’t pinpoint the cause. The horse showed me a vivid memory of slipping in mud and jamming his shoulder in a playful frolic. He invited me to imagine standing behind him, looking over his croup along his back toward his shoulders. If you did, you’d see his right shoulder pulled more toward his chest compared to the left. While his left forehand was positioned and muscled perfectly, his right side was tight and restricted, making movement uneven.
This horse knew exactly what he needed to feel comfortable and balanced, and he had been trying to tell his rider with every stride. It was another reminder of how deeply horses understand their bodies — and how much we can learn if we take the time to listen.
Witty’s Lesson in Connection
I’ll never forget Witty, a former eventer with a big personality and an even bigger stride. His person was overwhelmed by his powerful movement, especially at the trot and canter. Feeling intimidated, the rider rode with a tight grip on Witty to keep him from getting too big or fast. Witty, however, had other ideas.
During an animal communication session, Witty invited me — remotely — to sit on his back and feel his tremendous stride. He showed me how he wanted to teach his rider to sit his gaits with a soft seat, consistent hands, and a willingness to let him move freely. His message was clear: You can’t always conform the horse to your com-
fort level. Sometimes, you need to meet the horse where they are to truly connect.
The Emotional Connection
Horses notice not only physical imbalances; they’re also finely tuned to emotional energy. A rider’s anxiety, frustration, or lack of focus ripples through the reins, saddle, and seat, creating a feedback loop that affects both horse and human.
Our nervous system — located along the spine — connects us directly to the horse’s nervous system when we’re riding. If fear, worry, or tension courses through our nervous system, our muscles will involuntarily constrict, and the horse is bound to pick up on it.
Horses often act as mirrors, reflecting the tension or imbalance they perceive from us. This isn’t meant to frustrate us but to teach us to be more mindful and present. For example, a rider who’s tense about an upcoming competition might unconsciously tighten their legs or grip the reins too hard. The horse, feeling this ten-
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sion, might respond by becoming resistant or jittery.
When I’ve asked horses about these situations, they’ve often said things like, “I’m not sure what’s wrong, but I’m trying to stay calm for them.” These moments are reminders of the deep emotional connection we share with our horses and the importance of bringing our best selves into the saddle.
Becoming Mindful Partners
The lessons horses teach us about balance, body awareness, and emotional presence are invaluable. They require us to approach riding with mindfulness and humility. Here are a few ways riders can cultivate this connection and learn from their equine instructors.
1. Listen to Your Horse: Pay attention to how your horse responds to your aids. If they’re not reacting as expected, consider what they might be trying to tell you about your body or their comfort.
2. Assess Physical Balance: Regularly evalu-
ate your horse’s physical condition. Look for signs of uneven muscling, stiffness, or discomfort. These clues can reveal areas that need attention.
3. Check Your Own Alignment: Work with a riding coach or use tools such as mirrors or video to identify any imbalances in your posture. Small adjustments can make a big difference. Ideally, work with a chiropractor or body practitioner who can treat both you and your horse.
4. Be Present: Leave distractions and frustrations at the barn door. Horses thrive on clear, focused communication, and they can sense when your mind is elsewhere.
5. Seek Professional Insight: Don’t hesitate to involve veterinarians, bodyworkers, and animal communicators if something feels off. Often, a fresh perspective can uncover hidden issues.
The Ultimate Takeaway
Horses are far more than companions and athletes — they’re deeply intuitive beings who teach us about ourselves every time we
interact with them. They challenge us to be better riders, better listeners, and ultimately better humans. Their willingness to carry us — both physically and emotionally — is a gift that deserves our gratitude and respect. The next time you’re in the saddle, remember that your horse is always teaching you, whether it’s about the alignment of your seat bones, the tension in your shoulders, or the energy you bring to the barn. Our equine partners offer lessons far beyond riding. All we must do is listen.
Nicole Birkholzer specializes in equine behavior and communication. She’s available for phone consultations and barn calls in New England. To connect with Nicole and to listen to her podcast Let’s Have a Chat, visit mindful-connections.com.
Woodstock
by Stacey Stearns
TTrail Guide
Cabbage Hill Preserve
he view from the top of Cabbage Hill in Woodstock expands between my horse’s ears on a sunny October day, revealing green grass in the hayfield and autumn foliage on distant trees reaching up to an azure sky with puffy white clouds. Cabbage Hill Preserve is a property recently acquired by the Wyndham Land Trust. An anonymous donor gifted this 112-acre gem to the Trust in 2021.
Cabbage Hill is in a remote section of Woodstock and is part of Nightingale Forest, in an area known as the Quiet Corner. Wyndham Land Trust and other partners have worked to preserve and manage nearly 1,300 acres in Woodstock and Pomfret. Nightingale Forest is a wildlife travel corridor that also protects local water quality, so named because it’s in the Nightingale Brook watershed. There is a large hayfield that is still actively farmed. Bobolinks, a threatened grassland bird, nest here and Wyndham Land Trust supports them. Each year, the first hay cutting is mowed after July 15, giving the Bobolinks time to nest and move on with their fledglings. The hayfield’s hill rises to an elevation of 750 feet, and it’s this rise that provides the expansive view we enjoy. Historical town maps refer to it as Mathewson Hill, named for one of the families that lived in the area. Hammond Cemetery is in the southern part of the
preserve with graves from the mid-1800s and includes Mathewson and Siemen family members along with the Hammonds.
Bosworth Brook also runs through the southern part of the property; there’s a small pool on the trail toward Hammond Cemetery, and this trail crosses Bosworth Brook. I wondered where the cabbage name came from but was left guessing. My theories are that cabbage was once grown
in the field, or for skunk cabbage growing in the wetlands during summer months.
I rode Cabbage Hill Preserve with West Greenwich Horsemen’s Association. Celeste Santos-Rivera of Voluntown organized a benefit ride for the Trust. “Cabbage Hill is a breathtaking and beautiful spot in the Quiet Corner,” says Celeste. “Hopefully as more land is acquired trails will be connected and longer rides can be planned.”
Penny Foisey is a member of both Pomfret Horse and Trail and Wyndham Land Trust. She marked nine miles of trail for us and provided information on Cabbage Hill and Wyndham Land Trust’s work over lunch. Our ride included private property and dirt roads; Cabbage Hill usually only has one mile of trails available.
“This forest provides some terrific riding trails,” says Penny. “The kind of trails that make you feel like you’re traveling back in time. We’re actively engaged in expanding and connecting Cabbage Hill
Stacey Stearns
to the rest of the forest. This is important; so much habitat is protected, and a beautiful trail network provides passive recreation for generations to come. Please help to support our mission by participating in the Trust’s Ride for Open Space on October 5 where one hundred percent of the proceeds will go to land acquisition funds. We promise to provide an amazing day for your support of our mission.”
A Leg Up
Use Cabbage Hill Road in Woodstock in your GPS. It’s a dirt road off Rocky Hill Road (this name also gives insight on the terrain). Cabbage Hill is a steep uphill climb. On our ride, we pulled into the hayfield for parking. Those trailering to the area on their own can use the small parking lot at the end of Cabbage Hill Road, or the big field, but please respect the hay and birds and keep close to the entrance. The gate has a Wyndham Land Trust sign on it. A path is mowed along the edge of the hayfields during growing season; please remain on the mowed path.
There are no facilities available at Cabbage Hill, so bring everything you’ll need, including water for your horse, and clean up around your trailer before leaving. The trails were rocky in places, and I recommend hoof protection. Once you’re on the trail, remember that it’s adjacent to private property — heed all signs and stay on the marked trails.
Out Riding It
The bulk of the Cabbage Hill Preserve property is forested; only the hayfield and a few other meadows that connect different parts of the forest remain open. However, old stone walls in the woods are testament that much of the land was once agricultural fields or pastures. I recommend riding Cabbage Hill Preserve at the Ride for Open Space this fall because the trail at Cabbage Hill is only one mile, whereas we had a nine-mile ride that included private property, dirt roads, and trails.
“Cabbage Hill is a nice smaller property with a surprising amount of variety in terrain,” says Anna Sawyer, an endurance rider from Griswold. “I rode with my two kids as a group of three riders. We all enjoyed the ride. The combination of
fields, hills, and forest made for an interesting morning. I appreciated the nine-mile ride that was put together for our group and would have struggled to sort out a route without the group’s markings.”
Start off from the field or parking lot if you’re riding Cabbage Hill on your own. You can ride the trail several times or go around the field in the opposite direction to make a longer ride. A small house and barn once sat in the small field closest to the trailhead, but they were removed. Stay left after going through this field, following the mowed trail, and left again when the trail forks, although you could go right on another loop for a change of scenery.
There are a lot of side trails to the left as you’re riding toward Bosworth Brook, and exploring these adds mileage to your ride. One of these trails leads to Hammond Cemetery. The side trails aren’t marked, so you’ll need to explore some to find the right trail. Remember, this is a small preserve: embrace the sense of adventure. If you get to a fence or private property sign, turn around and continue down the path to the next side trail. The Hammond Cemetery spur is an out-and-back. You’ll turn around at the cemetery and continue back to the mowed path. It gives you a chance to see the pool and cross Bosworth Brook too, although the brook was dry on the day of our ride.
Cabbage Hill Preserve is a remote property with a scenic trail. Its humble story minimizes two bigger messages about it though. First, Wyndham Land Trust and its partners are preserving open space in a strategic and intentional way, creating this larger swath of land that they’ve named Nightingale Forest, and these types of initiatives need to be celebrated and replicated. Second, they allow equestrians to use as many of these properties as possible, and while we’ve lost access to many properties and trails, this is an example of a new trail opening for us, so we should use it. I know I’ll be back to ride Cabbage Hill either on my own or with another benefit ride.
Happy trails!
Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian living in Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses. y
by Stacey Stearns
CTrail Guide
Winnekenni Castle
atch the Enchantment!” is the slogan for Winnekenni Castle in Haverhill, and it’s certainly true. The castle is visible when riding the nine miles of trails in the 700-acre Winnekenni Park Conservation Area that is managed by the city. Kenoza Lake and The Basin, a smaller body of water, comprise nearly half of the acreage. The name Winnekenni means
“very beautiful” in the Algonquin language; this gem lives up to its name and is worthy of exploration on foot or horseback.
First, a little history. Dr. James R. Nichols visited England and Scotland in 1873 and upon returning home to Haverhill, started building his own castle. It took two years to finish the 3,500 square-foot castle overlooking Kenoza Lake. Kenoza (Algonquin for “Lake of the Pickerel”), started supplying the city with water in 1871, and still does today. The city of Haverhill purchased the property in 1895, designating the land for recreational use as its first public park.
Today, the castle is closed and in need of renovations, but the exterior still delights visitors enjoying the grounds and trails. Plug Pond, or Lake Saltonstall, is a third body of water that sits on a portion of the property. Haverhill purchased 50.8 acres between the 45-acre Plug Pond and Winnekenni in 1976 to connect the two conservation and recreation areas.
Eileen Cashman owns Lalobarun Ranch in Newbury where she stands Lil More Conclusive, her multi-registered Paint stallion. She also offers boarding and lessons and enjoys trail riding. “Who doesn’t love riding around a beautiful lake and seeing a castle at the top of the hill climb?,” Eileen says of riding at Winnekenni Castle. “There’s a long steady climb that’s wonder-
ful to canter up and side paths lead to open fields to rest and to Plug Pond and old ruins. Truly a gem!”
A Leg Up
Use 347 Kenoza Avenue in Haverhill in your GPS. Pull in the main entrance between the stone pillars and stop at the tennis courts to take a photo of the trail map if you didn’t save it to your phone. Drive half a mile up the tree-lined winding road to the parking lot near the Castle. You’ll go straight when the driveway splits. The Basin will be on your left and Kenoza Lake behind it. Most horse trailers park in the gravel lot off Castle Road on the right; it’s just after a curve and before you climb the hill. You can access the Plug Pond Trail at the back of this parking lot.
Try parking behind the carriage barn if space is limited; the gate is closed in the winter, but you can turn around at the castle. There are strict rules at the park; be
Haverhill
Stacey Stearns
sure to follow all rules, clean up around your trailer before leaving, and kick any manure off the trail whenever possible.
The trail map is available at winnekenni.com/wpcontent/uploads/2015/ 06/WinnekenniPark-TrailSign-LgFileView.pdf). I always recommend erring on the side of caution and using hoof protection unless there is snow cover as I had on this ride. Remember insect repellent in the warmer months too.
Out Riding It
I spoke with Vinny Ouellette, the City Director of Human Services and Parks and Recreation before visiting. He had the following recommendation: “I would just stay along the lower trail around the lake. There are many trails throughout the park that have been developed for bikes and hiking and are not suitable for horses. The lower path is wide open — the width of a road. It offers space for all and a scenic ride. You may not be able to circle the lake entirely as the trail gets a bit tricky out by Northern Essex Community College; most trail riders just reverse the course.”
Looking at the map, Vinny is referring to the 2.5-mile Dudley Porter Trail. You can also ride the Castle Trail, at close to a mile, and back down toward the tennis courts and The Basin to add more distance to your ride. Naturally, it was busy close to the parking lots and the castle, but once I got out on the trails, I only encountered a few other people.
On my ride, we headed out from the parking lot and up the road to the castle first. The road goes right up to the front of the castle, so we followed that to get a good look at the castle. Then, I went around the gate on the far side of the carriage barn and headed down the Castle Trail toward the Dudley Porter Trail. It was a cold, sunny day, and sunlight on snow always makes for a serene ride.
The Castle Trail merges with the Dudley Porter Trail at Kenoza Lake, and I went right on Dudley Porter to go around the lake’s southern end. On Dudley Porter, there are red sign posts every tenth of a mile. Throughout the main sections of the trail, additional signs provide environmental information; one sign explained how den trees (live trees with natural hollows)
provide wildlife habitat. I heard several different kinds of birds as I rode along and noticed a few flitting through the trees. Dudley Porter took me through a marshy area; the trail is raised up as you cross between the sections of the marsh. There’s an old fence on the right and posted signs marking the boundary lines.
Signposts mark the major intersections to help you navigate the different trails. Kenoza Lake also serves as an easy wayfinding point. The ruins Eileen mentioned are in this section. The Tyler Shelter was an open stone shelter with a roof and four pillars. In 1905, Adelia E. Tyler dedicated it to Henry Parks Tyler, her late husband. At the time, it had good views of the lake and scenery, and park visitors could use it to rest. A hitching ring for equestrians to tie their horses, still on a stone base, is a short distance from the ruins.
I continued along Dudley Porter Trail, meandering through the woods. We were moving slow because of the cold temperature and snowy footing but enjoying the peace and having the trails mostly to ourselves. We rounded a corner back toward Kenoza Lake, went left onto Shore Trail to explore that and avoid the Community College area, as Vinny suggested. The Shore Trail is more technical with low hanging branches and brought us back down to Dudley Porter just past the Tyler Shelter site.
This time, I followed Dudley Porter all the way along the lake and up past The Basin to the tennis courts. Then, I rode up Castle Road and back toward the parking lot. I enjoy a good view as much as I imagine Dr. Nichols did, so went past the castle, back down Castle Trail, and then turned around and rode back up it to get the view from both angles.
My ride at Winnekenni Castle was indeed very beautiful. Riding in the snow brings a different element — everything is clean, bright, and beautiful. Trails look so different when they’re blanketed in snow, and I’m looking forward to experiencing the enchantment at Winnekenni Castle in another season too.
Happy trails!
Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian living in Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses. y
by Stacey Stearns
RTrail Guide
Blue Shutters and East Beaches
hode Island is called the Ocean State for a reason. A mere 37 miles wide and 48 miles long, Rhode Island has a whopping 400 miles of beach and ocean access. Charlestown is located between Westerly and Narragansett and boasts two stunning beaches on Quonochontaug Neck that are open to equestrians during the winter months. Charlestown manages Blue Shutters Town Beach, which connects to the Rhode Island State Parks’ East Beach.
Blue Shutters Town Beach and East Beach are lesser-known beaches with limited infrastructure. Vehicles are still allowed on the beaches during the off-season and both beaches are popular fishing locations. There were a number of vehicles on the west side of Blue Shutters the day I rode.
Blue Shutters and East Beach are the barrier between Ninigret Pond and Block Island Sound. Ninigret Pond is the largest salt pond in Rhode Island at 1,711 acres; a National Wildlife Refuge was established there in 1970. It’s an important fish, aquaculture and wildlife habitat, necessary for a variety of ecosystem services (benefits that ecosystems provide humans).
Ninigret is named for a chief of the Niantic tribe who once lived here; the Niantics paid tribute to the Narragansetts. While the rest of the Quonochontaug
Neck had summer colonies built starting in the 1880s, the East Beach area remained largely undeveloped because Ninigret Pond and Block Island Sound limited the amount of land available. The state purchased 250 acres in 2006 to create East Beach.
Lyndsey Etter of Downeast Performance Horses in Westerly rides at Blue Shutters and East Beach several times a year. “It’s one of the best beaches in South County to bring horses to because it has good park-
ing for trailers, great footing, it’s very wide for both horses and people to all share, and it has easy access to walk (or run) through the water,” Lyndsey says. “I use it as a training ground for many of my young horses and for my students and clients to experience the exciting feeling of riding on the beach. There’s nothing better than salty air and wide-open spaces with a horse!”
I’ve been wanting to ride Blue Shutters for years. The West Greenwich Horsemen’s Association often hosts a clam bake and beach ride there in May, but the dates haven’t aligned with my other commitments. Blue Shutters is also the conclusion of the 77-mile North South Trail that runs the length of Rhode Island, and we’ve explored sections of the North-South trail on other trail rides. I was eager to see Blue Shutters for myself, so one Saturday in
Charlestown
Stacey
Stearns
November, I loaded up the trailer and headed out to ride the beaches.
A Leg Up
Riding on the beach is only allowed from the day after Labor Day to the day before Memorial Day. A sign at the Blue Shutters parking lot reads, “By Charlestown ordinance #158-35, all horse manure must be removed from the beach and parking lot,” so remember to clean up after your horse.
Use the Blue Shutters address, 469 East Beach Road in Charlestown, in your GPS. Blue Shutters is the first parking lot you’ll see; it has a large pavilion and is a better lot for horse trailers. I pulled into the Blue Shutters parking lot and parallel parked across multiple spaces. There was only one other car there, with a couple more by the end of my ride. East Beach Road turns into a dirt road that leads down to the East Beach lot. It is riddled with potholes, so I rode that instead.
There are several private homes on East Beach Road between the two beaches. There are private dunes too; be sure to use the correct access points on and off the beach. I rode in through the Blue Shutters access point and exited the beach at the East Beach parking lot. Then I rode over to Ninigret, along East Beach Road, and back into the beach at Blue Shutters.
Check the tide schedule when you’re planning your ride. You’ll want to ride during low tide as that’s when the firmer sand is accessible. There were still port-a-potties available in both parking lots in November. Bring water for your horse, and if your horse enjoys rolling, consider walking back down to Blue Shutters after you untack. My Morgan mare enjoyed a good, sandy roll before we headed home.
Out Riding It
It was a windy day when I headed to the beach. I was there during low tide, and the waves were large and powerful as they crashed into the sand. Blue Shutters and East Beach are about three miles long, so there is plenty of beach to explore, and the panoramic views out over Block Island Sound are spectacular.
I knew the sand would be deep, and I’ve ridden in deep sand in various locations over the years but knowing about deep sand and understanding it are two different things at Blue Shutters and East Beach. The sand here is especially deep, and your horse will be working hard moving through it. The road into and out of East Beach also has deep sand. Let your horse walk slowly, get off and lead them, or look for tracks with better footing on the road, and stay on the foreshore (low tide sand) while on the beach.
Once we made it through the deep sand, the berm crest (the high tide line) was steep to get down to the foreshore, the firmer sand. I found an area that others appeared to have used, and we moved down to the firmer sand.
It was cold on the Saturday afternoon I was riding, and other than a group of vehicles and people having a barbecue and a few people walking dogs, I had the expansive beach mostly to myself. The wind pushed us along as the waves crashed to our right; and the blue water stretched into the blue sky. It was my kind of day. As we neared the end of East Beach, I rode through the deep sand of the access road and over to East Beach Road and the East Beach parking lot.
Ninigret Pond is accessible from the East Beach parking lot, and it was so peaceful here compared to the crashing waves along the beach. Houses dotted the far banks in places, and you can also walk along the pond. I rode back down East Beach Road, which is dirt in this section, back to the Blue Shutters parking lot, and onto the beach for another round.
Riding on the beach is special and something we can’t take for granted. Blue Shutters and East Beach certainly lived up to the hype, and I’m looking forward to riding there again.
Happy trails!
y
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 Charlotte Boulier, 15, and her Quarter Horse Matrix, won the Youth Award at the Southern New England Horsemen’s Association Year-end Awards Banquet. Charlotte is from Meriden, Connecticut. Congratulations, Charlotte!
y Cameron Bartsch, 8, of Quaker Hill was the Youth Award winner for the Tri-State Horseman’s Association’s three-show combined training and dressage show series in 2024. Cameron, who competed in Intro Dressage, worked hard with his favorite horse Pumpkin (a.k.a. Walla Walla Rooster) and improved at each show. He always had a smile on his face and arrived early to shows and stayed late after he rode to help with anything that was needed not just by his barn mates but also by the show. Cameron is the definition of a youth demonstrating good horsemanship and sportsmanship. Congratulations, Cameron!
y Congratulations Morgan Morris, 15, of Southwick, on winning the Youth Award at the Mane-i-acs 4-H Show riding Tough Guy Hanover. “The horse I rode is a Standardbred,” says Morgan. “He was recently rescued by Happily Evans After Rescue. I’ve had the opportunity to help retrain him. I love volunteering my time to help him become the best horse he can be!”
y Victoria Miller of Middleboro won the Youth Award at the MHC Classic in Hanover riding LPS MVP (Asher). “Victoria’s peers stated that she always shows a positive vibe around the barn and at shows,” says Felicia Knowles, MHC co-vice president. “She always cheers on her fellow barn friends and is very helpful to all. Many submitted nominations for Victoria, a well-rounded friend at the barn.” Congratualtions, Victoria!
Overherd
News in Our Community
Donkey’s Cross Rescue and Sanctuary
The Donkey’s Cross Rescue and Sanctuary in Bethlehem, Connecticut, is a nonprofit with the primary goal of rescuing donkeys and giving them sanctuary. The rescue had a full barn this winter with the addition of two mares that we accepted from animal control after they were seized in an abuse case. We try to stick to donkeys, but this was an emergency. The mares still have a long way to go. “We started as a 501(c)(3) rescue and rehome model for donkeys but rapidly transitioned to a sanctuary,” says Heidi Latka, director. “Placement presented many challenges so the best model for the animals was as a sanctuary.”
“We’re growing by the day and we’re also adding a children’s reading program for our summer visitors,” says Heidi. “Our donkeys have a very calming presence, and our visitors started this program on our open barn days. Basically, children showed up with their summer reading books to read to the donkeys. Some of our visitors have speech-language delays or are on the austism spectrum, while others struggle with self-regulation. Parents have reported amazing behavioral improvements in their children after spending time with the donkeys. We’re planning to formalize this program with designated reading times for interested children. We now stock a small library at the barn, and we’re actively fundraising to construct a separate handicap accessible paddock with a covered pavilion (for the not-so-great weather days) to house this program.”
The Donkey’s Cross also offers individual donkey sponsorship options. “It’s fun for
people to donate to the donkey of their choice and then meet their donkey on visit days,” says Heidi. To learn more, visit thedonkeyscross.org and follow them on Facebook.
Equine Career and College Fair
Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School in Northampton, Massachusetts, is hosting an Equine Career and College Fair from 6 to 9 p.m on Wednesday, April 9. Admission is free and students of all ages are welcome. Students can meet with equine professionals to learn about equestrian career path options as well as representatives from colleges and universities with programs for equestrians. A special speaker panel at 7 p.m. will include a select group of professionals who will discuss their careers, and the education requirements associated with their chosen profession.
Here are just a few of the colleges and universities attending: HCC, UMass, UConn, UMaine, UVM, UVM Morgan Horse Farm, SUNY Morrisville, Johnson and Wales, Delaware Valley, and Cumming School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. Farriers, dentists, saddle fitters, and many more horse specialists will also be attending.
To learn more, reach out to Diane Raucher Miller, Smith FFA Equine Team Coach, at dmiller@smithtec.org.
Connecticut’s Oldest Rescue Celebrates 42nd Year!
H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut, Connecticut’s oldest rescue, is celebrating its 42nd year of rescuing, rehabilitating, and re-homing
image coming from donkey cross xx
equines. From Miniature to draft, feral young or disabled senior, they’ve taken in horses of all types and conditions with the hope of rehabilitating them and helping them to live their best life. Sometimes rescues are adopted; other times they will live out their life at the farm. H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut has rescued hundreds of horses from the most deplorable conditions imaginable — some from auction and some that were abandoned in fields, left to starve to death. H.O.R.S.E has rehabilitated and re-homed many Premarin foals and even few of their dams. They do all of this with the help of volunteers and donations from supporters; we receive no funds from the state.
To continue raising funds to care for their herd of 25 horses, H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut holds various fundraisers and events along with asking for people to sponsor horses. Upcoming events at the Washington farm include an Open House on May 17, horse care clinics, tack sales, a volunteer day on July 12, and a horse parade at the farm on July 26. Any donation is always appreciated and goes directly to the care of the horses.
For fifty dollars a month, you can sponsor one of our recent rescues: Utah, an 18-year-old Paint cross gelding who arrived a few months ago with Lyme disease and minor injuries; Star, a 20-year-old Morgan Arabian cross, who arrived a month ago with degenerative suspensory ligaments; and Romeo, a 25-year-old retired Quarter
Horse, recently surrendered by his owner. To learn more, visit horseofct.org.
y Kathy Diemer
New Canaan Mounted Troop Hires
New
Horsemanship Director
New Canaan Mounted Troop (NCMT) announced the appointment of Hannah Wirfel Jones as its new horsemanship director. A lifelong equestrian and accomplished coach, Hannah brings extensive experience in both competitive riding and training, making her an invaluable addition to the NCMT leadership team.
Hannah has been an integral part of NCMT since 2011, earning her PATH certification in 2013 and USHJA certified trainer status in 2017. She has played a pivotal role in expanding NCMT’s riding programs, including the development of its Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team.
H.O.R.S.E.
Connecticut’s
“Hannah is an outstanding equestrian and her dedication and passion for mentoring young riders make her the ideal choice to lead our Horsemanship Program,” says Sara Tucker, president and CEO of NCMT. “She embodies our values and has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of equestrians. We’re thrilled to have her step into this leadership role.”
Hannah, a nationally ranked junior rider in her youth, trained under renowned coaches including Emerson Burr, Olympic medalist Leslie Burr Howard, and equitation expert W.T. ‘Timmy’ Kees. She
Patty Wahlers
of
Star, pictured with voluntter John Coyle, is available for sponsorship.
Lori Brogle
Lise Kreiger of New England Saddle Fit at the 2024 xx College Fair in Northampton. This year’s fair is on xx.
competed at A-circuit shows, earning top ribbons in hunt seat equitation and jumper competitions, and was among the select few
to qualify for the prestigious ASPCA Maclay Finals at Madison Square Garden.
“I’m honored to take on this role at NCMT, a place that has been such a big part of my personal and professional jour-
ney,” says Hannah. “I look forward to continuing to develop our programs and help young riders build confidence, skill, and a lifelong love of horsemanship.”
Hannah holds a degree in Art History from Trinity College, where she also served as a curatorial assistant at the New Britain Museum of American Art and studied abroad in Rome. In addition to her work at NCMT, she has coached at the collegiate and high school levels, including for Trinity College’s IHSA team and Miss Porter’s IEA team.
Founded in 1939, New Canaan Mounted Troop (NCMT) is a nonprofit youth development and therapeutic equestrian center. The organization is dedicated to teaching horsemanship, leadership, and responsibility to young riders in a structured, supportive environment. NCMT offers riding and equine care programs for children, including therapeutic programs for individuals with special needs. For more information, visit newcanaanmountedtroop.org.
New Canaan Mounted Troop’s new horsemanship director Hannah Wirfel Jones and Sparky.
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 yMassachusetts 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 England Equestrian Center of Athol neeca.org
y New Canaan Mounted Troop newcanaanmountedtroop.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.
Something to Neigh About
In Christina Lynch’s Pony Confidential, an unlikely detective — a cantankerous pony with a heart of gold — leads this unconventional novel that blends elements of mystery, humor, and heart into what proves to be an unexpectedly moving tale about loyalty, redemption, and the complex bonds between humans and horses.
The story follows the equine protagonist, known simply as Pony, who has bounced from owner to owner throughout his life. But he’s never forgotten Penny, the one human who truly connected with him in his youth. When he discovers that Penny has been accused of murder, the four-legged
hero embarks on a journey to find his longlost first owner and clear her name.
The chapters alternate between Penny’s and Pony’s point of view, allowing readers to experience both the human drama and the unique worldview of the equine detective. Pony’s grumpiness masks a deep capacity for love and loyalty.
Pony Confidential is a reminder that sometimes an unlikely narrator can tell the most compelling story. It’s a novel that manages to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, humorous and poignant, whimsical and wise.
CONNECTICUT
events
APRIL
4 – 6 Spring Show Epic Farm, Middlefield. bhcmanagement.info.
23 Sam VanFleet Clinic Middleboro. (508) 944-5883.
26 WNRDC Sam Van Fleet Intro to Liberty and Tricks Clinic West Newbury. wnrdc.com.
26 MHC Show Plainville. stargazerhillfarm.com.
26 Equine Expo & Tack Sale Topsfield. ectaonline.org.
26 MHC Show Westford. mahorsecouncil.com.
26 – 27 CRDA Adult Clinic Millis. crdressage.org.
27 NEECA Gymkhana Athol. neeca.org.
27 Open Show Raynham. krystalpora@gmail.com.
27 WNEPHA Show Bellwether Stables, Richmond. wnepha.com.
27 DRESSAGE Show Lakeville. belandstables.com.
27 USEF NEHC MHC Show Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
27 Combined Test with Cross-country Schooling Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.
27 NSHA PLEASURE Show Amesbury. nshorsemens.org.
MAY
2 – 4 NHHJA Show Northampton. nhhja.com.
2 – 4 MQHA All Breed Novice Show West Springfield. massqha.com.
3 Ranch Soring Saddle Series Plymouth. (781) 499-3885.
3 NEECA Drive Review Drive Athol. neeca.org.
3 – 4 LandSafe Rider Fall Safety Clinics Scarlet Hill Farm, Groton. scarlethillfarm.com.
3 USEF MHC NEHC SEHA MHJ Show Next Venture Farm, Medway. nv-farm.com.
4 CRDA Scholling Dressage Show Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.
4 Norfolk County 4-H Open Show Canton. norfolk4hhorseshow.weebly.com.
Hunter Shows
May 4 . June 29 . July 13 August 3 . September 14 . 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.
Celebrating Our 12th Season!
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
JOIN US!
The Western New England chapter of the Professional Horsemen’s Association of America holds Hunter and Jumper Shows.
HUNTER/JUMPER/EQUITATION SHOWS
April 13 . White Horse Hill, Richmond
April 27 . Bellwether Stables, Richmond
May 11 . White Horse HIll, Richmond
May 18 . SJH Equestrian, Richmond
May 25 . Harmony Hill Farm, G. Barrington
June 1 . Bellwether Stables, Richmond
June 8 . White Horse HIll, Richmond
June 15 . Grindstone Mountain, Southampton
June 22 . Bonnie Lea Farm, Williamstown
June 29 . Bellwether Stable, Richmond
July 6 . JW Equestrian, Southampton
July 12 . Harmony Hill Farm, G. Barrington
July 13 . Muddy Brook Farm, Amherst
July 20 . SJH Equestrian, Richmond
July 27 . Bonnie Lea Farm, Williamstown
Aug. 3 . Grindstone Mountain, Southampton
Aug. 10 . Bellwether Stable, Richmond
Aug. 17 . White Horse HIll, Richmond
Aug. 24 . SJH Equestrian, Richmond
Aug. 31 . Hunter/Equitation, Northampton
Sept. 1 . Just Jumpers, Northampton
Sept. 7 . Harmony Hill Farm, G. Barrington
Sept. 14 . White Horse Hill, Richmond More dates at wnepha.com!
4 CCDS Drive Into Spring Seminar Orleton Farm, Stockbridge. colonialcarriage .org.
4 Schooling Dressage Show Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org.
4 SCSS Hunter Show Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.
5 NEECA Carriage Driving Athol. neeca.org.
7 SCSS Jumper Show Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
7 – 11 Spring Festival I Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.
8 – 11 NEPtHC Show Northampton. neptha.info.
10 Schooling Horse Trials Millis. appleknoll.com.
10 4-H Fun Day Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.
10 4-H and Open Show Orange. crimsonacres.org.
10 BRDC Spring Ride Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.
11 MHC NEHC Show Ipswich. backbayfarm.com.
11 WNEPHA Show White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com.
11 MRR Gymkhana Raynham. (781) 630-1250.
11 Dressage Show Lakeville. belandstables.com.
14 – 18 Spring Festival II Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.
16 – 17 Miguel Anacoreta Clinic Millis. appleknoll.com.
16 – 18 HCRC Camping at Indian Hollow Chesterfield. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.
24 Open Trail Day Series Corinthian Farm, Chester. facebook.com/PaulaBeckCorinthian.
24 NEECA Jerry Schurink Clinic Athol. neeca.org.
24 – 25 Norfolk Hunt Show Medfield. norfolkhunt.com.
24 – 25 Lynne Kimbal Davis Clinic Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
25 Spring Schooling Event Orchard Hill Equestrian Center,
Merrimack Valley Dressage Shows
Dressage Training & Instruction
Saturday • June 14
Outside Course Warm-ups 6:30 to 8 A .M., Trailer Parking Starts at 6 A .M.
Open Show with Ring and Hunt Course Affiliated with NEHC, MHC & SSHC . NEHC & SSHC Medal Classes Show Manager: John Dougherty (781) 826-3191 Program may be downloaded at briggsstable.com. Visit briggsstable.com fortheweekly class list! (No show July 2)
Briggs Stable Mini Shows
Wednesday evenings starting at 6 P.M. • June 25 to August 27
All members of the Hanover Hunt & Riding Club are eligible for year-end awards.
Lead Line . Therapeutic . Walk Trot . Games . Jumping . Equitation . Pleasure
Great food and drinks available at the Hanover Hunt & Riding Club food booth. Class lists may be downloaded at www.briggsstable.com.
623 Hanover St., Route 139, Hanover Centre, MA (781) 826-3191 . briggstackshop@gmail.com www.briggsstable.com
Camp Marshall Gymkhana Buckle Series
May 17 . June 14 . July 12 . Aug. 16 Sept. 27 . Oct. 18 . Nov. 18
Helmets
Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.
25 WNEPHA Show Great Barrington. wnepha.com.
25 Schooling Dressage Show Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.
30 NEDA Spring Dressage Competition Fieldstone Farm, Halifax. neda.org.
31 NEECA Dressage Schooling Show Series Athol. neeca.org.
JUNE
1 SSHC Show Series Raynham. sshconline.org.
1 WNEPHA Show Bellwether Stables, Richmond. wnepha.com.
1 USEF NEHC MHC Show Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
4 Jumper Show Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
4 SCSS Jumper Show Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
6 Games Night Orange. crimsonacres.org.
7 USEA Horse Trials Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
7 USEF MHC NEHC SEHA MHJ Show Next Venture Farm, Medway. nv-farm.com.
8 USEF NEHC MHC Show Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
8 DRESSAGE Show Lakeville. belandstables.com.
8 WNEPHA Show White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com.
8 WRC 4-H & Open Show Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.
8 NEECA Gymkhana Athol. neeca.org.
MHC Pleasure Classic Finals
September 7,
Upcoming Events
Held at 802 New Sherborn Road, Athol, Mass.
Trailer Maintenance & Safety Clinic
April 12
Work Day
April 19 (rain date April 26)
NEECA Driver Series
April 14 . May 5 . June 9 . July 14
August 11 . September 8
Gymkhana Series
April 27 . May 18 . June 8
June 29 . August 24 . September 14
Cash Gymkhana/Series Make-Up Date: October 12
Drive Review Drive with Martha Nicoll
May 3
Poker Ride May 4
Jerry Schurink Clinic
May 24
Dressage Schooling Show Series
May 31 . June 28
Luke Reinbold Confidence Through Horsemanship Clinic
June 14 & 15
Triathlon June 21
Three Phase August 30
Hunter Pace September 20
Soccer on Horseback
September 28
Coney Baloney! October 11
Fall Trail Ride
October 18
Fall Social
November 1 - Ellinwood Country Club
Dates are subject to change! Check neeca.org or Facebook prior to attending!
Become a member and be part of something special for generations to come! Protecting and preserving land for equestrian interests and hosting events for the enjoyment and education of horse lovers. New England Equestrian Center, 802 New Sherborn Road, Athol, Mass. Go to neeca.org for all the details!
Dawn Laughlin
Independence Stable
Dressage Schooling
8 MHC Show Haverhill. mahorsecouncil.com.
9 NEECA Carriage Driving Athol. neeca.org.
11 Jumper Show Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
11 Schooling Dressage Show Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.
11 – 15 Plymouth Rock I Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.
12 USEF MHC NEHC SEHA MHJ Show Next Venture Farm, Medway. nv-farm.com.
12 4-H and Open Show Orange. crimsonacres.org.
MHC NEHC HORSE SHOWS
May 11 & August 3
Open Show Series
June 22 k July 13 k Aug. 3 k Sept. 14
Divisions: Lead Line, Beginner Walk Trot, Walk Trot 11 and Under Open Walk Trot 12-17 Open, Walk Trot Adult Open, Walk Trot Beginning Canter Open Open GreenHorse Walk Trot Open, Short Stirrup, Medium Stirrup Open Hunter, Modified Hunter, and Driving Horse Show Banquet December 5
Spring Trail Ride
May 10
Fall Trail Ride Weekend
October 11 & 12
Trail rides offer 6.6, 10, 13, and 16 mile routes. Gravel roads, rail beds, woodland trails, and a small amount of pavement. NEHT affiliated
Barre Riding and Driving Club is a nonprofit 501(c)3 club. Most of our events are held at Felton Field in Barre, Massachusetts, a beautiful facility located on Old Coldbrook Road. Felton Field features two show rings, a food booth, secretary's booth, bathrooms, running water, and plenty of space for parking for cars and trailers.
Presents the 30th annual
Equine Expo & Tack Sale
Saturday, April 26, 2025 . 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Large vendor marketplace selling new and used items!
Plus services for the horse, rider, and driver.
Demonstrations All Day
$5 Admission . children under 10 free
Vendor Spaces Available . Free Parking
Held Indoors . Arena Building at the Topsfield Fairgrounds
For more info and/or to reserve a space: 978-768-6275 or kljoreo@aol.com
Monthly Guest Clinicians
Dressage Schooling Show
Bit, Bridle & Saddle Fitting
USDF “L” Graduate; Available for Lessons, Clinics, Training, and Judging.
54 Plain Rd. Hatfield, MA 413.427.2026 rerponies@gmail.com RERponies.com
12 WNEPHA Show Great Barrington. wnepha.com.
12 Gymkhana Series Spencer. campmarshallcenter.org.
12 – 13 Jason Drass Horsemanship Clinic Windcrest Farm, West Newbury. facebook.com/DrassClinics.
13 NEDA Summer Show Millis. neda.org.
13 Two & Three Phase Hamilton. myopiaschoolingfield.org.
13 WNEPHA Show Muddy Brook, Amherst. wnepha.com.
13 BRDC Open Show Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.
13 Show Series Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com.
13 Dressage Show Lakeville. belandstables.com.
13 Summer Horse Trials II Orchard Hill Equestrian Center, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.
13 MHC Show Haverhill. mahorsecouncil.com.
13 SCSS Hunter Show Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.
14 – 20 MQHA Region Six Super Six West Springfield. massqha.com.
14 NEECA Carriage Driving Athol. neeca.org.
16 Jumper Show Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
16 SCSS Jumper Show Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
18 Games Night Orange. crimsonacres.org.
19 SNECDA Mini Drill Team Meeting Blackbridge Farm, Southbridge. snecda.org.
20 SSHC Show Series Raynham. sshconline.org.
20 WNEPHA Show SJH Equestrian, Richmond. wnepha.com.
20 MRR Gymkhana Raynham. (781) 630-1250.
20 NSHA Hunter Show Hamilton. nshorsemens.org.
20 ONBH Hunter Pace Series Great Brook State Park, Carlisle. oldnorthbridgehounds.org.
20 Two-phase & Dressage Show Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
16 Gymkhana Series Spencer. campmarshallcenter.org.
17 Two-phase & Dressage Show Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
17 WNEPHA Show White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com.
17 MRR Gymkhana Raynham. (781) 630-1250.
17 MHC Show Haverhill. mahorsecouncil.com.
17 Two & Three Phase Hamilton. myopiaschoolingfield.org.
17 Merrimack Vallley Dressage Show Haverill. bradfordequestriancenter.wordpress.com.
17 Schooling Dressage Show Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org.
19 – 23 Summer Showcase II Fieldstone Show Park, Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.
20 Jumper Show Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
23 Open Trail Day Series Corinthian Farm, Chester.
Open Trail Day Series
Bring your horse to our 100 plus acres of groomed trails and fields in beautiful Chester, Mass. Each Trail Day has a unique and fun theme! May 24 . June 28 . July 26 . Aug. 23 . Sept. 27 . Oct. 24
6 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
13 NEHC RIHA Show Tiverton. claddaghfarminc.com.
19 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
MAY
4 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
4 Schooling Show Westerly. dphorses.weebly.com.
17 NEHC RIHA Show Tiverton. claddaghfarminc.com.
18 Open Schooling Show Series Cornerstone Farm, Foster. cornerstonefarmri.com.
24 Miniature HOrse and Pony Show Downeast Perfomance Horses, Westerly. dphorses.weebly.com.
31 NEHC RIHA Show Tiverton. claddaghfarminc.com.
JUNE
1 RIHA Show Claddagh Farm, Tiverton. rihorseman.com.
8 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
14 Schooling Show Westerly. dphorses.weebly.com.
29 Open Schooling Show Series Cornerstone Farm, Foster. cornerstonefarmri.com.
JULY
12 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
13 NEHC RIHA Show Tiverton. claddaghfarminc.com.
20 Schooling Show Westerly. dphorses.weebly.com.
AUGUST
3 Open Schooling Show Series Cornerstone Farm, Foster. cornerstonefarmri.com.
SEPTEMBER
7 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
14 Schooling Show Westerly. dphorses.weebly.com.
14 Open Schooling Show Series Cornerstone Farm, Foster. cornerstonefarmri.com.
OCTOBER
5 Open Schooling Show Series Cornerstone Farm, Foster. cornerstonefarmri.com.
26 NEHC RIHA Show Tiverton. claddaghfarminc.com.
26 Schooling Show Westerly. dphorses.weebly.com.
NOVEMBER
2 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
9 NEHC RIHA Show Tiverton. claddaghfarminc.com.
23 RIHA Show Hunter Ridge, Ashaway. rihorseman.com.
Directory Listings
l Connecticut l Massachusetts
l Rhode Island l Region
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 54.
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 31.
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 64.
CAT SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC
TEAM Mobile Feline Spay/Neuter Clinic
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.
EQUESTRIAN ATTORNEY
Sean Hogan, Esq. Westport, CT; (203) 221-3250; seanhoganlaw.com
Attorney focusing on estate planning and assisting trainers, owners, and investors in equine-related transactions and litigation in Connecticut, New York, and before the USEF. Ad on page 25.
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.
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 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 16.
Northeast Equine Veterinary Dental Service
Leah Limone, DVM, DAVDC/Eq & Kim Allshouse, DVM
Topsfield, MA; (978) 500-9293; nevds.com
Board-certified equine dental specialists licensed to practice in MA, NH, VT, ME, RI, and CT. Comprehensive oral/dental exams, routine maintenance, advanced diagnostics with digital radiography and oral endoscopy, basic and advanced extractions. Ad on page 36.
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 pickup 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. Ad on page 16.
Naughty Pony Blanket Laundering & Boutique
Serving MA,CT, and RI; (401)255-0395; naughtypony@aol.com
We boast our large facility capabilities and specialize in courtesy group farm pickups. 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 26.
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.
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.
EXPOSITIONS & SALES
Equine Expo & Tack Sale
Topsfield, MA; Kay at (978) 768-6275; kljoreo@aol.com
April 26, 2025 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 84.
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 xx and xx. Amherst Farmer’s Supply, amherstfarmerssupply.com
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 91.
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 67.
FINANCING & LOANS
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, equestrian facilities. Our lending experts specialize in financing rural properties. Ad on page 17.
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
Boxborough, MA: Donald Ludwig (978) 467-1001
Centerville, MA: Mark Sylvia (508) 428-0440
Exeter, RI: Earl Adams (401) 295-5000
Great Barrington, MA: Dominic Sinopoli (413) 528-1710
Lisbon, CT: (860) 376-2393 or (860) 808-6608
Middlefield, CT: (860) 349-7064
Northborough, MA: Jeff Pichierri (508) 393-9327
Plymouth, MA: Kevin Sullivan (508) 998-0512
South Deerfield, MA: Tim Viles (413) 665-8200
Southwick, MA: The Mason Agency (413) 569-2307
Topsfield, MA: Scott Brockelman (978) 887-8304
West Greenwich, RI: Ashley Johnson (401) 397-1050
Wilbraham, MA: Sean Rooney (413) 887-8817
Worcester, MA: Thomas Carroll (508) 752-3300
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 51.
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 50.
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
Misty View Equestrian & RER Saddlery
Heather Dostal (413) 427-2026, Elisabeth Melad & Emilie Parent (774) 757-4374
Serving New England; rersaddlery.com
Precision saddle fitting with the Equiscan Topograph Pro, the ultimate saddle, bridle, and boot fitting experience. Boots, bridles, saddles, girths, saddle pads, shock absorbing and fleece half pads. Ad on page 45.
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 39.
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.
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. Ad on page 15
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. Ad on page 30.
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 75.
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 83.
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. Ad on page 78.
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 equitation, and mountain trail. Kindful training for horse and rider. Happy, relaxed horses and riders are my objective. Ad on page 55.
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 82.
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. Schooling show series. Wooded trails and open, rolling fields. Ad on page 70.
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 73.
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 82.
It’s a Pleasure Training
Peter Whitmore; Orange, MA (978) 652-2231; itsapleasuretraining.com
Peter specializes in starting young horses correctly. More than xx years experience starting horses as well as fixing existing problems. Available for clinics and events. Board and internship program. Ad on page 45.
Lessons, summer programs, clinics, training, starting, Pony Club. Adults and children. Heather is a USDF “L” graduate and bronze medalist. Dressage, cross-country, stadium jumping. Ad on page 84.
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 50.
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.
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 14.
South Deerfield Veterinary Clinic
Samantha C. Clay, DVM & Andraya Cole, 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 18.
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 19.
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.
