Horses
Our horses all have a unique background; some of them are donated to our program and others are loaned by generous owners. At Morning Dove, our horses are selected based on their gentle temperament, size, movement and overall demeanor. All horses go through a rigorous trial period to assess their health and their willingness for this special type of work. We individualize a training plan for each horse. This plan includes testing them with all of our adaptive equipment and arena props as well as exposing them to as many scenarios as possible. We make sure they are comfortable with ramps, wheelchairs, riders who are unable to balance, noises and so much more.
We also thoroughly evaluate their confirmation and movement at all gaits. Because of the multi-disciplinary nature of our program, their build, size and movement are very important so we may accommodate a variety of clients safely. We also spend time just observing them and trying to get to know them. It is important to understand the finer nuances of the horse to appropriately pair them with a rider.
Our horse “staff” receives regular stretching, massages, exercise, vacations, and the best veterinarian care. Our horses are incredibly important to the success of our organization, and we provide exceptional care and a loving environment for these miracle workers.
Limo is another one of our gentle giants, standing at 17.2 hands tall. We affectionately refer to Limo as a 1,600lb golden retriever – he would crawl into your lap and curl up if he weren’t so big. Limo was donated by Debbie Danner, Bit-Whip Farm and was a previous hunter/jumper and schooling horse. Limo loves treats and will gladly perform or give kisses to get them. He is extremely responsive to the needs of his rider and is a favorite horse for most of our volunteers. Limo has the sweetest eyes in the barn. Although he is tall Limo is the most trusted horse in the barn, he always anticipates the needs of his riders and loves every day that he gets to serve at Morning Dove.
El Brus is an astoundingly handsome 17-hand Russian Trakehner Gelding donated in 2009 by Catherine Popp Hoffman. His bright welcoming brown eyes tell all sorts of dimensions about his personality. He was recently shown in the hunter/jumper world and enjoys jumping even now. Although retired, he remains attentive and is always energized to keep the rider entertained. He is incredibly sensitive to the people around him, understanding their moods, making him a great horse to bond with. He takes delight in being groomed and will amuse you with his charming expressions. When off duty, El Brus transforms back to his first-class Russian self and prances around the pasture with his playmates.
Ellie is a chocolate dapple Shetland pony. Donated in 2003 by the Raynor Family, she is our equine staff member who has been at Morning Dove the longest. Ellie enjoyed many different careers before joining us in the fall of 1999. Over the last ten years, Ellie has taught some of our smallest riders confidence and helped them improve their riding skills. Ellie is very in tune with her rider, and despite her small stature, takes good care of them. Ellie is one of our Morning Dove ambassadors, visiting nursing homes and walking in parades. She is an excellent pony for teaching grooming skills and tacking. Everyone enjoys learning with this precious pony.
Lexi is a great member of the equine staff. Donated in 2009 by Tammy Provost, Mapleview Stables, she is a lovely snow white beauty with bright eyes and a friendly personality, making her a joy for our riders and instructors. Another one of our Morning Dove ambassadors, she visits nursing homes, walks in parades, and goes to events throughout the community to promote therapeutic riding. Before starting her career at Morning Dove, she was a popular and successful pony in the Hunter/Jumper community.
Grace is a 13 year old Colorado Ranger Bred mare leased to Morning Dove by her owner, Emily Lindsey. A previous 3 day eventer Grace is a wonderful addition to the Morning Dove herd. Grace has a very sweet disposition, is confident in the arena and on the trail and loves to give hugs in the field. Grace takes very good care of her riders and loves to be challenged. When you look into her eyes you can see her love for people and her heart to serve.
Lucy
Lucy is a beautiful Arab/Swedish Warmbloood cross. This sweet girl is one of the most steady horses in our herd. When she is not in a lesson you will usually find Lucy giving a hug or bowing on command for a treat.