Thoroughbred Aftercare

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights Previous PostNext Post The Perfect Wedding Gift The Perfect Wedding Gift By: Alexis Arbaugh February 27, 2024 Success Stories Tags:New Beginnings Thoroughbred Rescue, Success story, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Sam Taylor was searching for an ideal hunter-style horse for a client of hers when she discovered Perfect Harmony at New Beginnings Thoroughbred Rescue. Sam, aware that Nikki McKinley, Co-Director of New Beginnings Thoroughbred Rescue, had a reputation for receiving many well-minded off-the-track Thoroughbreds, decided to contact her. She inquired about any calm hunter-type horses available in Nikki’s barn as a potential match for her client. Nikki knew right away which horse to set her up with. They arranged for Sam to visit for a trial ride Perfect Harmony. Instantly drawn in by the large grey Thoroughbred, she fell in love. Although she was looking for a horse for her client, she knew she had to have this horse for herself. After a delightful ride and looking into his gentle eyes, she managed to persuade her husband to adopt Perfect Harmony as a heartfelt wedding present for her. Not to worry, Sam still made time to find her client another perfect horse. After matching her client with her perfect horse, they are very happy with their choice. Perfect Harmony was taken home as soon as possible and became Sam’s number one guy. She gave him the barn name Flynn. He arrived at the barn with an eagerness to please Sam and participate in whatever Sam had planned for them. “He really stepped up to the plate,” wrote Sam. Soon after his arrival Sam had to retire her 1-meter jumper because of a bone chip in his stifle, Sam was extremely heartbroken. However, Flynn’s wonderful attitude and perfect ride made her feel like she had found another heart horse. Fortunately for the pair, they share the same love for horse showing. They are currently competing in 2’9- 3’ Hunter divisions at rated shows, consistently placing against Warmbloods. Their goal within the next year is to qualify for and participate in the Working Hunter Finals hosted at the Prince George Equestrian Center in Maryland in 2024. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous Post Long Lost Partners: First Edition and Shannon Long Lost Partners: First Edition and Shannon By: Alexis Arbaugh February 20, 2024 Success Stories Tags:Success story, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Thoroughbred Athletes Shannon Howerton had been out of the sporthorse competition world for a while and was looking to get back into it. When she decided to get back into the show ring, she did not have a horse and was unsure where to start her search for one. Shannon began talking to the trainers in her area. With no luck of finding any horses to try from her area, it was suggested that she consider adoption instead of purchasing a new horse. One of the trainers was familiar with Thoroughbred Athletes and decided to research some of the horses they had available. After finding a horse that she thought would work well with Shannon, she shared the videos and pictures of First Edition with Shannon. The first thing that Shannon noticed about his video was that he was small, at 15.2 hands, and a beautiful bay color. I wish more people would realize adopting isn’t settling for less –because you are getting so much more!” Shannon Howerton Recognizing that First Edition could be the horse she needed, she traveled to Thoroughbred Athletes in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Upon arrival, Shannon observed one of the organization’s riders take First Edition for a ride, allowing her to gauge the horse’s performance firsthand. His proactive and purposeful demeanor was evident in everything he did, and Shannon noticed this right away. Her ride on First Edition was brief, yet it was enough for her to sense his drive. The trial rider told Shannon a little bit about First Edition and how she thought that he would do anything she asked him to. First Edition had a loyal and kind personality that made you want to stick with him. After some thinking and still a bit tentative to make such a big decision, Shannon decided to give it a try and adopt him. “Thoroughbred Athletes was so easy and helpful. I would recommend them to anyone wanting to adopt,” Shannon stated about her time with Thoroughbred Athletes. Even after getting First Edition home, Shannon still was a bit hesitant that they were the right match. She had heard time and time again from friends about “love at first sight” and “you’ll just know” when it comes to your dream horse. Over the last four years, Shannon and First Edition’s connection grew and their bond just continues to grow and get stronger. Because it wasn’t love at first sight, it took a lot of trust and hard work on both sides for their relationship to get to where it is today. After all the work they have done together, she firmly believes that their meeting was destined, recognizing that their relationship has evolved into something truly special. First Edition always seemed to have this complexity and sensitivity about him that presented a unique challenge in training and making their progression difficult. Despite occasional hurdles in their training, he is doing very well and progressing in their chosen discipline. First Edition’s athleticism and strong work ethic allows him to tackle any task that is handed to him. Shannon emphasizes that working with him has significantly enhanced her skills and confidence as a rider, attributing her growth to the experiences shared with First Edition. Currently, Shannon and First Edition are actively competing in Beginner Novice and Novice Eventing levels. With their training progressing smoothly, they are gearing up for their first recognized horse trial, aiming to participate in the event if their preparation stays on track. “I think some people think when you adopt a horse that they aren’t the good ones. So many times I think they are the best ones!!! I have a 2nd one I adopted as well who is a great horse also just haven’t had as much time working on him. I wish more people would realize adopting isn’t settling for less –because you are getting so much more!” Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous Post Jericho Call: From Racing to Lessons​ Jericho Call: From Racing to Lessons By: Alexis Arbaugh February 15, 2024 Success Stories Tags:MidAtlantic Horse Rescue, Success story, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance A beautiful dark bay gelding named Jericho Call was born on May 16, 2009. Over the span of three consecutive racing seasons, from 2013 to 2015, Jerico Call ran in 12 races. During this time, he secured a first-place finish once, claimed second-place once, and one third place once, accumulating a total of $18,935. After his retirement from racing at the end of 2015, Jericho Call was sent to MidAtlantic Horse Rescue in Chesapeake City, Maryland for some rest and relaxation before starting his retraining for a second career. In 2016, Christine McFadden found herself in search of a pasture companion for her aging and retired Thoroughbred gelding. During her search, she came across Beverly Strauss’ MidAtlantic Horse Rescue. As Christine and Bev discussed the specific type of horse Christine was looking for, it became clear that she needed to pay a visit to the farm to see the available horses for herself. In addition to seeking a pasture companion for her retired gelding, Christine wanted to find a horse she could continue to do some light riding with. On a chilly and windy day in November, Christine, accompanied by her daughters and a friend, made the journey to MidAtlantic to look at and try some of their horses. The first horse that Christine and her friend decided to try was a young gelding named Mountain Hero. Although he was a good horse, Christine recognized that Mountain Hero was too large for her. However, her friend fell in love with him and ultimately chose to adopt and take him home. The next couple of horses that Christine rode during that visit were quite skittish and anxious, likely due to the cold wind. Next in the ring was a cute dark bay gelding with a star right in the middle of his forehead, Jericho Call. He walked right up to Christine and sniffed her hand curiously. Although he did seem a little anxious about the wind, Jericho did not let it show or change his behavior for Christine’s trial ride. Bev shared with Christine that she had rescued “Jerry” from an awful situation – he was found in a kill pen being attacked by another horse. Christine vaguely remembered coming across his story and seeing his pictures on social media. In that moment, she knew without a doubt that Jerry belonged with her one her farm. Jerry quickly became a beloved member of Christine’s barn after arriving home. She often praised him, calling him “amazing” because of his calm attitude towards anything and everything. After a lot of hard work and hours of training, Christine entered Jerry in the 2017 Thoroughbred Makeover in the Competitive Trail category. The pair was so good that they even led some of their uneasy group members through the obstacles! As of 2018, Jerry became pasture mates with one of Christine’s daughter’s off-the-track Thoroughbred, Chipped Tooth.    Due to Jerry’s exceptional manners and positive attitude, he became the perfect lesson horse for the farm’s trainer to use in her lesson program. He loved the opportunity to teach young children how to ride, even taking some of them to their first horse shows. Jerry became the ideal draw for the local Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team, thriving on the attention he received from being ridden by so many riders. He also played a role in the local 4-H club, filling in for kids who didn’t have their own horses. Jerry took these roles very seriously, almost as if he knew his job was to make sure the kids were happy and safe. He became a true all-around equine star in his community. These days, Jerry enjoys a wide range of activities with Christine, including trail rides, fox hunts, and cross-country runs, among many other adventures. Christine couldn’t be happier with how far Jerry has come, considering that he was once a horse nobody wanted. She expressed her love for him by saying, “I am filled with pride that the horse that no one wanted is the horse that everyone needs.” Christine recognizes Jerry as one of the most versatile and easygoing horses she has ever worked with, and she values his remarkable ability to adapt to any rider, which she considers his greatest asset. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous Post Remembering Viva Pentelicus This article was originally featured in the February 2024 Issue of BloodHorse Magazine in the Second Acts series. This article is the original format and text. To read the BloodHorse article or to subscribe click HERE. Remembering Viva Pentelicus: From Racetrack to Compassion and Connection – A Tale of Resilience By: Alexis Arbaugh February 13, 2024 Aftercare Editorials, Success Stories Tags:Healing Arenas, Success story, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation Thoroughbred racehorses, beyond the racetrack, have the opportunity to start the second chapter of their life. Thoroughbreds who are bred for speed and purpose deserve fulfilling post-racing careers that honor their lineage and natural drive, guiding them toward a new future while respecting their racing legacy. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited organizations provide care and opportunities to our Thoroughbreds, unlocking their potential and showcasing their versatility beyond the track and ensuring a fulfilling, meaningful life beyond their racing days. Numerous off-the-track Thoroughbreds are allowed the remarkable opportunity to evolve beyond their racing origins, finding new roles as riding horses, therapy horses, etc. each one fulfilling a unique purpose in their new life. Viva Pentelicus, a 1996 gelding by Pentelicus out of Vivacious Sheila, arrived at Healing Arenas in late 2012 from Flying Y, a Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) farm in Oklahoma. Healing Arenas had partnered with TRF to launch a Second Chances program for California – a program that eventually became Healing Arenas’ own equine-assisted therapy program. After selecting Viva and a few others, Healing Arenas loaded up their trailer and headed home to their farm in California. Viva had retired to Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation in 2005 after starting in 96 races at more than 20 tracks across the country over the course of 8 years, earning $347,494 from a record of 22 wins, 9 seconds, and 14 thirds. At just 15.1 hands, he was nicknamed “the little horse that could” for his immense heart and try. Steve Trizis, a partial owner of Viva during his racing career, recalls a time when they sent him to a farm for a break and relaxation between races for a few months. The farm manager called Steve back a month into Viva’s stay, pleading them to take him back to the track. Viva was restless with a strong desire to run, and the supposedly relaxing vacation turned out to be anything but. Steve and his crew picked Viva up and brought him home to the track, where Viva appeared more relaxed doing his job on the track than anywhere else. Viva’s heart carried him through his entire racing career, and he finished first, second, and second in his final three starts in the fall of 2005. He then did get a well-deserved retirement vacation at TRF’s Flying Y until he was picked out by Julie Baker of Healing Arenas. While all the horses brought home for the burgeoning Healing Arenas’ equine-assisted therapy program were special, 16-year-old Viva had a personality nobody could ignore. He was ready for a new job, and it was as if he knew when he stepped off the trailer, his purpose was connecting with people and helping them heal. “When I first saw him,” Julie remembers, “it took about 15 seconds for me to realize how much class he has and how much I wanted him. He was a classy, old-school horse. He’s a warhorse, and right after I met him, I made up my mind that he would never leave me.” In his 11 years at Healing Arenas and through a move with the program from California to Nevada, Viva assisted numerous groups through therapy: veterans, PTSD victims, first responders, foster youth, trafficking victims, and individuals and couples in counseling. Throughout these sessions, participants didn’t just receive therapy; they also acquired crucial horsemanship skills. Viva seemed to recognize when he was being called, as the distinctive call involved singing “Viva Las Vegas,” and it was as if he understood that they were singing to him. Among the many individuals impacted by Viva, one special story stands out above the rest. Viva played a significant role in helping a 17-year-old in foster care who was on the verge of aging out of the system. The teen, initially introverted and struggling to connect with people, found solace and guidance with Viva. Through their interactions, Viva helped him realize that it’s okay to reach out and connect with others. By the end of his time in the foster care system, the young individual had gained the confidence to lead his group, delegate responsibilities, and take control of his life. Viva also played a role in teaching veterinary technician students as he participated in their “live labs.” He thoroughly enjoyed the attention he received from both vet tech and therapy students, just as much as these students cherished being around him. Viva served as the poster child for Healing Arenas, and on National Agriculture Day in 2016, the then 20-year-old represented his breed at the California State Capitol in Sacramento, interacting with elected officials, staff, and the public. He served as a great example of the versatility of Thoroughbreds, proving wrong many of the misconceptions about racehorses and their ability to succeed in second careers after racing. Viva offered care and support consistently until he passed away at the age of 27 in August of 2023. A painted portrait of Viva now hangs at Healing Arenas, a gift from one of their volunteers and Viva’s biggest fan. It serves as a reminder of his enduring spirit—a symbol of hope and kindness that continues to inspire and guide those on the path to healing. Viva, the spirited Thoroughbred, went from a winner on the racetrack to the heart of equine-assisted therapy. His journey tells a story of resilience and the power of connection. Through therapy sessions and teaching moments, Viva not only offered comfort but also shared important life lessons. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has awarded accreditation to both Thoroughbred

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Ruth’s Ride with Cyclo Ruth’s Ride with Cyclo By: Alexis Arbaugh February 7, 2024 Other, Success Stories Tags:Circle A Home For Horses, Success story, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Ruth couldn’t have been in a better position when looking for her first off-the-track Thoroughbred. Her experience as a volunteer at Circle A Home For Horses helped her immensely. She had adopted a few horses from the rescue in the past, providing them with loving homes and a chance for a better life. However, this time, Ruth had a specific goal in mind – she wanted to find her first off-the-track Thoroughbred (OTTB). In the fall of 2022, a new arrival named Cyclo made his way to Circle A Home For Horses. After a lengthy trailer ride, he was brought to a round pen where he could finally stretch his legs and take a break from the confines of the journey. As soon as he was released into the pen Cyclo burst into action. He went wild, leaping, and bucking Lipizzaner style into the air, his movements were wild and spirited. Ruth had seen many horses with diverse personalities and behaviors, but Cyclo’s display of athleticism and freedom in that round pen was something truly special. Ruth couldn’t help but be moved by Cyclo’s display because she had never seen anything so graceful and spirited. Ruth’s love for Cyclo was instantaneous, it was clear that there was a unique connection between them, and she felt a deep bond with this remarkable horse. Her affection for Cyclo only grew stronger with each passing day. After finishing her shifts at Circle A Home For Horses, Ruth would make sure to spend quality time with him in the pasture, dedicating 45 minutes to an hour of her time to be with him in his pasture. Before long, Ruth made the decision to adopt Cyclo. She knew in her heart that he was the horse she had been searching for, and she wanted to provide him with a forever home. Now on Ruth’s farm, Cyclo is the boss at home and oversees his 4 pasture mates. Taking his job very seriously, he keeps everyone in line and out of trouble. Unfortunately, Cyclo has been diagnosed with Equine Wobblers and sticky stifles and should not be in training. Wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical vertebral malformation (CVM), is a serious and often devastating disease that can impact a horse’s neurological and musculoskeletal systems. This condition arises due to structural abnormalities in the horse’s cervical vertebrae, leading to the narrowing of the spinal canal. The compression of the spinal cord interferes with the normal functioning of the nervous system and can lead to varying degrees of impairment, making it a challenging condition to manage. The stifles of horses have a neat ability to “lock” in place to allow for the horse to sleep while standing up without expending too much energy to keep their legs in a stable position.  When this happens, the horse may have difficulty moving forward, and it can lead to a condition known as “sticky stifles.” Sticky stifles can occur for various reasons, such as muscle imbalances or weakness, conformational issues, or other underlying factors. Ruth still will ride Cyclo bareback on the trails or in their neighborhood to help with his movement and not allowing his muscles and joints to get too stiff. Her future goals with Cyclo are to walk everywhere they can. He loves going to new places, seeing new things, and getting attention from everyone they see along the way. Ruth would love to take him to the beach one day, she knows that Cyclo would absolutely love it! — Check out Ruth’s other horse from Circle A Home For Horses, Don Ramon here: https://www.thoroughbredaftercare.org/don-ramon/ Share This Article   Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Hank’s Homecoming​ Hank’s Homecoming​ By: Alexis Arbaugh January 30, 2024 Other, Success Stories Tags:Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Success story, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance After a year of healing from the heartbreak of putting her 29-year-old off-the-track Thoroughbred down, Michele was ready to get back out there and find her forever horse. Michele, having known Sara Ruggerone, the Equine Care Manager at Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Rescue, for years, felt that it would be the perfect place to begin her search. Their connection went back to the time when they both boarded their horses at the same facility where they first met. Having known each other for so long they knew a lot about each other’s riding styles, skills, and limitations with horses. Michele turned in an adoption application and got approval right away. Eager to meet her potential forever horse, she visited Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Rescue to meet Hustling Hank, the horse that Sara believed would be a fitting match for Michele. Hustling Hank was a large, unmarked dark bay gelding. “It was love at first sight,” wrote Michele. Michele was so attracted to Hank that she would have taken him home that very day. However, Sara advised her to adhere to Redwings’ adoption process, to ensure a smooth transition for both Michele and Hank. Michele agreed to follow the adoption process. She began spending several days a week riding and bonding with Hank at Redwings. As the comfort and compatibility between Michele and Hank grew evident to both Michele and the Redwings employees, the decision was made for Michele to bring Hank home. Despite being much younger than any of Michele’s previous horses, Hank’s mellow personality contradicted his age. He turned out to be the perfect goofy and quirky “youngster” that Michele needed, especially after the loss of her older OTTB. Hank’s kind eyes and Labrador Retriever-like climb into your lap atitude embodied everything Michele could have hoped for in her new horse. Hank couldn’t be happier in his new home! He has made friends with his neighbor Willis and loves the 5 goats that live on the other side of the fence. With Michele by his side, Hank is set to enjoy a life filled with happiness and free from stress. In terms of riding, Michele and Hank clicked right from the beginning, making everything seem easy and straightforward. Their focus currently lies on basic flatwork, with an emphasis on staying relaxed and balanced. While Michele has plans to introduce collection in the future, she’s in no rush. As unfazed and chill as Hank, he proves to be the perfect companion for rides anywhere. Michele has shifted her focus away from structured training programs and show days, choosing to prioritize her evolving partnership with Hank. While she aims to maintain their skills for potential clinic attendance, her primary goal is to explore trails and the beach with her newfound best friend. Michele’s journey with Hank centers around the joy of shared experiences and the simple pleasures of forging a deep connection and love. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights Previous PostNext Post Racing to Retirement: Gallon Racing to Retirement: Gallon By: Alexis Arbaugh January 23, 2024 Success Stories Tags:aftercare, CANTER California, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Aliance Lauren had been working at CANTER California for only two weeks when Gallon arrived on Halloween 2017. Gallon was a 12-year-old gelding who had joined the adoption program. When he first arrived, he had a rough appearance – he was underweight and under muscled. Unlike many horses at CANTER, Gallon hadn’t come directly from the racetrack. However, Lauren had a strong belief that this retired stakes winner had the potential to become stunning once he gained the weight and muscle he needed. Lauren was very curious about him so she asked the CANTER employees if she could be his primary volunteer. They didn’t have an issue with that, so she started coming out every day to work with him. Lauren’s curiosity about Gallon led her to request to become his primary volunteer. They allowed her to take on this role, and she began coming out to the facility every day to work with him. Gallon’s past as a racehorse was indeed filled with stories and experiences. His racing career had taken him to various tracks and racing events. She started reseaching to figure out everything that she could about him, his racing history and gain insight into his personality and behavior during his racing days. This information would not only help Lauren bond with Gallon but also assist her in providing him with the care and training he needed for a successful transition into a new life beyond the racetrack. There was a short period of him being sound enough to ride thanks to the CANTER team, but a little while later Gallon unfortunately was never sound enough to continue being ridden or to have another career. Lauren officially adopted him in April of 2018 and it made her so happy to have him at home with her. Some months before Lauren adopted Gallon, she lost her childhood horse, so having Gallon by her side and to care for during that time bonded them even more. She could really explore his personality when she brought him home. In the months leading up to Lauren’s adoption of Gallon, she experienced the loss of her childhood horse. This shared period of grief and the responsibility of caring for Gallon deepened their bond. During this time that she had the opportunity to truly get to know his personality after bringing him home. The best thing about Gallon was that he wasn’t perfect… and that’s what made him perfect. She adored his giant, moose-like head and all his weird quirks. Since Gallon is retired, Lauren’s goal is to give him the retirement that he deserved, “he is doing great living his best retired life,” wrote Lauren. “He has the cutest ‘dad bod.’” Gallon is approaching his 19th birthday and continues to live a wonderful life with two fellow Thoroughbred geldings in a multiacre pasture. Lauren is certain that he is enjoying his life as a retired old man. He is still playful when she goes out to visit him and seems to enjoy her company. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Bound by Love: Cortez and Melissa Bound by Love: Cortez and Melissa By: Alexis Arbaugh January 16, 2024 Success Stories Tags:aftercare, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Aliance Melissa had been working at Redwings Horse Sanctuary when Sea of Cortez arrived. The stunning dark bay caught her eye immediately. The sweet and soft expression in his eyes made Melissa fall in love with him. Cortez seemed to only know how to love and be kind because that’s what made him stand out among the slew of other horses at Redwings. His thick and strong build made him seem more intimidating than he was. Melissa had been dedicated to her work at Redwings Horse Sanctuary for many years, caring for and tending to the various horses that found their way to the sanctuary. However, when Sea of Cortez arrived, it was a moment she would never forget. The moment she laid eyes on Sea of Cortez, Melissa was captivated. There was something special about him that set him apart from the other horses at the sanctuary. It was as if he had an aura of sweetness and gentleness that radiated from him. While his strong and thick build might have seemed intimidating at first glance, it was only a testament to his resilience and strength. Despite his appearance, Sea of Cortez was a gentle giant. He had a way of making people feel at ease in his presence as if he knew that his purpose in life was to provide comfort and solace to those around him. As Melissa continued her dedicated work at the sanctuary, her bond with Sea of Cortez deepened each day. Inevitably, Melissa found herself longing to make Sea of Cortez a permanent part of her life. After careful consideration, Melissa came to the decision that she couldn’t imagine her life without Cortez by her side. She officially adopted him and welcomed him into her home. Due to the efforts of Melissa and the other dedicated Redwings employees at the sanctuary, Sea of Cortez had some retraining during his stay. This preparation meant that he was well-prepared to transition to his new home with Melissa. Having an athletic build made it easy for Cotez to do the things that Melissa asked of him with ease. It was apparent that he was naturally suited for a wide range of activities, making it easy for him to excel in the tasks Melissa asked of him. It was as if he were designed for anything but a career as a racehorse. Cortez’s intelligence was another remarkable quality. His smart brain meant that he understood what was being asked of him and the reason behind it. So he never fussed or put up a fight over work. Sea of Cortez could seamlessly transition from jumping to herding dummy cows, or even enjoying leisurely trail rides. He adapted effortlessly to each new activity. Melissa would love to make Cortez into an Eventer one day. With his training going as good as it is now, they should be going to shows any day now. She is very excited and feels blessed to have a horse like Cortez in her life. “I don’t know how I was so fortunate to wind up with him,” she wrote when reminiscing on her journey with Cortez. Share This Article   Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post The Perfect Horse: Silver Bouquet The Perfect Horse: Silver Bouquet By: Alexis Arbaugh January 9, 2024 Success Stories Tags:aftercare, New Beginnings Thoroughbred Rescue, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Aliance In 2019, at The Horse World Expo in Harrisburg, PA, Carmel discovered her perfect horse through New Beginnings Thoroughbreds. Silver Bouquet was the featured horse from their farm during the Thoroughbred showcases. Although Carmel didn’t get a chance to see Silver Bouquet in person at the expo, she researched the horse online after returning home. She was deeply impressed by the composure of this young horse in the midst of a bustling arena with so many people and other horses. Carmel reached out to New Beginnings Thoroughbreds via email to express her interest in Silver Bouquet and to initiate the adoption application process. Upon receiving approval, she made a visit to the farm to meet Silver Bouquet in person. An immediate bond and sense of ease developed between them. Following this visit, Carmel decided to bring Silver Bouquet home the following week. Their friendship has flourished ever since. Carmel was in search of a new horse to replace her retired off-the-track Thoroughbred mare, Carey. At the age of 60, she sought a horse slightly older than a freshly retired 3- or 4-year-old Thoroughbred. Silva was 7 years old and from the way she acted at The World Horse Expo she seemed to have a good mind to help put Carmel at ease when riding. She stood at 16.2 hh, had a lovely head, and a great attitude. Carmel was highly impressed with the excellent training that New Beginnings Thoroughbreds had given to Silva. Silva had a solid foundation in the fundamentals, including walking, trotting, cantering, and even some introductory jumping. Carmel’s future plans with Silva involved further developing her skills, focusing on teaching her correct bending and helping her learn how to use her body in various ways. Carmel’s primary focus with Silva was dressage, as it was her main discipline. Silva now knows the ins and outs of all lateral movements, including shoulder in, haunches in, leg yielding, etc. She is so happy with how soft and supple Silva has gotten through their training sessions. Silva also proved to be an excellent trail horse, and she enjoyed leisurely walks through the woods with friends. Carmel had a memorable experience during one of their outings when a family of turkeys crossed their path. The mother turkey flew right beneath Silva’s nose, and the baby turkeys made a commotion as they hurried away. This unexpected encounter startled both Carmel and Silva, but what stood out was that Silva didn’t bolt or get overly spooked. This incident reinforced Carmel’s belief that Silva was the ideal adult horse for her due to her calm and composed nature.   Carmel and Silva also dedicated time to Positive Reinforcement training (R+), a method that involves using rewards such as treats, clicks, pats, and praise to encourage desired behaviors in the horse. This approach helps shape a horse’s behavior by making them want to perform the desired actions due to the rewards they receive. Silva’s proficiency in this training method was showcased when she recently served as a demonstration horse at a local horse show club event, led by the renowned trainer Shawna Karrasch, who specializes in R+ training. In 2023, Carmel and Silva participated in some Working Equitation Playdays, which included dressage tests and obstacle courses. This was Silva’s first experience with such events outside of their home environment, and she handled it with ease, delivering a flawless performance. Carmel observed that Silva seemed to like engaging her mind as well as her body during their work. Carmel’s goals with Silva do not revolve around horse shows or climbing the ranks in any specific discipline. Instead, her primary focus is on enhancing their partnership each day and getting enjoyment from their rides. Whether they’re exploring trails or working in the arena, Carmel’s objective is to ride skillfully and continuously enhance their teamwork, prioritizing the joy and connection they share in their equestrian endeavors. At home, Silva can often be seen alongside her best friend, Carey, who is Carmel’s retired off-the-track Thoroughbred mare. These two horses bear a striking resemblance and are inseparable in the field, affectionately referred to as the “bay girls”. Carmel loves Silva’s youthful spirit, as she often runs, buck, and plays in the field. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission

All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Don Ramon: A Family Man Don Ramon: A Family Man By: Alexis Arbaugh January 4, 2024 Success Stories Tags:aftercare, Circle A Home For Horses, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Aliance When Ruth began her search for horses, her heart was set on finding a friendly and dependable Quarter Horse. This love for Quarter Horses had been passed down through her family. However, when Ruth decided to try out Don Ramon, an off-the-trach Thoroughbred, at Circle A Home For Horses her family didn’t quite approve of her change of heart. Even though Ruth developed a strong attachment to Don Ramon during her trial, she made the difficult decision to leave him behind in order to honor her family’s preference for Quarter Horses. Unfortunately, while she was with other horses, Don Ramon was adopted by someone else. Ruth left the facility with no horse and a broken heart. Six months later, Don Ramon was returned to the rescue through no fault of his own. Ruth interpreted this as a serendipitous sign that they were meant to be together. Without hesitation, she rushed to Circle A Home For Horses, retrieved Don Ramon, and welcomed him into her home. “He’s a big baby,” wrote Ruth when talking about Don’s temperament. She adores his warm and kind-hearted nature; he seems to always want to be around people. He loves the attention and love he receives from Ruth and her family. Ruth describes Don Ramon as a “gentle giant” due to his attentiveness and careful nature, always being aware of his surroundings. Don’s extraordinary qualities shine when it comes to Ruth’s husband, who has epilepsy. He is not just sweet but also incredibly considerate, providing exceptional care and support when they are together. Don also loves their children and is mindful of their age and horse experience, making him the ideal family horse. Ruth started retraining Don as both an English and Western horse, leaving it up to him to see which style he liked more. Their partnership has made the process seamless and highly effective. Nothing fazes them so the process has been very smooth and productive. He is willing to try and do anything that is asked of him, “I’ve never encountered such a cooperative training experience,” wrote Ruth when commenting on Don’s retraining. They love trail riding together after a long day of work. Ruth has big plans for both herself Don and the future, including the possibility of venturing into the world of jumping and Eventing. Don has so much heart for everything that he does. He just wants to make Ruth happy and will do and learn anything for her. He’s more than willing to undertake new challenges and acquire new skills to ensure her happiness. Share This Article   Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission