OUR EQUINE PARTNERS
The special horses that make this possible...
Amir
Amir is an Arabian who was rescued by the MSSPA. He spent a year in training after being wild for the first five years of his life. Amir is the ranch goofball. He loves to play and interact with people and is extremely expressive. He brings youthful joy and comedy to our herd, and everyone here adores him. He has a larger-than-life personality that brings a smile to everyone's face.
Big Scout
Big Scout is the kindest and gentlest soul at Reigning Hope Ranch. He is able to calm the fears and anxieties of children and adults who visit the barn. He is our nanny horse who genuinely strives to always give his best and truly takes care of his rider's safety. Scout is the definition of a gentleman.
Darwin
Darwin is our tiniest of horses. Although he cannot be ridden or pull carts, his love and affection melts the hearts of all who develop a bond with him. Darwin is a quiet but silly little guy with experience visiting schools and nursing homes. Because of his compact size, he is able to be an ambassador for Reigning Hope and the therapeutic benefit that horses have on people.
Leo
Leo is a cross between a Quarter Horse and a Thoroughbred. He was rescued by the MSSPA and much of his history is unknown. While working with him we have discovered that at some point he had extensive training. He knows how to work in the arena, but he also loves to let loose on the trails. He has a strong presence but also a gentle side. Leo tends to be a worrier and sometimes needs a little extra time to process changes.
Little Scout
Little Scout is a mini horse/Shetland pony cross. He Is a steady pony for our littlest of riders, and he is sure to bring a smile to anyone who interacts with him. Don't let his small size fool you. There is a lot of personality in this little guy. He is quite an imp for sure!
Lucia
Lucia is a registered Arabian. Her sweet as pie personality and her willingness to give everyone snuggles, makes her the perfect fit for our programs. Everyone who meets her instantly falls in love and is put at ease. Lucia is happiest being pampered in the barn and exploring trails with her trail buddy, Amir.
Magic
Magic is our resident "good boy pony". He is steady for our youngest equestrians, but smart and athletic enough to challenge our older riders. Magic loves to jump and go on adventures off the property with his pal Amir. Magic is a Welsh and Shetland pony cross. Though he is smaller in stature, he has the heart to try almost anything we ask him to do.
Melody (Mel)
Mel is a Quarter Horse mare owned by our trainer, Wendy. At times, it seems like she believes she is a golden retriever trapped in a horse's body! She is frequently the first to welcome us in the paddock and genuinely adores attention. Mel's gentle and affectionate nature have made her a standout in our therapeutic horsemanship programs. Additionally, her extensive training makes her an excellent schooling horse for our intermediate riders.
Nona
Nona and Tilly joined our herd in the Fall of 2023. They are both in their mid-teens and spent the last few years at a quiet home in Surry. Prior to that, very little is known about them. Nona tends to be shy while Tilly often gives endearing head bumps for attention. They are a bonded pair and will rarely leave each other's side. Tilly and Nona are sweet and sensitive and often give the sweetest love to people in need.
Tilly
Tilly and Nona joined our herd in the Fall of 2023. They are both in their mid-teens and spent the last few years at a quiet home in Surry. Prior to that, very little is known about them. Nona tends to be shy while Tilly often gives endearing head bumps for attention. They are a bonded pair and will rarely leave each other's side. Tilly and Nona are sweet and sensitive and often give the sweetest love to people in need.
Tripp
Tripp came to us from the MSSPA after being rescued as a Neglected 20 in July 2021. Tripp has only been at the ranch for a short time, but he is already making powerful connections with staff and clients. Because of his traumatic history, he seems to develop an empathetic bond with many clients in our therapy program. There is a softness and mutual respect. He helps us teach important lessons in vulnerability, trust, and boundaries.
Willow
Willow is a mixed breed that was originally rescued from an auction in Pennsylvania as a feral 2-year-old. She made her way from PA to Vermont and then Maine. Willow works hard every day to overcome fears and anxiety. She is sensitive, kind, and is eager to engage with people. She is an active participant in our equine assisted psychotherapy sessions and is gaining confidence at being ridden.
Wisper
Wisper is an off-track standard bred who holds court as our in-house queen expecting regal treatment at all times. She particularly enjoys cool showers after vigorous exercise and snuggles up under cozy blankets for warmth when the temperature drops. Wisper is learning to embrace a slower paced life, and is learning to connect with people instead of performing for them.
