An update, in his own words, with young horse Windy River, who will turn 2 years old on March 1, 2021.
Q: How have you been doing Windy River?
Windy River: “I’m having so much fun! When my friend and trainer Chris Lombard comes to visit me, I get to play with this super fun ball and express some of my plentiful energy. It’s one of my favorite things to do. I love to play!”
Q: What else have you learned from Chris?
Windy River: “So many things! We’ve been doing things called lunging and long lining, and I’ve been practicing wearing a saddle pad and girth. Plus, I get to go on adventures where we take long walks around the farm, and I get to see all kinds of new stuff. I’m very curious, so the walks are another favorite of mine. I’m also very proud of myself because Chris says that I’m ahead of schedule on learning all kinds of new skills! And I’m excited to turn 2 years old, so I can start saddle training later this year. That sounds like even more fun!”
Q: What do you do when you’re not spending time playing and training with Chris?
Windy River: “I’ve been playing with all kinds of herd mates and exploring different paddocks! The older horses are teaching me how to get along well in a herd. They’ve taught me that sometimes I have to follow and do what they want me to do. But other times, I’ve learned that it’s ok for me to be the leader. My friend Chris says this is called ‘balance’ and ‘herd dynamics.’ I just call it fun with my friends!”
Q: Sounds like you’re doing great Windy River! Anything you’d like to share with all of your friends that support MSSPA?
Windy River: “I’m really glad that so many of you have come to visit and spend time with me as I’ve been learning and growing. I miss having you come to see me and I look forward to when you can visit again. But the staff and volunteers at the farm take great care of me. I’m a pretty lucky and loved horse!”
Much time and talent are required to train and support the horses at River Road Farm. But it has been proven that training significantly increases the likelihood of successful adoptive placements, the ultimate goal for the horses rehabilitated at MSSPA. Your monthly gift helps support the training and rehabilitation of these beautiful equines. Any monthly amount makes a difference for Windy River and his friends from a horse lover like you.