Riding Alternatives

Riding Alternatives

Although we all want to ride as much as we are able, at times this is just not possible. Maybe you cannot ride at present because one thing or another is keeping you on the ground. Well there is good news; you can still be involved with horses even though you cannot ride. So many places need volunteers to help keep them going. Below is a list of things that might be of interest if you would like to be involved with horses in another capacity:

Horse shows are always in the market for volunteers. Generally, they can make use of secretarial skills, people to operate the in-gate, hand out ribbons, work the concessions etc… there are numerous opportunities for volunteers. Some may even be paying positions.

Have you ever thought of volunteering at a horse rescue farm? Well an extra hand is always appreciated. If you like this idea I suggest going online and finding a reputable rescue organization, or a reputable rescue farm. You may be wondering why reputable is in italics. Many legitimate rescue farms and organizations do an amazing job helping these ill-fated abused animals. Unfortunately, there are just as many looking for any easy way to make money by playing on the sympathies of animal lovers and misrepresenting themselves as rescue organizations. It is sad but true; there are charlatans in every business, even the rescue business.

This is just horrifying

Lucy & Ethel

Now living happily at Redwings Sanctuary
www.redwings.org

Do you have the space and the know-how to take on a rescue or perhaps a retiree looking for a loving home and companion for their last years? A retiree may not be rideable but they offer companionship and just knowing that you are making an unwanted animal’s last years joyful, would be gratifying. Some rescue organizations will let you sponsor a horse at your farm until a good home is located. This might be an ideal situation if you really don’t want to own a horse, but want to be of assistance for a while. Of course, there is always the possibility that once you have the horse in your possession and care for them daily you may not want them to leave. Let us not forget the ponies and mini’s who have been abandoned. Minis are great for driving competitions and they do not take up much space.

This looks like fun!

There is also a wonderful organization that assists autistic and handicapped children and adults. In my area it is; www.pegasustr.org/node/150. The Pegasus Therapeutic Riding organization does wonderful things and they have a lot of information on their site about what they need. There are volunteer programs for so many different types of work, from side walkers to carpenters; something of this nature might be just right for you. This particular organization is willing to teach what you need to know in order to be a volunteer and the rewards are incomparable. Some research online shows that there are similar organizations all over the country, there may be one in your area that would welcome your services.

I am certain if you really want to be involved with horses but cannot ride right now, you will be able to find some interesting and worthwhile pursuits to occupy you at this point.

Until next time

Quote for Today

I have often been asked why do I like horses so much. Look into one's eyes. There you will see generations of horses who have served the human for thousands of years faithfully for nothing in return, beaten horses, starved hoses, horses who no longer possess a spirit. They deserve to be loved and respected as much as humanly possible. Let them run free again. Let them no longer be a faithful beast, but embrace them as you would a dear friend, for they are.