Horsing Around on Valentine's Day: Horses from Therapeutic Riding Program "Married"

Sir Winston Churchill said, "There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man". And from my many years of personal experience as a volunteer for the Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Program, I believe when Sir Winston coined that phrase that he was describing therapeutic horseback riding programs to a “T”.

Far more enriching and enjoyable than the impersonal machines used in orthodox physical therapies, therapeutic riding affords children and adults the opportunity to exercise both "mind and muscle" in a pleasurable environment. The therapeutic sessions build self-confidence, improve balance, coordination and motility and offers the opportunity for social interaction.

In September 1975, the first Pegasus program began at the Ox Ridge Hunt Club in Darien, Connecticut. Today, Pegasus, a 501-(c) (3) non-profit organization, runs programs in five locations in Connecticut and New York, providing equine-assisted activities and therapies to more than 225 disabled children and adults.

All their instructors, physical and occupational therapists involved in the program are certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship. But let’s not forget the horses who are at the core of the program. These specially trained equines are the true “therapists” who are doted upon by the folks who ride them.

Since today is St. Valentine’s Day, I just had to share my excitement after learning about a very special equine-related event going on at Pegasus. Two of their fabulous ponies have become engaged and the organization is ecstatic. While Packer, who like George Clooney considered himself a confirmed bachelor, changed his mind and popped the question to his beloved Honey Bun. Happily, she said “yes.”

Packer, is the “Pegasus Patriarch”. He is a 12-hands-high Appaloosa pony, who, believe it or not, is in his mid-thirties. He is brown, gray and white. Once a backyard pet, this chipper old man has taught thousands to ride. With his years of experience he is certainly qualified to teach a thing or two to his fellow therapy horses.  

Honey Bun is a 22 year-old, 13-hands-high Chestnut colored Welch-cross pony who considers herself a “flashy “looker. At one time this pretty lady was a show pony in the short-stirrup division, which, along with her quiet disposition qualifies her as an ideal mount for young children at Pegasus who are just beginning to ride.

You can learn more about Pegasus, what their programs offer, how to volunteer or donate at Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Program.

Let’s congratulate the bride and groom from the Pegasus program, who are presently enjoying themselves basking in the sun, honeymooning in the north pasture. What do you think their wedding cake was made of? Do tell in a comment.