Your Horses
Get to know the stars: Our talented, beautiful, and extraordinary herd of Therapists.
We are so lucky these very special horses call LifeStriders their home.
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Almar
Almar was born in 1992. He is a Icelandic Gelding. Almar came to LifeStriders in June of 2013, and warmed everyone’s hearts very quickly. He is smart, very kind and very patient. He was the horse of a teen girl in the north woods of Wisconsin where he encountered bears and all kinds of other challenges. Almar likes being scratched on his neck and shoulders, and will point with his nose to his itchy spots to remind you gently, to get back to scratching him. Almar's mane and forelock is a constant subject around the barn, what, or who, does it remind you of today. Thank you Erik and Katherine Lillydahl for encouraging your friends and family to donate and sponsor Almar for one whole year in lieu of wedding gifts! LifeStriders also appreciates Sherri Kelllog for the special care that she provides Almar throughout the year. Thank you Sherri! |
SPONSOR ALMAR
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Alterra
Alterra was born in 2000. She is a Paint Mare. Alterra came to LifeStriders in July of 2013. Before Alterra came to LifeStriders, she was trained for English riding, and had done some showing with her owner and her owner’s son when he was young as well. Alterra had even done some cart work for the Amish before that at, a very young age. Alterra is a very gentle and sweet mare with wonderful ground manners and is wooing many people with her big soft brown eyes. Alterra has a great size and is very responsive to the rider’s cues, building confidence for her riders in their abilities, and making her very versatile for many different riders. Alterra tries very hard to please her handlers and is very patient. Alterra is best friends with Jazzy, makes expert begging faces for her treats, and you might find her resting her chin on the arena fence when waiting for her rider. |
SPONSOR ALTERRA
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Elliot
Elliot was born in 1993. He is a Thoroughbred Gelding. Elliot came to LifeStriders in May of 2012. He is one of the tallest horses here at LifeStriders. Elliot is absolutely a gentle giant. He is very kind, very patient, and very mild mannered. Elliot has smooth gaits that make it easier for new riders to learn to sit and post the trot, as well as develop confidence in their seats. Elliot's size and sweet temperament make him one of the most in-demand horses here at LifeStriders. Elliot loves human affection, and will remind you to pay attention to him with a gentle, but playful nudge to make sure you are scratching and loving on him. Elliot likes to be brushed, hand grazed, and to be the center of attention. |
SPONSOR ELLIOT
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Jazzy
Jazzy was born in 1998. He is a Pinto Pony Gelding. Jazzy came to LifeStriders in July of 2013 along with Scout. Before Jazzy came to LifeStriders, he was a family's pony, providing therapy for their two boys, and had done Hippotherapy before that. His size is perfect for riders that need a lot of assistance, as well as for riders that do position changes. Jazzy is very sweet, tolerant, has goals, and a mission in life that he takes seriously. Jazzy loves grass, his lady Alterra, and his friend Scout. |
SPONSOR JAZZY
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Stormy
Stormy is a 1999 Chestnut Quarter/Arab. He was born on a stormy night and that is how he got his name. Prior to Stormy coming to LifeStriders, he was used for speed events. Stormy is a very inquisitive and friendly boy and loves his treats. With his diamond shaped eyes he looks like he is always surprised. He is very responsive to his riders needs and does very well with experienced riders offering them a challenge, yet can be low key and patient with the newer riders as well. He loves all of the attention everyone gives him and is always looking to make new friends.
Thank you Jill Sorden for sponsoring Stormy for one year!
Stormy is a 1999 Chestnut Quarter/Arab. He was born on a stormy night and that is how he got his name. Prior to Stormy coming to LifeStriders, he was used for speed events. Stormy is a very inquisitive and friendly boy and loves his treats. With his diamond shaped eyes he looks like he is always surprised. He is very responsive to his riders needs and does very well with experienced riders offering them a challenge, yet can be low key and patient with the newer riders as well. He loves all of the attention everyone gives him and is always looking to make new friends.
Thank you Jill Sorden for sponsoring Stormy for one year!
SPONSOR STORMY
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Scout
Scout was born in 1986. We think he is either a Miniature, or Shetland Pony Gelding. Scout came to LifeStriders with Jazzy in July of 2013. Before Scout came to LifeStriders he was a family's pony, providing therapy to their two boys, he did Hippotherapy before that, AND then, before THAT, Scout even did Pony rides at the Wisconsin State fair. Scout has touched many children’s lives beyond what we can imagine. Scout is small in stature, but big in personality and heart! His size, other than making him one of the CUTEST horses at LifeStriders, makes him unique and perfect for riders that need extra help, and our tiny tot riders that might be scared to get up so high on a horse. He is gentle, and tolerant. Scout is curious, loves attention, his friend Jazzy, and food. Thank you Terry Stevens for sponsoring Scout for one year! Thank you Arthur and Kirsten Stritzel, and Jerry and Sue Schneider for the special care that they provide Scout throughout the year. |
SPONSOR SCOUT
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Xena
Xena was born in 1995. She is a Dutch Warmblood/Appendix Quarter horse Mare. Xena came to LifeStriders in September of 2011. Xena was born in Florida, and was shown as a hunter jumper. She came to Wisconsin in 2001, and was trained in Dressage up to 2nd level. Her owner purchased Xena at 8 years old, and did both show and pleasure riding with her. Xena is by far the self-proclaimed “Duchess of LifeStriders”. Xena is sensitive, and responsive to cues, yet patient and solid when you need her to be. Xena’s size, gait, and capabilities make her a great horse for riders who want to progress their skills. Xena bonds to her riders and helps them to accomplish great things while she carries them toward their goals. Xena loves Red, being the center of attention, and being reminded frequently of how special she is. Thank you Terry Stevens for sponsoring Xena for one year! |
SPONSOR XENA
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Julep
Julep was born in 1997. She is a Bay Friesian Sport horse mare. Julep came to LifeStriders in February of 2014. Contrary to popular belief, no, Julep is not pregnant, she just likes her food…. very much. Julep used to do a little bit of everything, she did some jumping, dressage, trail riding, was in a few parades and even did some pleasure driving. Juleps owner had her from the time she was 18 months old and she bought her from the breeder, so we are only Juleps third home, which is quite uncommon for a horse of her age. Juleps slow and steady pace, even temperament, and gentle spirit has been a great addition to the program. Julep likes to go trail riding, take things at a leisurely pace, and loves to be scratched under her mane. |
SPONSOR JULEP
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Macinac
aka
Mac was born in 1994, he is a chestnut Hanoverian gelding. Mac came to the farm in November of 2013. Mac has been a delight to have in the program, he has as much personality as the arena can hold, and never fails to bring smiles and laughter to the whole class with his boyish games, and inquisitive mind. Mac used to do show jumping and eventing, and even showed here at the LifeStriders facility back when it was Harmony farms. Mac’s gait provides a higher level of input for his riders, and his forward stride fosters increased range of motion throughout his rider’s hips, a valuable asset for some of the riders who need it. Mac likes to keep busy, so whether it’s going for a ride in the field, hamming it up in the classes, or doing the “flamingo” holding his front leg up waiting for his treats, Mac’s mind is always at work.
Thank you to Samia El-Meanawy for bringing Mac to the LifeStriders program. Her generous love and support made sure that Mac could stay at LifeStriders to continue making a difference in our riders’ lives.
aka
Mac was born in 1994, he is a chestnut Hanoverian gelding. Mac came to the farm in November of 2013. Mac has been a delight to have in the program, he has as much personality as the arena can hold, and never fails to bring smiles and laughter to the whole class with his boyish games, and inquisitive mind. Mac used to do show jumping and eventing, and even showed here at the LifeStriders facility back when it was Harmony farms. Mac’s gait provides a higher level of input for his riders, and his forward stride fosters increased range of motion throughout his rider’s hips, a valuable asset for some of the riders who need it. Mac likes to keep busy, so whether it’s going for a ride in the field, hamming it up in the classes, or doing the “flamingo” holding his front leg up waiting for his treats, Mac’s mind is always at work.
Thank you to Samia El-Meanawy for bringing Mac to the LifeStriders program. Her generous love and support made sure that Mac could stay at LifeStriders to continue making a difference in our riders’ lives.
SPONSOR MAC
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Champion
Champion was born in 1996. He is a Red Roan Missouri Fox Trotter gelding. Champion came to LifeStriders along with Buck in May of 2014. Champion was used primarily for trail riding before he came to LifeStriders. Champion is never in a hurry, and likes to stay involved with his riders and sidewalkers, turning around frequently to say hi and see if, just maybe, something has changed in the treat status from the last time he checked in. This handsome fellow’s puppy dog expressions, and big pink lips has had us wrapped around his hoof since day one. Champion is a gaited horse which means the moment of suspension that most horses normally have, is eliminated during the faster gaits, so he provides a very smooth ride. Champion’s best friends are Buck, Almar, and Scout, and they are frequently found grooming each other in the pasure. Champion used to be a little finicky regarding his treats, but his horizons are always expanding and now enjoys 90% of the treats that his riders bring him, however, classic carrots and apple nuggets still remain his favorite.
Champion was born in 1996. He is a Red Roan Missouri Fox Trotter gelding. Champion came to LifeStriders along with Buck in May of 2014. Champion was used primarily for trail riding before he came to LifeStriders. Champion is never in a hurry, and likes to stay involved with his riders and sidewalkers, turning around frequently to say hi and see if, just maybe, something has changed in the treat status from the last time he checked in. This handsome fellow’s puppy dog expressions, and big pink lips has had us wrapped around his hoof since day one. Champion is a gaited horse which means the moment of suspension that most horses normally have, is eliminated during the faster gaits, so he provides a very smooth ride. Champion’s best friends are Buck, Almar, and Scout, and they are frequently found grooming each other in the pasure. Champion used to be a little finicky regarding his treats, but his horizons are always expanding and now enjoys 90% of the treats that his riders bring him, however, classic carrots and apple nuggets still remain his favorite.
SPONSOR CHAMPION
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Buck
Buck was born in 1990. He is a Buckskin gelding who came to LifeStriders along with Champion. Buck used to do 4-H with his owner Katie, and although he primarily did speed classes, his laid back attitude was prominent then as all the other 4-H kids would holler at Katie it was time to wake Buck up it was his turn to go again. Buck must have a history of working cattle because his owner says when he sees a cow he reverts to his old herding ways. You will notice Buck has a brand on his right hip, which makes his markings a little more unique and a little more rugged cowboy too. Buck’s short stature makes him easily accessible for side walkers while his solid frame provides a stable base for riders who may have decreased balance. Buck continues to be a contender for main mares man of the pasture. Buck loves going on quiet trail rides, but still enjoys letting loose for a good speed run too. |
SPONSOR BUCK
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Maggie
Maggie was born in 1994 and was shown in western pleasure. Maggie was owned by just one owner for her entire life up until she came to LifeStriders in September of 2014, and the love that she has had in her life is apparent. Maggie is extremely gentle and sweet, especially with little children. Maggie’s forward gaits and tolerant demeanor make her a versatile horse for many riders. Her exceptionally smooth canter allows our new riders the ability to experience a gait that is not always so easily accessible. This has made Maggie an excellent addition to the program. Maggie likes trail riding, splashing in puddles, and being scratched under her mane. She also loves interacting with people so much that she will follow her persons around, turn, stop, and walk wherever they go. |
SPONSOR MAGGIE
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Destiny
Destiny is a 2010 American Miniature Horse. Destiny is the smallest and youngest horse we have at LifeStriders. She has a fun, playful personality and loves to learn new things. Destiny loves attention and loves being scratched. She offers her riders a quick gait and gives a lot of feedback to everyone around her. She brings so much energy to her riders and everyone immediately falls in love with her at first sight.
Destiny is a 2010 American Miniature Horse. Destiny is the smallest and youngest horse we have at LifeStriders. She has a fun, playful personality and loves to learn new things. Destiny loves attention and loves being scratched. She offers her riders a quick gait and gives a lot of feedback to everyone around her. She brings so much energy to her riders and everyone immediately falls in love with her at first sight.
SPONSOR DESTINY
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JJ
JJ is a 1993 Tennessee Walker gelding. JJ came to LifeStriders in February of 2016. JJ lived very close to LIfeStriders at the farm just next door. Prior to coming to LifeStriders, JJ traveled to neighboring states with his owner planting birds for hunting dog field trials. He loves to be out in the field whether it's for a pleasure ride or just grazing. He is a very sweet and calm horse and with him being a gaited horse his riders have a very smooth ride.
JJ is a 1993 Tennessee Walker gelding. JJ came to LifeStriders in February of 2016. JJ lived very close to LIfeStriders at the farm just next door. Prior to coming to LifeStriders, JJ traveled to neighboring states with his owner planting birds for hunting dog field trials. He loves to be out in the field whether it's for a pleasure ride or just grazing. He is a very sweet and calm horse and with him being a gaited horse his riders have a very smooth ride.
SPONSOR JJ
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LIFESTRIDERS LEGENDS
Gone but not forgotten, and in our hearts forever.
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Red
Red was born in 1991. He is an Appendix Quarter Horse gelding. Red came to LifeStriders in December of 2011. Red used to be a Polo pony and still likes to keep moving. Red has a very special movement that helps many of our riders with special needs. In the summer time Red's coat glistens and gleams in the most beautiful colors. Red likes his forehead rubbed and is a ladies’ man in the pastures. Red, at the age of 26 passed on, but still lives in the memory of many here at LifeStriders. Enjoy dancing in your green pastures Red, and know you are loved and missed at LifeStriders. Your hoofprint made an impact on many hearts. |
Cody
Cody was born between the years of 1982-1984. He was a Pony of America Appaloosa Gelding. Cody came to LifeStriders in 2007 and had been an amazing therapy riding horse for countless people. Cody was retired at LifeStriders, but the lives that Cody touched and continued to touch even in retirement, left us speechless with gratitude towards him. Cody had an amazing career and life here at LifeStriders. "Cody" had even been the very first words out of children's lips. His great height, width, and temperament allowed him to be very versatile for many different riders, from tiny tots and position changes, to riders working on their riding skills. Cody was always very keen on what his riders needs were, and was quick to adapt himself to their learning style. He was patient when needed, but was ready to go when asked. Cody liked walking himself to his own stall, getting greeted and groomed by his faithful loving fans, was not fond of certain treats, but definitely loved his carrots. Cody also enjoyed taking frequent naps with his buddies in the pasture soaking up the warm rays of sun.
Cody at age 32 was laid to rest on December 10th, 2015 with the morning sun shining on him in the grass pasture that he loved, and surrounded by people that loved him.Cody will be sadly missed, and will be in the hearts and minds of those that he helped at LifeStriders forever.
Run, romp and squeal through your green pastures now Cody, and say hello to some others we miss up there. Know that we love you so much, and we will miss you until we meet again
Cody was born between the years of 1982-1984. He was a Pony of America Appaloosa Gelding. Cody came to LifeStriders in 2007 and had been an amazing therapy riding horse for countless people. Cody was retired at LifeStriders, but the lives that Cody touched and continued to touch even in retirement, left us speechless with gratitude towards him. Cody had an amazing career and life here at LifeStriders. "Cody" had even been the very first words out of children's lips. His great height, width, and temperament allowed him to be very versatile for many different riders, from tiny tots and position changes, to riders working on their riding skills. Cody was always very keen on what his riders needs were, and was quick to adapt himself to their learning style. He was patient when needed, but was ready to go when asked. Cody liked walking himself to his own stall, getting greeted and groomed by his faithful loving fans, was not fond of certain treats, but definitely loved his carrots. Cody also enjoyed taking frequent naps with his buddies in the pasture soaking up the warm rays of sun.
Cody at age 32 was laid to rest on December 10th, 2015 with the morning sun shining on him in the grass pasture that he loved, and surrounded by people that loved him.Cody will be sadly missed, and will be in the hearts and minds of those that he helped at LifeStriders forever.
Run, romp and squeal through your green pastures now Cody, and say hello to some others we miss up there. Know that we love you so much, and we will miss you until we meet again
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Jesse
Jesse was born in 1993. He was an Appaloosa Gelding. Jesse came to LifeStriders in September of 2006. He was the fourth horse ever to join LifeStriders. Jesse was donated to LifeStriders by Eric Henning, and before Jesse came to LifeStriders he was trained in both Western, and Dressage, but didn't really like the competitive thing. Jesse was very sweet, and so dependable, he earned the nick name of “St. Jesse”. Jesse loved to be the center of human attention, and would position himself between two people conversing, just to make sure, one, if not both were petting him. Jesse was the gentlest of souls. With his kind and patient ways he instilled trust and confidence in the meek, and taught more people than we could ever count how to interact with horses not just under saddle but on the ground also. Jesse loved his job, and gave his whole heart to LifeStriders, for that we are eternally grateful! Jesse passed away on March 30, 2014, he will always be sorely missed. Run and romp through your green pastures now Jesse, but know that we love you so much, and we will miss you until we meet again. |
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Vinur
Vinur was born in 1989. He was an Icelandic Gelding. Vinur came to LifeStriders in March of 2012. Vinur's name meant "Friend" in Icelandic, and a friend to many he was. He was small but sturdy in build and his height was perfect for riders that needed a lot of assistance, and for riders who needed to do a lot of position changes. Vinur had an impeccable work ethic, was trustworthy and dependable. Vinur was quiet and patient, but still loved to let loose and really go. He LOVED his grass, giving his leaders a good arm work out in the fields when grass was abundant, and was often seen with an artsy up do in his mane and forelock. Vinur was 24 years old when he passed on October 19, 2013, and he managed to touch more lives in those 24 years than we could ever imagine. Vinur loved his job, and gave his whole heart to LifeStriders, and we will always be so thankful for that! We would like to thank Barb Riva for letting Vinur share his talents and charms with LifeStriders, and want her to know how blessed and lucky we feel to have had Vinur in the program. Vinur will be forever missed. Enjoy your never ending lush green pastures now Vinur. We will always love and miss you, until we all meet again. |
