Abby

Everyone has their first lessons on Abby, Good Gossip (APHA). Abby is the matriarch of this lesson program. She proved her excellence in the showpen in multiple open, youth, and amateur classes. She brings her skills as a showhorse to the lesson pen to help new riders feel successful. Her patience with beginners is second to none. Abby loves show trail and walk/jog practice. Her favorite treat is apples.

Jean

Jean, ARR Gray Hen (AQHA), is an ideal horse to learn cow horse basics. She is a proven National Reined Cowhorse money earner and has AQHA points in heading, heeling, and reined cow work. Jean excels with cattle, enjoys carrots, and suits anyone interested in reining, cow horse, or roping.

April

April, Boys Lie (APHA), has had years of success in the showpen and was donated to our program by the Turner Family. She is an excellent teacher and puts smiles on every one of her students. April loves show trail, Western pleasure, showmanship, and horsemanship practice. Her favorite treats are apples and carrots.

Toast

Toast, Christian Grey (APHA), is owned by Marquette Buhman. Toast helps with the more advanced lessons for those wishing to move on into the showpen. He has proven himself a competitive all-arounder and will team up with Helena to show in the ranch divisions. His favorite treat is carrots.

Norma

Norma, Sensationalcompromise (APHA), is the infamous lesson horse featured in the Norma Diaries at www.thenormadiaries.com. Famous for her “Normatude,” Norma has taken on a new role as a lesson horse and will be competing in walk/jog classes for the first time this year. She looks forward to carrying a chosen rider to the winner’s circle. Norma is known for her spicy personality, and her favorite treat is anything her personal cabana boy brings.

Wyatt

Wyatt, Good Silver Smoki (AQHA), has had years of training and was donated to our program by Tina Reeves. He is excellent at advancing riders’ skills and teaching students to post to the trot. Wyatt loves to trot. His favorite treats are apples.

Ducky

Ducky, A Terrific Look(PtHA), was donated by Natasha and Andriana Colombo. He is excellent at teaching advanced skills and loves ranch-style riding. His smooth gait helps students gain confidence as they travel at a faster speed. His favorite treats are apples and carrots.

Our Bovine Staff

Meet Betsy Ross, Tito, Dollar, and Snorty

When selecting cattle for beginner handling lessons, choosing the right breed is essential to ensuring students’ safety, confidence, and success. Among the various breeds available, Zebu cattle stand out as a particularly unique and valuable choice for lesson programs. Their distinctive traits make them especially suitable for those new to cattle handling.

What Makes Zebu Cattle Unique?

Zebu cattle, also known as Bos indicus, are instantly recognizable by their characteristic hump over the shoulders, large ears, and loose skin. Originating in South Asia, these cattle have adapted to a wide range of environments, making them a resilient and hardy breed. Their uniqueness lies not only in their appearance but also in several practical features that benefit both handlers and caretakers.

Smaller Size for Easier Handling

One of the most significant advantages of Zebu cattle for beginners is their smaller size compared to many other cattle breeds. The smaller body size can also help beginners feel less intimidated, boosting their confidence as they develop their handling abilities.

Low Maintenance and Easy Keeping

Zebu cattle are known for their hardiness and adaptability. They require less intensive care than some larger or more delicate breeds. Their ability to thrive on modest feed and in varied climates reduces the complexity and cost of care, allowing us to focus on teaching core handling skills.

Gentle Temperament and Resilience

Another unique feature of Zebu cattle is their temperament. While individual animals may vary, Zebu cattle are generally less prone to becoming “sour” or difficult, even after repeated handling by beginners. This steadiness and resilience make them excellent teaching animals, as they are less likely to develop problematic behaviors when handled inconsistently or by inexperienced handlers.

Great Staff Members

Zebu cattle offer a combination of smaller size, ease of care, and a resilient temperament that make them especially well-suited for beginner cattle-handling lessons. Their unique characteristics not only simplify the learning process for new handlers but also contribute to a safe and positive educational environment. In our lesson program, which focuses on the basics of cattle care and handling, Zebu cattle are an outstanding choice.

Professional Photo Credit to Rachel Griffin Photography