Why We Are Thankful for Horses

Because they teach our children so much!

And they are the best babysitter you can find!

Fairfax4Horses would like to give special thanks to the Virginia Horse Journal for “Why We Are Thankful for Horses.”

Ben and Apache

I always wanted to own my own horse, and my parents agreed to let me have one as long as I took full responsibility for her, to include the purchase of her and care of her. I am finally about to pay her off….She has been my best friend at times and taught me everything I now know about horses….I have discovered they take a lot of time and money. However, what they give us in return we only begin to repay them daily. I am so thankful and happy that I put forth the time and the effort for her.  

Ben R., Age 14

Patience

Nadina and Boozer

I’m thankful for my horse because he has taught me a lot through the years that I have had him. He’s taught me of course to ride better but, he’s also taught me life is too short to be worried about small things. That when you are kind and able to trust each other you become friends.  And that’s what my horse Boozer has been to me through the years--not just a teacher but a friend that I can trust and count on. Sure at times he can be a bit moody, but that’s his own way of teaching me patience and understanding for those who are not having a great day or moment. That’s a lesson that you can’t by any means learn at school. That’s why my horse AKA friend Boozer is special, and that is why I am so very thankful for him!   

Nadina V.,  Age 11 

Life

Jimmy Lewin

Jimmy's smile says it all as he wheels in to the barn each week for his lesson.

Jimmy L., Age 14
Dreamcatchers at the Cori Sikich Therapeutic Riding Center

Responsibility

Patient, Strong and Brave

Grace and Impala

I'm grateful for horses because they teach us how to be patient, strong and brave.

Grace H., Age 11

Comfort

Amber and Raven

Raven has a very big heart and is my best friend. When I get sad she is always there for me and makes me feel better.

Amber H., Age 10 

Friendship

Christian and Worth the Rick

Horses come when you call them. They love to eat apples out of your hands. They have soft noses and would never tell your secrets to your brother. They are fun to ride, and even better to share with friends. I love my pony, because I am a horse lover.

Christian F., Age 7

Compassion/Selflessness

Flashnkatie

I Thank You, Lord, For the Horses Throughout all these years, horses have given us whatever we’ve asked.  My mother and I love our horses as though they were another human.  They are more than just pets to me; Flash and Onyx are our best friends.  Horses never lie or cheat, but are as friendly as they can be.

Every Sunday I look forward to my riding lessons…The ponies there have taught so many children to ride.  Lady was so kind and patient with me and she taught me so much.  I’m very thankful for that time.

It’s sad when you see people hurting horses or starving them. They don’t deserve it.  They’ve been so nice to us and humans take advantage of that sometimes. That’s why I love my horses and am proud to be part of the United States Equine Rescue League.  We help horses that need us.  I love working at our booths and telling people about us. I feel proud of how my mom and I have helped, Flash, a rescue horse, learn to trust and love again.  I’m thankful for all of them, and love each one!

By Katie F., Age 10

Confidence

Jacob and Keiko

I feel good about taking care of all of our horses. They help me feel closer to nature and I have gotten to feel a part of nature on trail rides.  My horses are strong and helpful and they make me feel good. I feel proud of myself when I take care of them….Horses have helped me learn how to be brave and how not to give up.

I am thankful that all my horses are happy to see me every morning when I walk outside and no matter what they always love me.

I am thankful that I have learned how to be tough and not give in to what they want to do when I am riding.

I am thankful that when I am sad I can be with my horse and he does not ask me what’s wrong all the time.

I am thankful that I have had a chance to ride many different horses and ride on trails around home. I know that I am lucky to get to do this.

Jacob D., Age 8

Hope

When life brings you down I just look at my horse and all is well again.

Ashley W., Age 13

Love

Katie and Freckles

That is a crazy question! I am grateful for horses because I love them and they love me!

Katie C., Age 11