HI Spy: What's the Best Part of Being a Horse Lover?

13-Aug-08

What about being an equine lover is most rewarding to you? © Cindy Hale

Our family and friends refer to us as being “horse crazy.” We’d much rather spend our time at the barn than at school. We figure out ways to skip family functions so we can compete at a horse show. Our horses wear quality tack and expensive shoes while we traipse around in faded jeans and scuffed muck boots. And yet we wouldn’t have it any other way. Why?

Amateur adult rider Susan Fox shared her reasons after a day spent riding her 23-year-old Thoroughbred mare, Maggie. She’s owned the flashy black mare for two decades, and the time spent together has created a bond that Susan says is everlasting.

“She has navicular now,” Susan reveals, “but I treat it and manage it because I feel like I owe it to her. She’s been a great horse. I competed her in eventing when she was younger. Her dressage wasn’t the best,” she admits, “but she loved the jumping. She’d go over anything.”

When asked what she enjoys most about her life as a committed horse lover, she thinks for a moment and replies, “The people that I’ve met. It doesn’t matter what our backgrounds are, what style of riding we do, we share the same language, that same bond. Despite our differences, we’re all horse lovers.”

Indeed. Whether as horse lovers we compete in dressage or jumpers, wear a helmet or a Stetson, race around barrels or mosey down a trail, each of us understands what it means to feel an unwavering closeness to a special animal.

But what do you personally feel is the best part of being a horse lover? Is it having a four-legged best friend? Does a horse allow you to experience the highs and lows of athletic competition? Could you not survive without the stress reduction that horseback riding provides? We’d like to know! Just click on “Submit a Comment” below and share what you think is the best part of being a horse lover. Some of your comments may appear in an upcoming issue of Horse Illustrated.

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Reader Comments

Ashley Pleasantville, NY

6/21/2012 6:42:16 PM

Everything about being a horse lover is the best part! I will be with my non-horsey friends at the barn or someplace with horse and I will breathe in a say "Isn't the smell of horses the best smell ever?" and they will look at me like I'm crazy. I also love that you are with a live animal and not just a soccer ball or a baseball bat. There is nothing better to walk into the barn and have your horse whinny as soon as he sees you.

Sarah Chappaqua, NY

2/10/2012 4:20:42 PM

There isn't only one best part of being a horse lover. Everything about having horses in your life is amazing. Everyday is different. And you create a special bond you could never have with a soccer ball or tennis racket. Also, seeing the progress you made is an extraordinary feeling. I don't know how people can live without having horses in their life. Horses make you laugh on a bad day and just overall improve your day by a ton. Life not loving horses is absolutly unthinkable...!

Kaylah Black Creek, WI

11/13/2011 7:12:10 PM

No matter where you go you know that you always have a true love waiting back for you at the barn with forward ears and a welcoming nicker. People who don't have horses can't understand the connection of working with your horse as one. Even other horse riders can't comprehend your personal connection. Summed up in one, the best part is the truly original love connection.

Sadie Springville, IA

10/25/2011 1:46:39 PM

Experience. Definetley the best part of being a horse lover is all the incredible things that you and your horse can experience. Like, love friendship, joy and teamwork! I could go on and on! There is never a dull moment with these magnificent animals and the experience's that you share with your horse will change your life forever!