The horses that are chosen for this program have a love and personality for what they do.  They have the patience and compassion for the riders and they constantly give their best, no matter the circumstances. They come to the gate eagerly every session and are consistently proving why they were chosen for the program. After being chosen for the program, the horses are worked with to ensure proper preparation for unique conditions of the riders.   A special THANK YOU to the owners for sharing their fantastic horses with the STARS program.

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HOPE is a sweet girl who is gentle, kind and willing to please.  Hope is always a volunteer favorite being easy to lead and handle in the arena.

MACK has been in the program for several years.  He tends to be an eager worker.  Mack sometimes carries the therapy saddle and his shorter stature makes him a favorite of side-walkers!

RAMBO is a big gentle soul.  He knows his job and is a solid mount for our riders.

SMOKEY is a big girl with a big heart.  She is our primary horse to carry the therapy saddle which is used for our most delicate riders.  Smokey has a bit of a humorous side and is known to throw beanbags and other objects that delight her riders.

DUSTY is slow, steady and easy going.  He loves all the attention from the riders and the volunteers and is a favorite when he 'smiles' for treats!  His LONGGG mane and feather make him easy to spot in the lineup.  Dusty is a Fell Pony.

LEMONDROP is a favorite for all her feather and sleek black coat.  She's a Fell Pony, which is relatively rare in the US, and a treat to have in the program!

S.T.A.R.S. is protected by the Equine Activity Liability Act (SDCL 42-11-1 to 5) which seeks to protect equine professionals from liability by eliminating the risk of lawsuits for injuries arising out of the inherent dangers associated with activities involving horses.