Lakota

Lakota is a paint mare who began working with the program in 2014 and has since proved herself as an instrumental asset to the herd.  Her intelligent, mild-mannered, kind personality combined with her smooth gait and solid size make her useful in nearly every type of lesson, from assisted to independent riding. Lakota’s patient mind and high level of training have allowed many students to progress toward independence. Her favorite activity is trail riding across the pasture.

Sassy

Sassy is a registered paint mare with a background in drill team work.  Fortunately for RFJ, she really didn’t love being a drill horse, but she does love therapeutic riding!  The name Sassy does not fit her kind and easy going personality.  She quietly accepts new things introduced into her world and maintains a sweet attitude regardless of the circumstances.  

Smalls

Smalls is a Thoroughbred, draft cross gelding who came to RFJ from Oregon to fill a need for larger horses.  And large he is!  Standing at 17.1 hands, Smalls overshadows the rest of the herd.  But his huge size does nothing to hide his gentle and tender heart.  Smalls is responsive to the tiniest cues from his riders, so long as the cue isn’t to go very fast.  His combination of strength, size, gentleness, and responsiveness are truly unique and a huge benefit for RJF riders.

Shimmy

Bio coming soon!

Vanilla

Vanilla is a cremello quarter horse mare with an extensive background in English riding and showing.  She spent many months being shown by kids and teens in jumping and cross country, while also enjoying trail rides throughout the Northwest, including one to the ocean! Prior to her show career, Vanilla spent time raising two foals. Vanilla was purchased by a Ride for Joy staff member for her quiet and gentle nature, sturdy but average build, smooth stride, and ability to handle a wide range of situations without feeling disturbed.