Our Horses
Meet the Miracle Makers…
MTRA’s program horses are literally the vehicle through which countless miracles happen every day. The bond between horse and human often grows into something so profound, words often do not begin to describe it!
At MTRA, we know that this bond, combined with the talent of our instructors, and the support and connection with volunteers, is what paves the way for our clients to achieve things never before dreamed possible… Autistic children speaking for the first time in their lives. Stroke victims regaining mobility and control. Adults with MS relaxing the rigidity in their muscles after years of tightness and inflexibility. Paraplegics who regain core strength to become more independent.
That’s why every one of our program horses are treated with the utmost respect and care. The diversity of our program horses is vast, with breeds ranging from Quarter Horses, Arabians, an Anglo Arab, Palominos, a Gypsy Vanner, Appendix Quarter Horses, Welsh Pony crosses, Dutch Warmbloods, a Thoroughbred, and most recently a Morgan cross. Each horse possesses a distinct personality, as unique as the client they will be meticulously matched with. While some will have shorter bodies and wider girths, others may be tall and more narrow, and all have various benefits that suit various needs of the individuals they serve! And yet, they all have key traits in common. They are honest, gentle, patient and sound.
As our list of clients grows, so must our family of program horses. If you are interested in sponsoring a horse, go to our How You Can Help page for more information. If you have a very special horse that you think may have a calling as a therapy horse, please contact our Program Director Amy Sheffield.
Spencer
Gypsy Vanner Gelding | f. 2002
A trickster with skills in cheesing for the camera, fetching a ball or hat, and bowing.
Pedro
Warmblood Gelding | f. 1994
Skilled in jumping and dressage, and loves his spa sessions!
Major Tom
Reg. Morgan Gelding | f. 2004
From Amish buggies to MTRA therapy, he’s a horse of many talents! 2023 AMHA THERAPY HORSE OF THE YEAR!
Leah
Florida Cracker Horse Mare | f. 2016
A young whippersnapper who’s learning how to be a star in our therapy program.
Casino
Appendix Quarter Horse Gelding | f. 2006
High energy and curious, an accomplished and enthusiastic member of our team.
Thunder
Arabian Gelding | f. 1998
Sass and class and the perfect horse to challenge a rider ready to step up!
Solo
Quarter Horse Gelding | f. 2002
Our Western Dressage master us a cool dude in a loose mood…
Rowdy
Appendix Quarter Horse Gelding | f. 2004
Retired from gymkhana events, he’s silly and fun-loving!
Marshmallow
Arabian-Welsh Pony Mare | f. 1997
A retired pony eventer, she’s a big horse in a small package!
Goldie
Quarter Horse Mare | f. 2002
Miss Confidence for our riders, she’s truly a gift of gold!
Ernie
Dutch Warmblood Gelding | f. 1998
One of our most versatile horses, and a gentle giant for all.
Mocha
Quarter Horse/Paint Mare | f. 2001
Sponsored by Mitch & Mary Jo Ward of Summerfield, FL
Stella
Quarter Horse Mare | f. 2000
Trustworthy on the trail or in the ring, with great connection to her riders.
Snowflake
Arabian Mare | f. 2001
Beautiful, kind and tenacious, our much loved 2021 MTRA Horse of the Year!
Wesley
MTRA's 2022 Therapy Horse of the Year Quarter Horse Gelding | f. 2003 | Generously donated by Mike and Kathy Bennetch of Ocala Wesley worked on a ranch for many years and is a retired roping horse. He has also been proven in the show pen and on trails and even in...