Horses
Our horses are truly some of the best instructors around. Their good nature allows you to build your confidence in and out of the saddle. Just like dogs and cats, each horse has their own personality, preferences, likes and dislikes. Read up on all the horses to get a sneak peek into their character and maybe you'll learn a little something!
Angie
I am a 1987 egyptian arabian mare and have become one of the favorites at Matsqui Stables. Most of the pony riders and first time riders have their beginning experiences with me. But don't let my size fool you....I’m a full sized horse at heart!
Bolt
I am a 1987 quarterhorse gelding cross. Being one of the original horses at Matsqui Stables, I have taken hundreds of people on the trails. From nervous adults, to little kids and international students, I've seen it all! I still go on the trails often, but have been enjoying trying my hand as a lesson horse as well.
Cash
I am a 2004 purebred quarterhorse gelding. I've been getting a lot of attention since I got here. Everyone is making offers to buy me! I don't quite know what all the buzz is. I came from a large cattle ranch in Kamloops where they breed quarterhorses. I helped move cattle, and do basic ranch chores with my breeder. I was just one of many back home. Now I'm like a celebrity. They always tell me how flashy & well put together I am. Forget all the fuss, I just want to ride!
Chevy
I am a 1997 throughbred gelding. I was on the track as a youngster. I only ran 3 races, but managed to get 6th in one of the races. Denise says she doesn't even know how I placed at all.....apparently I'm not very fast, and don't really have too much get-up-n-go......oh well, those qualities allow me to be a great schooling horse. Good enough for me!
Cody
I am a 1993 quarterhorse cross. When Denise bought me I needed a little TLC. My coat was dull, my eyes were dead, and my teeth were in rough shape. She immediately changed my diet, got some serious dental work, and gave me a job I love! Now I am a high energy mount in both english and western. Apparently I am safe enough for the beginner, but lively enough for the intermediate rider. My goal is to be the all time favorite horse here.....I may just make it!
Dari
My registered name is Skip a Dari born April 22, 2001. Apparently I embody all the typical qualities of a good quarterhorse. I am a solid girl with a great smooth jog, no buck or bolt, love the trails, amazing to work with on the ground, and easy to get along with in a herd. I did have it hard for a couple years before coming to Matsqui as I had some owners who were clueless as to how to care for me. I'm doing my best to earn my keep here and so far they say I'm doing an amazing job.
Dawson
I am handsome! Let's just start with that. Get it out of the way as we all know that's the first thing that comes to mind. I only know this because Denise is "ga ga" over me. I was born in April of 2006 and am a 16hh registered paint gelding. I am just a baby but Denise has great plans to take me into the show arena in the next few years. Apparently I'm her newest challenge. I look forward to all the adventures!
Honey
I am a 2000 quarterhorse mare. Some call me white, but I am a cremello with 2 blue eyes. I was originally purchased at the auction for my good looks as they thought I would be perfect for weddings! They are now discovering my many talents. I'm apparently very enjoyable to ride with great smooth gaits and a soft mouth. I'm mostly just flattered that they think I'm beautiful!
Leo
I am a 1982 quarter horse. Don't be fooled by my age, or the fact that I no longer have any "grinding" teeth. I am just as energetic as the young ones! In fact, they have to put me second in line or I just go ahead and lead the whole group in a trot! I figure the best way to stay young is to eat well, exercise and pick up a hobby. My hobby is eating mash. That's all I can get down, and I take practically all day to do it, but I love it! I just wait at the gate all day for the moment when I get my next meal. Gotta energize so I can keep on keepin' on!
Monty
Monty is a well schooled horse that is excellent on the trails, great in the arena, and good for all levels of rider. We have first time riders on him all the way to intermediate. Although he is a safe mount, he is also a forward mover. He has never been lazy or difficult to get him to go. For sure a horse for the whole family that is ready to go! Great for vet, farrier and hauling. His only vice is that he is a cribber, but is controlled with a cribbing collar.
Phoenix
I am a 1998 paint gelding. When Denise bought me I was in a season of my life where I walked and jogged only, but slowly I'm getting more comfortable in the lope. If someone was to ask me what my favorite was between trails and arena work, I would have to say I like them both! Variety is the spice of life : )
Rea
I am a delicate pure bred arabian. I'm a little older than you'd expect, but people say I don't act my age. (I was born in 1983). I've been around the block a little, but have settled in quite well at the ranch. I seem to stay out of trouble most often, but there's nothing like being true to the "mare" instinct and pinning my ears back at ALL the horses. I just pretend I'm tough, but my bark is definitely a lot louder than my bite!
Sawyer
I am a 2000 thoroughbred gelding. Due to some extensive abuse in my younger years I struggle with anxiety. I'm not afraid of people on the ground, but get quite nervous when I am asked to ride in groups or on the trail. My trainers are working with me slowly to build my trust. I guess they see the good horse I could become. They say I'm pretty enough and sweet enough to make it all worth it.