For 40 years, Prancing Horse Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship has been improving the lives of people with disabilities by providing a safe place for therapeutic horsemanship.
As recognized by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) as a community outreach organization, Prancing Horse was permitted to enter a horse to be recognized as the 2024 Heart Horse, an award offered for the first time in 2024.
Buck, a 26-year-old Quarter Horse, was selected by USEF as one of the top four horses and is now eligible to be voted on by the public.
In the submission letter to USEF, Prancing Horse wrote they received Buck last year.
“It is more than serendipitous that Buck arrived at Prancing Horse on February 14, 2023,” wrote Prancing Horse. “The universe knew that it was going to take a lot of care and most importantly love for Buck to overcome years of mismanagement. Due to no fault of his own, the woman who was responsible for Buck had fallen on difficult times and was unable to provide the care he needed.”
Buck was severely underweight and mistreated before arriving at Prancing Horse.
“After months of rehabilitation and proper nourishment under the guidance of our veterinary team, Buck successfully gained the 400 pounds he needed to sustain himself and become a very valuable member of the herd at Prancing Horse,” wrote the organization.
Buck soon became a farm favorite, and students recognized his improved health each week when they came for their riding lessons.
“His coat grew healthy, and his unique color and markings became eye-catching,” said Prancing Horse.
However, after his first year at the farm, instructors noticed Buck’s behavior changed. He was diagnosed and treated for gastric ulcers.
Prancing Horse noted Buck’s contributions to its students.
“Buck tells our riders, equine-assisted learning students and veterans, a story of resilience,” Prancing Horse added. “His health and growth allows our instructors to demonstrate to their students the value of self-care, trust, and most importantly the value of acknowledging when we are weak and need help. Had it not been for the love and attention that Buck received he would not be with us today making a difference in the lives of our students.”
According to its website, Prancing Horse has been headquartered in Moore County since 1984.
Please click here to nominate Buck for the Heart Horse Award.
Feature photo: Buck, a Heart Horse top-four nominee, with two students. Photo by Meghan Benge Photography.
Contributed article.
