2001 American Saddlebred gelding
Rio is an 18 year old, 16 h chestnut Saddlebred gelding owned by the Santana Center of Rhode Island. He has been with the rescue off and on since his arrival there as a 2 year old. Rio has been adopted out twice in the past, but unfortunately was ultimately returned to the rescue. He has a lengthy career as a riding horse, but needs a confident rider as he gets nervous easily. Before beginning under saddle we took the time to focus on Rio’s body condition, but we are happy to say that Rio is now looking and feeling his best! With that said we have progressed with his under saddle work, and he is now riding walk, trot, and canter in the arena. Rio also hacks out on the trails but does best with a confident friend for support. Rio can be nervous 
at times, but he is very sweet and knowledgable in regards to his training. We hope that he will soon find his forever person that will give him the attention and patience he needs.
For more info on Rio, along with a riding video which was made in 2017, please see his listing on the Santana Center’s list of available horses here under “Intermediate/Advanced.”
UPDATE: In July of 2019, Rio found his forever home! He will be continuing his flat work and trail riding as the personal horse of a farrier and riding instructor right here in Maine, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Congratulations to Rio and his new mom, Joanna! We wish you both many happy years together.
