Tripp is a 12 year old Belgian draft gelding who is with us for training from the MSSPA. Tripp was part of the “neglected 20,” a herd of horses that was seized from poor conditions in July. Tripp was severely neglected upon arrival, but received the best care possible from the folks at the MSSPA. Now that he is healed physically, Tripp is ready to start his training. It is believed that Tripp has had some formal training in the past, but many of his experiences were most likely negative. Tripp is very shy and nervous around people, so we will start slow and help him learn to trust humans again.
After several months of groundwork and basic handling, along with treatment for Lyme and the extraction of a fractured tooth, Tripp is really coming out of his shell and showing steady progress. He can now be haltered, led, groomed, worked in the roundpen and on a line in the arena. He stands for the farrier and has worn a surcingle. Our focus continues to be on exposure to the daily events of a busy farm, and in showing him how to look to his handler for support and comfort. Once he feels comfortable with what is asked of him and trusts his human, Tripp’s sweet and kind nature really shines through. This gentle giant continues to improve every day and has won over the hearts of everyone at the farm.
To learn more about the “neglected 20” please check out the MSSPA’s website.
UPDATE: Nearly a year after his seizure, Tripp was adopted! This gentle giant will be joining fellow MSSPA and HWH alum, Amir, at Reigning Hope Ranch in Maine. Using both therapeutic riding and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Jenna and her team are doing incredible work with adults and children in need. They fell in love with Tripp and will continue his training, in hopes that he will make an amazing therapy horse for others who have suffered trauma just like him. We are beyond thrilled for Tripp and wish him and his new team many happy years together.
