She’s big, she’s a bay and she’s beautiful! It’s no wonder she was voted High Hopes Horse of the Year for 2016, a distinction she wears with great pride and dignity.
For over a decade now, Candy, a 22 year-old, fetching Clydesdale/Hackney cross, has been a perfect driving horse for our therapeutic program. Candy is one of the sweetest, calmest most adored steeds we have in our herd, and is praised for her compassionate soul, and immeasurable patience.“Candy inspires confidence in many,” explains Driving Instructor Sarah Carlson who works with her often. Another one of Candy’s biggest fans, Driving Instructor Lauren Fitzgerald adds, “Candy is very responsive to rein pressure when she is being driven, which is a great way for individuals to learn to drive with light contact.”
Candy is also a superstar in High Hopes unmounted programs, working with veterans and visiting out in the community through programs such as, “Pony Power” where her calm loving ways have made her a crowd favorite.
Recently, we took Candy on a visit to Gladeview Rehabilitation & Health Care Center located in Old Saybrook, CT. Residents with a range of special needs all benefitted from the Human-Horse connection when given the opportunity to get up close and personal with such a large animal, and the chance to experience Candy’s horse power in a sweet and special way.
For more information on community outreach, please contact Rachel Golden, rgolden@highhopestr.org
You may also visit our Community Outreach page and fill out our inquiry form.