Aftercare

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Thoroughbred Makeover Diary: How Much We’ve Accomplished, More Memories to Make

I frequently get asked by my friends and family about how Dom is doing and how he is coming along, and normally, throughout this process I have been able to give detailed answers and describe all of the things we have been working on and any of Dom’s silly antics. But this past month hasn’t been the same.

I have been so busy with other aspects of my life that I haven’t had the time I was hoping to spend with Dom. So, I’ve done a lot of thinking about how far Dom and I have come since we started this journey together.

Meghan McNamara Bronn gelding OTTB retired racehorse Thoroughbred Makeover eventing aftercare competition riding equestrian

Thoroughbred Makeover Diary: Always Grateful for the Little Things

It’s the little things.

His tiny squeal when he is concerned. His lower lip hanging so low when he is relaxed or sleeping, you can land an airplane. His little hind leg cow kick when he is protesting or nervous. His whinny that is so high pitched when he is calling to his friends, you’d never believe it was coming from a 17-hand, 1500-pound gelding. His pricked ears and deep, thoughtful eyes when he is focused on you or ready for whatever is on hand.

oldie Morgan Hayden OTTB ex-racehorse retired racehorse aftercare Thoroughbred Makeover chiropractic Pulse PEMF training farrier riding horse

Thoroughbred Makeover Diary: The Horses Need ‘Me’ Days Too

When we take a seat back and think about why we make the decision to ride, retrain, or even own horses the answer always seems to come back to reasons around ourselves. We own them for happiness, companionship, fitness, engaging in a hobby, or even as a profession to support our livelihood. When we spend time with our horses, most of us, myself included, see it more as a “me” day or even just that piece of time that we can treat ourselves to what we love the most.

Sally Mixon, Abijah's Off Track Thoroughbreds for Mental Health

Growing Aftercare and Therapy Organization Helping Horses, Humans

One seemingly small action can be a catalyst for greater change. Take Abijah's on the Backside, a fledgling aftercare and therapy organization based within the walls of Canterbury Park's shed rows that is fueled by a desire to help retired racehorses recover and transition, with an equal emphasis on helping humans do the same.

Julianne Pangal Kona Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover Funnee

Thoroughbred Makeover Diary: Appreciating Kona While Continuing Journey With Funnee

This year, America’s Best Racing and the Retired Racehorse Project will be sharing diaries from several trainers preparing for the 2023 Thoroughbred Makeover competition, scheduled for Oct. 11-14 at the Kentucky Horse Park. Meet adult amateur rider Julianne Pangal and her RRP hopeful, Funnee, as they gear up for their maiden voyage to the Thoroughbred Makeover.

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