Celebrating Pumpkin's Retirement

Pumpkin, our beloved spokes-horse and longtime member of the Positive Strides herd, was recently honored in a heartfelt retirement ceremony that felt every bit as sweet as he is. This bright-eyed Quarter Horse—now part of our cherished “over 30” club—has spent nearly ten years serving as an equine therapy partner at Positive Strides. He has officially stepped back from mounted lessons, but not from the important work he loves.

Before joining Positive Strides, Pumpkin lived a spirited life with a family who used him as a guest horse for fox hunting. When he arrived at the farm in 2016, he settled in as though he’d been here all along, bringing with him the kind of steady, gentlemanly presence riders instantly trust. Comfortable to ride, endlessly patient, and universally adored, he quickly became one of the horses students asked for by name.

As he moves into this new chapter, Pumpkin will continue to play a vital role in our unmounted programs, teaching riders how to groom, lead, communicate, and care for a horse. He’ll still get all the brushing, pampering, and affection he can stand—something he has always excelled at receiving. Retirement simply means more time for the things he enjoys most.
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Pumpkin has offered steady support, quiet confidence, and kindness to every rider who crossed his path. He is, and always will be, a calm teacher and gentle soul who has left hoof prints all over our hearts.