ABOUT US
Our Story
Once upon a time in the picturesque town of Mendon, New York, Ms. Amy embarked on a journey that would blend her lifelong passion for horses with her dedication to making a positive impact on her community. Ms. Amy's love for riding and training horses began in her early years, shaping her connection with these majestic animals.
Life took a turn for Ms. Amy as she pursued higher education and started a family, temporarily stepping away from the stables. Despite the demands of education and motherhood, she remained connected to her equestrian roots. In 1998, her life took a profound turn when her daughter was diagnosed with globally significant developmental delays with autistic features.
Motivated by her daughter's journey, Ms. Amy saw an opportunity to channel her skills and passion for horses into a purpose that extended beyond personal fulfillment. With a unique blend of a B.S. in Human Development, an A.S. in Nursing, and an M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling, Ms. Amy envisioned a space where horses could be a source of therapeutic support for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.
In 2000, Ms. Amy took a bold step, combining her skills, education, and love for horses. She returned to working, training, and teaching horses, simultaneously renovating an existing stable on her property. Collaborating with the Amish Community, the Meadows of Mendon Stables began to take shape.
Ms. Amy's background in counseling, nursing, teaching, and her innate skills in riding and horse handling had a transformative effect on the Meadows of Mendon Stables. Her journey, fueled by personal experiences, became a beacon for the community. Her gentle approach to both riders and horses, coupled with a creative teaching program, created a unique and positive experience for all involved.
Meadows of Mendon Stables became more than just a place for horse enthusiasts; it evolved into a haven dedicated to positive experiences for families and individuals. Ms. Amy's commitment to the well-being of both riders and horses, shaped by her personal journey, continues to make Meadows of Mendon Stables a place where the love for horses meets the power of compassion and community.
MEET OUR MENTORS
Ms. Kara
Ms. Kara is not only passionate about caring for the horses and fostering a positive environment for the youth but also plays a crucial role in managing the horseback riding program. Her exceptional organizational skills, considerate nature, and ability to handle large groups with focus and safety make her an invaluable member of our team.
Beyond her responsibilities with the horses, she actively contributes to the stables by assisting with accounting paperwork, showcasing her dedication and versatility. Ms. Kara's strong work ethic, coupled with her positive demeanor, leaves a lasting impact on everyone she interacts with. Her level-headed approach is not only evident in her interactions with people but also influences the horses, creating a sense of comfort in her presence.
Having studied electrical and computer engineering, Ms. Kara graduated from SUNY Oswego in 2018, bringing a unique skill set and perspective to our team. We take pride in Ms. Kara's commitment to excellence and the positive influence she extends to both humans and our equine companions.
Ms. Chloe
Ms. Chloe, a dedicated volunteer at the stables, embodies a spirit of compassion and care towards our animals. Introduced to Meadows of Mendon Stables at the young age of 5, she arrived alongside her brother, and since then, she has become an integral part of our community. Ms. Chloe actively engages in nursing care, grooming, and cherishing moments with the horses.
Her remarkable skills extend to providing back-rides for children with disabilities and offering patient, effective lessons for individuals with disabilities. With an innate understanding of horse behavior, Ms. Chloe seamlessly imparts this knowledge to those working alongside her. Her innate sweetness and kindness create an atmosphere of comfort, fostering a harmonious connection between our horses and the compassionate care she provides.
Beyond her regular responsibilities, Chloe actively seeks to expand her knowledge of equine behavior and therapeutic techniques, exemplifying her commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment at Meadows of Mendon Stables. Her dedication and genuine love for both animals and riders contribute significantly to the positive experiences enjoyed by all members of our stables community.
OUR FOUR-LEGGED STAFF
Abby (Ride the Tide)
Breed: Thoroughbred
Age: 23
Gender: Mare
Height: 16 hh
Color: Dark Bay
Fun Facts: Though Abby has never been a racehorse, her grandfather is the famous Secretariat. Abby loves the attention and pampering the Meadows of Mendon Stables has to offer. She is a very beautiful and friendly horse who absolutely loves to be groomed. She loves cantering and racing the other horses in the lower pasture. She is a favorite among our English riders at the stables. Also, Abby is cousins with another horse at our stables named Ford!
Bali
Breed: American Miniature Paint Horse
Age: 2
Gender: Mare
Height: 7 hh
Color: Dark Bay Paint
Fun Facts:
Bali was born as a surprise on Mothers Day 2020. The caretaker discovered Bali early one morning and at first sight, we thought another animal had entered the stables during the night. Upon close examination, Bali was born a couple of hours earlier in a stall. She was born weighing 20 lbs. and she was 2.0 hh. Bali's Sire is Buzz Light Year and her dam is Belle. Belle was pregnant for almost close to a year and hid it well. All of the ponies are so plump! She is very sweet and loves the stables. Her playmates are Buzz and Cody. Bali is growing up and loving her best life. She is a blessing! At the end of our lesson days, we let Bali run in the arena and play.
Belle
Breed: American Miniature Paint Horse
Age: 20
Gender: Mare
Height: 10 hh
Color: Paint Mix
Fun Facts:
She is an amazing ride and a great jumper too! She loves jumping the hay bails with intermediate riders. Her beautiful color of a bay pinto makes her a favorite at the stables. Cody is her baby filly described below. Her shortness makes her a perfect ride for younger kids! She loves to trot and canter around with the bigger horses. She has little legs but that doesn't stop her from keeping up.
Brooke (Brooks Lass)
Breed: Thoroughbred
Age: 14
Gender: Mare
Height: 17 hh
Color: Dark Bay
Fun Facts: She has two white hind pasterns that distinguishes her from her best friend Apple. Brooke is our tenth adoption from Canter Ohio Horse Adoption. Brooke is personable and content. Brooke loves the attention she receives from the students grooming her. Her conformation makes her the perfect athlete. She is one of our fastest horses here at the Meadows of Mendon Stables. Students love to barrel race with her in our lower pasture.
Buzz
Breed: American Miniature Horse
Age: 5
Gender: Gelding
Height: 7.1 hh
Color: Paint Mix
Fun Facts: Buzz is the smallest pony at the stables and we enjoy riding him. Our pee wee riders love to groom Buzz after their 45 minute lesson, click here for more information! If you're looking for Buzz in the stables, listen for his loud whinny. He has a sweet nature and playful personality. Buzz's stallmate and best friend is Cookies.
Candystripe
Breed: Percheron Paint Saddlebred Mix
Age: 18
Gender: Mare
Height: 16.1 hh
Color: Paint Mix
Fun Facts: She was born and raised in Bergen, NY. Like many of our horses, Candy enjoys trail rides and jumping. Candy enjoys the challenging cross-country course. Candy is very sweet and gentle and does well as a therapeutic riding horse. One of Candy's best traits is her willingness to give you an amazing ride. It is no surprise Candy has the smoothest trot at our stables. Her attitude and grace make her the perfect horse.
Cody
Breed: American Miniature Horse
Age: 5
Gender: Mare
Height: 10.1 hh
Color: Paint Mix
Fun Facts: She is an adventurous and independent filly. She is very docile and easy to get along with. She loves to canter around the other lesson horses and cause mischief around the arena. Just recently, she went into the lost-in-found and misplaced the items around the indoor riding arena. Her training at the stables has been astounding. She loves being ridden with her very own little purple saddle. She holds herself with great pride when being ridden and loves all the attention. She loves the hustle and bustle of the surrounding stables environment. This filly is thriving!
Cookies
Breed: Icelandic Pony
Age: 18
Gender: Mare
Height: 10.1 hh
Color: Chestnut
Fun Facts: Cookies loves children and loves the activity on a farm. Cookies enjoys being ridden English and western. She loves cantering on our straight away (a 300 foot dirt path that goes up and down the hills of the Meadows of Mendon Stables). She is good with small children and people that are in wheelchairs. She is a popular choice when our pee wee riders choose what pony they want to ride, click here for more information! Cookies enjoys caring for Buzz and watching over him.
Dublin
Breed: Grulla
Age: 14
Gender: Mare
Height: 15 hh
Color: Mouse Dunn
Fun Facts: Dublin has been referred to as The Lady at the stables. She enjoys riding alongside Scout and Summer. She has a distinctive dorsal stripe. She is so rare, that this is the first Grulla Mouse Dun we have ever owned. Her markings and personality have her stand out from the rest. She expects you to be courteous, calm and patient with her. Dublin is a stables favorite!
Fax (Facsimile)
Breed: Thoroughbred
Age: 16
Gender: Gelding
Height: 15.3 hh
Color: Black
Fun Facts:
Fax has one white sock on his front leg. He is athletic, intelligent and energetic. His sire, Cutlass Fax, was Ohio Horse of the Year. Fax is eager to please and loves riding outdoors on the cross-country course. His sweet personality has made him a favorite to many riders here at the stables.
Ford
Breed: Thoroughbred
Age: 17
Gender: Gelding
Height: 16.3 hh
Color: Chestnut
Fun Facts: He is one of the tallest horses at the stables. He is confident, ready, willing and able to do anything you ask of him. He loves jumping on our cross-country course and being the center of attention. He cradles our riders, making him a favorite at our stables. He is well-balanced and helps teach our riders how to sit a good seat. His patience is beyond belief. There is a sense of pride for every step he takes. Also, Ford is cousins with another horse at our stables named Abby!
Ginger
Breed: Paint Palomino Standardbred
Age: 9
Gender: Mare
Height: 16 hh
Color: Chestnut
Fun Facts: Ginger was born on July 10, 2013 at the Meadows of Mendon. Her sire is Poland and her dam is Meggin's Miracle. Ginger is a paint palomino standardbred that currently stands 16 hh. She is a very enjoyable horse with her sound hooves. She has perfect conformation making her a favorite among all of our riders. With being trained and raised at the stables, she is perfect for any rider. She has a little spunk in her step; giving all levels of riders a great time. Poland and Meggin's Miracle are proud of their daughter. It's beautiful to watch the three of them being ridden together.
Honey
Breed: Halflinger
Age: 16
Gender: Mare
Height: 14 hh
Color: Chestnut
Fun Facts:
Named after how sweet she is, Honey is a stables favorite. She loves to smile for the camera by showing everyone the inside of her lip. She likes to have her thick puffy mane brushed out. She prefers to be turned out in the first pasture with Larry the Lobster. She is well-mannered and has a smooth trot. Apples are her favorite treat after being worked out.
Larry the Lobster
Breed: Peruvian Paso Part-Blood (Peruvian/Quarter Horse)
Age: 23
Gender: Gelding
Height: 15 hh
Color: Blood Bay
Fun Facts: Larry aka "Larry the Lobster" got his name because of his rich red coat in the sunlight. He was born in California and moved to New York at an early age. He was donated to our stables from a loving family located in the southern tier of New York. Larry has a Spanish gate which stands out from the other horses and ponies as he trots in the arena. He has the perfect withers which makes him extremely versatile. He gives the perfect ride, whether you prefer English or western. He is currently in love with a mare named Brooke at the stables who you can read about above. The two of them are inseparable and their personalities are quite similar.
Maggie
Breed: American Morgan
Age: 20
Gender: Mare
Height: 16 hh
Color: Liver Chestnut
Fun Facts:
She is one of the fastest horses at the stables. Even when walking, she passes by all the other horses. She is great both western and english. She is the perfect ride for an intermediate through advanced rider. She confidently holds her head high while you ride her. She loves getting her hooves picked by beginners. You will most likely find Maggie near Jazz and Blaze because they are the best of friends.
Mindy
Breed: Standardbred
Age: 20
Gender: Mare
Height: 15hh
Color: Dark Bay
Fun Facts:
Mindy was donated by Larry the Lobsters family. What a wonderful donation. Thank you. She loves the activity of the stables and paces in her stall until we ride her. She is gorgeous, sweet, gentle, and kind to everyone. Many years ago, she was a trotter pacer, and the United States Trotting Association recorded her with 11 starts in 2004 and 2005. She loves to trot!
Mindy loves walking the property, jumping, and she ran through the snow all winter up and down the hills. Ford and Poland are her buddies. She has completely adjusted to her new home. Thank you Mr. and Mrs. L!
Poland
Breed: Paint Palomino
Age: 12
Gender: Gelding
Height: 15 hh
Color: Paint Palomino
Fun Facts:
Poland is the sire of Ginger. Seven years ago, Poland came from a private barn in Attica, NY. He was trained by our students. Riders love riding him for barrel racing, racing, and pleasure riding. He loves cantering around the outdoor riding arena and in the lower pasture. His versatility makes him the perfect ride. He can accommodate any of our riders here at the Meadows of Mendon Stables.
Pooh Bear (Double Spring/ D)
Breed: Thoroughbred-Quarter Horse
Age: 23
Gender: Gelding
Height: 15.1 hh
Color: Chestnut
Fun Facts:
Pooh had an early racing career, and as an result of an hemorrhage that was pulmonary induced in the second race, he was retired from racing. He went on to have a brief hunter jumper career, and he enjoyed his time competing. He has a gorgeous chestnut coat, and is loved by many riders here. He loves people and loves his job!
Scout
Breed: Quarter Horse
Age: 14
Gender: Gelding
Height: 15.6 hh
Color: Chestnut
Fun Facts:
Scout is a very sweet gelding that loves the attention of riders and he wants the human connection. He is appreciative of his forever home and he loves our rich hay. Scout is always cooperative. He wants to lead and feels insulted if he’s not leading the group. He walks into any situation with ease. He is originally from Virginia. Scout neck reigns and he is a well-trained athlete!
Summer
Breed: Quarter Horse
Age: 15
Gender: Mare
Height: 15.0 hh
Color: Red Roan
Fun Facts:
Summer is an energetic mare that has a positive get-up-n-go attitude! She loves her stables family and she is appreciative of her home. She wants to live outside 365 days a year. Summer loves the creek, jumping and riding with her friends at the stables. She is very fond of Pooh.
Trigger
Breed: Palomino Saddlebred
Age: 18
Gender: Mare
Height: 15 hh
Color: Palomino
Fun Facts:
Trigger is such a lady! She is a favorite among advanced riders. She's a naturally fast-paced horse and is always ready to run. She's awesome and good at everything she does! She enjoys the challenge jumping on our courses.