Photo courtesy of L. Weiman.

Lightning is one of our most reliable therapy horses, and has been for more than 15 years! A 19-year-old Appaloosa Icelandic gelding, Lightning was born on the ranch where Camp Able was founded in Buffalo Gap, Texas.

At age 3, Lightning began showing his personality and calm temperament, along with an innate ability to tolerate attention from many people. His size, just 12 hands, is perfect for children. His shape, with a very flat back and round barrel mid-section, allows non-ambulatory children to lie down while riding if needed.

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Lightning is responsive to the riders on his back, no matter the challenges of that rider. He offers a slow walk, a nice trot or a brisk canter, and appears to understand better than humans just what is needed. What is most special about Lightning is his soundness and reliability—he just always has a good day.

He does have one little quirk, reminding us all that no one is perfect: he is ticklish in his flank. He will give sidewalkers his best “side eye” if the inadvertent touch happens. We all know and respect that, and love Lightning for his consistent and important work with the most challenged of our special needs children.

—L. Weiman

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