Volunteers help therapy horses trade saddle pads for costumes
STOUGHTON, Wis. (Oct. 30, 2026) — Three of the program horses at Three Gaits Therapeutic Horsemanship Center went as themselves this Halloween. With help from volunteers, horses named Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and Scooby Doo dressed as their famous namesakes on Friday, Oct. 30, joined by herd mates costumed as Minions, Little Red Riding Hood and a flower.
The photo session was a lighthearted thank-you to the herd and a chance for volunteers to spend time with the horses outside lessons. Ten volunteers helped with costumes, grooming and handling throughout the day.
“Our horses work hard for our riders every week, and our volunteers are the reason those lessons happen. Seeing everyone laughing together in the barn today was the best kind of treat.” said Emily Gonzalez, program director at Three Gaits.
Volunteers are at the heart of every lesson at Three Gaits, helping with horse care and supporting riders throughout the year. Anyone interested in volunteering can learn more at three-gaits.org.
Photos are attached and may be used with credit to Three Gaits.
About Three Gaits
Founded in 1983, Three Gaits is a nonprofit therapeutic horsemanship center that provides lessons and therapy to people with disabilities and health challenges on 20 acres near Stoughton, Wisconsin. Three Gaits is a Premier Accredited Center with PATH International and offers therapeutic riding, physical and occupational therapy incorporating equine movement, equine-assisted learning, unmounted horsemanship and Riding in the Moment™, a program for people with early to mid-stage dementia. Learn more at three-gaits.org or call 608-877-9086.
