Could This Be Your Valentine Sweetheart?

By Maddy Butcher Gray

There may be no better time than now to adopt a certain young, willing and handsome horse from the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals.
His name is Noah and he’s a flashy chestnut Arab/Quarter Horse who is in his sixth week with the renowned trainer, Robyn Cuffey. Cuffey, a trainer for decades and author of “Retraining the Harness Racehorse,” says Noah is a personable gelding with a floaty trot.

She has worked often with the seven-year old on the ground and under saddle at Photo Finish Farm in Buxton. He’s come a long way from his less-than-fortunate beginnings.
According to MSSPA President Marilyn Goodreau, Noah was seized by the state from a York County farm some six years ago. He was just four months old.

“I saw in him what I see in all of our horses when they initially come here,” said Goodreau. “They lack trust. They lack confidence. They come in with a lack of hope and lack of understanding that they will be cared for and comforted.”

But under kind, gentle, and meticulous care at the MSSPA Windham barn, the young horse has flourished. Barn manager Troy DeRoche said Noah is “playful, curious, and smart. Folks working here at the Society are looking forward to seeing his progress when he returns from training with Robyn.”

Cuffey envisions the gelding as an excellent low-level dressage horse or great all-around ride given the right owner. Like any rescue and unworked horse, Noah will benefit from experience and exposure.

“When he’s worried or wants to be in charge, he slings his head around,” noted Cuffey. But this trait goes away with time and comfort level. “He’s smart and a good learner, but will need a perceptive person to continue his training.”

“He would definitely make a terrific horse for a lifetime owner,” added DeRoche.

Perhaps Goodreau summed it up best after visiting Photo Finish Farm to check on Noah’s progress, “He’s young and energetic and wants to work and wants to be loved.” For more information on Noah, as well as other adoption prospects, visit MSSPA.org or call (207) 892- 3040.