Brave Susie

Meet another longtime Basic Horsemanship Lesson Program student!

Name: Susie Dennis

Age: 11

How did you hear about Heritage Oak Rescue? And what were you hoping to experience?

From my Mom, who is friends with Emily, and I was hoping to experience riding horses and how to take care of them, and I did.

Susie's first ride on Sancho in 2022

What is your favorite thing about coming to Heritage Oak Rescue?

Seeing Emily and the horses.

Who is your favorite horse? And why?

Blackjack is my favorite horse because he is cute, he always flares his nostrils, and we have a bond with each other.

Susie on Blackjack

What would you say is the most important thing you learned about horses from the basic horsemanship lessons?

Everything, from brushing and feeding them, to riding and working with them.

Was there ever a moment you felt a great connection with one of the horses?

Yes, when I come down, we sometimes go into the round-pen and make connections with the horses, and I sometimes makes connections with them when we are in the pasture.

Susie & Whiskey in the Medina River

Susie on Lyra Hoop, Whiskey in background

Susie picking out Sancho's hoof

Is there anything you struggle with when working with the horses?

No, I love them and they love me, and with that bond, we are unstoppable!

Has your experience at HOR impacted other areas of your life?

Yes, it let’s me have something to talk about with people, and then educate them about horses.

Susie on Maz for Bandera's Labor Day Parade

Do you have future plans to be a horse owner or have horses in your life in someway? 

Yes! I definitely want horses! They’re amazing, beautiful, and majestic! I can’t imagine life without them.

"Bravery isn't the absence of fear - it's the decision to act despite it."

I believe there is a healthy fear one needs to have for horses, and a respect for their powerful bodies. Susie overcame her initial fear a long time ago. Now she prefers to work with Blackjack, a horse most people are scared of, despite their first interaction leading to tears because he would not stop testing her. Susie is persistent, brave, and kind. She is a helpful volunteer, driving the UTV around and helping with all the chores when she visits. We appreciate you Susie!!