Equine treat for teeth & shoes

MILFORD — The teeth and shoes at the second GAIT “Horse- A- Fair” belonged to the gentle and beautiful horses, but the day belonged to the enchanted crowd. This fascinating fundraiser took place at GAIT (Genuine Alternative in Therapy) on Foster Hill Road in Milford earlier this month. There were demonstrations by Bill Schultz ( a certified Equine Dentist- one of only 120 world-wide) and Al Hayes, the Farrier who trimmed the hooves of Tiger and demonstrated how to shoe the stately Arabian. The Horse-A-Fair opened with the Parade of Horses, each beautifully groomed and spiffed up with a GAIT rider or instructor on its back. Martha Dubensky, the Executive Director and Founder of GAIT (and an advanced NARHA- certified horse therapy instructor, as well) narrated during the Parade as she described each horse, its name, and age. These horses are all trained therapy horses and work to carry out GAIT’s mission of helping to improve the quality of life for children and adults with special needs, resulting in a more independent life in society. This year, in addition to the Equine Dentist and Farrier, there were riding demonstrations by many children, an informative talk by Veterinarian R.A. Dubensky, tours of the facility, terrific burgers and hot dogs by the Old Lumberyard Café and music by the eclectic Lighten-Up Band. There were also 110 tantalizing tricky tray baskets displaying everything a child. adult or family would want. Many of the activities were more hands- on and participatory this year. For example, the Farrier asked the children questions and the Equine Dentist encouraged the children and adults to interact with 13-year-old Patrick, the handsome and patient Connemerra who was non-plused by his excited new friends. The atmosphere was wonderful and the crowd was comfortable and very appreciative of what GAIT is all about. For more information about the services of GAIT,go to www.gaitpa.org or call 570-409-1140.