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Senior Pranks

October 3, 2012
Posted by Erica Larson

Topics: Old Horses: Better With Age

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A woman named Pam Brown once said, “Be wary of the horse with a sense of humor.” I’ve been fortunate to have several equine comedians in my life, but I’ve noticed–without fail–that they’ve all gotten “funnier” as they’ve aged. My oldest horse, 26-year-old Taz, is the perfect example.

Taz came into our lives when he was 12 and from day one, he’s certainly had a sense of humor. Just a few examples from our past include him opening the door connecting the barn and his pasture and “redecorating” and leaving before he got caught; planting a hoof on your foot before looking you straight in the eye and clearly saying, “Look at that! What are you going to do now?”; and repeatedly reaching for the bit while being groomed and tacked up, but clamping his mouth shut when it’s actually time to put on the bridle.

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Written by:

Erica Larson

Erica Larson, former news editor for The Horse, holds a degree in journalism with an external specialty in equine science from Michigan State University in East Lansing. A Massachusetts native, she grew up in the saddle and has dabbled in a variety of disciplines including foxhunting, saddle seat, and mounted games. Currently, Erica competes in eventing with her OTTB, Dorado.