Stablemates

Hanging out with Jess the horse

By Melissa Keizer

April 22^nd, 2015

Four Legged Creatures and cameras

With my main loves being animals and photography, I relish every opportunity to combine both of these things. One Sunday afternoon I did just that, setting off with my sister Nicole and our friend Lucia to Pinecroft Stables in Newtownards.

Meet Jess

The star of the story is Jess, a gorgeous thoroughbred.

Prep

After retrieving Jess from her paddock, we began the process of grooming her and prepping her for a ride. We brushed off dirt from her lovely bay coat and prepared her for even more close-ups.

Jess shares her accommodation with a diverse array of horses, many with unique markings and inquisitive characters.

TACKING up

It was soon time to fit Jess’ bridle, saddle and stirrups before taking her out to the yard. This led to a funny photo or two as Jess bared her teeth for the camera.

It’s been a few years since I’d last ridden a horse, but it’s always something I’m excited about doing. Lucia prepped us before we rode around the riding area.

Jess and ourselves had an audience as we trotted around the sand school.

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Standing at over 16 hands high, Jess made for a fun and comfortable ride.

It was a bright, sunny afternoon, and with a ladybird roaming around the riding gear, it definitely felt like summer.

It was lovely having the chance to take Jess out and get plenty of photos. Thank you to Emma, Jess’ owner, Nicole for inviting me, and Lucia, who did the majority of the work as I wandered around with my camera! :)