Feeling Confident and Successful with Help From a Four-Legged Friend

Now 19, Brentwood resident and longtime rider Sam Wright graduated from his favorite program when he reached adulthood.
At 22, Samoens, also known as Sammy, a Dutch warmblood and former jumping horse, is ready for greener pastures and a relaxing retirement.
Together, horse and rider took their final ride at Saddle Up!, a nonprofit therapeutic horseback riding program for children who have mental and physical challenges.
"Sam's face lights up when he goes there. He smiles the whole hour that he is there," said Wright's mother, Sheree. "He loves riding and loves horses. When he is riding, it is one of the few times when he is just like other kids — he is successful and confident."