Janie Ford, a Life-Flight nurse, from Bountiful keeps a “gorgeous, big, show horse” named Majestic. She has owned this Tennessee Walker for 22 years, and considers him her “heart horse,” the soulmate you can’t live without. Her father named the horse when he gave him to her.

Recently, Janie was at her horse’s indoor/outdoor condo helping her horse with a small procedure. The horse was anesthetized and was so weak, he placed his head in her lap for some intense petting. While still a little loopy, some hay was placed in the hopper, and he was very entertaining as he tried to chew in his weakened state – he was not missing a meal no matter how tired he felt. 

Ford tries to ride her horse about 15-20 minutes twice a week. Due to a fusion of his ankle about five years ago, the horse had not been ridden for a time, but has now sufficiently recovered. 

Majestic is a pampered horse with her own equine chiropractor and massage therapist. He is turned out daily for some light exercise in the yard. He weighs 1,200 pounds and is all muscle. The metal fittings on his stall need to be tweaked weekly because he leans into it. Despite his size, he is mindful of small dogs and children and really thinks that he could fit into the car and drive home with his Janie.

A judge in Davis County started mandating therapy for certain abused children, and Majestic was recruited to help out. Therapy may include feeding or brushing the horse to get to know each other. Small children are always a little intimidated initially, but warm up and feel empowered as they lead or ride this huge, friendly animal. Children talk about their new friend horse around the dinner table bringing a positive focus in their lives. Majestic has presided over a bunch of birthday parties where he and the kids have the time of their lives. 

Even adults can benefit from horse therapy – finding a powerful ally that gives them a sense of control and strength, that if treated well will follow them to the ends of the Earth. The COVID pandemic curtailed therapy, but Majestic still sticks his head way out of the stall looking for the next person to charm and heal. A sign on his stall reads, “Kissing Booth” so be prepared.

Ford estimates her horse costs more than $1,000 a month for upkeep. For those who think they may want to own a horse, she recommends renting a horse first, taking lessons, and making sure this pet is a good fit. For Ford, the joy of horse ownership is worth the cost. “My therapist lives in a barn,” she said. “I’m not sure I could live without that ‘magical bond.’”