Our Herd

At Silver Lining Riding, we don’t use horses, we partner with them. Our equine partners, from a gentle Clydesdale to a spirited Miniature Horse, each bring their own story and background. Some were once show horses, trail guides, or eventers; now they share their unique gifts with our riders.

Horses rely on body language for communication. They “speak” with their eyes and use subtle sounds to express emotion. Many of our riders, especially those who are nonverbal, discover in the horse a kindred spirit who understands their language.

Our herd of ten, known for their patience and calm demeanor, provide opportunities for riders to build strength, develop communication, practice life skills, and grow in confidence. Through the healing partnership between horse and rider, Silver Lining Riding transforms lives, not only for our students, but for their families as well.

Born in 2006, Luna is a striking black mare and a unique cross between Arabian and Warlander. Before joining Silver Lining Riding in 2020, she had an accomplished career in dressage, and her extensive training shines through in every ride. Luna is best suited for participants who are working toward independence and refining their skills, as she responds beautifully to subtle aids. Off the arena floor, Luna adores being pampered and has no hesitation about asking for wither scratches. Her elegant presence, combined with her gentle and approachable nature, makes her a favorite among both participants and volunteers.

Luna

Therapy horse, adaptive riding, equine, Peoria, horses, horseback riding.

Boomer (Boomerang)

Born in the early 2000s, Boomer is a handsome flea-bitten gray Paint gelding. Donated to Silver Lining Riding in 2024, Boomer quickly won hearts with his eager-to-please nature, though he is sometimes known to be a bit of an overthinker. He especially enjoys belly scratches, rolling in the arena during enrichment games with his favorite volunteer, and, of course, feeding time. With his kind demeanor and playful personality, Boomer is a wonderful addition to the Silver Lining herd.


Woody

Born in 2001, Woody is a bay Quarter Horse gelding who joined Silver Lining Riding in 2023. Before coming to SLR, Woody worked as a roping horse, but after retirement he quickly grew restless, he wanted a job to do. He has since found his perfect place supporting participants, whether he’s carefully carrying our smallest riders or serving as a steady, reliable partner in equine-assisted learning sessions. Gentle, patient, and endlessly kind, Woody has a heart of gold and always gives his all. His sweet nature and steady presence make him a treasured member of the herd.

Indy-Indiana Jones

Born in 1998, Indy is a flea-bitten gray gelding and an adorable cross between a Quarter Horse and a Connemara pony. Before joining Silver Lining Riding in 2017, Indy had a successful career as an eventer. Since then, he has become a cornerstone of the herd, trusted by riders and volunteers alike. Rock solid and steady as they come, Indy is best known for his calm, dependable nature, though his goofy personality often shines through. While he usually takes life at a slower pace, don’t be fooled; when the mood strikes him, Indy can really move. Beloved by all, he embodies the perfect mix of reliability and charm.

Sunny

Sunny is a palomino gelding, owned and loved by the Kelly family, who kindly leased him to Silver Lining Riding in 2025 when he made it clear he needed a job to do. Big, sturdy, and effortlessly chill, Sunny takes life at a relaxed pace and is unfazed by just about everything, except the idea of missing the food truck. He’s incredibly sweet, loves people and fellow horses, and has a playful streak that often shows in his crookedly worn fly mask. Sunny’s gentle, friendly nature and subtle sense of humor make him a favorite among participants and volunteers alike.


Padma

Born in 2008, Padma is a red roan Clydesdale mare who has been a beloved member of the Silver Lining Riding herd since 2018. She is now owned and cherished by the Campbell family, who generously allow her to continue her work supporting participants. Once a broodmare, Padma brings a naturally nurturing and gentle demeanor to everything she does. With her huge heart and kind spirit, she is truly one of the gentlest horses you will ever meet, making her a favorite among participants and volunteers alike.

Shadow

Born in 1998, Shadow is a red dun Quarter Horse mare who joined Silver Lining Riding in 2021 after being donated from another lesson program. Prior to that, she competed in mounted shooting, giving her a unique combination of athleticism and smarts. Shadow is the perfect blend of sweetness and spice—she’ll happily offer her head for haltering, often enjoys snoozing in the crossties while being groomed, and yet can be seen zipping around her stall in excitement when the food truck approaches. She is an excellent partner for riders developing independence in the saddle, and her incredibly gentle, smooth trot has helped many participants confidently explore going faster for the first time. Shadow’s balance of calm and playful energy makes her a favorite among both riders and volunteers.

Bella

Bella is a Percheron mare, owned and loved by the Campbell family, who generously allow her to participate in Silver Lining Riding’s program. Rumor has it she was once trained to pull a wagon, but these days she enjoys a more relaxed life. When she’s not hanging out with Padma in the draft horse paddock, Bella delights in giving adaptive lessons to riders who don’t mind riding a gentle giant. Her calm, patient nature and impressive size make her a wonderful partner for participants seeking a steady and supportive ride.

Opie

Coming Soon

Ernie

Coming Soon

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