His name may be Peanut, but the our little therapy horse has earned a big title: PATH International’s Region 8 Equine of the Year! Peanut is an 8-year-old Haflinger pony that beat out horses from Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas for the honor from PATH International, the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. Peanut joined the Hearts & Hooves staff in 2009, through a donation by UPS.

The nomination puts Peanut in the running for national horse of the year, which will be given at the PATH International conference on November 9 in Lexington, Ky. The award goes to an equine who personifies the willingness, attitude and diversity of talents that these hard-working partners bring to equine-assisted activities and therapies. Peanut was nominated by rider Alyssa Hichens and volunteer Diane Whitbey. “Alyssa and Diane nominated Peanut for his exceptionally good nature and his work ethic,” according to Pat White, Executive Director. “From hippotherapy in the arena to carrying a rider in her first dressage show, Peanut can do it all -- and do it all well. To top it all off, this is one adorable pony!”

The Haflinger breed originated in the 19th century in Austria and Italy. The horses have a distinctive light chestnut color with a cream-colored mane and tail. They’re known for their smooth gaits, hardiness, and docile nature, which make them well-suited for work in therapeutic riding.