Reindeer 101

Since horses are not a common symbol for the holidays, we wanted to take a closer look at our hoofed friends, the reindeer.

Photo by Medieval Karl

Reindeers first appeared as Santa’s sidekick in 1821 in The Children’s Friend: A New Year’s Present, to Little Ones from Five to Twelve.  In this early emergence, Santa only had one lone reindeer pulling his sleigh.

The number of reindeers helping Santa out increased to eight in the poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” by Clement Clarke Moore. 

In this poem, we learn the names of the reindeer: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder and Blitzen. One famous reindeer has not yet been included: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Rudolph first appeared in 1939 in a promotional giveaway for Chicago’s Montgomery Ward department store, created by Robert Lewis May. He created a story about a rejected reindeer that Santa would turn to on Christmas Eve. Before deciding on the name Rudolph, Rollo and Reginald were considered.

Rudolph’s song was written by Johnny Marks and performed by Gene Autry in 1949, selling two million copies in its first year.

Today in Canada, the eight reindeers and the addition of Rudolph has stuck in most popular culture. Other countries have tried substitutes such as Australia’s use of six white boomers, Louisiana’s alligators and red-nosed werewolf, and the Netherland’s tall white horse.

(Source: The World Encyclopedia of Christmas by GerryBowler)

Equine Therapy

Horseback riding isn't just for the thrill of the race – it also offers the rider therapeutic benefits. Equine therapy is becoming increasingly popular as the advantages from time spent with horses are recognized.

Horses are gentle animals that have the ability to sense the needs that people have. Horses can adapt to try to meet those needs. Known as one of the most understanding, non-judgemental and tolerable animals, horses make for great therapists.

Bonding and interacting with horses can help with a number of mental and emotional disorders. For those who having difficulties trusting others, animal therapy is a great starting point. Equine therapy is proven as an efficient way to re-strengthen interpersonal relationships.

Those with anxiety and depression can benefit from spending time with horses. Horses are a calming animal and simple tasks such as grooming and employing relaxation techniques while riding can reduce anxiety and provide the individual with a role model. Horses help individuals to identify how depression is affecting their wellness, while also creating a safe environment to heal.

As horses are gentle, genuine and loving, individuals with low self esteem and poor body image are recommended to try equine therapy. Experiencing a connection with a horse that accepts one for who they are is particularly remedial for those who have not been able to accept or believe the love from people around them.

Many stables in Manitoba offer therapeutic horseback riding. Check Manitoba's Equine Directory for a stable nearby you.

Source: Healing Hooves