Skip

Little Bit Herd Member

Skip embodies the very best qualities of the American Quarter Horse: heart, versatility, intelligence, and an unwavering desire to connect with people. Skip has spent the last 16 years enriching the lives of patients and participants at Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center. His impact on our community is profound, enduring, and deeply felt.

Before joining Little Bit, Skip enjoyed a rich and varied career. He was trained and competed in western and English disciplines, trail, barrel racing, team penning, and even some jumping. This broad foundation shaped the horse we know today — a steady, adaptable partner with a “whatever the game, let’s play” attitude. He sailed through his trial period with the same calm confidence that would become his hallmark, quickly earning a reputation as a brave, sensible, and willing partner for riders of all abilities. 

Skip was purchased by Little Bit in 2009 through the generosity of longtime Little Bit rider Karol Flynn. Karol was an accomplished horsewoman and spent years searching for the perfect equine partner for both herself and the Little Bit community. Skip’s bond with Karol was extraordinary. They were a familiar pair at horse shows; Karol proudly dressed in her signature green chaps and Skip carrying her with quiet confidence. He allowed her tremendous independence — from grooming and clipping to leading him from his paddock — and he kept her safe while giving her the freedom and dignity she cherished, all the while being an integral member of the Little Bit herd. After Karol’s passing in 2017, Skip remained with Little Bit, continuing to share the gifts that made him so special. Karol’s mom and sister continue to visit Little Bit each summer, reconnecting with Skip and the community that meant so much to Karol. 

In our Adaptive Riding program, Skip became the quintessential “steady Eddie,” the horse trusted with new volunteers, nervous riders, and individuals learning the foundational skills of horsemanship. His excellent ground manners, patience, and dependability helped countless riders gain confidence, develop new abilities, and ultimately achieve independence. At our annual horse show, Skip’s love of barrel “racing” shone through — he proudly held the fastest overall time in the event for several years, much to the delight of his fans.

Several years ago, Skip underwent a significant health crisis, forcing his retirement from mounted activities and therapies. Through this transition, Skip embraced a new chapter with the same grace and willingness that defined his earlier years. Today, he is a cornerstone of our unmounted and equine-assisted services programs. He teaches participants how to groom, lead, and care for a horse; he welcomes tour groups; he delights in showing newcomers his favorite itchy spots; and he continues to co-regulate with clients in ways that only a seasoned therapy horse can. 

One of our occupational therapy assistants, who first met Skip as a 14‑year‑old volunteer, describes him best. She recalls how his relaxed demeanor — complete with his signature drooping lower lip — instantly put people at ease. She remembers laughing as he “helped” riders steer through obstacle courses or picked up a playful jog around the third barrel of a clover leaf pattern. She remembers crying when he brought newfound independence to clients and crying again when he underwent colic surgery. And she reflects on how, even after a life‑altering event, Skip did what we ask of our clients every day: he adapted, he overcame, and he continued doing what he loves — connecting with people. 

Skip’s legacy is one of service, partnership, and heart. He has supported riders through triumphs and challenges, empowered volunteers, comforted families, and carried forward the spirit of his beloved Karol. His contributions span disciplines and decades of Little Bit participants.