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    Home » Stories

    Devoted Trainer Helps Horse Overcome 3 Broken Legs & The Loss Of His Sight

    Published: Sep 4, 2015 · Modified: Feb 25, 2020 by ihearthorses · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    There is no doubt this is a special horse, but he also had a special trainer. Danish dressage trainer Bent Branderup met Hugin, a two-year-old Knabstrupper stallion, in 1988.

    It was love at first sight.

    In 1991, Hugin was named Premium Champion Stallion of the Year in Denmark.

    Then the unthinkable happened. Hugin was injured in a breeding accident – he fractured both rear femurs and suffered a front splint bone.

    The veterinarian recommended immediate euthanasia. Branderup said no. Instead, he worked for years on healing the stallion's legs, slowly re-introducing dressage to stretch and strengthen them.

    Hugin3

    He made a complete recovery.

    But there were more challenges ahead. In 1996, Hugin went blind in both eyes. Again, Branderup did not give up on this faithful mount. Instead, he rebuilt Hugin’s trust in a world he could no longer see, through dressage.

    Untitled

    In 2013, Hugin couldn’t stand on three legs for a long time, so they found a creative way to trim his hooves. This is true dedication in the part of the owner and farrier.

    Hugin2

    You can feel the love this amazing trainer has for his horse.

     

    23 june 2013 Hugin and I has had 25 years together. he has become 27. This is an age where one becomes grateful fore every day - thank you Hugin.

    Posted by Academic Art of Riding by Bent Branderup on Thursday, June 20, 2013

     

    Watch Hugin beautifully execute maneuvers at twenty-three in the following video, which shows the special relationship he had with Branderup. Be sure to have tissues handy.

    After a long and loved life, Hugin passed away. At the Summer Academy 2015, Branderup revealed the lovely tribute he had made for this amazing stallion.

    HUGIN1

    Horse Courses by Elaine Heney

    • Listening to the Horse - The Documentary by Elaine Heney & Grey Pony Films
    • Shoulder In & Out Training for better balance, bend & topline development with your horse
    • Over 110+ Polework Exercises & Challenges to Download
    • Dancing at Liberty & Creating Connection with Your Horse (11 lessons) - Grey Pony Films
     

    I recommend following the Academic Art of Riding by Bent Branderup on Facebook and, if you can, go to one of his clinics. He has a lot to teach.

    Share this story with someone who needs a dose of inspiration today!

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