What Our Customers Are Saying
--You know, the cost really isn't that expensive considering how many YEARS of rough play it can take. I'm a strong believer in you get what you pay for. ;-) I've actually had the chance to test out the cheaper ones (other people bought them, not me!!) and frankly, they just don't compare and they certainly don't last. They're thinner and not as strong and pretty flimsy. They're about even with an exercise ball and those are definitely not for horses. People complain about them popping after only a few minutes of rough play. They bounce a lot, get blown around by a little wind. They're just wimpy. But your ball is sturdy, tough, and heavier. The cover on mine has held up through years of being bitten and carried by horses. I thought for sure it wasn't going to last, but it's STILL good. No fraying or torn areas anywhere. The seams are solid. I've kept the ball inflated for years at a time too. And I don't even need to keep inflating it. It stays as is. You guys DEFINITELY make the BEST ball on the market. No doubt. I tell people where to buy it!! :-) The arena where I use it for horse soccer is right up against a road and when the ball is out, we stop traffic :-D Great Product! Thank you so much!!!!! Can't wait to get the 25" for my doggy! I know he'll put it to good use :-)
--Ivonne Gutierrez
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My horses are just crazy with their new ball :) Wasn't fast enough to get a pic of my mare tossing it, but got them after!! My older boys 28 and 32 were in their stalls content to go to bed. The ball itself it heavier and the cover is amazing.....MUCH thicker :) Thank you!!!!!
--Tara Mitchell
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Lisa,
The replacement arrived today. Your customer service is "AWSOME." I really appreciate everything. Wasn't really an Inconvenience, and I am proud to have purchased from such an outstanding company. Be assured that we will back and I will be passing this around.
Thank you again,
--Scott Bryant
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Lisa,
We have been so impressed with your Equi-Spirit balls and the horses, especially our two year old, absolutely love them! Not only is it perfect for exercise, agility, and muscle building, but even more importantly, it is fun and stimulating. Our horses are often in training for years and we always try to find ways to keep them interested so they are enjoying what they learn. We wish we had thought of incorporating these balls into their daily routine long ago, especially when they are young and still growing. Also, we cannot say enough great things about how wonderful you have been with your customer service and attention, so we feel it is the least we can do.
Kind Regards,
--Deandrea
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I wanted to let you know that I've had my Spirit ball for around 5 years now. I keep it at the facility I board at so that everyone has the opportunity to play. We have played soccer (which can get pretty rough), used it for training, and the stallion has attempted to um, well, smoosh it LOL.
The kids and even the dogs get to playing with it!!
I recommend this to everyone who owns a horse! Durable and FUN!
--Jala
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Dear Lisa,
I have a 19-year old Thoroughbred/Hanoverian gelding who has had a multitude of health issues over the years. He's had Lyme's Disease, a broken splint bone, hock degeneration - you name it. Each time, with a lot of love and effort, he thankfully comes back better and stronger.
After recent bouts with another tick-borne illness and colic, he was feeling better, but just not himself. Even the supplements and monthly chiropractic and accupuncture treatments weren't doing the trick. No one could identify why he was still lame. He didn't appear to be in any pain, and he looked better than he had in years. We were beginning to think it was in his head - he just didn't realize he was sound.
Then, the owner of my barn bought the 40" Equi-Spirit Smiley Face Ball for her Andalusian stallion. From the minute that Blue saw that ball, he was a different animal. He was completely sound! He went from trotting with a head bob/wag to flying across the field in a beautiful extended trot. He trotted and cantered perfect figure-eights and serpentines, and stood snorting with head and tail up like a stallion. It wasn't just that day either - every time he sees the ball, he has the same reaction. Now, he is perfectly sound, happy, and acting like a 6-year old again.
I cannot thank you enough for this amazing product. It gave me my horse back!
--Jill Higman
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I am not sure if you remember sending a large ball and catch ball to Scotland in November last year. I was over the moon with the quality of the toys. We haven't had much chance to play with the big ball yet as the weather has been horrible however the catch ball has been a huge hit. Unfortunately some horrible person decided to steal it out of our arena last weekend, I am gutted. I have attached a video which I hope you will be able to view showing our horse and pony having fun!
I would like to get them another but shipping costs and import tax makes it quite expensive to get a replacement. I will have a think about how best to replace it but in the meantime I hope this video brings a wee smile to your face. Ps they do this for hours on end its so funny. It's so nice as we lost our other horse in late 2013 to colic and they both played together for hours. The pony, called buddy, came from a cousin as a friend for josh and he has wormed his way into our hearts so is now a permanent feature! He had no idea about playing with toys but josh soon showed him the ropes and now loves it.
Cheers karen x
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Many thanks to you for making a product that will withstand my horse's energy! I have a 3-year-old Andalusian stallion, Rinaldo, and he is unable to be turned out with other horses. This ball allows him to get out his aggressive young-boy energy in a healthy and fun way.
This video (below) is from the first time I gave him the ball (his birthday present, which is tomorrow). He absolutely LOVES it! He has been popping the regular store-bought yoga balls in about two minutes, and that adds up in cost! If your ball holds up as you claim, it is well worth it.
After seeing the video of the draft horse laying on it without it popping, I was sold. Rinaldo and I will be happy to promote your product any way we can. Thank you again.
Have a great day,
--Mary Lew Johnston
Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre
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Perky's soccer ball has truly helped him thru the weaning process! Perky likes to have the soccer ball in his stall when he is eating. He can push on it or bite at it and of course jump and run with it. I wanted you to know the soccer ball has been a blessing with his weaning. He's doing so good!
--Laurie Bragg
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Thank you for the excellent customer service. That type of response is what will keep me coming back to your site and referring you to my friends!
--Denise Bowman
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I purchased the 40" Equi-Spirit soccer ball 2 years ago and my horse absolutely loves it, but he plays with it so hard that he has ripped the cover (I'm thrilled the cover lasted 2 years), so I need to order a new cover.
--Denise Bowman
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Review on Jolly Mega Ball on Jeffers Equine Site
Reviewed By: Melinda (Columbus, Indiana)
The seams ripped in one day of play with this ball cover. The Equi-Spirit ball covers are way tougher mine lasted 2 yrs. Thought I would save money trying this one but ended up costing me more cause now I got to get another cover.
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Hello, Just wanted to send you a few photos of my Gypsy stallion, Valentino playing with his big ball. He loves this thing! It really holds up to the pounding. Impressive product! Thanks!
Feel free to post these if you like.
-- Fran Scott
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My haflinger, Rusty, really enjoys playing with his equine ball. It has been a fantastic toy, and a great training tool... from teaching Rusty to trot while in saddle to helping my haflinger, Adler become more brave. I even play "catch" with both horses, rolling the ball to them and they roll it back using their noses.
My German Shepherd, Asa, loves the ball too. So much, I had to get her own canine size one. My Golden Retriever, Gus, also enjoys it, when Asa lets him!
Thanks so much for the great toys.
--Tamra
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Just to let you know my goods arrived and I LOVE them! My curious horse thought it was all a good game and we had fun! Will try on my rather more non-player horse soon!
Regards,
--Jan
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Comment from a customer whose horse punctured the bladder very quickly—We believe that the ball was underinflated, however in this case we replaced the bladder.Thank you for the replacement bladder I received. I will inform you of the survival (or death) of the new ball. Again, I thank you for your consideration of my plight and the beyond fair manner of your actions.
Whether Freeman becomes the conqueror or not, I’d offer favorable comments for your company and repeat business.
--Christine Jones
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In mid-January, after an unpleasant experience at a local boarding facility, we brought our TB, Sam, home for the winter. As the weeks passed, Sam became bored and depressed. We have no other livestock on our property and he was very lonely, so much so that I became very worriedabout him. We ordered a 40" Jolly Ball; it was love at first bounce!
The fifth time we let Sam play with the ball, it burst. We couldn't believe it. The manufacturer said they would replace the ball, as they should have. The ball should have been "horse proof" and wasn't. While waiting for the replacement to arrive, my vet advised me to look into theEqui-Spirit ball. I ordered one today and can't wait for it to arrive. We are looking forward to having a happy Sam again and spending many hours watching him play. Thank you.
--Sharon Knight Danville, IL
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Matisse and His Equi-Spirit Ball-- He plays with it every week and he has STILL not killed it! You guys get two thumbs up! See his video on the video page.
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Thank you, thank you, thank you for our new ball! We have enjoyed countless hours of laughter and fun as a result of introducing our horses to this new toy. The horses, kids, and staff are so grateful for your generous gift.
I hope you both enjoy some of these pictures. The horse who seems to enjoy the ball most is our precious Hero. His story is a tear jerker, so it is wonderful to see him happy & playing.
-- Sarah Beck
Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch
Bend, OR
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135th Kentucky Derby Winner Mine That Bird LOVES
his Equi-Spirit Ball
His co-owner, Dr Leonard Blach contacted the Equi-Spirit office to order another Equi-Spirit ball. He stated via email,“Mine That Bird has so much fun with his ball. He always had something to play with, but this is favorite toy. He has it in his sand paddock in the day time, then at night he wants it in his stall with him; it’s his security blanket. I love watching him play with it. Thanks so much for this idea.”
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I want to say never in my 29 years of living in Alaska has any vendor sent a partial refund for shipping overage charge. I couldn't believe it when I opened my order and saw that you refunded the difference between the shipping and the USPO "Flat Rate." I really, really appreciate it.
Really good customer service. Thank you.
--Nancy Sisinyak
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Thank you once again so much for the Equi-Spirit Ball you donated to our ACTHA ride. It was such a big hit and everybody loved it. The winner was Melinda Bell from Noble, IL and she was in a drawing with 17 other riders that signed up early for the Sam Dale Lake ride. Our photographer left before the awards and we did not get any pics of her winning the ball. She will take a pic of her horse playing with it and send it to me and I'll forward it on to you. It has been so wet I haven't got a pic of my horse playing with his yet either, but will send to you as soon as I get one. Thank you - everyone loves the Equi-Spirit Ball!!
--Tali Smith
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I bought the ultimate red and yellow Equi ball to use personally and for my 4-H horse club. The kids love it and so does my family. My husband and I put on the Pleasant Valley (Young) Stampede and we are in the process of getting teams together to have matches after the gymkhana's. Some of the horse's take to it right away, but if not it has only taken 10 to 15 min of slow gradual work with them and they love it also! Anyone thinking about buying one of the ultimate balls, these are tough balls, my 1300 horse rolls all over it and the kids get rough playing soccer and the horses have stepped on it, kicked it and bite it, so far no problems. Next purchase will be the cones!
--Candy Wisdom
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Our 4-H kids absolutely love this ball. They are learning so many horsemanship skills just by playing soccer and are having so much fun.
--Paula Doman
Medicine Lodge, KS
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Hi Lisa and Ken,
I just wanted you to know I received the new bladder a few days ago and my husband helped me air it up with the air pump that Ken recommended. The pump worked awesome and in no time the ball was aired up. Took about the amount of time that Ken said itwould. What a beautiful Ball!!!
Yesterday, it did not rain so I had my horse “Pharlacesaw” try it out. She was afraid of it at first then realized it just was a bigger version of the smaller ball she had been pushing around and started to push it with her nose for me.
I think I am going to really enjoy that ball. Thanks again for the wonderful customer service you both provided and I will be in the future investing in an extra bladder to have on hand.
I cannot thank you enough for your wonderful customer service.
Thanks Barbara
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Back in June last year, we purchased your 25" (and later also the 40") EQUI-SPIRIT Ball for my young Stallion. He absolutely loves playing with both sizes, and it has helped with his development enormously - he has so much energy, and this goes a long way to helping him not get too frustrated. He has to be in a paddock on his own (although there are horses around him), and whilst this is not ideal for his development, the Ball has proved an excellent way to keep his mind occupied!
Best regards
--Alice Coxon
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Lisa and Kenny,
I am going to send you pictures of me and my horse Pharlacesaw playing soccer with a group of horse people as soon as I get them sent to me. Pharlacesaw just loves playing with her ball and she knows that it is her ball and sometimes does not want to share it with the other horses. She steals it away from them. I am waiting to get permission from the others that are in our soccer group to allow you to use their pictures on your website.
I can’t believe in just a few short weeks my horse has become a horse with a mission, to push the ball with her nose around the arena.
The group we play with want us on their team!!! In fact my mare is the only horse right now that pushes the ball with her nose. She also puts “English” like you do on pool balls to control it!
Just so awesome to see her enjoy something so much.
Our group meets on Tuesday, this past Tuesday was our second meeting and we added more people and horses, a total of around 12, so we split up into two teams 6 on one side and 6 on the other side including taking turns to be goalies and centers. We had a blast and had a group of spectators watching us and cheering us on. My daughter, who has a she has a photography business and son in law were there to take the pictures for me, so the pictures would turn out good to send you. My son in law said to my daughter that he could do that and he is not a horse rider!
I just wanted you to know how much fun I am having with the soccer ball I purchased from you. I may have a few upcoming sales for you, as some of the people are showing an interest in where I got this cool ball from and they have commented on how excellent quality ball is that you manufacture and sell.
Please be on the lookout for pictures.
--Barbara
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Thank you guys so much for creating this ball! My horse LOVES it and so far has been unable to destroy it! I've attached a link to a Youtube video of him playing with it.
Feel free to use it on your site if you wish. Thanks again!!
--Wendy
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Hi Lisa,
We received Equi-Spirit balls and our horses are LOVING THEM!!! They play for hours with them. What a great thing! I'm sure all our friends are going to want them.
--Diana Venegas Ocala, Florida
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After receiving a refund after we were able to save them on shipping-
Lisa, ya'll ARE THE GREATEST!!!!!!!!!!! Love it when businesses behave with integrity.
Use me as a reference if you'd like!
--Janet Kelly-DeYoung
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You are so kind, Lisa. It is people like you that renew my faith in humanity. I will keep that $5.85 in my Pay Pal account for when your book comes out or when I need to buy an Equi-Spirit ball for a friend.
Happy Trails,
--Amy Jo
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After initially purchasing a knock-off ball from another company which was defective, which we replaced with an Equi-Spirit Ball--
Hi Lisa,
I got the package with the B/R Soccer Ball and Catch Ball today! I was amazed to see the excellent documentation and get a needle for blowing up the toys, too. I sure didn't get those materials the first time around from the women's booth at the MWHF. I briefly read through everything and will read it again before inflating the balls tomorrow. I really should give you something for the Catch Ball, though, because I certainly didn't expect you to include it at no charge. I'm just thrilled that you and your husband are so reputable and willing to help people who ended up a bad situation like I did.
I'm excited to get my new balls blown up and enjoy the fun times they'll provide for me and my two horses. I'll be able to re-package and send out the defective toy tomorrow or the next day.
Thanks again,
--Nancy
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I would like to let you know what we are about here at Narrow Gate Youth Ranch. We are a non-profit organization that rescues horses, and brings them together with broken kids. The program is awesome, and it is free to anyone wishing to participate. Since we have been working with your soccer ball, we have had some amazing breakthroughs, not only with the rescued horses, but when the kids see what some of these horses do with the ball, they are amazed, and it gives the kids confidence that they can accomplish anything difficult for them as well. Anyway, we have a soccer tournament planned for Sept 19, 2009 as a fundraiser to help pay for the hay we need for the 17 equine counselors that we care for, so I would like to ask ifyou would like to donate one of your products for one of the prizes. We are already talking to everyone we see about the ball you sell. Please let me know. Please go to www.ngyr.org and see what we are about, and look at the events page. You will see 4 of our volunteers playing socce r with your ball. It is awesome. Thank You in advance for any help that you can give. All donations are tax deductible.
Thanks Again,
--Judy Edwards, Director
Narrow Gate Youth Ranch
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A GREAT Equi-Spirit Ball Review
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Dear Lisa,
On behalf of the Marine Animal Rescue Program at the National Aquarium, thank you for your in-kin donation of an Equi-Spirit Ball. Your generous assistance will help the Aquarium continue its mission of conserving and protecting the worlds’ oceans and their inhabitants, by providing equipment support to assist with the rehabilitation of a harbor seal. We are working to get photos to send you, but the seal is shy about interacting with enrichment items around staff.
By making this thoughtful contribution, you are helping us move forward with promoting environmental awareness and stewardship. We greatly appreciate your donation and look
forward to continuing work with you in the future.
Sincerely,
--Jennifer Dittmar
Marine Animal Rescue Program/Stranding Coordinator
National Aquarium in Baltimore
www.aqua.org
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I bought one of your 40" balls back in March of last year.... Ben (my palomino twh) and I LOVE it. It took 2 short sessions with praise and now whenever we are in the arena and the ball is there, he will do NOTHING else... in fact if the ball is not there-- he will use the barrels as a ball substitute and will knock the barrel through the jump standards (our GOALS) and wait for me to yell GGGOOOOOAAAAALLLL!
Then he looks at me like "where's the cookie?" I'm thinking I could do a comedy act at a rodeo with that one! Barrel racing will not likely be in his future! Perhaps you should include the warning with the balls you sell- "Warning: Soccer is an addictive sport for some horses and their people!"
But that is not why I'm writing.... actually I was browsing and saw the cordura cover- I was wondering if I could purchase just the cover?
Thanks for a great product. We do leave the ball out for them to play with-- so I'm hoping to preserve it with the newer cover!
--Penny Gates
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Just wanted to let you that I received my ball, and we both just love it. I had Patton out in his practice area yesterday and he just really enjoyed playing with his ball. He's a very good horse and nothing seems to bother him. I rode him right away and he pushed that ball all over the place.
Thanks so much for offering such a great fun tool.
Best'
-- Leslie and Patton
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Our Horses love to play with your toys; the ball being their favorite. The two stallions finally put a big hole so have been without one for a month.
They will be happy to have one again. Diane C in AZ
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Lisa - just wanted you to know that I think the ball is great! We got it because we have two older geldings and a yearling, and the poor little yearling has been pretty bored. He thinks he has a new friend. He carries the ball around and plays with it all the time! It took him no time to figure out what to do. Thanks a bunch!
--Camie
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Hello Lisa:
Wow, that's Customer service! I will let you know how it goes. And by the way, I shared my DVD w/ a friend yesterday. He was astounded by the obvious joy the horses were having and is likely going to purchase a ball very, very soon. I will be following up w/ him and will share my experience regarding the SUPERIOR customer service!
Thanks so much,
--Steve
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Hi Lisa and Kenny,
I just wanted to thank you so much for Nikko's new "big boy" tough ball and the basketball cover. He absolutely LOVES them both and plays with them all the time! Today I even saw him far away from the herd standing right beside one of the balls sleeping. heehee. They are truly his buddies! Now I just have to buy him the basketball outfit and the headband he wants and we're all set for the season! :-)
Love and blessings,
Kim
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OUR HORSES LOVE I! WE PUT PICS UP ON OUR WEB SITE..
BANDDPERFORMANCEHORSES.COM Diane
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Lisa,
First I would like to say that my horse loves the Equi-Spirit40” Ball. I believe it is his best friend. He grazes with it, plays with it and even sleeps with it very close by.
One of his favorite games is playing pass in the barn isle with me.
--Alison
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Lisa,
Thank you so much for the book, new ball cover, and your concern. I’ve told all my “horsey” friends about your “over and above” customer support.
--Gwen
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We started playing “horse soccer” here in the middle of cowboy/rancher country. It surprised me to see how quickly our horses took to it and actually seemed to enjoy it. The Equi-Spirit ball with the cordura covering is extra tough and stands up well to our horseplay. I can’t wait to get back to the arena and do it again! It’s nice to see our hardworking cowhorses seem to enjoy their task.
--Todd Beckstead
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I am a riding instructor/horse trainer. I had one of my clients purchase a 40" soccerball from you. She had me familiarize her horse to the ball. Her hope was that the ball would get him moving or playing while turned out in the arena. After the ground work, I rode "Skip" and we played-moving, stopping-controlling where the ball would go. He loved it and it was very natural for him. I borrowed the ball from Gunilla to use at my house -I used it with 5 differenthorses, all who had different problems or issues. It was amazing........scared horses began to get confidence........angry horses attacked it and then became calm.
The work with this wonderful tool, creates a environment where horse and rider can bond with each other gaining confidence and a wonderful balance-it is a perfect workout for both body and mind of horse and rider!!!!!
I would love to promote your ball. I am going to start teaching people how to use this ball safely and correctly with their horse. Every person and horse are different individuals and to remain safe must learn to use this ball in a way that is safe for both of them and then fun. Thank you
-- Pam Saxman
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Equi-spirit, Thank you for sending me a new PVC bladder I was not expecting that and i really appreciate it. If you want i can be your cold weather rep and give you feedback on what kind of temps they last in, otherwise i don't plan on inflating it until the spring/summer just to be sure it wasn't just a defective bladder. Thank you again, you have great customer service getting back to me as quickly as you did that means a lot so thanks again. kim
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Just back from the 4-day Agility Trial (sponsored by the NorthWestern FlatCoated Retriever Club) in Central Point, Oregon.
And I can't wait to tell you about the Raffle and the Ultimate Corduras ball. The Raffle was attractively set up and had a number of tables , but the true eye-catcher was this beautiful, huge ball!
Folks just gravitated towards it, trying to figure out what it was and what it was for. I had a five page "flyer" with photos that I took from your website, (with horses, camels, a camel, a calf, dogs ... and the flyer was picked up often.
Also, I kept your terrific video going, and, boy, did that get a lot of attention! And comments! "Oh, my dogs would LOVE that!" and, not unexpectedly for so many people from the western states, "Oh, would my horses LOVE that!.
" Spot on! A very, very popular item indeed!But here's the best part.... For three of the days, right next to the fairground indoor arena where the agility trial was held, there was a horse show ( I don't know exactly what kind of show, but...) and lots of those families came over to watch the agility and to wander through the raffle. Needless to say, the Ultimate Corduras caught their attention. And... tickets were bought,... and this lovely woman from the horse show won the ball! She was SO excited, so pleased, she was almost in tears! And everyone was happy for her (well, ... after they got over their disappointment.)
Now I just know that next year we will have even more visitors from the horse show. I love it! And another thing that made your donation exciting for me... Someone asked me if I had heard of the new competitive canine sport where dogs , on command, "herded" balls through gates. Balls, rather than sheep. What a giggle! When I heard of this sport.
I immediately thought of your Equi-Spirit Toys. Perfect, no? But then, I'm sure you have heard of this too. I've got to look into this and find out what it's called and how it works.
Indeed, I had a lot of fun putting together and running the raffle and I know that I have much to thank you, and Equi-Spirit Toys for the raffle's success.
Very, very gratefully, Marge Ryder
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Hi Lisa,
I purchased a 25" Equi-Spirit ball last year for my dogs. The ball is still holding up well and they still love it! The ball also happens to be my office chair. I just wanted to know if it's possible to purchase separate covers? These balls are just so awesome--thanks for creating them!!
Thanks so much!
--Susan Roth
--Ivonne Gutierrez
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My horses are just crazy with their new ball :) Wasn't fast enough to get a pic of my mare tossing it, but got them after!! My older boys 28 and 32 were in their stalls content to go to bed. The ball itself it heavier and the cover is amazing.....MUCH thicker :) Thank you!!!!!
--Tara Mitchell
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Lisa,
The replacement arrived today. Your customer service is "AWSOME." I really appreciate everything. Wasn't really an Inconvenience, and I am proud to have purchased from such an outstanding company. Be assured that we will back and I will be passing this around.
Thank you again,
--Scott Bryant
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Lisa,
We have been so impressed with your Equi-Spirit balls and the horses, especially our two year old, absolutely love them! Not only is it perfect for exercise, agility, and muscle building, but even more importantly, it is fun and stimulating. Our horses are often in training for years and we always try to find ways to keep them interested so they are enjoying what they learn. We wish we had thought of incorporating these balls into their daily routine long ago, especially when they are young and still growing. Also, we cannot say enough great things about how wonderful you have been with your customer service and attention, so we feel it is the least we can do.
Kind Regards,
--Deandrea
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I wanted to let you know that I've had my Spirit ball for around 5 years now. I keep it at the facility I board at so that everyone has the opportunity to play. We have played soccer (which can get pretty rough), used it for training, and the stallion has attempted to um, well, smoosh it LOL.
The kids and even the dogs get to playing with it!!
I recommend this to everyone who owns a horse! Durable and FUN!
--Jala
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Dear Lisa,
I have a 19-year old Thoroughbred/Hanoverian gelding who has had a multitude of health issues over the years. He's had Lyme's Disease, a broken splint bone, hock degeneration - you name it. Each time, with a lot of love and effort, he thankfully comes back better and stronger.
After recent bouts with another tick-borne illness and colic, he was feeling better, but just not himself. Even the supplements and monthly chiropractic and accupuncture treatments weren't doing the trick. No one could identify why he was still lame. He didn't appear to be in any pain, and he looked better than he had in years. We were beginning to think it was in his head - he just didn't realize he was sound.
Then, the owner of my barn bought the 40" Equi-Spirit Smiley Face Ball for her Andalusian stallion. From the minute that Blue saw that ball, he was a different animal. He was completely sound! He went from trotting with a head bob/wag to flying across the field in a beautiful extended trot. He trotted and cantered perfect figure-eights and serpentines, and stood snorting with head and tail up like a stallion. It wasn't just that day either - every time he sees the ball, he has the same reaction. Now, he is perfectly sound, happy, and acting like a 6-year old again.
I cannot thank you enough for this amazing product. It gave me my horse back!
--Jill Higman
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I am not sure if you remember sending a large ball and catch ball to Scotland in November last year. I was over the moon with the quality of the toys. We haven't had much chance to play with the big ball yet as the weather has been horrible however the catch ball has been a huge hit. Unfortunately some horrible person decided to steal it out of our arena last weekend, I am gutted. I have attached a video which I hope you will be able to view showing our horse and pony having fun!
I would like to get them another but shipping costs and import tax makes it quite expensive to get a replacement. I will have a think about how best to replace it but in the meantime I hope this video brings a wee smile to your face. Ps they do this for hours on end its so funny. It's so nice as we lost our other horse in late 2013 to colic and they both played together for hours. The pony, called buddy, came from a cousin as a friend for josh and he has wormed his way into our hearts so is now a permanent feature! He had no idea about playing with toys but josh soon showed him the ropes and now loves it.
Cheers karen x
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Many thanks to you for making a product that will withstand my horse's energy! I have a 3-year-old Andalusian stallion, Rinaldo, and he is unable to be turned out with other horses. This ball allows him to get out his aggressive young-boy energy in a healthy and fun way.
This video (below) is from the first time I gave him the ball (his birthday present, which is tomorrow). He absolutely LOVES it! He has been popping the regular store-bought yoga balls in about two minutes, and that adds up in cost! If your ball holds up as you claim, it is well worth it.
After seeing the video of the draft horse laying on it without it popping, I was sold. Rinaldo and I will be happy to promote your product any way we can. Thank you again.
Have a great day,
--Mary Lew Johnston
Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre
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Perky's soccer ball has truly helped him thru the weaning process! Perky likes to have the soccer ball in his stall when he is eating. He can push on it or bite at it and of course jump and run with it. I wanted you to know the soccer ball has been a blessing with his weaning. He's doing so good!
--Laurie Bragg
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Thank you for the excellent customer service. That type of response is what will keep me coming back to your site and referring you to my friends!
--Denise Bowman
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I purchased the 40" Equi-Spirit soccer ball 2 years ago and my horse absolutely loves it, but he plays with it so hard that he has ripped the cover (I'm thrilled the cover lasted 2 years), so I need to order a new cover.
--Denise Bowman
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Review on Jolly Mega Ball on Jeffers Equine Site
Reviewed By: Melinda (Columbus, Indiana)
The seams ripped in one day of play with this ball cover. The Equi-Spirit ball covers are way tougher mine lasted 2 yrs. Thought I would save money trying this one but ended up costing me more cause now I got to get another cover.
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Hello, Just wanted to send you a few photos of my Gypsy stallion, Valentino playing with his big ball. He loves this thing! It really holds up to the pounding. Impressive product! Thanks!
Feel free to post these if you like.
-- Fran Scott
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My haflinger, Rusty, really enjoys playing with his equine ball. It has been a fantastic toy, and a great training tool... from teaching Rusty to trot while in saddle to helping my haflinger, Adler become more brave. I even play "catch" with both horses, rolling the ball to them and they roll it back using their noses.
My German Shepherd, Asa, loves the ball too. So much, I had to get her own canine size one. My Golden Retriever, Gus, also enjoys it, when Asa lets him!
Thanks so much for the great toys.
--Tamra
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Just to let you know my goods arrived and I LOVE them! My curious horse thought it was all a good game and we had fun! Will try on my rather more non-player horse soon!
Regards,
--Jan
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Comment from a customer whose horse punctured the bladder very quickly—We believe that the ball was underinflated, however in this case we replaced the bladder.Thank you for the replacement bladder I received. I will inform you of the survival (or death) of the new ball. Again, I thank you for your consideration of my plight and the beyond fair manner of your actions.
Whether Freeman becomes the conqueror or not, I’d offer favorable comments for your company and repeat business.
--Christine Jones
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In mid-January, after an unpleasant experience at a local boarding facility, we brought our TB, Sam, home for the winter. As the weeks passed, Sam became bored and depressed. We have no other livestock on our property and he was very lonely, so much so that I became very worriedabout him. We ordered a 40" Jolly Ball; it was love at first bounce!
The fifth time we let Sam play with the ball, it burst. We couldn't believe it. The manufacturer said they would replace the ball, as they should have. The ball should have been "horse proof" and wasn't. While waiting for the replacement to arrive, my vet advised me to look into theEqui-Spirit ball. I ordered one today and can't wait for it to arrive. We are looking forward to having a happy Sam again and spending many hours watching him play. Thank you.
--Sharon Knight Danville, IL
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Matisse and His Equi-Spirit Ball-- He plays with it every week and he has STILL not killed it! You guys get two thumbs up! See his video on the video page.
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Thank you, thank you, thank you for our new ball! We have enjoyed countless hours of laughter and fun as a result of introducing our horses to this new toy. The horses, kids, and staff are so grateful for your generous gift.
I hope you both enjoy some of these pictures. The horse who seems to enjoy the ball most is our precious Hero. His story is a tear jerker, so it is wonderful to see him happy & playing.
-- Sarah Beck
Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch
Bend, OR
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135th Kentucky Derby Winner Mine That Bird LOVES
his Equi-Spirit Ball
His co-owner, Dr Leonard Blach contacted the Equi-Spirit office to order another Equi-Spirit ball. He stated via email,“Mine That Bird has so much fun with his ball. He always had something to play with, but this is favorite toy. He has it in his sand paddock in the day time, then at night he wants it in his stall with him; it’s his security blanket. I love watching him play with it. Thanks so much for this idea.”
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I want to say never in my 29 years of living in Alaska has any vendor sent a partial refund for shipping overage charge. I couldn't believe it when I opened my order and saw that you refunded the difference between the shipping and the USPO "Flat Rate." I really, really appreciate it.
Really good customer service. Thank you.
--Nancy Sisinyak
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Thank you once again so much for the Equi-Spirit Ball you donated to our ACTHA ride. It was such a big hit and everybody loved it. The winner was Melinda Bell from Noble, IL and she was in a drawing with 17 other riders that signed up early for the Sam Dale Lake ride. Our photographer left before the awards and we did not get any pics of her winning the ball. She will take a pic of her horse playing with it and send it to me and I'll forward it on to you. It has been so wet I haven't got a pic of my horse playing with his yet either, but will send to you as soon as I get one. Thank you - everyone loves the Equi-Spirit Ball!!
--Tali Smith
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I bought the ultimate red and yellow Equi ball to use personally and for my 4-H horse club. The kids love it and so does my family. My husband and I put on the Pleasant Valley (Young) Stampede and we are in the process of getting teams together to have matches after the gymkhana's. Some of the horse's take to it right away, but if not it has only taken 10 to 15 min of slow gradual work with them and they love it also! Anyone thinking about buying one of the ultimate balls, these are tough balls, my 1300 horse rolls all over it and the kids get rough playing soccer and the horses have stepped on it, kicked it and bite it, so far no problems. Next purchase will be the cones!
--Candy Wisdom
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Our 4-H kids absolutely love this ball. They are learning so many horsemanship skills just by playing soccer and are having so much fun.
--Paula Doman
Medicine Lodge, KS
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Hi Lisa and Ken,
I just wanted you to know I received the new bladder a few days ago and my husband helped me air it up with the air pump that Ken recommended. The pump worked awesome and in no time the ball was aired up. Took about the amount of time that Ken said itwould. What a beautiful Ball!!!
Yesterday, it did not rain so I had my horse “Pharlacesaw” try it out. She was afraid of it at first then realized it just was a bigger version of the smaller ball she had been pushing around and started to push it with her nose for me.
I think I am going to really enjoy that ball. Thanks again for the wonderful customer service you both provided and I will be in the future investing in an extra bladder to have on hand.
I cannot thank you enough for your wonderful customer service.
Thanks Barbara
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Back in June last year, we purchased your 25" (and later also the 40") EQUI-SPIRIT Ball for my young Stallion. He absolutely loves playing with both sizes, and it has helped with his development enormously - he has so much energy, and this goes a long way to helping him not get too frustrated. He has to be in a paddock on his own (although there are horses around him), and whilst this is not ideal for his development, the Ball has proved an excellent way to keep his mind occupied!
Best regards
--Alice Coxon
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Lisa and Kenny,
I am going to send you pictures of me and my horse Pharlacesaw playing soccer with a group of horse people as soon as I get them sent to me. Pharlacesaw just loves playing with her ball and she knows that it is her ball and sometimes does not want to share it with the other horses. She steals it away from them. I am waiting to get permission from the others that are in our soccer group to allow you to use their pictures on your website.
I can’t believe in just a few short weeks my horse has become a horse with a mission, to push the ball with her nose around the arena.
The group we play with want us on their team!!! In fact my mare is the only horse right now that pushes the ball with her nose. She also puts “English” like you do on pool balls to control it!
Just so awesome to see her enjoy something so much.
Our group meets on Tuesday, this past Tuesday was our second meeting and we added more people and horses, a total of around 12, so we split up into two teams 6 on one side and 6 on the other side including taking turns to be goalies and centers. We had a blast and had a group of spectators watching us and cheering us on. My daughter, who has a she has a photography business and son in law were there to take the pictures for me, so the pictures would turn out good to send you. My son in law said to my daughter that he could do that and he is not a horse rider!
I just wanted you to know how much fun I am having with the soccer ball I purchased from you. I may have a few upcoming sales for you, as some of the people are showing an interest in where I got this cool ball from and they have commented on how excellent quality ball is that you manufacture and sell.
Please be on the lookout for pictures.
--Barbara
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Thank you guys so much for creating this ball! My horse LOVES it and so far has been unable to destroy it! I've attached a link to a Youtube video of him playing with it.
Feel free to use it on your site if you wish. Thanks again!!
--Wendy
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Hi Lisa,
We received Equi-Spirit balls and our horses are LOVING THEM!!! They play for hours with them. What a great thing! I'm sure all our friends are going to want them.
--Diana Venegas Ocala, Florida
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After receiving a refund after we were able to save them on shipping-
Lisa, ya'll ARE THE GREATEST!!!!!!!!!!! Love it when businesses behave with integrity.
Use me as a reference if you'd like!
--Janet Kelly-DeYoung
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You are so kind, Lisa. It is people like you that renew my faith in humanity. I will keep that $5.85 in my Pay Pal account for when your book comes out or when I need to buy an Equi-Spirit ball for a friend.
Happy Trails,
--Amy Jo
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After initially purchasing a knock-off ball from another company which was defective, which we replaced with an Equi-Spirit Ball--
Hi Lisa,
I got the package with the B/R Soccer Ball and Catch Ball today! I was amazed to see the excellent documentation and get a needle for blowing up the toys, too. I sure didn't get those materials the first time around from the women's booth at the MWHF. I briefly read through everything and will read it again before inflating the balls tomorrow. I really should give you something for the Catch Ball, though, because I certainly didn't expect you to include it at no charge. I'm just thrilled that you and your husband are so reputable and willing to help people who ended up a bad situation like I did.
I'm excited to get my new balls blown up and enjoy the fun times they'll provide for me and my two horses. I'll be able to re-package and send out the defective toy tomorrow or the next day.
Thanks again,
--Nancy
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I would like to let you know what we are about here at Narrow Gate Youth Ranch. We are a non-profit organization that rescues horses, and brings them together with broken kids. The program is awesome, and it is free to anyone wishing to participate. Since we have been working with your soccer ball, we have had some amazing breakthroughs, not only with the rescued horses, but when the kids see what some of these horses do with the ball, they are amazed, and it gives the kids confidence that they can accomplish anything difficult for them as well. Anyway, we have a soccer tournament planned for Sept 19, 2009 as a fundraiser to help pay for the hay we need for the 17 equine counselors that we care for, so I would like to ask ifyou would like to donate one of your products for one of the prizes. We are already talking to everyone we see about the ball you sell. Please let me know. Please go to www.ngyr.org and see what we are about, and look at the events page. You will see 4 of our volunteers playing socce r with your ball. It is awesome. Thank You in advance for any help that you can give. All donations are tax deductible.
Thanks Again,
--Judy Edwards, Director
Narrow Gate Youth Ranch
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A GREAT Equi-Spirit Ball Review
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Dear Lisa,
On behalf of the Marine Animal Rescue Program at the National Aquarium, thank you for your in-kin donation of an Equi-Spirit Ball. Your generous assistance will help the Aquarium continue its mission of conserving and protecting the worlds’ oceans and their inhabitants, by providing equipment support to assist with the rehabilitation of a harbor seal. We are working to get photos to send you, but the seal is shy about interacting with enrichment items around staff.
By making this thoughtful contribution, you are helping us move forward with promoting environmental awareness and stewardship. We greatly appreciate your donation and look
forward to continuing work with you in the future.
Sincerely,
--Jennifer Dittmar
Marine Animal Rescue Program/Stranding Coordinator
National Aquarium in Baltimore
www.aqua.org
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I bought one of your 40" balls back in March of last year.... Ben (my palomino twh) and I LOVE it. It took 2 short sessions with praise and now whenever we are in the arena and the ball is there, he will do NOTHING else... in fact if the ball is not there-- he will use the barrels as a ball substitute and will knock the barrel through the jump standards (our GOALS) and wait for me to yell GGGOOOOOAAAAALLLL!
Then he looks at me like "where's the cookie?" I'm thinking I could do a comedy act at a rodeo with that one! Barrel racing will not likely be in his future! Perhaps you should include the warning with the balls you sell- "Warning: Soccer is an addictive sport for some horses and their people!"
But that is not why I'm writing.... actually I was browsing and saw the cordura cover- I was wondering if I could purchase just the cover?
Thanks for a great product. We do leave the ball out for them to play with-- so I'm hoping to preserve it with the newer cover!
--Penny Gates
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Just wanted to let you that I received my ball, and we both just love it. I had Patton out in his practice area yesterday and he just really enjoyed playing with his ball. He's a very good horse and nothing seems to bother him. I rode him right away and he pushed that ball all over the place.
Thanks so much for offering such a great fun tool.
Best'
-- Leslie and Patton
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Our Horses love to play with your toys; the ball being their favorite. The two stallions finally put a big hole so have been without one for a month.
They will be happy to have one again. Diane C in AZ
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Lisa - just wanted you to know that I think the ball is great! We got it because we have two older geldings and a yearling, and the poor little yearling has been pretty bored. He thinks he has a new friend. He carries the ball around and plays with it all the time! It took him no time to figure out what to do. Thanks a bunch!
--Camie
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Hello Lisa:
Wow, that's Customer service! I will let you know how it goes. And by the way, I shared my DVD w/ a friend yesterday. He was astounded by the obvious joy the horses were having and is likely going to purchase a ball very, very soon. I will be following up w/ him and will share my experience regarding the SUPERIOR customer service!
Thanks so much,
--Steve
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Hi Lisa and Kenny,
I just wanted to thank you so much for Nikko's new "big boy" tough ball and the basketball cover. He absolutely LOVES them both and plays with them all the time! Today I even saw him far away from the herd standing right beside one of the balls sleeping. heehee. They are truly his buddies! Now I just have to buy him the basketball outfit and the headband he wants and we're all set for the season! :-)
Love and blessings,
Kim
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OUR HORSES LOVE I! WE PUT PICS UP ON OUR WEB SITE..
BANDDPERFORMANCEHORSES.COM Diane
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Lisa,
First I would like to say that my horse loves the Equi-Spirit40” Ball. I believe it is his best friend. He grazes with it, plays with it and even sleeps with it very close by.
One of his favorite games is playing pass in the barn isle with me.
--Alison
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Lisa,
Thank you so much for the book, new ball cover, and your concern. I’ve told all my “horsey” friends about your “over and above” customer support.
--Gwen
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We started playing “horse soccer” here in the middle of cowboy/rancher country. It surprised me to see how quickly our horses took to it and actually seemed to enjoy it. The Equi-Spirit ball with the cordura covering is extra tough and stands up well to our horseplay. I can’t wait to get back to the arena and do it again! It’s nice to see our hardworking cowhorses seem to enjoy their task.
--Todd Beckstead
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I am a riding instructor/horse trainer. I had one of my clients purchase a 40" soccerball from you. She had me familiarize her horse to the ball. Her hope was that the ball would get him moving or playing while turned out in the arena. After the ground work, I rode "Skip" and we played-moving, stopping-controlling where the ball would go. He loved it and it was very natural for him. I borrowed the ball from Gunilla to use at my house -I used it with 5 differenthorses, all who had different problems or issues. It was amazing........scared horses began to get confidence........angry horses attacked it and then became calm.
The work with this wonderful tool, creates a environment where horse and rider can bond with each other gaining confidence and a wonderful balance-it is a perfect workout for both body and mind of horse and rider!!!!!
I would love to promote your ball. I am going to start teaching people how to use this ball safely and correctly with their horse. Every person and horse are different individuals and to remain safe must learn to use this ball in a way that is safe for both of them and then fun. Thank you
-- Pam Saxman
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Equi-spirit, Thank you for sending me a new PVC bladder I was not expecting that and i really appreciate it. If you want i can be your cold weather rep and give you feedback on what kind of temps they last in, otherwise i don't plan on inflating it until the spring/summer just to be sure it wasn't just a defective bladder. Thank you again, you have great customer service getting back to me as quickly as you did that means a lot so thanks again. kim
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Just back from the 4-day Agility Trial (sponsored by the NorthWestern FlatCoated Retriever Club) in Central Point, Oregon.
And I can't wait to tell you about the Raffle and the Ultimate Corduras ball. The Raffle was attractively set up and had a number of tables , but the true eye-catcher was this beautiful, huge ball!
Folks just gravitated towards it, trying to figure out what it was and what it was for. I had a five page "flyer" with photos that I took from your website, (with horses, camels, a camel, a calf, dogs ... and the flyer was picked up often.
Also, I kept your terrific video going, and, boy, did that get a lot of attention! And comments! "Oh, my dogs would LOVE that!" and, not unexpectedly for so many people from the western states, "Oh, would my horses LOVE that!.
" Spot on! A very, very popular item indeed!But here's the best part.... For three of the days, right next to the fairground indoor arena where the agility trial was held, there was a horse show ( I don't know exactly what kind of show, but...) and lots of those families came over to watch the agility and to wander through the raffle. Needless to say, the Ultimate Corduras caught their attention. And... tickets were bought,... and this lovely woman from the horse show won the ball! She was SO excited, so pleased, she was almost in tears! And everyone was happy for her (well, ... after they got over their disappointment.)
Now I just know that next year we will have even more visitors from the horse show. I love it! And another thing that made your donation exciting for me... Someone asked me if I had heard of the new competitive canine sport where dogs , on command, "herded" balls through gates. Balls, rather than sheep. What a giggle! When I heard of this sport.
I immediately thought of your Equi-Spirit Toys. Perfect, no? But then, I'm sure you have heard of this too. I've got to look into this and find out what it's called and how it works.
Indeed, I had a lot of fun putting together and running the raffle and I know that I have much to thank you, and Equi-Spirit Toys for the raffle's success.
Very, very gratefully, Marge Ryder
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Hi Lisa,
I purchased a 25" Equi-Spirit ball last year for my dogs. The ball is still holding up well and they still love it! The ball also happens to be my office chair. I just wanted to know if it's possible to purchase separate covers? These balls are just so awesome--thanks for creating them!!
Thanks so much!
--Susan Roth