12 Days of Generosity for Equestrians

Ways to be Generous this holiday season

Christmas is a time of giving and generosity. We aren’t all in a position to give generously with our money, and that’s okay. This is a list of ways as a horse person specifically you can give back this holiday season. It is more blessed to give than to receive, and we are never more like Christ than when we are serving others.

I believe we are able to give because God has given to us already. In fact, I believe that God specifically blesses us so that we may bless others. If we look at it from that perspective, we are more apt to give generously and cheerfully.

1. Give a big tip to those who provide a service for you

Give a big tip to those who provide a service for you and your horses, such as the farrier, the equine dentist, equine chiropractor, or equine massage therapist. These people work hard and in lots of different conditions. They travel and see several clients and not only that; they are self employed. Which means they don’t enjoy the benefits, such as vacation time or Christmas bonuses. That is why I think it is so important as their client- we let them know how much we appreciate them.

You can do this by leaving a generous tip or if you don’t see them before Christmas, you could send a Christmas card with a gift. Gift ideas could be a bonus check or gift card. If you don’t have the extra money to send, you could simply write an encouraging note letting them know how much you appreciate them.

2. Send a Christmas card to your Veterinarian

No one likes expensive vet bills, but veterinarians are always there to help us in the most dire situations that we’ve found ourselves in with our beloved animals. If you’ve owned horses for any length of time, then you know they can have accidents. I was once assisting stitching up our mare in freezing cold weather and my poor hands were frozen. So I know how difficult the work can be. Plus, veterinarians are often putting themselves in risky situations.

Let’s honor them and let them know how much we need them and appreciate them by sending them a card with a heartfelt thank you and Merry Christmas.

3. Goodie Basket

If you board your horse, you could put together a goodie basket for people to help themselves to. You could include bottles of water, snacks, and special treats. The ideas are virtually endless.

If you are like me and don’t board your horse, try to think of others you could provide a goodie basket for. Personally, I put a small goodie basket in our mailbox for our mail carrier with a handwritten note along with homemade cookies. Our mail carrier works hard, and we get several packages this time of year. Therefore, I wanted her to know she is appreciated during this busy time of year.

4. Send a gift to a horse trainer

Send a gift to your trainer or if you don’t have a trainer, you could see how you could help support someone that you already follow, perhaps on YouTube. People put a lot of work in providing content that is no cost to us. Often making little money back. If that still doesn’t pertain to you, another way to support trainers is to purchase their merchandise.

5. Donate to a horse charity

There are all kinds of charities for horses. Always research the non-profit and make sure they are reputable. Your donation should be tax deductible.

A charity that I believe in supporting is the Mustang Heritage Foundation. They help find homes for thousands of horses and burros each year. I owned a mustang once, and it’s my dream to own another one. You can read more about them by following the link below.

Or you choose from this list from the Impactful Ninja on the 9 best Charities that help horses.

6. Donate supplies

Call your local vet clinic or horse rescue and see about donating supplies. Ask if you can donate lightly used supplies as well. That will give you a chance to pass on some things you aren’t using anymore.

If you can’t afford to donate supplies, then inquire about volunteer work. I’m sure there is always work to be done and I’m almost positive that work could include manure. But I don’t know any horse person who is afraid of a little manure. You’d be doing a wonderful thing whilst learning a few things. You never know what we can learn from others when we are willing.

7. Send an anonymous gift to a fellow equestrian

You can really make someone’s day special with even the simplest act of kindness. A kind note or a small gift when given anonymously, adds a little mystery and takes some of the pressure off of the person making feel like they have to reciprocate.

8. Provide dinner for a friend or family

If you cook you could provide a pot of chili, soup, or a casserole. If you don’t cook then you could have a pizza delivered or send them a gift card to a restaurant. It’s a busy time of year and sometimes trying to figure out dinner is so exhausting after a long day. I know this would really bless a family or friend very much.

9. Buy your horse a special treat

While we are often eating extra food and treats, wouldn’t it be nice to pass along some of those goodies to our horses? It could be cookies, a bag of carrots, some alfalfa, or apples.

Or if my horses had their way- all the above.

10. Intentionally be Kind and Generous

As you go throughout your day, be others minded in as many ways as possible. You could send a friendly text, smile at others, or give a nice compliment. Any of these gestures can help brighten someone’s day.

11. Take time to Reflect on all God’s Given You

Set aside some time for prayer and contemplation. As the year comes to a close and we reflect on God’s goodness and mercies, we can remember all the difficulties He brought us through and how much He cares for us by giving us the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ- the true reason for Christmas.

12. Spend time with family and Friends

This one may seem obvious, but as you spend time with people, make sure you are fully present and engaged with them. Try to leave work behind and lay aside some of your worries. Putting cell phones and distracting devices away can help. Take time to be there for others and be thankful for the people in your life.

I hope you found this list inspiring, and hopefully you are ready to give generously this holiday season.

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God Bless & Merry Christmas!