May 3, 2008
Dear Fred,
Wow!!! What a gal. After losing the love of my life, a 20 year old TWH last year, I went on a misson to replace him. They say that the third time is a charm but the sixth time was Charming, now known as LaKota. I'm a 60 year old and on my mission I had one horse buck with me, and another rear up on me. My confidence was nearly gone and I was to the point of giving up. I found Charming on your website and just knew she was the one for me. I could not wait to get her home, her forever home!
We've been on a 3 day trail ride, and she was just PERFECT!! I can not thank you enough for helping me find the new love of my life.
Karen
Pilgrim
Abilene, Texas
May 1, 2008
Fred,
I can't thank you enough. I got two awesome bomb proof horses. We did not feel pressured and the trip was not to bad either. Last week I took both horses to their first field trial and they were the talk of the trial. They were hands down the most magnificent and regal looking horses there. When I rode the first brace I could hear everybody talking as I rode down the trail past all the trailers campers and trucks. People were stunned as you can see how smooth they are when I ride them. Those horses made me look like I knew how to ride and I didn't even spill a drop of coffee. I got compliments from everybody and I do mean everybody. During the trial a dog was out of sight and the it popped out of the hedge row I was riding Rowdy down. I got startled as I thought for a second it was a deer. The horse never skipped a step and I know he saw it. They calm me with there smooth gate and gentle disposition. At field trials we stake our horses out on a twelve foot rubber coated cable. After the first day I never had to help them out. They learned real fast. First trip out with them 175 dogs, 450 gun shots, one pheasant that almost hit the horse in the head, bridges, water crossings and mud deep enough to loose a pony. They handled it like they were field trial horses all their life. They did not refuse me, not one time. I want to thank you for all your patience and for being a man of your word. I am so happy my wife is jealous of the horses. I will and would recommend anyone to you.
Daniel Rice
Braveheart Kennels and Game Birds LLC
Point of Rocks, Maryland
April 23, 2008
Fred,
Now that Dewey and I have been together for a few months I wanted to update you to let you know how much of a perfect fit he is with me.
I am not the most experienced rider and was concerned about
purchasing a horse sight unseen. Not only is Dewey a beautiful horse but he does everything I could ask him to do. He stands for
mounting, stands for the farrier and he has no fear when riding. We see many deer and wild turkeys while riding on the trails and Dewey
doesn't even blink. Any traffic that may go by doesn't bother him, He is just about "Bomb Proof" If we ever purchase another horse I
would not have to be concerned. I would just give you a call.
Thanks for your patience with me and thanks for Dewey.
Best Regards,
Bob Davis
New Jersey
March 18, 2008
Hi Fred,
The decision to purchase my next horse to eventually replace my beloved 26 year old Savannah’s Stride appendix QH gelding was a hard one to make. It admits the fact that he’s needing to slow down and semi-retire and that’s a tough thing to realize when you love your riding partner as much as I do.
I’ve been building your ads for Trail Horses of Colorado/New Mexico for over two years now, here at Today’s Horse Trader Magazine, and have always admired the fine horses you find, run through your training/trail riding regimens, and then sell. I decided to inquire about Coppertop (who is now Copper), a beautiful chestnut Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse gelding. It was a joy to know I could take my time in making my decision. You encouraged me to visit him, ride him, vet check him all I wanted at whatever pace was comfortable for me. I really listen to the inner “voice” (aka God) and didn’t have a single red flag with this horse... he was just lovely and lovingly looking for his new forever home and partner. Well he’s got it! I have had more fun with this horse in the short time I’ve had him... he’s 20 years younger than my gentleman Savannah, but proving to be fun, personable, safe and sane. You told me these gaited breeds make your job easy because they are so easy-going and safe... well, you were NOT kidding! Thank you for two things: not breeding - there’s enough great horses in the world; and for finding GREAT trail horses for people who love to explore the world from the back of a horse!
Sincerely,
Vicki Wemple
Graphic Designer / Artist
Today’s Horse Trader Magazine
Tijeras, New Mexico
14 Jan 2008
Dear Fred,
They say that a person who is lucky gets blessed with one good horse, and one good dog in their life. I have already had the dog, and now THANKS TO YOU, I have the horse!
Dixie is intelligent, loving, kind, and has a gait as big as the sky. I never in a million years imagined that trading horses sight unseen would allow me to have such a horse as her. I have owned many horses in my lifetime, and honestly she is by far number one in the rankings. This weekend I rode her with only her halter and lead rope, bareback, and we had a blast.
To all of you who are considering purchasing a horse from Mr. Fred Mau, just do it.
Fred is honest, kind, a complete gentleman, and above all his word is good.
Anybody considering doing business with Trail Horses of Colorado is welcome to contact me.
I will gladly share my experiences in doing business with Fred to anyone who inquires.
Thank You Fred!
Sonja McGuire
Arizona
Dear 15, 2007
Dear Fred,
Just a short note thank you for selling good quality, trail horses and more...
Well last December my Fiancé purchased me Tessa off of the THOC site, for Christmas. Well with all of the snow I
did not get Tessa until January 19, 2007. She was purchased as a unregistered, tobiano trail horse. Well the night I received her I met the driver alone on that cold winter night, She got off of the trailer and looked like she had 2 1/2" of hair and I thought oh my gosh is it a sheep or a horse. Well since we have changed our ambitions in life, the little unregistered trail horse, is now a double registered show horse. As luck has it dana sold his trail horse so we decided we would take the high road, Tessa will soon be one of the best and most pleasurable horses I have owned, she is absolutely gorgeous and is spoiled rotten.
I would not trade her for a Million!!!!! Thanks Fred.
Cindi
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Tessa Goes To Town
Thanks & Merry Christmas ! I Luv Tessa!
Pictured below of her last horse show.. I will keep you updated on progress!!!
Click for larger view
1 Jan 2008
Hi Fred,
I was so glad to see that you sold Taurus. I am enjoying Rhona (aka Daisy) so much! She is just wonderful. She gets along great with all of the other horses and is very playful. I have taken her out on trail a lot and she does great! She has no problems going out by herself. She is so sweet. The boys that I give lessons to just love her and can't wait to ride her. She has become a part of the family, no problems. I have been riding her english and even jumping her and she has taken everything great! I have been riding her in the snow, we have had about a foot for the past month, and she is perfect in it.
Thanks so much for such an amazing girl. Next time I go to buy a horse it will be from you!!!
Best Wishes,
Connor et al
Santa Fe, New Mexico
21 Dec 2007
Hi Fred,
Grace (we renamed her Tuesday) is doing GREAT, we just adore her. She still dominates the heck over our other mare, but overall things are going really well. We are learning how to ride her gaits, as she is our first gaited horse. She continues to be smooth, willing and learning quickly.
And, of course we still think she is the most beautiful horse.... see the attached picture.
Merry Christmas,
Silja
18 Dec 2007
Hi Everyone,
First.. I would just like to say Thank You for employing such wonderful staff!! They have the patience of saints!! Only wish we could have rode the horses in the Gardens of the Gods like we had
planned.. but the ride to Darlene's house on Cowboy ended up being alot of fun.
After riding several of your beautiful horses in April of this year (2007)...we ended up buying not just one..but two..of your wonderful Rocky Mountain Horses...MC and Cowboy (aka:
Rudy). They are both just AWESOME and after being 110% the Quarter Horse person all my life..riding these 2 boys has changed that forever!! I don't think we will ever own any other horse but a gaited horse. We are now able to ride all day long without back or leg
pain.. thanks to these super smooth gaited wonders!! The long trip trailering them home was an easy one..with MC and Cowboy being perfect gentleman.
My hubby..Sam..was a bit worried about MC's 16.2 hand height..but we purchased LEG SAVERS that are push button stiurrup extenders and are able to get on the BIG BOY with ease. We have dubbed MC the nickname PRETTY BOY..because he is 'music in motion' while gaiting, turns into the most fantastic dappled dark chocolate color in summer and has the personality of a big puppy dog..who is always the first one at the gate to greet us and follow us everywhere we go.
Cowboy is our little HAPPY FEET and such a joy to hang out with. He has a smooth as silk gait that is such a pleasure to ride. He is my 'Mamas Boy' and loves to be scratched and cuddled. It still amazes me that he can keep up with the bigger longer strided horses..with no problems at all..and still be so smooth.
If we are ever in the market to purchase another horse..or two..you will be the first person we contact. I am sending a collage of all of OUR KIDS (horses) that I have put together, one of a portrait I had done of MC and one of me riding Cowboy at our local arena. I also rode him in a gaited horse class at a local show and we won a 2nd place trophy!! Not bad for someone who hasn't shown in many many years.
Again...THANK YOU for everything and Happy Holidays to you and your great staff!!
Sam and Deb Taylor
Arco, Idaho
5 Dec 2007
Hi
about a year ago I purchased a KMSH horse named Hammer from Thoc.
I am sorry to be so late in writing to you but wanted to let you know he is the sweetest, most dependable, and calm horse I have ever owned. Now, age 5, my kids can ride him and he doesn't do a thing, yet he will move on out for me when asked. Even though I cannot ride as often as I would like he feels as safe and calm as ever. Thank you so much for all you do with these
horses.. if only I could ride those Colorado trails-they look so beautiful.
Thanks,
Elaine
14 Nov 2007
Hi Fred,
Just wanted you to know how happy Barb and I are with the three horses that we have bought from you so far. They are smooth as silk and have the best temperament that I have ever seen. You name it and they will do it.
Trail riding is a pleasure with these horses. They trailer extremely well, are good with our dogs, come up to be haltered, stand to be mounted, are responsive and well mannered, but more than that, they have become our close friends and trusted companions.
Buying a GOOD horse can be an extremely difficult and time consuming process. More often than not you are disappointed and have no recourse. You have taken those risks out of the equation with your guarantee and careful screening of your horses.
It’s nice to deal with someone one knows what the hell he is talking about and stands behind what he sells. If I ever am in the market for another horse, rest assured, you will be the first person I contact.
Thanks again for everything,
Joe and Barb Krum
Placitas, NM
November 3, 2007
Fred,
Paul and I picked up Star on Saturday and were able to make it home by 2:00. We put her in the pasture with our other horses and they did fine. There has been some pushing and shoving but that's to be expected. She has actually been hanging out with our other mare and they seem to get along fine. I rode her this morning up the back of Emerald Mountain. She crossed water several times, crossed culverts, bush whacked and did just great. After a 3 hour rest, we saddled up again and went to the neighbors. We brought in the cows, separated the bulls and moved them to a different pasture. She is not afraid of the cows or bulls and works just like she should. So far Star is a dream and everything that I have wanted. Thanks for everything. I am happy.
Barb Youngs
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
11 Oct 2007
Hi Fred,
Yvonne and I just want to thank you for RP and Goldylocks. We are so pleased with them both. You truly have the finest trail/mountain horses I've every seen. We both can't wait to get out on the trails. You may use us for a reference, if you wish.
Thanks again and God Bless.
Rodger and Yvonne Kane.
Albuquerque, NM
25 Sep 2007
Hi Fred,
I just wanted to let you know that Stevie Nicks the Missouri Fox Trotter is wonderful!!! She is my little gem.
A year and a half ago I lost a Palomino quarter mare that had been my “Sunday” horse for the previous 22 years. I told my husband that I was eventually going to get another horse but definitely not a Palomino mare. I wanted an older gelding, and any color but Palomino. I have always been intrigued by gaited horses but have never owned one.
After viewing your website and chatting with you several times, I took a huge leap of faith and bought a horse sight unseen. I realize that sounds insane. After explaining what I was looking for – a dependable trail horse appropriate for someone who is old enough to be the mother of a teenager, you told me about Stevie. So here I go buying a three year old Palomino mare. I am still amazed every day. She is everything you said she was - kind, gentle and a joy to ride. She always meets me at the gate and gets along great with our little gelding Trigger. She is respectful of me and plenty energetic on the trail. She is very willing and fun to work with. My riding buddies are very impressed also! Stevie and I have started checking out our many trails here in the central coast of California .
I wish you all the best in beautiful Colorado ! I always enjoy seeing your website and checking out the new horses for sale. Thanks again for everything!
Happy Trails!
Cindy Rugh and family
19 Sep 2007
Morning Fred,
Just wanted to let you know how thrilled I have been with the fifth horse I obtained from your operation this year! Scarlet went with us on our annual trek this summer. After leaving your facility we drove straight to Moab Utah and rode the 100 degree temps of the area. As you know when I pick up a new horse it needs to be ready to ride family members from 8 to 80. They must travel through terrain that can and will include elevations in excess of 12,000 ft. with riders that often are getting on a horse for the very first time. I must say that Scarlet has proven herself time and time again. She rode the coast of CA and the high Sierra country of Yosemite National Park and many locations in the National Forests in several states. There are too many stories too tell you here, I will say she was the most requested horse on the trip (about 6 weeks). I have included a picture of a friend cantering on her in a meadow at Custer State Park SD. I apologize again for being such a picky customer, although I know you and your staff will be patient and I will be pleased when I leave. Happy Trails My Friend!
Frank R. Bowman
16 Aug 2007 `Domino & Lightning
Hi Fred,
Just wanted to drop you a line and let you know how much Steve and I are enjoying Domino and Lightning. After all that deliberation I
think we picked the two perfect horses for ourselves (although, as you know, I would have been happy to have added a third!) You were
just great to work with and the horses are exactly as promised. We
took them out on the Rocky Mountain trails for several days before returning to Michigan and have also had several very experienced
riders take them out for trail rides. We have had many comments about how beautiful they are and what a delight they are to ride-both
responsive and smooth. You were right about the fact that once you
ride gaited horses you never want to go back to a "bouncy trot" again. I know we are going to enjoy them for years to come. Thanks,
again. It's been a pleasure doing business with you!
All the best,
Andrea
22 Jul 2007
Hi There:
I bought Caleb (Ryder) from you last February and thought you might like to see some photos from a trail ride this weekend here on the Island. It was a perfect ride and Caleb is the best horse I have ever had, and my first TWH, and I have had a lot of horses. He is fun, very personable and smooth. He has really learned to accept things on the trail that used to surprise him in these dense woods, like mountain bikers, dogs and hikers coming around the corner unexpected. I am so proud of him.
Thanks so much for being so honest. I always tell people looking for a good trail horse about you and how to find your web site.
Thanks,
Kris Miller
Whidbey Island, Washington
wkm@whidbey.com
15 Jul 2007
Hi Fred,
Have had Cherokee for two and a half weeks now and could not be happier.
He is doing great - we have gone through water, over bridges, encountered bicycles-walkers-
runners-skateboards - a couple of coyotes that meet us on the trail each morning-traffic and
through a tunnel! He certainly catches every ones eye too! Going with a gaited horse is just what
the doctor ordered with my back problem. Never feel jarred with his smoothness. Feel free to
add us to your reference list. What a wonderful experience it has been getting back into
horses after too many years.
Thanks again!!
Johanna Stephenson
Canyon Echoes Flamework Beads, www.canyonechoes.com
2 Jul 2007
Hey Fred buddy,
It's a real pleasure to write this testimonial on your behalf and THOC. There are no words what an awesome horse Sonny is. He's everything you said he is and then some. Since I've had him I put him through his paces and he has never let me down. He's my go to boy. No matter the situation or location, he's safe, reliable, enjoyable to ride and just be with every time. You don't have to worry about vices most horses have with him and he's got a heart of gold.
I know that before I bought Sonny I was a real pain in the rear, probably more so than anybody else would have been. Being a real skeptic and particular person about everything in my life, it was worrisome for me to buy a horse sight unseen. After numerous conversations however, though certain doubts were erased, ultimately it took a mutual friend's convincing who bought a horse from you and couldn't stop raving about how awesome he is, to make the purchase. And let me tell you, he was worth every penny.
I want to thank you for your honesty, being patient, listening, understanding and just not giving up on me. I not only got the horse I was looking for, but I also found a friend in you. I believe that's exactly what anybody else can expect too. Buying a horse of a lifetime from a trusted friend. They'll go to sleep and wake up with a smile on their face and a warm feeling in their hearts about their new companion. A lot of places out there claim they have trail horses for sale, but you truly do, that even the greenest and most timid of riders will have a blast on. I'd only trust you to get my next horse from.
Many thanks again for everything, and whenever you're in my neck of the woods, you're always welcome at my place. Be talking to you.
Your friend,
Laszlo and Sonny,
Pennsylvania
2 Jul 2007
Fred,
I just have to tell you how pleased we are with our horse Cody (aka Starbuck). After we picked him up from you, we took him to our trainer for 3 weeks and when we picked him up, the guy said he didn't even know if he should charge us as he was such a good horse and a fun ride. He did teach him to neck rein and be responsive to leg pressure when turning and now on the trails I have been trying to mostly ride with my legs and just drop the reins which he just improves with each ride. In the mountains, Cody has performed very well and gets around the rocks in the hills like a pro but most important, he has really settled in to being such a gentleman and kind horse to ride. Diana and I have been going out riding and she still rides her old quarter horse but today she rode Cody. Needless to say, I don't think she will be riding her quarter horse much more. We can finally retire "Grandma" and let her be the pet she wants to be and concentrate on riding Cody and our Foxtrotter. I was hoping to ride Cody but after today, I think he is all Diana's horse which is good for her. Needless to say, she has come a long way in getting her confidence back since the day we all met and is doing great on the horses.
Anyway Fred, just wanted to let you know of a very successful sale you made making two people and a horse very happy. Matching us up with Cody couldn't have turned out better for all three of us.
No problem in using our email. I don't know how many letters of thanks you receive but bet if you canvassed your buyers, you would fine many happy people out there like us. We are all looking for safe horses and you seem to be in the business in finding them and then matching them up with people like us.
We would love to have you come for a ride anytime you are in the area.
Have a happy 4th of July to you and family.
Thank you again,
Tom
Silver City, New Mexico
June 15, 2007
Fred, just want to drop a note to say hello and let you know that we are
doing fine Sugar and I. Been on a trail ride or two and lots of riding
at home and she is just the perfect little lady with me. Can carry me all day and still have energy left. Has never offered me a buck or done
anything I did not ask her to do. She is my buddy, when I get stressed out I go talk to her and just groom her, her manners are impeccable. Twice now I have
trusted you and twice now you have not failed me THANK-YOU VERY MUCH. You gave me the trust back that I wanted so much. And Sugars former owner and I
are friends! Keep up the good work and I will testify for you every time.
Love
Sugar and Brenda
May 12, 2007
Hey Fred,
I just wanted to say a quick hello-if you ever come out towards Littleton to trail ride give me a call!
Zorro and I are out every weekend. He has really turned out to be such a blessing. He takes care of me on the trail and is happy to lead or be behind everyone. Last weekend we rode
through a pasture of cattle and would you believe he started running them! He was happy to push them around and have fun, I couldn't believe it! He has such a wonderful personality and being the spunky guy he is, we
have formed quite the bond. I was having a tough time one day and went out to see him. And when I walked in the stall he could tell I was upset and so he walked over and put his head on my chest and closed his eyes and just stood there snuggling with me for a long time! We're pals, and I couldn't
have found him without you! Thanks so much, hope all is well.
Anna Mack Hardison
29 Mar 2007
Hi Fred,
Just wanted to let you know that Lady and the Voshel family are getting along just fine. After years of horses that didn't fit we have finally found an excellent match. We appreciate your time and patience as we went through the process of finding the "right" horse. You went above and beyond when you exchanged Star for Lady. If anybody wants to verify your integrity or your honesty, please have them contact us. Our Fox Trotter, Lady, is perfect. She loads and trailers well. She stands for mounting. Lady has a wonderful, willing personality. Rides smooth as silk.
Thank you for running a great operation. We will continue to refer people to Trail Horses of Colorado, and we won't hesitate to buy another horse from you in the future.
Karen and Gerrit Voshel
Nunn, Colorado
970-897-3188
16 Mar 2007
All I can say is AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME!!! Gunner is everything you
said, and everything I've been dreaming of! He's safe, very well gaited, mellow but not lazy, sweet... and just gorgeous! My
friends are jealous. Thank you SO much! The service you gave my transporter
was definitely going the extra mile. I found you all to be very honest and professional. Thanks for making my dreams come true!
"Heather in Utah"
7 Feb 2007
Subject: Jake
Dear Fred,
I am so sorry that my last letter to you was lost. but there is another one on the way. I meant to say so much more about my Jake. He is something. Trusted by all my friends and given to young riders when on
trail. I ride him bareback of all things at home in the ring. I fell 30 feet off of a
fire tower 10 years ago and it took me 6 months to learn how to walk again. I spent years looking for the right horse and at the
age of 45 I purchased a beautiful supposedly , well trained, broke broke
Halflinger and she threw me 5 months later, once again shattering my back and my
dreams. But not one to give up, I searched again and my friend out west
in Montana whom I visit every year takes me riding on her Missouri Fox Trotter. I fell in love with the smooth gait and found that I could ride all day with no back pain!!!!! So I went back to the drawing board. I kept
seeing your ads in the Trial Rider mag and in the Trail Blazer, and you have a
guarantee that struck me right away. So I called. And you gave me a list of references. I called them. I don't know how to thank you!! Jake and
I are good together. (Only he is still too tall for me, I can't get off on the trail unless I find a rock) Jake is 13 now. but I still look forward to many good years with him. You listened to what I was looking for, and
you found it. I feel that I got more then my monies worth. I got my dream of feeling safe again. This is
coming from a lady that was in search and rescue for seventeen years and rode mules on searches where no horse dare
tread. I gave up search and rescue, but could not and would not give up my trail riding!!
Thank-you for everything and I will be looking for a small 13.3 smooth older (over ten) horse when I move to
Montana in October.
Thanks again,
Brenda M. Reik (photo to follow in the mail)
1 Feb 2007
Subject: Gypsy
Fred,
I would like to thank you personally for your choice of horse for me and your
incredibly accurate description of her. I am a 20yr plus competitive team and calf roper/roper horse trainer. I have ridden, trained and roped on 100's of different horses over the years. My expertise is with
performance quarter horses and referred to you to find a quality gaited horse to use as a trail mount. I would not trade my quarter horses for anything in the arena but as we all know once you ride a gaited horse all day you will have a hard time getting back on anything
else (I could not believe how much more comfortable, smooth and effortless a good gaited horse is to ride). You recommended for me a 4 yr old Spotted Saddle horse mare you
had (I was a little hesitant about a 4yr old mare). I requested a horse that was smooth to ride, calm, good about going out by themselves, good with feet, easy to haul,
not spooky, not lazy and at least started on neck reining (it is much easier to lead pack horses of a
well broke horse that neck reins). I have never bought a horse sight unseen until now and I am more than happy. She is exactly what I requested and better than expected. My next horse will
definitely be purchased from you and I would recommend Trail Horses of Colorado to anyone and everyone who wants to find exactly the horse you are looking for with an absolute accurate
assessment of the animal from the start. After 20 plus years in the horse world I can guarantee you that you are the most honest and
accurate horseman I have ever dealt with. Feel free to send anyone requesting a reference to me.
Thanks,
Tom J Corrales, NM
Subject: The Boys
Fred,
Here is a photo of the Boys we purchased these
horses from Trail Horses of Colorado in June of 2005. They seemed like
good horses when we bought them but we had no idea just how special
they were. I have been around horses for many years but have never had
two that were so friendly and eager to learn. We work with them nearly
every day and they always seem to have fun learning new things. We
appreciate how professional you and your people were when we came to
your place to look for horses. I rode 6 horses that day and had
trouble deciding on which ones to choose. I can say now, after 18
months, that we made the right choice, with your help, picking Pal and
Flash. While their horsonalities are totally different, they are both
the friendliest horses I have ever seen. We have great fun with them
every day. You do a excellent job of finding and screening great
horses!
Thank you very much.
Doug Pilot Doug and Kerry Pilot Photography
Please visit our website at http://www.dougpilot.com
But I haven't had one I've
liked. So here it is. River is the best horse I've ever
owned. He is sweet, willing to please, strong, and has a great
gait. He loves trail and has no problem leading, being in the
middle or at the end. What more could I ask for!! 
