Power of Animals

Today I realized how animals can make our days brighter and how hard it could be to give them up.  This morning I watched people with disabilities compete with horses in the beginning of the Hunter Jumper Classic at the Cleveland Polo Fields.  What I noticed is for most of the riders, the horseback riding brought joy to their faces and it was something they really enjoyed doing.  What was even better to see is the faces and expressions when they were being awarded a ribbon.  Through riding, these people who have disabilities can find a sport that they enjoy.

http://news-herald.com/articles/2010/07/10/news/doc4c376e0a85d26909605419.txt

After photographing the horse show, I went over to the Rescue Village and shot pictures of animals that were put up for adoption due to foreclosures.  The image I chose was of Jazzy.  Only 5 animals were out for adoption because of foreclosed homes.

http://news-herald.com/articles/2010/07/12/news/doc4c3b43ed5e9d5128735717.txt

Chris Langer/CLanger@News-Herald.com

Justin Berg from Bainbridge Township smiles happily when he won second place in the 18 & over Trail Riding Class at the Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic at the Cleveland Polo Fields Friday.  

Chris Langer/CLanger@News-Herald.com

Vincent Gwirtz from Parkman Township gives the thumbs up to his family members while driving a horse carriage in the Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic at the Cleveland Polo Fields Friday.  Vincent won first place in his class for his excellent posture, reinsmanship, and ability to drive the carriage.  

Chris Langer/CLanger@News-Herald.com'

Jazzy is one of the dogs at the Geauga Humane Society whose owners lost their home in the bad economy and couldn't afford to keep their pets.