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SIDELINESMAGAZINE | November/December 2026
S I D E L I N E S • 2 0 2 6 H O R S E P E O P L E O F T H E Y E A R
DAVE SCHAEFER
For more than 25 years, my husband, Dave, Certified Journeyman Farrier (CJF) and International
Diploma in Equine Osteopathy (Int’l DipEO), has dedicated his life to improving the health,
comfort and well-being of horses. As a respected farrier, educator and lifelong student of equine
anatomy and physiology, he has always believed that understanding the horse—not simply
treating symptoms—is the key to helping them perform and live more comfortably.
That passion led him to develop Equine Indirect Release, a gentle, anatomy-based approach
that focuses on supporting the horse through its own nervous system and natural ability to
regulate and recover. What began as years of study, observation and countless hours working with
horses has grown into a technique that is helping horses from all disciplines and backgrounds.
What makes Dave truly deserving of this recognition, however, is not simply his innovation—
it is his unwavering commitment to the horse and to the people who love them. He freely
shares his knowledge through lectures and
demonstrations, helping horse owners,
veterinarians, farriers, saddle fitters, trainers
and other equine professionals better
understand how the horse’s body functions.
His goal has never been recognition; it has
always been to improve the lives of horses
through education and compassionate care.
Those who meet Dave quickly recognize
his humility, integrity and genuine desire to
serve others. He approaches every horse as
an individual and every owner with respect,
listening carefully and working tirelessly to
help where other options may have fallen
short. Time and again, owners describe
seeing changes they had hoped for but never
expected to witness.
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SIDELINESMAGAZINE | November/December 2026
Dave’s influence extends far beyond the
horses he treats. He is inspiring a new way
of thinking about equine health—one built
on anatomy, physiology, observation and a
deep respect for the horse. His willingness
to challenge conventional thinking while
remaining humble and dedicated to continued
learning has earned him the admiration of
clients and fellow professionals alike.
Horsepeople of the Year should recognize
someone whose life’s work has made a
meaningful difference in the equine world. Dave
Schaefer embodies that ideal. His dedication,
innovation, generosity and unwavering love
for horses have positively impacted countless
horses and the people who care for them.
I cannot think of anyone more deserving of
this honor.
~Tonya Schaefer