Extragavanza held at Equine Rescue

The Hooves & Hounds Extravaganza allowed participants to spend time with family, in a fun, safe, wholesome and controlled environment.

The event held at Equine Rescue of Aiken's Haven Hills Farm was sponsored by Aiken Family Magazine and offered something for everyone.

"The event has been a lot of fun and good for my heart," said Larkin Steele of Equine Rescue of Aiken, who said Saturday's Hooves & Hounds Extravaganza is the type of function that she's wanted to hold at the facility since she bought the property four years ago.

The Aiken SPCA and the McCormick Animal Shelter both took part in the festivities.

The event served as a charity fundraiser to benefit the Aiken SPCA and Equine Rescue of Aiken.

Steele also said that Equine Rescue of Aiken will be doing more events with the McCormick County Animal Shelter in the future.

Randy Stamm from Prime Cut Steak House donated the food, she said.

"A few dogs were adopted out today," said Steele.

Jesse and Stephanie Abbott, who have lived in Aiken for about a year, brought their 22-month-old son Isaac to the event.

"We came here so our son Isaac could get some exposure to the horses," said Jesse Abbott. "We grew up around horses and wanted him to have that experience."

In addition to the horses, dogs and cats, there was an opportunity to go on pony rides, courtesy of the No Baloney Pony. There was also a bake sale, tack sale, bounce houses, a variety of horse exhibitions, dog agility demonstrations, a silent auction and face painting.

Sara Lepley brought her daughter Grace to the Hooves & Hounds Extravaganza.

"We wanted to see what it was all about and show our support for the horses in the community," said Sara Lepley.

Contact Ben Baugh at bbaugh@aikenstandard.com.