Asian Farmer Insists Horses Take off Shoes Before Entering Stables

“These aren’t one-trick ponies.”

By Ken Taro Ward

June 6, 2023

CHICO, Calif. – Customers at Goldmount Ranch in Northern California got a surprise when their horseback tour guide and farrier Andi Do told her guests that their four-legged companions would have to do one thing before they were able to return to their stalls – take off their shoes. While it is customary for many people to remove their footwear before entering Asian households, this takes things to a whole new level.

“Anything or anybody that wears shoes must remove them before entering any interior portion of my property – no exceptions,” explained Do. “However, we never want anyone to go away empty-footed. Each guest gets their own set of barn slippers, horses included. We just have to remember that they get four shoes instead of two.”

Arnold Grande, a tourist with years of experience riding horses, said he was confused at first, but thought it made sense by the time he left the property.

“I’m from Kentucky, so I’ve been around a lot of horses. I’ve never seen anything like this. But I have to admit, the horses seemed comfortable and happy,” pointed out the customer. “All the horses get their own custom slippers. I mean, I get it. I’m a drywall installer, and there’s not much of a better feeling than taking off my shoes after standing on my feet all day long. Besides, not my barn, not my rules.”

Depending on the skill of the farrier, horseshoes can take hours to remove. However, Do’s older sister Rayna came up with a solution that makes the process quick and painless.

“I invented these special shoes that practically take themselves off. I can’t go into too much detail, but they are patent pending,” bragged Rayna. “Anyway, pardon the pun, but these aren’t one-trick ponies. They can hurdle obstacles, sprint at 50 miles per hour, and perhaps most impressively, they can kick their shoes into their designated cubbies as they enter the stables.”

At press time, the older Do sister revealed that she was working with Ford to create Mustangs that would expel their own tires before entering garages.