Molly’s Favorite Research Horse: Caspar

Interns at Kentucky Equine Research (KER) work closely with the research horses every day as they feed, groom, and weigh every one that is used in a study. Invariably, a special horse will worm its way into the heart of an intern.

For Molly Van Camp, a yearlong intern from Canada, that horse is Caspar, a six-year-old bay Thoroughbred gelding with two socks and a star. Molly cites Caspar’s disposition as his most endearing attribute, “Even though he’s one of the younger research horses, he’s probably the quietest in the barn. He’s very laid-back, well-behaved, and willing.”

Exactly how did Caspar win Van Camp’s affections? “I decided he was my favorite horse after I stayed in the stall with him for four hours during a research trial. He wouldn’t stop nuzzling me or trying to groom my hair,” she said. “He also makes this adorable squealing sound when you turn him out as he throws his head and takes off bucking.”

Van Camp’s affinity for the gelding appears boundless. She jokingly said, “If he’s ever missing from KER, you’ll know who stole him!”

Think you would like to spend a three-month or twelve-month period as a KER research intern? Find more information about the intern opportunities here.