About the MHS Ranch
The MHS team is centered on trust, respect, and cooperation. Each team member, gifted in different ways, works in harmony to make a cohesive team. Together, we are able to bring out the finest in the Welsh Cob to continuously produce the best in the breed.
MHS Ranch Owners
Todd Barbey
Todd’s background is in psychology, history, business, occupational therapy, and pastoral care. Though he wasn’t raised in a barn, his experiences are tied directly into the development of the Welsh Cob. He loves the history of the breed, understands the mindset and personality, and is empathetic to the needs of the herd. The horses adore him and his connection with them is evident to anyone that witnesses the interaction.
Todd has a natural ability to show in hand and an affinity for driving. He loves to ride them on trails and is very good at handling Cobs in breeding situations. Driven to improve and protect, Todd is a perfect guardian of the herd. He is constantly improving the ranch to provide the best possible environment for the horses. His attentive nature allows him to connect with every horse and immediately know if something is off. His only flaw is that he wants to keep them all.
Bonnie Barbey
With a long ancestry of horse breeding in her blood, it’s no wonder that Bonnie has dedicated her life to working with such magnificent animals. Having grown up with horses, breeding and showing quarter horses along with other types, Bonnie is experienced in showing in Western Pleasure, English Pleasure, Jumping, Trail, Barrel Racing, Driving, showing in hand, and more. This is the primary reason she, together with Todd, chose the Welsh Cob. It’s the versatility of the breed that makes the Welsh Cob so amazing! From the show ring, to the trail, to driving around the ranch, they can do it all!
She has a passion for bringing out the finest in any breed by maintaining standards to the best of the original design for the horse or pony rather than changing the breed to suit the latest fads. With an eye for quality, Bonnie has embraced the Welsh Cob personality and is fully committed to the breed. She is passionate about bringing out the fire, spirit, and flash while maintaining willingness and train-ability.
In her experience, once a horse lover discovers the Welsh Cob, they then become loyal to the breed because of their dynamic personalities, movement, athleticism, and substance.
Staff
Sasha Stauffer
Sasha Stauffer is new to the MHS team, but has proven herself in taking readily to the handling and riding methods used here at the ranch. She started riding at four years old, her excitement and love for horses fueled by her mother’s beautiful stories of galloping across the countryside as a child. Sasha has ridden English, western, and dressage beginning with an equitation foundation which led to her passion for dressage. With many years of working in show barns, teaching riding and horse care lessons, Sasha is a wonderful addition to the team. Here she does horse care, riding, and assists in training.