Sandy Kriegsman has won an Equus Award for display of leadership in promoting the health and well being of horses in Sonoma County.
Sandy's first memory of horses was as a five year old leading a pony following a photographer door to door. She wore a cowboy hat and chaps and posed for photos. She finally got her own horse when she was nine years old.
In 1976 Sandy moved to Sonoma County. In 1994, she founded Sanbar Dressage in Petaluma, a facility for Dressage riders to practice their discipline, and where horses enjoy a safe and comfortable environment doing what they do best.
Sandy has contributed in many ways to the well being of the horse community. In 2006 she founded BRONC, the Barn and Ranch Owners Association of Northern California. This organization provides a forum for barn and ranch owners in Sonoma County to share resources, information, and provide education to the public regarding important equine issues. In 2007, Sandy developed and produced the HORSE RESOURCE: An Essential Guide to Horse Care, Marin, Napa, and Sonoma Counties. The HORSE RESOURCE provides valuable information aiding horse owners in making informed choices about boarding, training, equipment, and services for all breeds and disciplines.
In August, a horse at Sandy's facility developed a fever and neurologic signs. Though none of Sandy's horses had left the facility, she had the prudence and courage to isolate the horse, and call the California Department of Farm and Agriculture (CDFA). She locked down, even before the horse was diagnosed with EHV-1. Thanks to Sandy's courage and responsibility, three horses total were infected, and the outbreak contained. For her prudent, selfless action, and strict implementation of biosecurity measures, the CDFA issued a commendation to Sandy and Sanbar.
Sandy lives with her husband Jim, two Warmbloods, Necho and Lancelot, two Border Collies, Teagan and Mallory, and five barn cats, Munchie, Mickey, Irwin, Phoebe, and Tabby.
