Diana Nash - Circle Z Ranch

Horse-back riding is just a piece of the ranch experience. Interview with guest Julie Ruddy

Q: How did you discover Circle Z Ranch?

A: My husband actually found it online. We’re from Minnesota, and in December, we were looking to travel somewhere warm and Southern Arizona sounded perfect! I’m the horse lover in the family, so I was sold right away. Four years ago we wanted a getaway around the holidays. and it was the perfect opportunity to try something new. And now it’s become our holiday tradition.

Q: What was your first impression of the ranch?

A: Mind-blowing. Truly. You land in Tucson, and an hour later, you’re in this stunning, completely isolated landscape. Mountains, creeks, the San Rafael Valley—it’s just incredible. I’ve been around horses my whole life, in fact I have my own, but I don’t have the ability to ride like this where I live. Circle Z makes it all happen.

Q: Your husband doesn’t ride—how did that work?

A: That’s the magic of Circle Z! They’re masterful at matching horses to riders, whether you’re experienced like myself or never been on a horse. On our most recent trip, I brought my best friend and his husband—neither of whom had ever been on a horse. The ranch team made it seamless. They were welcomed with open arms (literally—Circle Z is a hugging kind of place), and Miko, the ranch foreman, worked his magic, picking two perfect horses for them. And we all rode together – the difference is, ever so subtly, we’re given opportunities to personalize the ride. For me, I was able to peel off from the group for a short time, to run with the horse and then loop back up with everyone.

Q: What makes Circle Z different from other places you’ve been?

A: Everything. The hospitality, the people, the connections you make. Can I just say that we all felt like family – well and part of that is because it’s a family business. Diana, the owner and her managers, Jennie and George – if I could adopt them as my second family, I would. Diana, the horses, the land—it all feels like home now. I don’t usually go back to the same place twice, but I’ve been returning every year for four years. That says everything.

Q: What’s a day at the ranch like?

A: It’s structured but never rigid. In your room, there’s a beautiful leather bound notebook with the itinerary for each day. You wake up to the sound of the breakfast bell at 7:30 AM and have coffee in the coziest lodge. A little secret, if you get to the lodge early, before breakfast, you can join Diana as they gather as a family and start their day. Then it’s off to the barn, where it never feels like it’s staged or just for show—it’s real ranch life. Morning rides, a break for lunch, afternoon rides, and then dinner, where you sit with different people every night. But it doesn’t feel forced and Diana’s team helps introduce guests so no one feels left out.

Q: Any memorable moments that stand out?

A: So many! I once sat at dinner with two women who had come alone and didn’t know each other—one of them casually dropped that she had been married seven times, Elizabeth Taylor style! There’s such a mix of people—retired oncologists, longtime horse owners, folks just looking for a unique escape. And the setting? Unplugged, no distractions, just stunning views and wildlife. I’ve seen jackalopes, deer, and the most amazing birds.

Q: What about the accommodations?

A: Each cabin is beautifully appointed with original Southwestern art. There’s a real sense of history and authenticity. Honestly, everything in the rooms should be for sale from the leather-bound notebook to the horse blanket—it’s that well-curated.

Q: If you had to sum up Circle Z Ranch in one word, what would it be?

A: Stellar. And I’ll keep coming back as long as they’ll have me.

Each year, the Audubon conducts it’s Christmas bird count, and the diverse habitat of the Circle Z Ranch property is one of their premier spots for sending volunteers to see what we have to offer. And this year did not disappoint, as several volunteer birders, with notepads in hand and binoculars around their necks, came to the ranch on December 19th to do their count. Here is some history on how the count started, and how the data is used today.

“Prior to the turn of the 20th century, hunters engaged in a holiday tradition known as the Christmas “Side Hunt.” They would choose sides and go afield with their guns—whoever brought in the biggest pile of feathered (and furred) quarry won.

Conservation was in its beginning stages in that era, and many observers and scientists were becoming concerned about declining bird populations. Beginning on Christmas Day 1900, ornithologist Frank M. Chapman, an early officer in the then-nascent Audubon Society, proposed a new holiday tradition—a “Christmas Bird Census” that would count birds during the holidays rather than hunt them.

So began the Christmas Bird Count. Thanks to the inspiration of Chapman and the enthusiasm of 27 dedicated birders, 25 Christmas Bird Counts were held that day. The locations ranged from Toronto, Ontario to Pacific Grove, California with most counts in or near the population centers of northeastern North America.

Each November, birders interesting in participating in the CBC can sign up and join in through the Audubon website. From December 14 through January 5 each year tens of thousands of volunteers throughout the Americas brave snow, wind, or rain, and take part in the effort. Audubon and other organizations use data collected in this long-running wildlife census to assess the health of bird populations, and to help guide conservation action.

The data collected by observers over the past century allow Audubon researchers, conservation biologists, wildlife agencies and other interested individuals to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America. When combined with other surveys such as the Breeding Bird Survey, it provides a picture of how the continent’s bird populations have changed in time and space over the past hundred years.

The long term perspective is vital for conservationists. It informs strategies to protect birds and their habitat, and helps identify environmental issues with implications for people as well. ” Quoted from Audubon.com

So here is the list of birds and their numbers on the Circle Z Ranch property.

Circle Z Ranch Christmas Bird Count
December 19, 2024

Gambel’s Quail 11 Chipping Sparrow 10
Wild Turkey 27 Black-chinned Sparrow 1
Inca Dove 7 Black-throated Sparrow 1
White-winged Dove 4 White-crowned Sparrow 38
Mourning Dove 8 Song Sparrow 3
Greater Roadrunner 2 Lincoln’s Sparrow 2
Anna’s Hummingbird 2 Orange-crowned Warbler 1
Great Blue Heron 2 Yellow-rumped Warbler 49
Black Vulture 2 Black-throated Gray Warbler 1
Red-tailed Hawk 3 Hepatic Tanager 2
Belted Kingfisher 1 Northern Cardinal 18
Acorn Woodpecker 7 Pyrrhuloxia 7
Gila Woodpecker 8
Ladder-backed Woodpecker 21 Some species not on our list:
Arizona Woodpecker 1 Rufous-crowned Sparrow 1
Northern Flicker 8 Ash-throated Flycatcher 1
Hammond’s Flycatcher 4 Louisiana Waterthrush 1
Gray Flycatcher 1
Dusky Flycatcher 2
Hutton’s Vireo 2
Mexican Jay 1
Common Raven 4
Bridled Titmouse 25
Verdin 6
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 26
White-breasted Nuthatch 20
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 3
Rock Wren 3
House Wren 3
Marsh Wren 2
Bewick’s Wren 9
Curve-billed Thrasher 7
Crissal Thrasher 2
Northern Mockingbird 4
Western Bluebird 29
Hermit Thrush 15
American Robin 6
Phainopepla 8
House Finch 18
Lesser Goldfinch 2
Canyon Towhee 5
Abert’s Towhee 4
Green-tailed Towhee 1

If you’ve ever asked yourself, what is a dude ranch?, you’re not alone. Many people have heard the term but might not fully understand what a dude ranch experience entails. A dude ranch, also known as a guest ranch, offers an authentic glimpse into the ranching lifestyle. It combines outdoor adventure, western traditions, and a serene escape from everyday life. For caregivers, families, and anyone craving an adventure-filled retreat, a dude ranch vacation may be the perfect answer. Let’s dive deeper into the dude ranch definition, its unique offerings, and why an Arizona dude ranch might just be the ideal destination for your next vacation.

The Dude Ranch Definition: What Makes a Dude Ranch Unique?

At its core, a dude ranch is a working ranch that welcomes guests to experience the cowboy lifestyle. Originally popularized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, dude ranches allowed city dwellers to escape to the countryside and enjoy horseback riding, cattle herding, and the wide-open spaces of the American West.

Today, dude ranches have evolved to cater to modern travelers, offering activities like:

• Horseback riding lessons and trail rides
• Cattle work demonstrations
• Luxury accommodations with Western flair
• Farm-to-table dining
• Outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and stargazing

In short, a dude ranch vacation blends tradition with relaxation, giving guests a unique and unforgettable experience.

Guests being welcomed to Circle Z Ranch, circa 1930

Why Choose a Dude Ranch Vacation?

A dude ranch vacation isn’t just about adventure; it’s about creating lasting memories. Here are some reasons why a dude ranch might be your next go-to vacation:

1. Immersion in the Cowboy Lifestyle

Dude ranches offer a hands-on opportunity to experience life as a cowboy. From learning how to saddle a horse to participating in cattle drives, you’ll leave with stories to share for years to come.

2. Escape from the Hustle and Bustle

For caregivers or anyone needing a break from daily responsibilities, a dude ranch offers the perfect escape. Surrounded by natural beauty, you can unwind, recharge, and enjoy peace and quiet. Most dude ranches are situated on hundreds if not thousands of acres of undeveloped land, both private and federal, with vast open spaces.

3. Activities for Everyone

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, there’s something for everyone at a dude ranch. Horseback riding, nature hikes, and campfire evenings are just a few of the activities that appeal to all ages.

Family enjoying horseback riding at a dude ranch

Exploring Arizona Dude Ranches

Arizona dude ranches stand out for their breathtaking desert landscapes, rich history, and year-round sunny weather. From horseback riding through saguaro-studded trails to learning about Native American culture, Arizona dude ranches provide an unparalleled Western experience.

Top Features of an Arizona Dude Ranch:

• Scenic Trails: Ride through the stunning Sonoran Desert or up into rugged mountain terrain.
• Western Hospitality: Enjoy warm, welcoming service steeped in cowboy tradition.
• Unique Wildlife: Spot desert creatures like roadrunners, coyotes, and javelinas during your stay.

For caregivers looking for a peaceful getaway or families seeking outdoor fun, Arizona’s dude ranches offer the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Horseback riders at the Circle Z Ranch

What to Expect on Your Dude Ranch Vacation

Planning a dude ranch vacation? Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Accommodations

Most dude ranches offer a range of accommodations, from rustic cabins to luxurious suites. Many Arizona dude ranches also feature amenities like swimming pools, hot tubs, and gourmet dining options.

Daily Activities

Every day at a dude ranch brings new adventures. Your itinerary might include:

• Morning trail rides
• Ranch chores like feeding animals (great for kids!)
• Relaxing afternoons by the pool
• Evening entertainment such as live music or storytelling

Dining

Expect hearty meals inspired by Western traditions. Many ranches prioritize farm-to-table dining, ensuring fresh and delicious options for every palate.

Cook out at the Circle Z Ranch

Tips for Caregivers Planning a Dude Ranch Getaway

For caregivers, finding a vacation destination that offers both relaxation and entertainment can be challenging. Dude ranches are an excellent choice because they provide structured activities for all age groups, plenty of downtime, and a supportive environment for creating meaningful connections.

How to Plan Your Trip:

1. Research Ranches: Look for Arizona dude ranches that offer amenities and activities aligned with your group’s needs.
2. Pack Appropriately: Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, comfortable riding boots, and cowboy hats.
3. Ask Questions: Contact the ranch to learn about their offerings, accessibility, and special accommodations for caregivers.

Plan Your Stay at Circle Z Ranch

Make your dude ranch vacation unforgettable by booking your stay at Circle Z Ranch. Located in the stunning landscapes of Arizona, Circle Z Ranch offers authentic cowboy experiences, luxurious accommodations, and activities for the whole family. Learn more about Circle Z Ranch or contact us today to plan your adventure.

Why a Dude Ranch Should Be Your Next Vacation

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, a dude ranch vacation offers something special. From horseback riding in the Arizona desert to savoring cowboy-inspired meals, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.

So, what is a dude ranch? It’s an opportunity to escape, explore, and reconnect with nature and loved ones. Ready to plan your unforgettable dude ranch adventure? Learn more about Circle Z Ranch or contact us today to start your journey into the cowboy lifestyle.

This past few days we have had the honor of welcoming Scott T Baxter to the ranch for a 2 day photo shoot at our historic dude ranch. Photo shoots are a common occurrence at our guest ranch, some occurring for television shows, some for marketing purposes. Most of the “shoots” occur with our guests on a daily basis as the scenery is so stunning you could literally capture a “hero” shot at every bend in our 200 miles of trails.

Over the New Year Holiday we hosted and participated in a very special 2 days with an award winning photographer. Scott T. Baxter works out of his studio on the Cattle Track Arts Compound in Scottsdale, Arizona. He has been a professional photographer for more than 30 years. According to his bio, “His fine art photography work of the American West captures the dichotomy between the elegance and untamed nature of the West. Baxter’s work is in numerous museums and private collection. Notably, his work is in the permanent collections of The Phoenix Art Museum, Desert Caballeros Western Museum, The Booth Museum of Western Art, Taos Art Museum, Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Museum and the Scottsdale Public Art Program.” So what an honor it was to have him at our ranch. So how was it that this amazing artist graced our ranch?

The Centennial celebration for the Dude Ranch Association is happening in 2026. In 1926 the DRA was founded as a way for the budding hospitality industry of ranches to come together and share stories, insights, and working relationships among ranches who had opened their doors and tables to guests. These ranches sprung into life at a time when city folks were wanting to experience the wide open spaces of the West, where the city smog and bustling crowds could be left behind for a time and life on the range and in the ranchers homes was much desired. This was truly the origins of the Nature Based Tourism that many still seek today. But whatever we choose to call it today, it was an experience that these “dandy’s”, as the cowboys called them, were more than happy to pay for, and the ranchers were more than happy to supplement their hard fought ranching dollars with.

I am not sure how many ranches were part of the DRA back then. Probably many are no longer in existence, deciding to go back to their roots of cowboying, or sold out to developers. But for those that hung on, and have kept up this pace for 99 years, the DRA will be celebrating their founding members in 2026 in several ways. One is the creation of a Coffee Table book. And for a high quality, photo centric centennial book, the DRA sought out one of the best to capture the 23 ranches that will be featured in this much anticipated book.

The Dude Ranch Association began this centennial book project in the Spring of 2024. By June of 2025, Scott will have traveled to 23 guest ranches, filming for 3 days at each location, some back to back as the ranches in the North only have a 3 month window of being opened. Scott’s job? Capturing epic and brilliantly framed photos of guest ranch staff and owners doing what they do best: riding their beloved horses through rugged and scenic landscapes.

Needless to say, we were excited to work with Scott on this project, knowing that the quality of the photos would be amazing, Scott and Barbara really raise the bar on what a quality photo shoot brings: early mornings and late afternoon shoots, getting out the wild rags, making sure everyone is wearing their cowboy boots for the photos, and scouting for the perfect light. As Scott says, you never know what you are going to be given with the light. But when you know how to read the light, the landscape, the perfect opportunities, then magic happens. We can’t wait for the magic of this book, a reflection of what is best about our ranches, our history and our present, and how we have endured doing something we love for 100 years.

The first day on our ranch was spent scoping out some potential sites for the photographs , looking for signature and pristine sites for iconic photos that offer good lighting for the Winter months, uniqueness to our brand, and iconic vistas. We have an endless array of the above, and the ranch owner having done several photo shoots knows the good areas for filming. The area that stood out to them, that no other ranch has, is the area down by the stream called the railroad bed. This stunning site is the corridor to many of our 200 hundred miles of trails. With a canopy of trees that line the sides and the overstory, it is like a scene out of a movie. This was their to choice for an afternoon shoot, where the riders would be backlit, and the stream is nearby for some “splash down” shots.

Our next pick was Rauls trail, in the lush grasslands where the jutting Patagonia Mountain range majestically towers in the distance. We chose this site for the early morning and late afternoon photos.

A Filming session with  Scott is precise and focused. Knowing we had to be ready for the morning sunrise, we set out on our horses at 7am on a brisk morning in the dark. The ride to to grasslands is only 20 minutes, and Scott was driven by a 4 wheeler to the site, equipment in tow. We had to wait about an hour for the lighting to really set off the glow on the grasses and on our faces. Three riders wove their way towards the camera, as Scott  took about 3000 photos. That is a lot for post filming production to edit out for the perfect photo!!

That afternoon, we filmed along the railroad bed and in the stream, with Jennie and Diana loping and weaving their way as the afternoon sun streamed through the trees and sparkled in the splash of the water.

Our last shoot was at the base of the Patagonia Mountain Range. The area Scott picked was different from what I had envisioned, but I discovered soon enough why it was such a special spot. As we rode up a sparse and narrow ridgeline, with the Patagonia range behind us, there was a 10 minute window of time when the light from the setting sun illuminated an area on this ridge. Miko was on a palomino horse, and the golden light hitting on the horses golden coat created an absolutely stunning glow. As Scott said, you never know what the light will give you, just position yourself for success and it may happen. And it certainly did.

How can you Choose the perfect guest ranch for a solo trip, a family trip, or a vacation with your friends?

A guest ranch is an outdoor adventure vacation that is sought out by travelers of all ages and all levels of riding experience. It is the perfect vacation choice for active families with kids, seniors, and solo travelers. In the search for the perfect guest ranch experience there are several key questions to ask. We find that most vacationers like to devote time researching all the options, and the choices can be as vast as the differences.

The biggest question to ask is how many guests does the ranch take at a given time. The sizes can vary from 10 to 150 guests. If looking for more personalized and intimate experiences, the smaller ranches are typically more focused on individualized experiences while the larger ranches have more types of experiences to offer. The Circle Z Ranch takes 30 guests at a time and has a program that is centered around horseback riding. We take pride in individualizing each guest’s experiences for the ultimate in enjoyment.

The types of activities vary as well between ranches, so it is always good to look at the full list of offerings. Most guest ranches are focused on outdoor activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing and hiking in addition to horseback riding. A key ask is the availability of each activity to the guests, or if there a limit to the number that can participate. At the Circle Z Ranch our specialty is riding and that is where our expertise lies, and our rides are different everyday of the week from cookouts to all days rides to trailering horses to ride elsewhere. And our area is the most beautiful and biodiverse in the state so guided hikes and nature walks are popular activities.

Amenities also vary from ranch to ranch. Is tennis and a heated pool important in your choice? Do you want spa service and hot tubs? The latter services are typically found at the more resort-oriented ranches.

And always ask how many horses to guest ratio. If they take more guests than horses then you know that riding is not a main focus. At the Circle Z Ranch we have double the number of horses to riders. That way we can always have the perfect fit of horse to rider. This also ensures that are horses are adequately rested and healthy, and that each guest, regardless of ability, will have the perfect horse.

Best Family-Owned & Operated Guest Ranch 2023 – Arizona

Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert in Southern Arizona, Circle Z Ranch (Circle Z) has long been held and appreciated as conservation land for present and future generations. Owned and operated by the Nash family since 1976, its down-to-earth style is reflected in its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We speak to Diana Nash to learn more as the ranch celebrates a win in the Resort and Retreat Awards 2023.

Whether it’s solo travellers, family groups, or friends, all visitors find Circle Z’s outstanding hospitality and well cared for facilities to be the best in the industry. All guests are greeted with clean and comfortable accommodation, quality made-from-scratch meals, hundreds of miles of horseback riding trails, a herd of 100 well-trained and friendly horses, and a team that will go the extra mile in every interaction.

We are family-owned and -operated and we take great pride in getting to know our guests individually and introducing them to the ranch lifestyle,” explains Diana Nash, the third generation owner of the ranch. “Our guests quickly become part of our family and most return to enjoy our ranch for many years.

With core values revolving around its deep commitment to the property, its horses, its guests, and also its staff, it’s no surprise Circle Z is a popular choice for travellers – plus, as the oldest continually operating guest ranch in Arizona, guests can rest assured that the dedicated owners and team really know their stuff and have created and nurtured an upbeat and welcoming atmosphere for every person who walks through the door.

We take impeccable care of our horse herd and our property, and it shows in every detail around the ranch,” Diana elaborates. “Our team buys into our values because our leadership team is positive, supportive, and treat each individual as family.”

In fact, so renowned for the great treatment of its staff is Circle Z, that most of its recruitment comes from word of mouth due to its excellent reputation within the industry. Many of the staff members return to the ranch year after year on seasonal basis (operating from October to April) and the internal culture is that everyone simply works hard as a team and is encouraged to have fun. As both the managers and owners are hands-on, working alongside the staff and nurturing working relationships, they are truly leading by example.

The travel industry is booming after the pandemic and the nature-based travel sector, which has always been a popular choice, is now experiencing an even higher demand as people clammer to engage their wild side and experience as much of the world as possible.

Circle Z is the perfect choice, being situated in the most scenic and most diverse part of the southwest with beautiful landscapes. The ever flowing Sonoita Creek which runs through the property offers a riparian area, a rarity in Arizona, and is lined with cottonwood trees, sycamores, and a habitat rich with birds and mammals.

We ride through high mountain desert, beautiful grasslands, and steep canyons painted in the rich colours of the desert,” enthuses Diana. “Guests typically stay at the ranch for one week, and along with the great horseback riding and beautiful scenery, they also experience cookouts, roping demonstrations, nature walks, and yoga. We have a heated swimming pool, tennis and pickleball courts, a game room, a beautiful historic lodge where we take our meals, and a cantina for guest socialising and evening cocktail hour.”

Recently, for its dedication and commitment to its staff and guests, Circle Z Ranch gained notable recognition in the Resort and Retreat Awards and was named Best Family-Owned & Operated Guest Ranch 2023 – Arizona.

Now, the 2023/2024 season is already looking set to be a busy one and Diana is adding in extras to the ranch’s offerings, including a horsemanship clinic for those wanting to gain more confidence in their riding. This is in addition to gearing up for the 100-year anniversary which is quickly approaching in 2026 and calls for a huge celebration!

Resorts & Retreats Awards 2023 (lux-review.com)

A young Miko Lorta studying the daily riding orders 

Saddle up for adventure: Dude ranch foreman shows you the ropes at Circle Z Ranch

What do people do on a dude ranch? Get a glimpse of life on the range

Boynton Beach, FL—-How2Media, the producers of the television show “World’s Greatest!…”, selected Circle Z Ranch to be a part of the popular television series.

For over 96 years, Circle Z Ranch has offered the most sought after and authentic dude ranch experience in the United States. With the vast open spaces of desert, grasslands, and mountain vistas; the expertly trained horses; and the painstakingly appointed cottages, Circle Z Ranch is the gold standard of dude ranches. They are widely acknowledged as one of the few remaining original dude ranches in the country. “We think their story will be meaningful as well as educational to our viewers” said Kyle Freeman, Executive Producer of the show.

“Alongside the Lorta family, we have devoted our lives to providing an authentic and incomparably rich dude ranch experience to thousands of guests and have preserved thousands of acres of the most diverse landscape in the United States. We are humbled to be a part of the Worlds Greatest TV show” said Diana and Rick Nash, owners of the Circle Z Ranch.

Air Times:

Sunday, June 11, 2023 at 2:30 pm Eastern time – Bloomberg TV 

Sunday, June 18, 2023 at 2:30 pm Eastern time – Bloomberg TV

Channels:

On DirecTV: Channel 353.

On DISH Network: Channel 203.

On Cable: Depends on your local area and carrierannounced today that they have recently

The Circle Z Ranch is officially open for our 96th Season as Arizona’s Oldest Guest Ranch! Our Ranch family is excited to serve you on your horseback riding vacation this season.

Our off season  was filled with fixing fences (always!) and working with our young horses. The progression of our 3 and 4 year old youngsters has been very positive under training with Kelly, Diana, Jennie, Miko, and Omar. We were finally able to get Ginger, Lexi, Flash, and Dolce under saddle and riding out on the range this summer. We look forward to many more rides with them!

The summer monsoons started late but brought an above average amount of rain, always appreciated with our drought conditions. If you are here earlier in the season you will see the lovely green grasses and the trees lush with leaves. This Fall should bring some amazing colors to the Sycamore, Cottonwoods and Ash trees  which adorn our native habitats.

We are looking forward to introducing you to our new staff so check out the article below introducing the new and the return staff. This is a talented and friendly bunch and we have all been having a great time getting the ranch ready and doing some team building.

Please join us this Season at our beautiful ranch property. We continue to fuss over every detail from the corrals to the kitchen and in the rooms.

We can’t wait to see you!

The Circle Z Family

Our 96th season runs from October 30, 2022-April 23, 2023. We look forward to welcoming our friends from around the world back to the ranch for our 96th year!

                                                                         Order Our New Circle Z Ranch Cook Book!

The Circle Z Ranch Cookbook features over 150 recipes by Pastry Chef Lydia Fairlamb and Chef Eric Williams that have been branded with an “outstanding and seriously good” approval rating by our valued Ranch Guests, A culinary tradition of our fine cuisine from The Circle Z Ranch kitchen can now be recreated in the comfort of your own home. This historic collection of recipes is now available to you in the first edition of The Circle Z Ranch Cookbook, available in our gift shop or from our online publisher. ORDER ONLINE

Equine Dentistry is an important piece in the health of any horse. The teeth of horses are designed to grow and change throughout their lives, and physical issues can arise when the teeth grow unevenly or become damaged. The digestion of food begins in the mouth from the side to side chewing motion of the horse’s mouth. When their normal chewing motion is affected by hooks, broken teeth, or sores in mouth and tongue from sharp points, horses can display a variety of physical problems: Inability to keep on weight; sensitivity in the pole, topline and hocks; and a change in the level  of performance on the trail or in the arena.

For 5 years, we have worked with Equine Dentist Morgan Pearce. Morgan likes to begin her dental checks of our horses once they are 3-4 years old and ready to get under saddle . Morgan comes to the ranch 2 times a year and spends a full day assessing and floating teeth. We have done as many as 25 horses in a day! Each horse has their own needs for how often they need to be floated, depending on their age and their previous dental care. With diligent care over the years, most of our horses are purely maintenance and are on a 2 year schedule for floating. The floating is done with a speculum to hold the mouth open, a power float to even out the teeth, and light sedation to keep the horse calm.

Morgan grew up in South West, Virginia and moved as a young child to a ranch in Arizona with her parents. Morgan is a true cowgirl, raising and training Quarter horses and competing in rodeo events, mainly roping. Morgan also raises AKC Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Morgan is a certified equine dentist and studied dentistry at the Academy of Equine Dentistry in Glenn’s Ferry, Idaho. She now does yearly continuing education to keep up her certification. Andi if this isn’t enough, she is studying Pre-Veterinary Medicine at Arizona State University.

According to Morgan, “The overall purpose of equine dentistry is to make sure horses teeth erupt (grow) yearly. This growth can cause uneven wear, leading to sharp points that irritate the cheeks and tongue, causing major issues when eating and riding. This also leads to weight loss, pain and decreased performance. Regular teeth floating enables full nutrition and peak riding performance. If you don’t get this done the horse can have major health issues. It is imperative for overall health maintenance”.

We are grateful for our partnership with Morgan and the difference she has made for our herd! We hope if you own horses that you have a qualified Veterinarian or Equine Dentist to help you with your horses needs.