We are into horses as well...have two affectionate and gentle Morgan's, one Halflinger, and a Shetland for the grands to ride when they are over...
Love those gentle giants. Last night had company show up from Arizona that my children had known in their youth...stayed the night with us..just sleeping on the sofa. I needed to have some hot dog buns put in the deep freezer that is out in the guest house, so he came along to steady me...
We sat on the edge of the deck, and after a very short sniff him over, they allowed him to pet and love on him like I do...no treats, no food, just affection and love...rather like dogs, they enjoy a good scratch behind the ears, their harness taken off for a bit, and their main worked with...I get soft nickers when I scratch the right spot... ;-)
Love the look of that big fella your standing beside here...