Livestock Rental FAQ — Hooves & Horns TX

Frequently asked questions about renting longhorns, horses, and mini ponies for events across Texas. Covering pricing, booking, safety, weddings, trail rides, and Ben the Legendary Longhorn. Serving Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and all of Texas. Call (512) 924-5265.
Hooves & Horns TX · Elgin, Texas · Home of Ben the Legendary Longhorn™

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Everything you need to know about renting a longhorn, horse, or mini pony for your Texas event. Every experience is custom-built for you — call us and we'll make it happen.

📞 (512) 924-5265

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General Information
Who we are, where we operate, and how to reach us
What is Hooves & Horns TX? +

Hooves & Horns TX is a family-owned mobile livestock entertainment company based in Elgin, Texas. We bring longhorns, horses, and mini ponies to events across all of Texas — creating authentic, unforgettable experiences for weddings, corporate events, festivals, birthday parties, film shoots, and more.

We are home of Ben the Legendary Longhorn™ — an 8-year-old Texas Longhorn featured on ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Yahoo News, and CBS Austin with over 22 million views on Instagram and TikTok.

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Family-owned and Texas-proud. Liz, Moe, and Michelle personally handle every event. You're not booking a vendor — you're booking people who genuinely love what they do.
Where are you located and what areas of Texas do you serve? +

We are based in Elgin, Texas — just east of Austin — and we travel throughout all of Texas and beyond. We regularly serve:

  • Central Texas: Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, San Marcos, Waco, New Braunfels, Fredericksburg
  • Dallas/Fort Worth · Houston · San Antonio
  • West Texas & Beyond: Corpus Christi, Lubbock, Midland, El Paso
  • Hill Country & Boutique Markets: Round Top, Fredericksburg, Boerne

Out-of-state travel is available by request. If your event is in Texas, we can make it happen.

📞 Check Availability for Your Location
How do I contact Hooves & Horns TX? +

📞 Phone / Text: (512) 924-5265 — the fastest way to reach us and get a quote

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Website: hoovesandhornstx.com

📸 Instagram: @hoovesandhornstx

👍 Facebook: @hoovesandhornsatx

We typically respond within 24 hours. For time-sensitive or last-minute events, call us directly.

Who is Ben the Legendary Longhorn™? +

Ben is an 8-year-old Texas Longhorn and one of the most recognized longhorns in the country. Handler Moe Taylor has been riding him since he was 2 years old. Together, they've attended years of UT Longhorn games, traveled across multiple states, and become a viral sensation.

  • Featured on ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Yahoo News, CBS Austin, KHOU Houston and dozens more
  • 22M+ views across Instagram and TikTok — including 9.1M on a single spectator's account, 5M+ on another, and multiple additional viral videos across dozens of accounts. Not a single dollar of paid promotion. Every view 100% organic.
  • Conditioned for stadiums, film sets, fireworks, indoor venues, and large crowds
  • Trained for mounted photo ops — guests can sit in Ben's saddle
  • Available to book for your event through Hooves & Horns TX
🐂 Read Ben's Full Story →
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Pricing
Custom-fit pricing built around your event — every time
How does pricing work at Hooves & Horns TX? +

Every event is different — and so is every quote. We don't believe in one-size-fits-all pricing. Instead, we build a custom-fit package based on:

  • Which animals you want (Ben, horses, Peaches the mini pony, or a combination)
  • Duration of the event and how long the animals are present
  • Location and travel distance from Elgin, TX
  • Guest count and type of interaction (photo ops, rides, walkabout)
  • Add-ons like paint-a-pony, themed decorations, or photographer
  • Event type — wedding, corporate, birthday party, film shoot, etc.
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Why custom pricing? A birthday party in Austin for 30 kids is a completely different experience from a brand activation at a Dallas arena for 2,000 people. Custom pricing means you only pay for exactly what your event needs — nothing more, nothing less.
📞 Get Your Custom Quote — (512) 924-5265
What do individual animal rentals start at? +

For standard individual animal rentals, here are our starting rates. Your final quote will be tailored to your event details.

🐂 Longhorn
Starts At
$700
Includes handler & photo ops
🐴 Horse
Starts At
$350
First hour · +$150/additional hr
🦄 Mini Pony
Starts At
$350
First hour · +$150/additional hr
✨ Premier Pkgs
Ben + Horses
Custom
All mileage included · Call for quote
Birthday party special: Book a single or double animal rental and get the 2nd hour FREE. Mention when booking. When requesting your quote, ask about add-on pricing — we will build it into your custom package.
💲 View Full Pricing Page →
What are the Premier Packages and what do they include? +

Premier packages feature Ben the Legendary Longhorn™ and our top-tier professionally trained horses, conditioned for large crowds, media, and high-profile events. All Premier packages include:

  • A minimum of 3 certified professional handlers
  • Mounted and unmounted photo opportunities
  • All-inclusive travel — no mileage fees
  • Complete waiver supply, administration, and retention
  • Setup, staging, and breakdown
  • Optional theme coordination
  • Charitable fundraising facilitation available
  • Extended hours available

LoneStar Package: Ben + one elite horse — ideal for weddings, corporate, brand releases, 500+ guests.

Ben Solo: Ben the Legendary Longhorn as the premier standalone experience.

Cowboy Package: Ben + two professionally trained horses — maximum versatility for large-scale events.

📞 Request a Premier Package Quote
Do you offer discounts for charities, nonprofits, or special needs events? +

Yes. We offer special pricing for charities, benefits, and events for children and adults with special needs. We are also proud to offer special pricing for active military, veterans, and first responders — thank you for your service. We are a family-owned business and we believe in giving back. Call (512) 924-5265 to discuss your event and we will work with your budget.

What add-ons are available? +

Make your event even more unforgettable with these popular add-ons:

  • Paint-a-Pony or Paint-a-Horse · Kids' birthday parties only · Kids paint with washable non-toxic paint; includes full washdown and all materials
  • Themed Decorations · Animals and/or staff decorated to match your event colors or Western theme
  • Professional Photographer · Dedicated photographer to capture every unforgettable moment
  • Standard Goodie Bags · Perfect for party favors — call for pricing
  • Deluxe Goodie Bags · Includes bandana, animal figurine, plush toy, candies & hoof print signature — call for pricing
Birthday party special: Book a single or double animal rental and get the 2nd hour FREE. Mention this when booking. Add-on pricing: When requesting your quote, ask about add-on pricing — we will build it into your custom package.
Do you require a deposit? +

Yes. A deposit is required to hold your date and reserve your animals exclusively for your event. The deposit is applied toward your final balance. Call (512) 924-5265 to discuss deposit specifics for your booking type.

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Luxury Wedding Experiences
Family-owned · Texas born · Thoughtfully designed with heart, heritage, and unforgettable moments
What wedding packages do you offer? +

All premium wedding packages feature Ben the Legendary Longhorn™ — with over 22 million views and features on ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Yahoo Sports, and numerous Central Texas news outlets. Ben delivers an iconic, once-in-a-lifetime Texas wedding experience.

Wedding enhancements and add-ons are exclusively available with our premium package options.

LoneStar Package

  • Ben the Legendary Longhorn™
  • One professionally trained horse
  • A minimum of 3 certified professional handlers
  • Premium presentation and polished tack
  • Mounted and unmounted guest photo interactions
  • Managed guest flow and safety-first coordination

Cowboy Package

  • Ben the Legendary Longhorn™
  • Two professionally trained horses
  • A minimum of 3 certified professional handlers
  • Expanded guest interaction opportunities
  • Premium staging and elevated western presentation
  • Managed guest flow and professional coordination
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Your wedding day is unique. Tell us exactly how you envision your wedding and we will work with you to make it happen. Call (512) 924-5265 for a custom wedding quote.
💍 Call for a Wedding Quote →
What wedding upgrades and enhancements are available? +

Wedding enhancements are exclusively available when booked with a premium wedding package. Available upgrades include:

  • Premium Wedding Presentation Package — Wedding-grade tack, coordinated bridal styling, and handlers dressed in polished wedding-appropriate western attire
  • Bride Entrance on Ben the Legendary Longhorn™ — Ceremonial aisle entrance led by professional handlers with full gown and dismount assistance
  • Bride & Groom Horse Entrance — Elegant dual entrance with professional handling and seamless ceremony flow
  • Wedding Party Ride-In Experience — Up to six horses with coordinated pacing, handlers, and elegant dismounts
  • Mini Pony or Ben as Ring Bearer / Flower Girl — Outfitted with ceremony-appropriate presentation for flowers and/or rings; handler-led aisle walk with calm pacing and full customization to match your wedding theme

All grand entrance experiences include professionally guided pacing, dismount assistance, discreet removal, and a required practice ride or rehearsal.

All wedding enhancement pricing is custom-quoted based on your venue, ceremony layout, and specific vision. Call (512) 924-5265 to discuss.
Do you offer bachelorette party experiences? +

Yes — and these are available as standalone experiences with no premium wedding package required.

Bachelorette Party Photo Experience — A curated western photo experience led by our Hooves & Horns photographer. An unforgettable moment that often becomes a meaningful gift for the groom. Scheduled on a separate date from the wedding.

Austin, TX City Ride — Bachelorette Experience — A private horseback ride through select Austin, Texas locations. Includes a professional photographer and up to five riders. Scheduled on a separate date from the wedding.

Both experiences require a custom quote. Call (512) 924-5265 to plan your bachelorette experience.
🥂 Plan Your Bachelorette Experience →
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Services & Events
What we do and what kinds of events we serve
What types of events do you provide animals for? +

If you're creating an experience people won't forget — we belong there. We serve:

  • Weddings — photo ops, bride entrances, ring bearer, baraat, bachelorette experiences
  • Corporate Events — brand activations, grand openings, team experiences, award galas
  • Festivals & Concerts — authentic Texas atmosphere at scale
  • Race Weekends — COTA, tailgates, motorsport events
  • Birthday Parties — pony rides, paint-a-pony, photo moments
  • Quinceañeras — elegant, memorable, and uniquely Texan
  • Museums & Libraries — educational, family-friendly community events
  • Film & Commercial Shoots — professional productions of all sizes
  • Game Day & Tailgate Events — Ben is a natural at UT and sports environments
  • Special Deliveries — flowers, cakes, gifts delivered by horse or longhorn
  • Educational Programs for Youth — coming soon
Not sure if your event qualifies? Call (512) 924-5265. If it involves hooves and horns, we'll make it work.
Do you offer luxury wedding experiences with a longhorn? +

Yes — and we take weddings seriously. We offer thoughtfully designed experiences built around your vision:

  • Bride entrance on Ben the Legendary Longhorn™
  • Bride & Groom horse entrance
  • Wedding party ride-in experience
  • Mini pony or Ben as ring bearer
  • Bachelorette party photo experience
  • Austin city ride — private horseback bachelorette experience
  • Photo ops and animal presence throughout the reception
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Your wedding day is unique. Tell us your vision and we'll build it with you. Call (512) 924-5265 or visit the pricing page for package details.
💍 Talk to Us About Your Wedding →
Can guests sit on or ride the longhorn? +

Yes. Ben allows mounted photo opportunities — guests can sit in Ben's saddle, supervised by professional handlers at all times. It is one of the most popular moments at every event he attends, and photos consistently go viral.

Earl, our 2-year-old longhorn, is a stand-beside photo experience only — he is still being trained and conditioned.

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Pro tip: A photo on Ben goes viral. Guests have racked up millions of views after events. Your guests will be sharing this moment long after the event ends.
Do you offer pony rides for children's birthday parties? +

Yes — pony parties are one of our most popular bookings. Peaches, our mini pony, is gentle, kid-friendly, and a crowd-pleaser every time.

  • Pony rides with professional handler supervision
  • Paint-a-pony — kids paint Peaches with washable paint
  • Photo opportunities kids and parents both love
  • Available for birthday parties, school events, and private gatherings across Texas
🎉 Birthday Party Special: Book a single or double animal rental and get the 2nd hour FREE. Mention this when booking!
🦄 Book a Pony Party →
Can you customize animals for themed events? +

Absolutely. We can decorate horses and ponies with flowers, ribbons, and accessories; dress animals in custom decorations matching your event colors; provide staff in Western attire; and fit specialty saddles and tack to match your aesthetic. Add themed decorations for $75 — just tell us your vision when you book.

Can you bring livestock indoors to a venue? +

Yes. Hooves & Horns TX can bring animals indoors to suitable venues. Ben the Legendary Longhorn and our horses are specifically conditioned for indoor events, including loud music, professional camera lighting, elevated ambient noise, and large crowds. Call (512) 924-5265 to discuss your specific venue requirements.

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Our Animals
Meet the crew behind every unforgettable moment
What animals do you have available to rent? +

Our full roster includes:

  • Ben the Legendary Longhorn™ — our viral celebrity with 22M+ views. Mounted photo ops allowed.
  • Earl — our 2-year-old longhorn, currently training for mounted photos. Available to rent now for stand-beside photo experiences.
  • Big John — our handsome white horse who appeared in Flatland Cavalry's music video Bubblegum. Watch on YouTube →
  • Lily — our beautiful mare who hosted a Facebook livestream watched by over 44,000 people
  • Redman — Texas State Champion on Poles
  • Rosie & Frida — versatile horses for trail rides, events, and photo ops
  • Peaches — our newest member and cutest little pony! Perfect for birthday parties, kids events, and paint-a-pony experiences
  • Frida the Mule — available for select events

All animals are professionally trained, handler-supervised, and conditioned for crowds, cameras, music, and public environments.

What is the Pony Keg service? +

The Pony Keg is our fun twist on the classic beer burro concept. Our mini pony Peaches is fitted with a custom saddle and baskets to roam your event delivering drinks, party favors, rose petals, or treats to your guests.

It is a crowd-stopper at every event — guests love it and it photographs beautifully. Available for corporate events, weddings, festivals, and private parties.

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Pony Keg ideas: Cold drinks roaming the party · Rose petals down the wedding aisle · Party favors delivered to guests · Candy at a kids' event. Call (512) 924-5265 to add the Pony Keg to your booking.
📞 Ask About the Pony Keg →
Can I request a specific animal for my event? +

Yes. If you want Ben specifically, or a particular horse, let us know when you reach out. Availability varies by date and event type, so the earlier you book the better. Call (512) 924-5265 to check availability.

Are your animals conditioned for loud events, cameras, and fireworks? +

Yes. Our Premier animals — especially Ben — are specifically trained and conditioned for high-energy environments including large crowds, professional camera lighting, elevated ambient noise, loud music, fireworks, and film productions.

Ben has appeared at stadium events, viral street moments, museum events, distilleries, motorsport events, and more. He has even ridden inside freight elevators up to the second floor at the Omni Hotel in Dallas/Fort Worth. He does not rattle easily — and that's exactly what makes him exceptional for high-profile bookings.

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Booking
How to reserve your date and what to expect
How do I book Hooves & Horns TX for my event? +

The best way to book is to call (512) 924-5265 or email [email protected]. We'll talk through your event, recommend the right animals and package, build your custom quote, and get everything confirmed.

📞 Call to Book Now
How far in advance should I book? +

The sooner the better — especially for events featuring Ben, who books up fast.

  • Weddings & large events: 3–6 months in advance
  • Corporate events & festivals: 6–12 weeks
  • Birthday parties: 4–8 weeks
  • Photo sessions: 2–4 weeks
Last minute bookings: We do accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible. However, bookings made within 24 hours of the event are subject to a rush fee. Call (512) 924-5265 for a last-minute quote.
What is included in a rental? +

All rentals include professional handlers for the full duration, animal preparation, tack, setup, breakdown and cleanup, safety instructions, liability waivers, and photo opportunities. Premier packages additionally include all-inclusive travel and complete waiver administration.

What is your deposit and payment policy? +

A 50% reservation retainer is required to secure your event date and reserve your appearance. Your date is not confirmed until the retainer has been received. The retainer is applied toward your total invoice balance. The remaining balance is due upon completion of the event, prior to the provider leaving the event location.

Accepted payment methods:

  • ACH / Bank Transfer — account details provided upon request
  • Check payable to: Hooves & Horns TX
  • Credit Card via Square · Venmo: @hoovesandhornstx · Zelle
Processing fee note: A flat 3% processing fee applies to Square, Venmo, and credit card payments. ACH, Zelle, and checks are accepted at no additional fee.
What is your cancellation policy? +
  • Cancellations more than 30 days before the event: Client receives a 50% refund of the deposit.
  • Cancellations within 30 days of the event: Deposit is forfeited in full.
  • Client-requested rescheduling: Subject to availability. A $150 rescheduling fee applies if requested within 14 days of the event. Original contract pricing will be honored.
  • All cancellation and rescheduling requests must be submitted in writing via email.
What is your weather and force majeure policy? +

We are equipped to operate in rain and will make every reasonable effort to reschedule in the event of unsafe weather conditions — including lightning, severe winds, extreme heat, or flooding — or circumstances beyond either party's control. We work collaboratively with the client to determine the best course of action for all parties.

  • If the provider has not yet traveled to the event location when a force majeure condition arises, deposits may be refunded.
  • If weather-related delays occur during the event, the provider will wait out conditions at no additional charge within reasonable limits.
Safety & Control of Animals: Provider retains exclusive control of animals at all times. Client agrees to follow handler instructions and maintain the required safety perimeter. Provider may pause or end interaction if animal welfare, weather, or safety concerns arise, without liability.
What are the guest interaction rules? +

To keep every guest and animal safe, the following rules apply at all events:

  • No feeding, chasing, sudden approach, or intentional startling of animals
  • Provider reserves the right to decline participation in mounted photos or close animal interaction for guests who appear significantly intoxicated, as determined by the provider's professional judgment
  • Handlers ensure animals are safe and secure at all times
  • Fireworks and loud noises are acceptable — animals are conditioned for such environments
  • Barriers will be utilized for effective crowd control management
Waivers for mounted photos: Provider administers participant waivers for all mounted photo activities. Only guests who have signed the waiver and meet basic safety criteria may participate. Minors require parent or guardian signature.
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Trail Rides in Elgin
Horseback rides through the beautiful Central Texas landscape
What trail ride experiences do you offer in Elgin, Texas? +

Elgin Trail Ride (Available Now): Scenic guided rides through woods and open pastures with beautiful Central Texas views. Suitable for all skill levels. Approximately 45 minutes. Book online through Calendly at hoovesandhornstx.com.

Elgin City Ride (Coming Soon): A unique ride through historic downtown Elgin — stay tuned.

Mobile Trail Ride: We bring the horses to your location. Perfect for private properties, ranches, and group experiences anywhere in Central Texas.

🐴 Book an Elgin Trail Ride →
Do I need riding experience for a trail ride? +

No prior experience required. We accommodate all skill levels from complete beginners to experienced riders. Our guides will match you with the right horse and adjust the ride to your comfort level.

What should I wear for a trail ride? +

Wear closed-toe shoes or boots (cowboy boots are perfect), long pants or jeans, and a hat for sun protection. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses. Avoid shorts, sandals, or open-toed shoes.

Are there age or weight limits for trail rides? +

Minimum age is generally 6–8 years depending on size and maturity. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Weight limit is generally 250 lbs for horse comfort and safety. Call (512) 924-5265 to discuss individual circumstances.

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Safety & Animal Care
How we protect your guests and our animals at every event
Are your animals safe for children and large crowds? +

Yes. Safety is our top priority. All animals are carefully selected for gentle temperaments, regularly trained and socialized, and professionally supervised at every event. Lead handler Moe Taylor has 30+ years of experience and a perfect safety record.

Age-appropriate animals are matched to each event. We provide clear safety guidelines for all participants and supervise all guest-animal interactions at all times.

Do you carry liability insurance? +

Yes. We carry commercial general liability insurance and can provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) upon request for your venue or event planner. We can also add your venue as an additional insured party if required.

Venue requiring a COI? Just let us know when booking and we'll have it ready in advance.
Do guests sign waivers before interacting with the longhorn? +

Yes — every single person who interacts with a longhorn is required to sign a liability waiver before their experience. This is not optional and applies to every guest at every event, no exceptions.

This policy exists to protect you as the client, to protect Hooves & Horns TX, and to protect your guests. Our waivers are compliant with Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 87 — the Texas Equine Activity Liability Act — which provides legal protection for equine and livestock professionals in the state of Texas.

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Texas Equine Activity Liability Act (Chapter 87): Texas law recognizes that equine and livestock activities carry inherent risks. Chapter 87 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code limits liability for equine professionals when participants are properly informed of those risks. Our waivers are written in full compliance with this statute — protecting everyone involved.

For Premier packages, we supply, administer, and retain all signed waivers on your behalf so you never have to worry about logistics on event day.
📄 View Texas Chapter 87 — Equine Act →
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Travel & Service Area
We go where you go — anywhere in Texas and beyond
Do you travel to Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio? +

Yes — statewide. Hooves & Horns TX travels to Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Waco, New Braunfels, Fredericksburg, Round Top, Corpus Christi, Lubbock, Midland, El Paso, and everywhere in between.

  • Standard rentals: First 40 miles from Elgin, TX are included free. Beyond 40 miles: $2.00 per mile.
  • Premier packages: All travel included at no additional charge.
  • Out-of-state: Available by request. Call (512) 924-5265 to discuss.
📞 Ask About Travel to Your City
Is there an overnight stay policy for distant events? +

Yes. For events 100 or more miles from Elgin, TX, an overnight stay policy may apply to ensure the welfare of our animals and handlers. We'll discuss this fully when building your custom quote. Call (512) 924-5265 for details specific to your event location.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

We're a phone call away. Every event is custom-built — let's talk about yours. If it involves hooves and horns, we'll make it happen.

(512) 924-5265
Call or Text · We typically respond within 24 hours