Solomon Singer and his horse Koa. (Photo courtesy of Solomon Singer)

Solomon Singer, the 18-year-old contender for the Puna (District 4) House seat, has brought his horse, Koa, into the race.

Koa is an 11-year-old gelding and a rescue case — neglected, starved, and ready to be put down when Singer took him in and gave him the love and attention he needed. “He‘s a happy horse now,” Singer said.

“Hawaii has some of the worst horse protection laws in the country,” Singer said. “Cruelty to animals goes hand in hand with domestic violence and child abuse. We need better laws and humane public education to stop animal abuse.”

Singer is an accomplished bareback horseman, training horses and riders across the island. He is also a barefoot hoof care specialist and equine behaviorist, and believes horses are excellent for training children.

“Horses teach you how to be confident and in control, while also being sensitive and considerate. Working with horses helps kids build self esteem, and is great exercise. I would like to see after school programs using horses, and would like to see animal husbandry, in general, becoming more of the school curriculum,” Singer said.

To introduce children to the wonderful world of horses, Singer will be taking Koa on the campaign trail, greeting keiki and handing out balloons. Koa is Singer’s equine ambassador.

While Singer may be the dark horse candidate in the Puna race, he believes running with Koa may just improve his odds of winning.

Check for upcoming appearances of Singer and his horse Koa at www.VoteForSinger.com