It's a little-known fact that horses were favored over dogs for the title of man’s best friend until the competition added a lap-sitting round. Today’s Groupon lets you buddy up with amiable beasts: for $45, you get one introductory horseback-riding lesson and two full private lessons (a $135 value) at Tavia Equine Center in St. Rose.

Tavia Equine Center schools riders of all ages in the art of trotting and galloping during 35-to-45-minute lessons, as well as hunter jumping instruction. The fully equipped facility tailors teachings to each individual student, catering to those whose bedrooms are wallpapered with blue ribbons and those who have only jockeyed ponies attached to carousels. Between games of shuffleboard, retired show horses play the part of trusty steed to aspiring equestrians. With helmet secured, pupils learn proper techniques for trotting around the ring, sailing through jumps, and riding off into the sunset. The Tavia team encourages students to arrive early and stay late to help groom their mounts, learn to tack and untack equine companions, and practice horse-whispering skills.