Zack the Jumping Zebra

In April it was a video of a jumping cow and since then we've found videos of showjumping bunnies (very cute) and even tenacious people trying to train cats to jump (don't think this will really catch on - the kitties weren't that excited about it), now we've found the cutest one of all - a jumping zebra.  Although this talented and handsome little guy doesn't just jump, he does a few trail obstacles as well!

Zack the jumping zebra has been trained by Sammi Jo Stohler of Zebra Guru. Sammi Jo currently specialises in Zebra training and sales, however, she was raised on a working horse and cattle ranch in Eastern Oregon USA.  She grew up doing wildlife rehab, and has worked with a variety of animals, including birds of prey, antelope, deer, elk and badgers. Sammi Jo has been a professional animal trainer and horse clinician for more than ten years, and has performed with her zebras and trick horses at clinics, community events, state fairs and rodeos.

Zebra Guru says, "Zack the zebra shows that zebras can be versatile. At 6 years old, he rides western, english or bareback. Here, he is jumping 2 foot 8 inches. He jumps, trail rides and lays down on command. As his training progresses, we learn more skills and continue the ones he already knows." when asked about jumping courses with him, Sammi Jo says, "We will get there, and when we do, I will post a video! Zack is so much fun and he learns incredibly fast."

Sammi Jo has provided facts about Zack stating:

• He is a Grants zebra, which is a variety of Plains zebra. There are a total of 3 species of zebra, with a number of varieties, or "Breeds"
• Zack is 6 years old in the video, they have a similar lifespan as a horse
• The jump is 2 foot, 8 inches tall
• Zack is 12 hands, 2 inches tall at his withers (where his back and neck meet)
• There are a number of regulations involved to own a zebra. USDA permits, as well as regulations on state, county and city levels.
• Zebras are not mean, but they are wild animals and require special care and attention.

Visit www.zebraguru.com to find out more about Zack and Zebra training in general. Photo of Zack and Sammi Jo - www.zebraguru.com