Horses were once considered man’s best friend, but after the invention of the dog, the horse was rebranded as man’s eccentric, oat-obsessed uncle. Take a journey with the kindest of kinsmen with today's Groupon to Bosque Circle Ranch near Coors and Alameda Boulevards. Choose between two options:

• For $17, you get one, one-hour horseback-riding lesson (a $35 value).
• For $25, you get one trail ride lasting about two hours, including time spent brushing and tacking your horse, and a brief lesson (a $50 value). Groups of up to five can be accommodated, with one Groupon per person required.

Founded as a training and rescue facility for abused horses, Bosque Circle Ranch has quickly morphed into a place for the public to brush up on equine affairs and pal around with long-faced companions. The horseback-riding lessons coach riders of all experience levels in the Western style of steed steering, with additional instruction on brushing, tacking, care, and more.

At the trail ride's start, a friendly staff member will pair eligible equestrians with the plucky rescued horse that best fits their level, personality, and horoscope. After a getting-to-know-you spin around the pen, guides lead adventurers out for trots along the scenic Rio Grande River. Following the approximately 75-minute jaunt, a grateful rider can feed his compadre a cookie or outfit the polite galloper with a long-coveted pair of designer goggles.