Dave Mares

Dave Mares are Percheron breeders in Lapel, Indiana, serving Madison County and the Indianapolis area. They have worked with draft horses for more than a decade and hold memberships in the Percheron Horse Association, with regular health screenings for hips, eyes and heart.

Their horses live on rotational pasture and receive daily turnout, early handling and socialization to foster calm, willing temperaments. The Mares family farm traces its roots to regional draft work, blending traditional harness training with modern welfare standards. They coordinate routine farrier visits, dental exams and nutrition plans in consultation with equine veterinarians to support strong, sound animals.

Clients note the steady, gentle disposition of the horses and the breeders’ openness about lineage and performance records. Occasional entries at county fairs demonstrate consistent placings in driving classes, reflecting the horses’ strength and trainability. The breeders also maintain a small riding program for select yearlings to encourage early discipline and family engagement.