Ivan J. Mast

Ivan J. Mast are Percheron horse breeders in Opdyke, IL, serving Jefferson County and southern Illinois near Mount Vernon. They maintain pedigrees with national registries through the American Percheron Horse Association and ensure all horses undergo routine veterinary exams, farrier visits, and recommended health screenings.

They raise foals in open pasture with daily turnout to foster natural development and gentle handling for early socialization, introducing basic groundwork and tarping exercises at weaning. Their farmstead setting supports balanced training, and their draft horses often demonstrate steady temperaments suited for field work, carriage driving, or recreational riding. Seasonal barns and turnouts adapt to weather changes, reflecting their focus on comfort across all seasons.

Visitors note the Masts’ attentive approach to equine well-being and the clear care given to each animal by their small, consistent team. They also offer detailed guidance on conditioning draft horses for community parades and light agricultural tasks, underscoring their interest in preserving traditional uses of the breed.