About Us
The beginning
Raised amid the rolling farm country of Indiana, Dennis Thompson’s life has been defined by two passions: a deep love for animals, and a talent for innovation. From the very start, his career
merged creativity with care—developing products that improved the lives of animals and the
people who love them.
It’s no exaggeration to say that you’d be hard-pressed to walk into a pet or tack store anywhere in
the world without spotting a product born from Dennis’s vision. From humble beginnings in
garages and small barns, he built ideas into internationally recognized brands. Quik Silver
Shampoo and Hamilton Halters are two in a career filled with them.
By 1988, Dennis was living on a ranch in South Texas, raising his daughters and continuing his entrepreneurial journey. One day, his daughter Lisa—then working at Lone Star Pet Supply in San Antonio—called him with news that would change his life. “Dad,” she said. “We just hired this new lady. She’s beautiful, she has 40 parrots and a Porsche—she’s perfect for you!”
A few months after Lisa’s prophetic phone call, Dennis met fellow pet industry professional, and fellow animal lover, Cindy Tergerson at a pet convention in Dallas. The connection was instant. They married in 1990, and from that day forward, two passionate hearts for animals became one, with no one to say “no.”
Their bond was so extraordinary, the Outdoor Life Network featured their story in a national television program, highlighting not just their love for animals, but the love they shared for each other.
In 1995, during a business trip to Great Britain, Dennis and Cindy were driving through the English countryside when Cindy spotted a small, striking, black and white stallion in a pasture. That moment sparked a journey that would change their lives—and equine history—forever.
The rest, as they say, is Gypsy Vanner history.
Cindy Thompson
Together, Dennis and Cindy Thompson imported the first 16 Gypsy Vanner Horses to North America, and founded The Gypsy Vanner Horse Society. Their discovery, passion, and dedication gave birth to a breed registry that has preserved the legacy of one of the world’s most enchanting horse breeds. It was the journey of a lifetime, one filled with meaning, magic, and mission.
Tragically, their journey together was cut short when Cindy’s life was taken in a 2002 accident. They shared 14 incredible years, building a legacy that continues to inspire horse lovers across the globe.
Dennis & Erin Thompson
Today, Dennis lives on his beloved Gypsy Gold Horse Farm in Ocala, Florida, with his beautiful animal loving wife, Erin Mahoney Thompson. There, they continue to raise Gypsy Vanner Horses, stand several remarkable stallions, and conduct historic farm tours that educate and inspire, with over 3,000 “five star” reviews on Trip Advisor.
Visitors to the farm are transported into the heart of one of the world’s most colorful and misunderstood cultures—and the horses that reflect its soul.
This one-of-a-kind experience has earned Gypsy Gold a long-standing spot among Trip Advisor’s top “Things To Do in Central Florida,” along with earning the platform’s prestigious Certificate of Excellence Award four times.
Dennis is available for group speaking engagements. For details and availability, lease call 352-817-1777.
The Gypsy Gold Documentary, by Lee Armstrong. Produced in September 2011.