He can't answer phones or sign official business documents, but Lisa Ross-Williams and Kenny Williams credit 9-year-old Riley with creating the cornerstone for their Equi-Spirit Toys & Tools business.

The spunky colt of unknown breed had a knack for breaking every play ball tossed his way. After many disappointing and short-lived rounds of kickball, the Cornville couple finally got their hands on a ball that wouldn't burst, no matter how much Riley kicked it or lay on top of it.

It didn't take long for the equine enthusiasts to realize they had found more than a new toy for their horse, after fellow horse lovers said they were hunting for a similar product.

It took a year of research, field testing and negotiating with the manufacturer to become the exclusive equine distributor for the ball. Three years later, Lisa and Kenny's animal-toy business has prospered, with the couple selling their Equi-Spirit balls all over the world.

The key to the oversized ball's durability is an inner PVC bladder that's covered with a tough fabric. But the ball can be punctured, and while the ball's casing can be repaired, punctured bladders must be replaced.

It comes deflated with detailed yet fairly easy instructions on how to inflate it or repair punctures caused by large thorns or barbed wire. The 25- and 40-inch balls come in different colors and patterns, including soccer and basketball patterns and a smiley face, and range in price from $66 to $121.

Cones, mini-balls and a ball with spikes are part of the Equi-Spirit toy lineup.

Ross-Williams said sales have doubled every year, with dogs, camels, seals, elephants and even dolphins playing with the balls. Canine and feline toy lines are in the works.

"We did not expect (this), not at all," she said. "We thought some sales in U.S., but had no idea what it turned into."

Their product's popularity has spurred knockoffs. Although they sought legal counsel a few times, the pair has learned knockoffs come with the territory.

"It's a shame, but we've learned not to waste too much energy on those people," Ross-Williams said. "We'd rather be working toward putting energy toward something positive.".

Lisa, an Iowa native, met Kenny, a Pennsylvanian, when each held law-enforcement positions in the Air Force. Both have extensive equine experience with emphasis on homeopathic and holistic care and treatment.

Ross-Williams hosts the webcast "If Your Horse Could Talk" and is the associate editor of Natural Horse Magazine. Her husband co-hosts the webcast and both provide free horse education through the site and run the Talking Horse Ranch Educational Center.

"Ball sales support the Web site, which gives us the ability to help people," Williams said. "We are very passionate about empowering people and horses."

The couple have been married 18 years and say their "children" are the seven equines that have been rescued from abuse or neglect, including Riley, who was acquired at auction when he was just a few weeks old.

"They really found us," Williams said. "When you see them, you know they deserve to be with us."

The pair network with veterinarians worldwide, and many say that free play and regular exercise contribute to horses' improved health, lowered stress and anger levels, and longer life spans. Ross-Williams said playing comes naturally to horses, who love to run and have fun every chance they get.

"It's great physical and mental stimulation, and the horse develops muscle tone," Williams said. "Horses can exercise by themselves (and) for those horses that are alone, the ball becomes a friend."

The business helps the pair support charitable organizations, including those that provide riding therapy to people with disabilities, at-risk children and adults with emotional challenges.