Our Story
Living peacefully in the quietly beautiful hills above Santa Fe New Mexico, Thor, Hot Dog, Serafina and Melly are the heart of our program. Hundreds of children have visited our ranch, books clutched in small hands, eager to make a new friend. The success of the initial reading program inspired us to create a second program that we call āHelping Hoovesā for children and adolescents who are experiencing painful change and loss in their lives and can benefit from a structured series of interactions with our listeners over a period of time. One of the many mysteries of life is how and why children in distress can obtain comfort from spending time in quiet play, teaching a horse to respond to simple commands such as āHug Meā, grooming or simply whispering to a furry companion who is smaller than the child. We have witnessed some truly remarkable moments and have gradually learned that it Thor, Hot Dog, Serafina and Melly who gravitate towards the child who needs them the most.
Kindness and helping are a two-way street; children gain exposure to these wonderful animals and learn about the keen intelligence, sensitivity and warmth that are the hallmark of well-loved equines. Like everyone, horses, donkeys and mules do well when they have a meaningful purpose in life.
Our programs are entirely supported by donations. We do not charge families, although children are encouraged to bring apples and carrots as a reward for a good listener!
Children interact with the listeners in the carefully designed corral and barn where the equines are most comfortable. Upon request and with advance notice, we provide site visits to schools and community centers.
