Community Outreach Program

What are the benefits of  equine therapy?

1.Mental & Emotional Well-being:  Physical interaction with animals facilitates communication with other people, recalled memories, & an increase in mental activity.  In situations that are depressing or institutional, the animals serve to brighten the atmosphere, increasing amusement, laughter, & play. These positive distractions help decrease feelings of isolation & alienation.  In addition, animals’ acceptance & love are nonjudgmental, forgiving, & uncomplicated, making them instrumental with children & adults who have suffered abuse.

Seniors enjoy visiting with Cole, Miniature Horse, & Shannon Smith, Whisper Ranch’s Executive Director

2.Socialization & Entertainment:  Studies have shown that when animals visit a care facility, there is more laughter & interaction among residents than during any other "therapy" or entertainment time. In an inpatient setting, the presence of animals encourages socialization. Staff members have reported that it is easier to talk to residents during & after animal visits. Family members are encouraged to come during the animal visits & have reported that it is an especially comfortable & pleasant time.  When working with abuse victims, the animals encourage an outward focus, helping people overcome the difficulties that interactions can present for them.

3.Physical Touch:  Touch is very important for the nourishment of our mind & spirit.  In institutional settings, where most touch is painful or invasive, the touch of an animal is safe, non-threatening, & pleasant.  For some people, touch from another person is not acceptable, but the warm, furry touch of an animal is welcome & appreciated. There are a number of programs for people who have been physically or sexually abused in which staff & volunteers are not allowed to touch the clients. In cases like these, having an animal to hold, hug, & touch can make a world of difference to people who would otherwise have no positive, appropriate physical touch.

4.Physiological Improvement:  Tests have shown that time spent with animals has a calming effect.  The decrease in heart rate & blood pressure can be dramatic.

To help defray the cost of travel with & care of the equines in the Community Outreach Program, Whisper Ranch asks for a donation of $150/visit.  Typically, we bring 3 equines with handlers.  On the occasion that an indoor visit is requested, we may limit that to 2 equines with 3 handlers to better manage getting in & out of buildings.  (Yes, that’s right…they can & do go inside buildings!)  However, if your group is unable to make a full donation or even a partial donation, please contact us anyway.  Whisper Ranch is committed to never turning anyone away due to finances & is proactively working to secure sponsorships to provide in these situations.