It doesn't matter how big you are on the outside, what matters is how big you are on the inside!
VISIT INFORMATION
(CONTACT FORM AT BOTTOM OF PAGE)
A HORSE THAT CAN COME INSIDE!!
Because of their small size, miniature horses offer a unique opportunity to allow many people to encounter a horse that due to disabilities, illness, location, or any number of other reasons they may never get to experience. Some of the sites where minis can share their love include hospice care, substance abuse treatment facilities, youth homes, nursing homes, assisted living, transitional homes, and many others. Our miniature horses are house trained for up to one hour inside visits.
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HOW MINIATURE HORSES HELP
Mini therapy has many physical benefits such as lowering blood pressure, diminishing pain, and generating the release of endorphins which produce a calming effect. In a clinical setting, minis can help decrease feelings of isolation and alienation and encourage communication. Interacting with a mini can assist children and adults in re-developing personal and social skills such as empathy, appreciation for living things, nurturing instincts, and physical interaction. Befriending a mini is a “safe zone” because an animal’s acceptance is nonjudgmental, forgiving, and uncomplicated. And speaking from my personal experience, they are just fun to pet and visit with!
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WHAT HAPPENS DURING A VISIT?
During a 45 to 60 minute visit, participants will have the opportunity to pet and love on a miniature horse, brush them, and take photos. Initial visits to facilities usually involve an outside location with a group. Follow-up visits can include 5-10 minute individual visits inside the facility with approval (the minis are house trained for up to an hour inside) or any format that would best accommodate your needs and circumstances.
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HOW MUCH DOES IT COST FOR A VISIT?
Mini Hooves, Big Hearts Therapy Minis is a recognized 501(c)(3) and operates through donations and volunteer service. There is no cost to the facility for visits. In addition, Mini Hooves, Big Hearts is certified by Pet Partners, a nationally recognized organization for supporting therapy animals teams. This certification includes two million dollars of liability coverage for the visiting team (a copy can be provided upon request.)