Lifestyle

Mini Horses Are a Powerhouse Duo When it Comes to Teaching Kids a Caring Bond

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Tony Maples Photography

 

A cute little couple of horses named Cisco and Dare make their rounds as ambassadors of Equest, an equine therapy organization from the Texas Horse Park in Dallas. And as part of their “jobs”, they visit local libraries and schools in the DFW area, teaching city children about horses, the unique healing bond that can happen between their species and humans, and possibly interesting the children in caring for such animals. Not taller than 36 inches (and done growing,) these mini horses, are in high demand, and those that book them for visits (librarians and teachers,) often encourage the kids to read and learn more about them in advance of their visit, following up with the positive reinforcement of having the face-to-face interaction.

Mini Horses Are a Powerhouse Duo When it Comes to Teaching Kids a Caring Bond

Photo: Facebook/Equest Hooves for Heroes

The Texas Horse Park is not only home to the mini horses in the Equest program, but it also features a variety of full-size horse programs coupled with them that help veterans struggling with PTSD and people with disabilities. Helping both with therapy, soothing them, as well as comforting and calming them reassuringly. The ultimate mission for the Equest Mini Ambassador Program (to which Dare and Cisco belong) is helping those of all ages to learn about the exceptional therapeutic relationships that can exist between humans and horses.

Mini Horses Are a Powerhouse Duo When it Comes to Teaching Kids a Caring Bond

Photo: Facebook/Equest

With more than 1,200 clients and 1,000 community students assisted each year, Equest features such programs as therapeutic horsemanship, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, Hooves for Heroes veterans’ program, and equine facilitated counseling, to name a few. And docile Dare and Cisco lead the charge in the Mini Ambassador Program, teaching children things they didn’t know, inviting them to learn more, and reaching out to those that wouldn’t otherwise have the chance to learn from this charming duo. To learn more about Equest programs, visit their website, or check out their event schedule to see where you might next get the opportunity to view their care and compassion first hand.