There’s something about the responsibility and caring for a horse and what the animal gives back to caregivers that brings peace to the people who come to HIS Haven Ranch.
The ranch offers people who suffer from anxiety, depression, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, even eating disorders a mix of spiritual security and purpose in the care of an animal willing to reciprocate almost unconditional affection. Recently, the ranch in rural Le Center celebrated its successes and honored the people who participate in its program at its fall show and picnic.
There are many stories of the security people who visit the ranch and partake in its programs enjoy. Debra Kunst of Mankato brings her grandson, Kyle, to the ranch. He has been participating in HIS Haven Ranch’s programming for seven years. The boy is a survivor of growing up in fear in an abusive household. Now 16, Kunst knows about unconditional love. She recalls his first visit to the ranch.
“He’d never been around horses,” she said. “He was scared to death.”
He used to wake up in the middle of the night fearful someone was coming down the stairs to abuse him. After years of play therapy and counseling, today, he has gained a sense of calm, especially when around the ranch’s equine residents. He’s learned to groom and ride the horses. He no longer fears the large animals and is comfortable feeding and cleaning up around them. Horses have a strong sensory ability. They can tell when a person is uneasy around them or upset, said Laurie Baer, HIS Haven Ranch’s director.
The comfort and trust between horse and human takes time to build, Baer said.
“It’s definitely a process,” Kunst said. “He loves to help. He’s come a long way.”
The confidence and selfreliance Kyle has...
To see more on this story pick up the October 19, 2023 print edition of The New Prague Times.
Ranch offers different type of care for horses, people
