Children and
HORSES BY C.A. RITZ
FOR THE LOVE OF A HORSE
Bobbie took opportunities to spend time with horses while growing up. When asked about childhood memories, she replied, “I think the thing I loved most about horses were their muzzles… velvet soft, with prickles where their whiskers are.” To get that close, Bobbie learned to observe, trust, and communicate from her heart.
AT A RANCH
Each day horses are loved, respected, and cared for often by volunteers and mentees. Pony Clubs, 4-H clubs, riding camps, and equestrian organizations are concerned about animals and dedicated to their well-being. Organizations like Horses4Heroes in Las Vegas serve numerous veterans, community workers, and children. When I visited this ranch, students were confident, compassionate, and followed instructors’ leads watching the animals for signs of communication. Sydney Knott Cunningham, founder and CEO of Horses4Heroes and her team teach respect, communication skills, and how to care for animals including goats, miniature horses and a llama who watches over his steer “brother”. Certified instructor, Libuse “Libby” Bugl, is director of Health & Wellness programs. With family members who serve as first responders, Libby understands the challenges faced by families and the power of horses to heal hearts and reduce anxiety.
PERSONALITY PLUS
Libby calls Maverick, “the class clown”. Within moments of an introduction, his friendly yet mischievous side can be sensed. Horses at the ranch, like humans, have various personalities. One mare had four foals (baby horses) within five years. She is exceptionally sweet toward young human children. There’s also Tex, a horse who had no reason to trust humans but has developed an incredible bond with Libby, whose love for him is clear. Penny, a friendly mare, and Westley, her half-sibling, were saved when they were inside their mothers who were marked
for slaughter until rescued. There are so many compelling stories. Each horse influences different children and you can see kids gravitate to the personality with which they identify.
BENEFITS OF RANCH EXPERIENCE
Experts like Terri Farley (author of over 40 books including WILD AT HEART: MUSTANGS AND THE YOUNG PEOPLE FIGHTIING TO SAVE THEM) confirm that children who spend time working with horses develop discipline, focus, responsibility, teamwork, and empathy for other creatures. These majestic animals influence children and demonstrate to them how to make decisions without guilt. They respond to their riders and situations. Kids learn about herd mentality and discern when it is and is not helpful in their own lives. On a ranch children gain a community view beyond themselves. There, kids recognize the significance of service. Confidence and leadership skills result naturally and school performance for many increases with the development of these skills.
CONSIDER VISITING A RANCH AND FIND A NEW HEALTHY LIFESTYLE! C.A. Ritz ~ Author & Illustrator cynthialeopoldritsko.com Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • November/December 2021
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