Ground-based sessions help people manage stress, trauma and anxiety without riding horses
Second Chance Ranch is expanding its mission of animal rehabilitation by introducing a new ground-based animal-assisted therapy program designed to support mental and emotional well-being.
Founder Darren Pruner explains Second Chance Ranch's mission.
The program, called Beyond the Gate, focuses on building meaningful connections between people and rescued ranch animals without horseback riding. Instead, participants spend time grooming, leading and quietly observing the animals in a calm outdoor setting.
Organizer Shannon Lewis explains how it works.
The ranch says the program uses the natural intuition of rescued horses and other animals to help people reduce stress, build confidence and improve emotional regulation. Lewis says that horses work perfectly for this program for a few specific reasons.
Beyond the Gate is open to individuals experiencing anxiety, burnout or trauma, including veterans, children and teens, as well as anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
Pruner says Beyond the Gate reflects the heart of Second Chance Ranch's mission.
Sessions take place at Second Chance Ranch and last about 60 minutes. They are available as individual or small-group sessions.
Second Chance Ranch is not an animal shelter but a rehabilitation facility dedicated to improving the lives of rescued animals through training, care and, when appropriate, rehoming. The ranch says Beyond the Gate builds on that mission by creating meaningful connections that benefit both people and animals.
Story by Alyssa Brush
