Miniature Horses Bring Healing and Connection to Those in Need

Miniature horses are proving to be more than just adorable companions; they are making significant impacts in the lives of vulnerable individuals. Cherene Robertson, a former NHS medic from Scotland, leads a team of ten highly trained miniature horses through schools, universities, and care homes, offering comfort and communication to those in need. Through her non-profit organization, Lunar Eclipse, founded in 2021, Robertson is redefining equine-facilitated learning and wellness.

The emotional weight of Robertson’s work is evident in the stories of the individuals she has helped. For instance, a non-verbal child named Conor found his voice thanks to a miniature horse named Bubbles. Conor, who had limited speech, began to express excitement about horses after meeting Bubbles. His mother reported a remarkable change, stating he had never before come home from school so animated about a topic. With regular visits, Conor’s communication skills improved significantly, allowing him to engage in more structured conversations.

Providing Comfort in Final Days

The impact of Robertson’s miniature horses extends beyond children. One poignant example involves a terminally ill man named Stuart. Before his passing, Stuart developed a special bond with Apollo, one of the miniature horses. During a visit to the care home, Apollo approached Stuart and nestled against him, bringing an immediate sense of calm. Cherene recalled, “You just saw the biggest change. Suddenly Stuart seemed so much calmer, so much more relaxed.”

When the care home staff informed Robertson that Stuart’s time was limited, she rushed to bring Apollo. Unfortunately, they arrived too late, as Stuart had already passed. Nevertheless, the staff allowed Apollo to enter the room for a final farewell, where he snuggled against Stuart one last time. Robertson believes this moment provided immense comfort to Stuart, who had no family to be with him in his final days.

Specialized Training and Unique Personalities

Every horse in Robertson’s “hoof gang” undergoes specialized desensitization training, preparing them to remain calm in unpredictable and noisy environments. Each horse has its own distinctive personality, contributing to its therapeutic role. For example, a tiny Falabella has become known for his love of watching Netflix, while Apollo stands out for his ability to connect with those who need him most.

Robertson’s dedication to her horses and the people they serve is palpable. “There is something about a horse that no other animal has,” she said. “They all have therapeutic benefits, but a horse is on a completely different level about what they do for you.” Her work highlights the profound ways in which these miniature horses facilitate healing and connection, proving that even the smallest creatures can make a significant difference in the lives of others.