The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships

Your Monthly Dose of Healing, Hope, and Horses

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Stable Friendships Foundation
February 28, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Founder Spotlight | Learning, Growing and Looking Ahead | Hippotherapy at PACE

Stable Smiles: A Summer Throwback

With the winter chill in full swing, we’re looking back at a fun summer moment to remind us that warmer days are on their way! Watch as Ozzy enjoys a refreshing spray from the hose—because even our horses love to cool off in the summer heat. Hang in there, sunshine will be here before we know it! ☀️🐴

Our News

Educating Future OT’s: Hippotherapy @ PACE

This month, we had the incredible opportunity to teach a class to the Occupational Therapy students at PACE University, introducing them to hippotherapy and how it can be integrated into treatment plans. As awareness of equine-assisted therapy continues to grow, we’re honored to help shape the next generation of OTs by sharing the science and impact behind this powerful approach.

We are also thrilled to strengthen our relationship with the PACE OT program and look forward to welcoming three OT interns this spring! Their hands-on experience at Stable Friendships will give them valuable insight into the role of horses in therapy, and we can’t wait to support their learning journey.

Founder and occupational therapist Laura Merino, OT, educating future therapists on integrating equine movement into treatment plans—an important step in expanding access to this impactful approach!

Trivia Time

How did they make the famous horse from the 1960s sitcom Mr. Ed appear to talk?

A) They used peanut butter
B) They trained the horse to move its lips on cue
C) They used hidden wires
D) The actor voiced over pre-recorded footage

 🐴 Scroll to the very bottom for the answer 🐴

Melissa & Ryler waiting for their equine partner to join the session.

Founder Spotlight: Meet Melissa

1. What inspired you to co-found Stable Friendships Foundation, and what was your vision for it?
"The inspiration behind co-founding Stable Friendships Foundation is multifaceted, but the core vision was to create a community where people from all walks of life could access equine-assisted services while ensuring the welfare of our horses remained just as important. In this vision, horses and humans share space in a way that fosters connection, respect, and a truly healing environment for all.

2. How have you seen hippotherapy and equine assisted therapy make a difference in the lives of participants?
Having been in the equine-assisted therapy industry for the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing what can only be described as mini miracles. I’ve been present for so many ‘firsts’—first words, first steps, first acts of bravery—all made possible through the incredible partnership between horses and humans. It is truly an honor to do this work and to witness the profound impact it has on our participants..

3. What are your hopes for the future of Stable Friendships Foundation?
My hope for Stable Friendships Foundation is to have a lasting, positive impact on those we serve, our equine partners, and the industry at large. I want our work to set an example of what is possible in equine-assisted therapy, showing that this profession can be both impactful and sustainable. By leading the way, I hope we can inspire other therapists to create meaningful change while always prioritizing the well-being of both humans and horses.

A day of learning, connection, and horsemanship with Jacleen Hess! Grateful for this incredible group and the opportunity to grow together. 🐴💙

Learning, Growing, and connection with Jacleen Hess

This month, we had the incredible opportunity to learn from Jacleen Hess, the talented trainer and PTA who helped train our equine partners, Ozzy and Sunny. Our afternoon together was filled with hands-on horsemanship, problem-solving, and deepening our understanding of seeing things from the horse’s perspective—because sometimes, that’s exactly what helps us move forward.

It was an amazing experience, and we’re already looking forward to welcoming Jacleen back this spring for another session of learning and connection. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this such a meaningful day!

Ways to Support Us

Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the healing power of horsemanship by sharing our mission with your friends, family, and social media networks. GUESS WHAT?! You can use the icons at the top of this email to seamlessly share our content via email, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook. Together, let’s amplify our message and make a lasting difference!

Volunteer with us : We are always looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team. Whether you have experience with horses or prefer to support us in other ways, there are positions available for everyone

Online Donations : Your financial support helps us maintain our programs and reach more individuals in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Saddle Up with Our Merchandise : We’re thrilled to offer Stable Friendships Foundation merchandise through Bonfire! Each purchase supports our mission, with proceeds going directly back to our program. Shop now and wear you support with pride!

Trivia Answer: 

Answer: B) They trained the horse to move its lips on cue!
Contrary to popular belief, Mr. Ed wasn’t made to "talk" with peanut butter. Instead, the talented palomino, Bamboo Harvester, was trained to move his lips when his trainer touched his hoof. Over time, he even started doing it on verbal command, making him one of TV’s most famous horses!