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The Stable Scoop: Stories From Stable Friendships
Your Monthly Dose of Healing, Hope, and Horses
Stable Friendships Foundation
April 30, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes
☀️Sunny is On Duty | 💕Meet The Founder: Laura Merino
Stable Smiles: From First Meeting to First Session
Since this month we’re celebrating Sunny officially being on duty, we thought it would be fun to look back at the special moment when he first joined our herd. What began with a few curious glances across the paddock has grown into a trusted partnership.
Many hours were spent preparing Sunny for his moment to shine—through practice sessions, gentle introductions, and relationship-building. And now, he’s walking into sessions with confidence, purpose, and heart.
Our News
Meet The Founder : Laura Merino, OT
What led you to become an occupational therapist, and how did that journey bring you to equine-assisted therapy?
Becoming an OT wasn’t always part of the plan, but looking back, my path unfolded naturally. I studied Biology as an undergraduate while working part-time as a respite worker for children with different needs. That’s where I was first introduced to occupational therapists and was drawn to their holistic approach and focus on meaningful, individualized care.
After graduation, I spent several years as an environmental educator, always working with children and maintaining a strong connection to nature. I also spent summers at my grandmother’s farm, surrounded by animals and horses—experiences that quietly shaped my future. When I realized OT combined everything I loved—working with people, nature, and meaningful activities—I knew I had found my calling.
Later, while volunteering at a farm as a sidewalker, I met therapists using hippotherapy who encouraged me to give it a try. Taking that leap took some courage, but I’ve continued to grow and learn from the experience ever since.
How do you see hippotherapy making a difference in the lives of the individuals you work with?
Hippotherapy has a powerful effect on regulation and learning, creating a low-stress, highly motivating environment where clients feel safe to explore, grow, and connect. I see individuals not only gaining skills and self-awareness, but also discovering their place in relationship with others—including our equine partners. It's a unique setting that brings out joy, insight, and confidence.
What are your hopes for the future of Stable Friendships Foundation and its impact on the therapy community?
My hope is that Stable Friendships Foundation continues to be a peaceful, welcoming place where people and families receive holistic care rooted in respect, nature, and community. I also hope to see the Latino community and individuals from all backgrounds feel represented and included in this work. There’s so much healing possible when we prioritize positive relationships—between people, animals, and the world around us.
Founder and occupational therapist Laura Merino, OT, in action during a session—bringing care, creativity, and connection to every moment in the arena. 🐴💙
❓ Trivia Time ❓
On average, how much water does a horse drink each day?
A) 2–5 gallons
B) 5–10 gallons
C) 10–15 gallons
D) 15–20 gallons
* Scroll to the very bottom for the answer *
☀️Sunny Steps Into His New Role
We’re thrilled to share that Sunny is officially on duty as a therapy horse at Stable Friendships Foundation! After weeks of thoughtful introductions, training, and relationship-building, Sunny has shown us he’s more than ready to step into his new role supporting our clients.
Sunny, an 8-year-old Haflinger-Belgian Draft cross, brings a calm, grounded presence to each session. His gentle nature, steady movement, and willingness to connect have already made a meaningful impact. We couldn’t be prouder of the hard work he—and our team—put in to get here.
At Stable Friendships, we follow strict guidelines around how much each horse is allowed to work per day and per week. We’ll be gradually increasing Sunny’s sessions to ensure he’s handling his new responsibilities well—while also giving him the time he needs to decompress, rest, and simply be a horse.
Watching Sunny thrive in his new role is a beautiful reminder that healing starts with trust, patience, and partnership. We can’t wait to see the many lives he’ll touch on this journey. 💛
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!