Sweet Brook Gets a Visit From Tiny EquinesBy Tammy Daniels
iBerkshires Staff
12:06AM / Saturday, February 21, 2009
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Emma Archambault remembers riding on the broad backs of her father's big plow horses during her childhood on the family farm. Fred and Eddie would barely come up to the bellies of those draft horses but that was OK, she said, "They're just adorable."
Archambault's reaction to the two miniature horses was typical of the residents at Sweet Brook Care Center. The nursing home's elderly residents patted the thick winter coats of the tiny equines, who seemed as equally curious about them.
The horses were part of the pet therapy program at the home, though more domestic pets such as dogs are normally involved. The residents enjoy interacting with the animals, said Meg Greenawalt, activities director, since many had pets before coming to the home.
The horses are owned by Elizabeth Peters of Shaftsbury, Vt., who took training in the use of miniature pet therapy with the Hearts and Hooves program in Texas. Peters said she has eight miniature horses that she keeps in Hoosick Falls, N.Y. They've been visited schools, children's camps, autistic children and other nursing homes.
Elise Jandl, 8, helped Peters with the 9-year-old horses, who patiently clopped through the halls, stopping to be patted by residents.
"I think she should give me one," joked Archambault after learning Peters had eight. "They are just so sweet." |
