Four-Legs, Full Hearts

Imagine being greeted at the door with unconditional love and he has four legs and his name is Cole

It makes sense after a long day of ups and downs to be greeted at the door by someone with unconditional love like Cole, our house dog. He is a constant reminder of what unconditional love looks and feels like. By caring for Cole and our house cat, Pokie, residents understand what it means to take care of a living being. It's a positive effect on your physical and mental well-being that seems to open up the healing

process.

Our Four Legged Friends

Cole is not the only animal that has been shown to help in a therapeutic setting. Our program includes horses at Westbrook Hunt Club and other animals at the Farm Animal Rescue. The research states that horses are “perfect mirrors, since they are very emotional beings” which allows those participating in equine therapy to experience human-like interactions with someone that doesn't shame or guilt. Imagine having reactions to events that are not intertwined with an ego; good, bad or apathetic, they simply mirror your feelings.

Sometimes, that's how change begins, one little change at a time.

Equine

Equine experience is like no other type of self-discovery.

Goat Farm

Bradley Mountain Farm in Southington. Imagine hugging baby goats! Sometimes it is the first time in a long time that a resident feels their heart warm for anyone.

Pokey and Cole

Don't lie to your dog. He knows the truth in your heart.

Residents often arrive with an unrealistic sense of self. Feelings about themselves and others are often extreme and unregulated. For some, it is easier in the beginning to relate to Cole or Pokey.