Lunar gets a pat during a visit to JourneyCare in Barrington. The SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program has 10 miniature horses, eight registered therapy dogs, and even a therapy cat that visits in a stroller. (Courtesy of SOUL Harbour Ranch)
These days, it’s not so unusual to see therapy dogs roam hospital hallways or visiting nursing home rooms.
What may be a little more unusual is seeing sneaker-wearing miniature horses waiting their turn to offer up a little nuzzle.
The SOUL Harbour Ranch Therapy Program in Barrington brings miniature horses — as well as its trained dogs — to spread a little love to the elderly, people who are sick or those who just need a little comfort.
Jodie Diegel and her husband, Jerry, owners of SOUL Harbour Ranch, have grown the program to 50 volunteers with various therapy animals. Their hope is to continue to expand their offerings to keep spreading the joy these loving animals bring.
Jodie discusses the programs they offer and how you can join their team or offer other assistance.
Q: What is the SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program? Give a brief overview of what the organization does.
A: The SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 located in Barrington, home to founder and president Jodie Diegel and her husband, Jerry.
Read the rest of the Q&A in the Daily Herald here.
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