Newsletter Articles

February 2024

Celebrating our Volunteers

Here at Heart of Horse Sense, we are forever grateful for our dedicated volunteers who show up with great enthusiasm in whatever project is on the calendar. There’s always something that needs attention, whether it’s working outside on the property, gathering at the barn, assisting in the office, or helping with special events. 

Like all non-profits, we recognize that volunteers are the heart of an organization. Without their time and talent, everything would come to a standstill, similar to operating a car without gasoline or oil. They’re an essential part of the family here at the farm, and we celebrate each and every one with great appreciation.

Connecting with our horses is something our volunteers value, so from the very beginning we’ve carved out quality time with the herd after working on a project or task. It allows each person to be in the moment with a horse, sharing an outdoor activity that brings comfort, mindfulness, and trust while stepping away from daily obligations and the stresses in life. We often hear how meaningful this time together with the horses is for our volunteers. They feel refreshed and exhilarated after being in nature with such sensitive animals, looking forward to more interaction.

Many individuals have asked to learn more about the healing power of horses, with an interest in digging deeper into the benefits of equine-assisted psychotherapy, animal behavior, and communication.

Listening to others helps keep us moving forward, so we honored those requests by offering ongoing six/eight-week courses for all our current and future volunteers, staff, and board of directors. Each week we’ll meet and explore more about our mission at Heart of Horse Sense and the role horses play in helping survivors of trauma heal and rebuild their lives.

There are many opportunities for volunteering in addition to helping outdoors, in the office, and with special events. We have different committees that might be of interest after taking the training course that involves governance, finance and sustainability, programs, and one that is especially fun—development. This committee oversees and plans events while generating fresh new ideas for building awareness and connecting with the communities throughout western North Carolina.

Another important one that’s close to my heart is the Volunteer Committee—assisting with our volunteer training sessions, ongoing projects, and special events, plus helping generate more interest in our surrounding communities about Heart of Horse Sense and ways to get involved.

Thank you to all our volunteers. We hold you close in our hearts with great gratitude for all you do. We’re looking forward to many adventures on the horizon. For more information, you can contact me at: volunteer@heartofhorsesense.org. 

Gina DeBreto
Volunteer Coordinator

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hONORING THE oNE yOU lOVE
bOARD OF dIRECTORS pRESIDENT
wILLIAM kELLEY

A flier on the bulletin board at Ingles gave a grieving husband a way to remember his beloved wife with something near and dear to her heart—a non-profit organization involved with horses helping people.

“My daughter Becca was the one who saw the notice about a family-friendly gathering at Heart of Horse Sense,” remembers William Kelley, a physician’s assistant in Murphy, North Carolina, “My wife Nicole had recently died, and our family had been thinking about a way to honor her life and love of horses. The notice was about the farm’s upcoming ‘Mane Event’ where folks could learn more about equine-assisted psychotherapy with a horse demonstration, along with fun activities for children and grownups.”

The idea intrigued William, remembering a happy life with Nicole and their horses. They had met as teenagers participating in US Pony Clubs and other riding groups in Florida, and over the years had horses of their own. Enjoying the outdoors and having a variety of barnyard animals was something the couple relished, especially raising their two children in such a wholesome setting.

This passion continued throughout the years when moving to North Carolina when Nicole, an environmental biologist, was hired as the volunteer coordinator for the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition in Murphy. William also found work in his field of medicine, working in the Cherokee Indian Hospital and the local jail, The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Detention Center (EBCI). It was a great move, bringing along their menagerie of horses, goats, and family pooch.

Looking back, William remembers in his youth wanting to be a veterinarian, knowing large animal medicine is extremely fulfilling, but it can take a toll on one’s body, especially out in the field in all kinds of weather. He decided to stay involved with horses for fun while deciding human medicine might be a more practical career choice. He’s glad he chose this route in life, working as a paramedic and firefighter, while earning a degree in PA studies at the University of Florida.

“The best part of my work is connecting with my patients,” explains William, “Being in the moment with each individual and their family is so gratifying, especially developing meaningful friendships over the years. I’ve learned so much from each person. I’m so happy that I chose this path in life.”

William decided to drive to the farm outside of Marshall in 2019 to see what the Mane Event was all about and to learn more about the healing power of horses. He knew how much his animals had helped him, especially during the grieving process of missing Nicole; he was curious about learning more about treating trauma.

That visit made a big impression on William; he was intrigued and impressed with the operation and dedication of the staff and volunteers. He stayed in touch, returning for other activities and events.

He also realized this was just the place to honor Nicole, creating a fund in her name through the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, an Asheville-based organization that assists donors in fulfilling their philanthropic dreams. 

This was something William knew Nicole would have embraced wholeheartedly. Her love of horses and how they touched people’s lives was something she believed in passionately. Everyone in the family agreed, celebrating her life and legacy with a promise of hope in treating trauma was the perfect tribute.

William found himself drawn to Heart of Horse Sense, getting more involved and accepting a request to serve on the Board of Directors. That he did with great enthusiasm, eventually taking on the position of board president.

With every activity and project at the farm, William feels Nicole’s presence, especially looking out at the horizon where horses graze peacefully in the meadow. What a unique way to have purpose in life, remembering one’s partner and being part of a program that reaches out to survivors of trauma. 

William is forever grateful that Becca saw that flier at the grocery store, taking time to jot down the information and give him a call. That was indeed serendipity—a splendid discovery that keeps on giving. 

Thanks William for all you do—helping people heal in your work as a physician’s assistant and giving of your time and kindness here at Heart of Horse Sense. We’re forever grateful!

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WINTER WEATHER
HOW HORSES STAY WARM

As temperatures drop into the thirties and below, we humans need to bundle up in jackets and wooly scarves before venturing out the door. We mustn’t forget to grab our gloves and boots, knowing we’d be chilled to the bone within minutes traipsing through the snow.

Fortunately, horses have the ability to adapt to harsh weather conditions because of a remarkable built-in system throughout their bodies that protects them from the elements. It’s one more way Mother Nature takes care of things in the wild and out in the pasture.

During the autumn as days get shorter and nights get colder, horses grow a new and longer coat preparing them for winter. Each hair works in unison, straightening up so it ‘stands on end,’ trapping tiny air pockets that provide thermal insulation along the skin surface. This is accomplished by the tiny arrector pili muscles found in mammals that are attached to the lowest point of each hair follicle, triggering a contraction when it’s cold. In humans, this is what we call ‘goose bumps,’ when the brain alerts the body to warm up, or when we’re experiencing feelings of fear or awe.

In addition to insulting the body against the cold, a horse’s coat contains oils in each hair that help shed moisture, preventing body heat from escaping and snow from melting and getting them wet. They also have a well-developed layer of fat beneath the skin that helps keep them warm and comfortable.

A horse’s thick, stocky body can retain heat for long periods of time, especially when it comes to eating hay, a high fiber forage that’s digested through the process of bacterial fermentation. This helps horses maintain a core body temperature that keeps them comfortable and protects the organs of the body. It’s a lot like stoking a furnace: supplying fuel that generates heat.

Other parts of the body help keep things on track. Horses have the ability to warm the frigid outside air in their long nasal passages before it reaches their lungs. And, their big, soft muzzle is filled with a rich supply of blood, alleviating any chance of getting frostbite. 

Oxygen-rich blood also plays a part in minimizing heat loss by rerouting its supply under the surface of the skin deep within the body, warming the heart, lungs, and other organs. 

More magic is going on at ground level. A signal alerts the body that the feet are getting cold, so a direct shunt opens up, allowing more blood flow within the hoof.  Anatomy plays an additional role in the structure of the legs. There is no muscle mass below the knee (hock), but instead mostly tendons and bone that resist the cold more readily.

A horse’s tail is important year-round, whether it’s swatting flies, maintaining balance, or communicating to others in the herd. When it’s cold outside, they can tuck their tail between their back legs, shielding the almost hairless underneath area of the body, and protecting their private parts. A stallion is especially appreciative for that. Their hairless scrotum is situated on the outside of the body so it can maintain a slightly lower temperature during breeding season, but it needs added protection from the elements when winter arrives. Again, Mother Nature came to the rescue, providing a handy muscle called the dartos that simply folds the scrotum up again the body, keeping it safe and warm.

There’s something to be said about horse sense—the ability to make good judgments or decisions. You’ll notice this during the winter when horses turn their backs to the wind and cold. They instinctively know it’s the right thing to do, using a bigger part of the body as a shield, protecting them from the elements. It isn’t important for them to understand that their rump and hindquarters have a thicker skin and coat, or there’s a narrowing of blood vessels under the surface of the skin throughout the body called vasoconstriction that circulates warm blood flow into internal tissues and organs. They just care about keeping warm and away from the blowing wind.

That’s why having a covered run-in shed in the pasture that opens away from normal wind patterns is essential in helping horses seek protection from blistery and wet weather conditions. Just having access to a simple shelter will help them retain heat and maintain a core body temperature.

There’s a debate among horse owners whether or not to blanket their animals. It’s certainly advisable if the horse has been clipped or their winter coat hasn’t grown in. This is especially true when moving to a colder climate from warmer regions as winter approaches. 

Here at the farm, our horses enjoy being outdoors with lots of pastureland. They don’t mind rain or snow, but freezing rain/sleet can be detrimental to their health and well-being. We have run-in sheds for their protection, plus we can bring them into the barn arena for added protection. We set up a cozy spot for Hansel and Derek, our two miniature horses, along with Bruiser, our miniature donkey. We’ll also disassemble the large outside pen, moving the panels into the arena, creating a comfortable space for the outside herd so they’re not in stalls. This gives them protection and ample room to move about. Another factor that’s especially important in winter is providing plenty of hay that fuels them, keeping them fit and active.

It’s paramount to always provide plenty of ventilation in a barn, especially during cold winter months. It’s a natural tendency for humans to think things have to be buttoned up to keep everyone warm, but that will bring about a host of problems for horses.

Fresh, circulating air is vital for any living creature. When doors and other openings are shut, inadequate ventilation can quickly cause the air to become stagnant, creating havoc on an animal’s respiratory system. It’s important to be able to provide quality air flow in the building without causing drafts. Moving air will sweep away dust and mold particles, as well as airborne viruses and bacteria. 

So, let it snow! Horses have the ability to withstand all sorts of wintery weather conditions. It’s important to make sure they have plenty of quality hay to fuel their bodies and adequate shelter for protection from howling winds and freezing sleet. Yes indeed, horses have their own built-in jackets and scarves, thanks to a remarkable anatomical system handed down through the centuries from Mother Nature!

December 2023 Issue

Heartfelt Thanks
Board of Directors

Like the sails on a ship, the Board of Directors is an intricate and important part of a non-profit organization’s mission and sustainability.

It’s defined as:   A group of individuals who are elected to govern and oversee the organization’s operations.  They are responsible for setting the mission, strategy, and goals, ensuring that everything operates in compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Here at Heart of Horse Sense, we are forever grateful for each individual who has served on the Board since our inception in 2014.  We so appreciate their commitment to our mission of providing Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning to survivors of trauma, helping heal and rebuild their lives.  Each board member has embraced our goal of raising funds for low-cost and complimentary therapy sessions for veterans, first responders, children and youth at risk, and others affected by PTSD and other trauma.  It’s our heartfelt vision that every survivor has access to counseling and learning with the guidance of certified therapists, equine professionals, and our herd of rescued horses.

How comforting to know that when a board member’s term ends, many continue participating as ambassadors at events, retreats, and other activities.  We truly treasure the friendships we’ve made and look forward to more adventures on the horizon.

As the year comes to a close, we bid farewell to three board members:  Tressa Hayes, Vice Chair, Jacqui Friedrich, Treasurer, and Member-at-Large, Aarin Miles.  What a wonderful experience it has been working with each woman on this path together.  They will always be a treasured member of the herd—forever in our hearts with such admiration.

While we have found a treasurer, we are still on the lookout for two new board members and also additional committee members.  We have five committees:  Governance, Finance/Sustainability, Programs, Development and Volunteer.  Serving on a committee can be a great way to determine if Board Service is a good fit for you.   Here’s more information on each committee:

Governance:  proper management of the organizations, including paying attention to bylaws and minutes, and record-keeping, as well as insurance and legal needs.

Finance/Sustainability:  committee members look at the financial health of the organization and make recommendations for improvement.

Programs:  oversees the grant application process from EAP organizations in western North Carolina, performs site visits and follows up on each funded program’s performance.

Development:  oversees and plans events, and generates fresh new ideas for building awareness and connecting with the community.     

 Volunteer:  assists and supports the volunteer coordinator with our volunteer training process, and generates more qualified and passionate individuals interested in becoming volunteers.                                                                                                                                                                                       

We are looking to fill these three positions on the Board of Directors and beef up our representation on Committees!  If you or others you know have an interest in learning more about serving on the Board or volunteer committees, please contact me.  I’d be delighted chatting with you over coffee or inviting you to visit the farm. 

Thank you!

Onward with gratitude,
Shannon Knapp

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Board of Directors Spotlight
Amanda Watkins

We are forever grateful for our Board of Directors who volunteer their time and share their knowledge with us here at Heart of Horse Sense.  Ever since our inception as a non-profit organization almost ten years ago, we’ve been very fortunate in gathering a wonderful group of dedicated individuals with years of experience and community involvement. 

Each person has contributed so much to our mission in helping veterans, first responders, children and youth at risk, and other survivors of trauma with low cost and complimentary equine assisted psychotherapy.  Like us, our Board of Directors wants to help others heal and rebuild their lives with the help of licensed therapists, equine professionals, and our beloved herd of horses.

We’d like to introduce one of our members-at-large on the board, Amanda Watkins.  A gentle and compassionate soul best describes Amanda, a licensed professional counselor and end-of-life doula in private practice in Asheville.  Her experience working with trauma and grief led her to us six years ago, thanks to an introduction by another board member at the time, Jake LaRue, an equine professional here at Heart Sense of the Carolinas and founder of his own non-profit, A Man with a Horse Project.  Jake and his wife Dari first met Amanda when they moved to the area, forming a lasting friendship and shared interest in helping those in the throes of trauma. 

We’re very thankful for that introduction, as we were hoping to find a therapist to join the Board.  Amanda was and continues to be an outstanding member, sharing her insight and bright ideas with such grace.

When Amanda has free time, she enjoys hiking and birdwatching with her wife, Kathryn McGee and their two rescued Beagle dogs, Cooper and Emmett.  Both pooches were thrilled when their parents had their wedding ceremony surrounded by family and friends in the backyard.  Every photo is all smiles with the dogs dressed to the nines in bow ties and tuxedo jackets. 

Beagles have a soft spot in Amanda’s heart, not only for their sweet personalities and people-pleasing nature, but also for a desire to help them escape the horrific conditions thousands of dogs endure in the hands of humans involved in medical and commercial research.  Beagles seem to be the “dog of choice” because of their small size and easy temperaments.

She was instrumental in spreading the word last year when 4,000 Beagles were rescued from a Virginia breeding facility.  Thanks to the investigative efforts of the Humane Society of the United States, The US Department of Agriculture, and national and local news media, a rescue team brought to light the atrocious conditions these dogs were in—crammed in small and filthy cages stacked to the ceiling.  The dogs were released and given a new lease on life with immediate veterinary care and compassionate individuals helping them find forever homes, far away from a life of despair.

The facility where the dogs were bred is just one of many across the nation, providing thousands of animals (dogs, cats, rabbits, and many others) to laboratories that still practice inhumane and horrendous procedures in the name of research:  medical companies and businesses that manufacture household and beauty products.  They are worse than any backyard puppy mill; these breeding facilities are scattered across the country where thousands of dogs and other animals are confined in abominable conditions.

This practice is something Amanda wants to end.  She’s very aware of what’s happening—what bills are going into effect, facilities being investigated, how to help and rescue animals still being used in research, and what companies still test on animals.  She’s a champion for all living creatures, hoping to abolish these torturous procedures.  One of the organizations she follows is The Beagle Freedom Project, with a mission focused on educating, legislating, and liberating in the pursuit of rescuing and rehoming Beagles.  More information is available at: www.bfp.org  She also hopes consumers will be aware of what companies still test on animals and those that don’t.  There are many individuals and organizations hoping to end animal testing, one is Cruelty Free International (www.crueltyfreeinternational.org).  An internet search will produce additional information.

Amanda hopes that more people will become aware and stand up for humane rights for animals, “It may seem unattainable and beyond our ability to do anything, but all it takes is one person raising a stink.  Grassroots efforts can make a difference.”

We hope you’ll have an opportunity to meet and visit with Amanada at one of our events, experiencing her warmth and compassion for others.  Her belief is that kindness is a simple but powerful way to build a bridge between hearts.  Thanks, Amanda for being part of our herd!

September 2023 Issue

Sunflowers, pumpkins, and autumn leaves beckon as we look forward to a very special celebration and fundraiser, Moonlight on the Meadow, Saturday, October 7 from 5 to 10 pm here at the farm. (7041 Meadows Town Road, Marshall, NC). 

We’re planning an enchanting evening celebrating 20 years that Horse Sense of the Carolinas has helped individuals heal and rebuild their lives with equine assisted psychotherapy.

 This is also a fundraiser in honoring the efforts of Heart of Horse Sense, our non-profit organization that provides support for low- to no-cost therapy sessions for veterans, first responders, children and youth at risk, and those affected by domestic violence and human trafficking. It’s our heartfelt vision that every trauma survivor has access to counseling and learning with the guidance of horses, certified therapists, and equine professionals.

The festivities begin with a live demonstration with the horses in the outdoor arena where we’ll share more about our passion and purpose. Then there’s time to meander about, visiting our new  “tiny house” building, the “Hitchin’ Post.”  It’s a comfortable and cozy gathering place next to the barn for veterans, first responders, and others visiting the farm.

We’re really excited about dinner….dining al fresco outside at long farm tables nestled among the trees. Al fresco is Italian for “in the cool fresh air,” an informal setting to linger and enjoy good food and conversation.

Another Italian word conjures up peace and tranquility—passeggiata, deriving from the Italian verb passeggiare, which means to leisurely walk. It’s a lovely custom where friends and family stroll about, usually before sitting at the table. 

Keeping with tradition, we’ll also meander about visiting our two miniature horses, Hansel and Derek, and miniature donkey, Bruiser while gazing out to our herd of horses on the meadow. You might encounter one of the many deer or turkey that frequent the farm.

Then it’s time to gather in the barn where we will be entertained by a selection of poignant readings presented by the North Carolina Veteran’s Writing Alliance Foundation, Brothers and Sisters Like These, featuring members’ stories and poems as part of their healing process.

We’re delighted in having local singer/songwriter Katie Oates on stage with a lineup of great music for your enjoyment.  We’re hoping this gets toes a tapping and folks out there dancing.  Then it’s time to break into song as we cut a giant birthday cake celebrating our 20 years serving clients here on the farm with the horses.  

If Mother Nature sends some rain, we’ll simply move everything inside the barn, listening to raindrops on the roof.  So far, the extended weather forecast  promises clear skies with temperatures in the 70’s.  It’ll be time for denim and cowboy boots if you desire….celebrating comfort and fun!

You’ll find tickets online at Eventbrite.  www.eventbrite.com  At the top of the website you’ll see a space to type in Moonlight on the Meadow that brings up more information and a link to purchase tickets -  $35 each….$50 per couple. Easy driving direction are on our website:  www.horsesenseotc.com  We’re not that far….just 19 miles from downtown Asheville.  We will have parking attendants at the entrance of the farm, guiding folks to our van shuttles up the hill to the festivities with ease and comfort.

As the evening comes to a close, we’ll bid you farewell and a safe journey home in the moonlight with heartfelt thanks and gratitude for being part of this special celebration.  We also send all of you who can’t be with us that night our best wishes and appreciation for your continued interest and support.  Thank you from everyone at Horse Sense of the Carolinas and Heart of Horse Sense! 

                                                  Hope to see you at Moonlight on the Meadow! 

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Road Trip to Ohio

Packing the truck and heading out on the road is something I always enjoy, especially if the destination involves sharing my passion about horses helping humans heal and rebuild their lives. It’s one thing immersing oneself in equine assisted psychotherapy here at the farm, but talking with interested individuals exploring the concept is truly exhilarating and fulfilling. It’s a conversation that brings people together, whether we’re meeting for coffee, visiting someone’s barn, or attending a workshop. 

This recent sojourn took me to Twinsburg, Ohio as a sponsor and speaker at The HERD Institute’s® “Sharing the Herd” Conference. HERD stands for Human-Equine-Relational Development. Founded by Veronica Lac, Ph.D., LPC, The HERD Institute® prides itself on the compassionate and relational way they work with horses and humans. They offer equine-facilitated psychotherapy and learning certification for mental health practitioners, coaches, educators, and training professionals.  For more information:  www.herdinstitute.com . 

It was an honor to be one of the presenters, speaking on a favorite subject, Best of Both Worlds: The For and Non-Profit Connection. I was also a proud member of the audience when Jake LaRue, one of our dedicated equine professionals at Horse Sense of the Carolinas and past Board Chair of Heart of Horse Sense shared his story and passion, Warriors and Wild Mustangs. You could literally hear a pin drop when he spoke about being a Marine Corps veteran, adopting two wild Mustangs, and how horses saved his life after returning from war.   

Holding down the fort for the entire three days at our booth was Chris Tucker, Director of Operations and Equine Specialist here at Horse Sense of the Carolinas. Always smiling and enthusiastic, Chris visited with conference attendees,  and kept the table stacked with the new book and information on the work we do with horses. She is the best ambassador—someone we treasure and appreciate dearly. 

Thanks Jake and Chris for being part of our herd. You are truly the best in all you do! I’m back at the farm, savoring each day with our horses, therapists, equine professionals, volunteers, and visitors. We’re busy getting ready for Moonlight on the Meadow coming up on October 7th. There’s more information on the event in this newsletter, on Facebook, and our websites.  Hope to see you there!

                                                                                 Onward with gratitude…..

                                                                                                Shannon

August 2023 Issue

Another Chance for "Chance"

To be cherished in life is a gift like no other. It’s the exalted form of love—the highest, strongest feeling a person can have for another. Dictionaries define “cherish” as to “protect and care for someone lovingly….to highly value and protect another.” 

That’s the feeling 25-year-old Rocky Mountain horse Chance felt during the many years together with his human partner, Brenda Drammann. He was treasured and adored beyond measure, wrapped in the embrace of love that brought pure joy and delight to every moment they shared. 

The two met when Brenda was looking for a specific breed of horse with a gentle gait for riding because of her rheumatoid arthritis, a painful autoimmune and inflammatory disease. In RA, the body’s immune system attacks its own tissue, including joints, muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and internal organs. It can be very painful and debilitating, especially when an individual has a passion for horseback riding.

Bouncing up and down in the saddle as a horse trots can take a toll on one’s body when suffering from RA. Medications and breathing exercises can help, but the constant motion can be jarring for the spine, back muscles, and legs.

Not one to give up, Brenda talked with others and did her own research, soon discovering the Rocky Mountain horse might be the answer for future riding. The breed is known for its smooth, ambling gait that glides forward in a comfortable manner, where the horse lifts each foot up separately while putting each down alone. They move their feet with minimal ground clearance and knee and hock action, providing a gentle ride that many describe as a smooth-as-silk experience. 

Contrary to the name, the breed did not originate in the rugged mountains out west, but instead began in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Kentucky in the 1800’s. They were a favorite saddle horse, but also were the choice for local postmen, doctors, and traveling preachers, pulling their carts throughout the countryside. They were also bred for plowing small fields, herding cattle and sheep, and driving the family buggy to church on Sundays. 

Like Goldilocks finding the perfect bowl of porridge, Brenda had a good feeling about the breed. When she met Chance, everything just felt right. They had an instant connection that grew stronger and deeper through the years. Riding was easy on her body, and just being in his presence brought great happiness and contentment. 

This proved to be even more apparent when Brenda learned she had developed inflammatory breast cancer, an aggressive and painful form of the disease. When she could no longer ride her beloved horse, she still spent time with Chance every day at Fordbrook Stables, a boarding facility in Asheville.

“Cancer has a way of taking over an individual’s life,” explains Brenda’s sister Karen Dammann, pastor of Langley United Methodist Church on Whidbey Island, Washington,  “There are countless medical appointments and treatments, traveling back and forth to cancer hospitals, plus downtime when feeling weak and sick. But, Brenda was determined not to let that stop her from spending quality time with Chance. She was up and out the door like clockwork, heading off to the stables, explaining those hours were her “Church of the Horse” where she found inspiration and renewed energy. Being together with Chance brought her such comfort, whether the time was spent with a curry comb or simply whispering in his ear with whatever thoughts were churning inside. For a moment in time, Brenda could forget about needles, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, concentrating instead on the bond she shared with this amazing horse.” 

Karen believes wholeheartedly that her sister’s time together with Chance helped ease the emotional and physical pain of the disease. It was a respite from the rest of the world, providing solace and peace that one needs when facing the reality of cancer. 

Sadly, the disease stole this dear soul in April of this year. Even though her time was too soon in leaving this earth, Brenda had her affairs in order, especially when it came to caring for her dear dogs, Indio and Allie, her 19-year-old cat, Sparrow, and of course, Chance. 

Brenda entrusted her good friend Lisa Wheeler, an animal lover and physician assistant/owner in Hendersonville at Legacy Recovery and Wellness, with this very important task. She was given detailed notes of friends promising to care for each pet, making sure the transition to a new home went smoothly. 

“It was an honor doing this,” says Lisa, “I knew Brenda’s pets well and the individuals opening their hearts and homes to each one. It was a bittersweet experience, but one that was filled with such love, knowing each animal was going to be safe for the rest of their lives.” 

On the day Lisa drove to pick up Chance, Shannon and Richard Knapp were waiting with open arms at the barn here at Horse Sense of the Carolinas/Meadows Town Ranch. Without any hesitation, they reassured Brenda that her beloved horse would have a forever home on the farm.  

Shannon and Brenda had met years ago at a networking meeting, becoming friends and colleagues working on various projects and  Shannon’s first book, Horse Sense, Business Sense (Volume I).

Knowing Chance was going to spend the rest of his life enjoying lush meadows and excellent care touched Brenda deeply. She could let go knowing her boy was destined for a happy life with other horses and people with kindness in their hearts. 

“We knew this was the right move,” Lisa explained, “As the horse trailer door swung open and Chance stepped outside, we noticed a bright red cardinal perched on a nearby fence. No one said a word. We were mesmerized by the sight, remembering the folklore legend that says when a red cardinal appears, it’s a visitor from heaven—that a loved one is nearby in spirit with a symbol of hope and devotion.” 

Brenda was there in the breeze among the trees that day, watching over her best buddy starting a new life. Her presence continues today, surrounding Chance with reassurance and encouragement, sending red cardinals his way. 

Shannon and Richard are pleased with how beautifully Chance has adapted to his new surroundings and his calling as an important member of the herd helping people heal from trauma and rebuild their lives with the help of equine-assisted psychotherapy.  

Knowing this helps soothe the emptiness of final goodbyes when leaving this earth. How comforting for Brenda to know that her beloved Chance has had another chance to blossom and thrive. This is the true meaning of being cherished! 

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The Heart Herd

Horses Healing and Being Healed

Chance is a lucky one, coming to the farm from a nurturing and happy life. He’s healthy and robust, and doing well for a senior of 25 years. But, many other horses didn’t know such love and devotion before we rescued them. Many were on the verge of starving, while others experienced abuse and neglect.  

Besides wanting to give each horse a new lease on life, we felt their history and recovery to new health and vitality would be helpful in connecting with our clients going through their trauma and stress. Each animal has a way of bonding with humans—helping our veterans, first responders, children at risk, and many others hopeful for healing and rebuilding their own lives. 

Your support helps us feed and tend to each horse, including veterinary, farrier, and chiropractic care. You can read more about the horses at Heart of Horse Sense;  www.heartofhorsesense.org  Click on “About Heart Herd” under the Support link. 

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Something about Chance

When Cappy Tosetti, our marketing director at Heart of Horse Sense, first heard about Chance, she rushed to the telephone to call her best friend, Gerry Hunt in Florida. At 93 years of age, Gerry is still smitten with horses, especially Rocky Mountain horses. She used to compete in barrel racing in her youth and loved trail riding through the woods in California. 

Cappy wanted to surprise her friend with an early Christmas gift—a $50 donation to go towards the care of Chance. Gerry was ecstatic, wanting to know more about this amazing horse, asking for a photo so she could post it on the veteran’s bulletin board alongside her Army snapshots at the independent retirement community where she lives. 

Gerry also wants to keep up with Chance’s care, planning on sending her own donations so he has plenty of apples and other treats with his feed. Word has it that she’s told all her friends and the staff about Chance, thrilled that she can be part of his life.  

What a heartfelt gift idea for someone’s birthday, anniversary, or other celebration by sponsoring a horse here at the farm. We’re happy to share more about this special program. For more information: 

Contact Cappy Tosetti at Heart of Horse Sense

info@heartofhorsesense.org

This month’s Volunteer Spotlight: Ginny Callaway
by Shannon Knapp

A fear of horseback riding led Ginny Callaway to our barn door six years ago. She has always been captivated with horses but knew her limitations in the saddle—inexperience and worrying about falling were a big concern. 

Ginny even took riding lessons at Biltmore Equestrian Center to hone her skills and overcome her fears, saying it was a great experience. However, she still was apprehensive about stepping into the stirrups. 

“Everyone was so helpful and patient at the stables,” recalls Ginny, “but down deep I knew trail riding wasn’t for me. There are some things in life that aren’t meant to be, so I said goodbye to the horses with a heavy heart.”

Ginny doesn’t remember how she first heard about our equine-assisted psychotherapy programs, but one Saturday she found herself turning into the gravel driveway leading up to the barn. There she joined a group of interested individuals waiting to observe a demonstration that I was about to start, introducing myself and six of our horses nonchalantly standing nearby in the indoor arena.

Like flipping a light switch, Ginny soon discovered why she was there: “You can have a connection with horses without ever getting up in the saddle; it’s all about groundwork, relating and partnering face-to-face with these magnificent creatures. I was spellbound, watching and listening to Shannon explain more about this most interesting concept. Afterward, she kindly shared more about the program and how the horses help individuals dealing with trauma heal and rebuild their lives.”

Eager to learn more, Ginny asked about volunteering opportunities that she embraced wholeheartedly, wearing many hats over the years. She was like a sponge, observing, reading, and researching everything she could about equine-assisted psychotherapy.

One day at the barn another volunteer shared a recent experience at a wellness retreat in Jalisco, Mexico hosted by a wonderful colleague of ours, Jody Cross, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist in Asheville and Nashville. Daily encounters with horses and healing were a big part of the getaway.

“I was definitely intrigued,” says Ginny, “So after researching more and talking with Jody, I decided to embark on a new adventure that turned out to be a turning point in my life. A beautiful setting and delicious food were certainly a big part of the experience, but there was more that Jody provided during our stay. Each of us in our small group was paired with a horse that we each selected from the herd, giving us an opportunity to bond and work together. My partner was Duque, a sensitive and attentive steed who helped me work through many emotions welling up inside. He will be forever in my heart.”

Ginny was thrilled to bring back a new awareness and appreciation of equine-assisted psychotherapy after returning to the States. It was one more step in a better understanding of how horses connect and help people in all sorts of situations.

Volunteering at the barn was a passion for Ginny, but in 2020 Covid-19 put a halt to all on-site activities, but she found something else that kept her involved and focused on helping. She took on the very important task of thanking each of our donors with heartfelt handwritten cards showing our appreciation for their time and generosity. She also creates a contact list of every individual, keeping our files up-to-date. It’s such a comfort knowing Ginny is there, helping us by reaching out to others with every card she writes.

Volunteers are the heart and soul of every organization. We are forever grateful for our wonderful group of individuals who give their all in everything they do. Thank you each and every one!

Onward with gratitude,
Shannon Knapp 

For more information, please contact our volunteer coordinator, Gina DeBreto: volunteer@heartofhorsesense.org.

Here’s a poignant piece that Ginny wrote about a most enlightening visit to the barn one day. It’s a heartfelt story titled, Luke and Lucky, that she sent to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, entering a contest focusing on “Why I Give.”

Luke and Lucky

The white van made its way up the gravel driveway, past the covered arena sheltering the Wild Bunch, the high-strung trio of newly adopted black horses, then swung around the deep curve bordering the open arena fenced with wooden railing and surrounded by wide views of soft green mountains. The van kicked up loose rocks and gritty wafts of dust. The final turn brought the van to the tree-sheltered parking area.  

The engine fell silent. It sat there a minute, snapping and popping from being overheated. No movement, as if it had accomplished its goal and was done. One by one the doors opened, the front passenger door, the driver side door and the sliding door on the right side. Legs and ducked heads appeared from the opened sliding door.  Scuffed boots and high-top sneakers reached for the ground, followed by a variety of torsos and leg lengths, Levi’s and khakis. A flannel shirt covered a rounded belly and t-shirts spread the news about things I knew nothing about. There were even a couple of plaid, short sleeves shirts with button-down collars. Some gray hair, different shades and lengths of brown and black hair, even a head with no hair. It wasn’t clear if it was bald by nature or by razor.

There were moustaches and beards, wrinkles and creases, and skin as smooth as a baby’s.  A few ball caps and one pair of reflective sunglasses. As diverse a group as could be, except they all had three things in common. These six were combat veterans, they were residents of the drug and alcohol abuse rehab program at the local VA and today’s van trip to Heart of Horse Sense was a mandatory part of treatment.       

Heart of Horse Sense, founded by Shannon and Richard Knapp, is a 120-acre farm in Marshall, North Carolina in the heart of Appalachia. The farm is beautiful, with rolling hills, hardwood forests and pastures that are mowed twice a year. The cut grain feeds the 28 horses that lollygag around the property taking delight in being with each other, being part of a herd which is essential for a horse to feel comfortable, relaxed and safe. Looking across the pastures, the horses appear like paint dabs of color on a palette: roan, cinnamon, copper, white splattered with black spots, coal black, russet joined with white blotches that fit together like jigsaw pieces. Spectacular as the sun moves across the sky enhancing each color.

 A large green aluminum barn houses the cut hay bales piled to the ceiling, one on top of the other, a huge tractor, a couple of ATVs for getting around the farm, stacked white plastic chairs brought down from the rafters for the people who come to watch the demonstrations the staff offers monthly. It also houses a confusion of guinea fowl, Polly, the pumpkin orange alpha cat, Quiver, the multi-colored tabby with the raspy meow, and the necessary number of mice to keep the barn cats fed.

There is a covered, open-sided arena where the new horse arrivals settle in, are evaluated and given time to get used to the staff and the farm. A red brick house is used for Veteran weekend retreats and volunteer meetings, and a beautiful log home is where Shannon and Richard live. Most of the activity takes place in the huge covered main arena bordered on one side with eight stalls, buckets for feeding the horses, saddles resting on wooden sawhorses, a table full of vitamins and minerals, a black washtub on the floor filled with water, pitch forks suspended from nails for mucking stalls and various other items related to horse care.

Horse Sense is a haven for people seeking a new or different response to depression, anxiety and trauma. It is dedicated to, among other things, helping combat Veterans build or rebuild better lives through equine therapy, i.e., spending time with horses. 

I started volunteering at Horse Sense four years ago. I had my first riding experience at a ranch in Wyoming at age 64. It scared the bejeezus out of me. I made it home in one piece and decided I needed to conquer or at least address that fear. I started taking riding lessons, gradually became a bit more skilled and confident, but the fear never went away. It lessened, but still prevented me from totally relaxing and enjoying the ride. I understand and have been told repeatedly that some fear is a good thing. I get that, but those big rocks on the trail can quickly blow it all out of proportion. They are there just to split my head wide open when I come off my horse. When I heard about equine therapy and interacting with horses on the ground, I liked that idea. I discovered Horse Sense and began volunteering.

 The group of vets that just arrived was here for the first time to spend a few hours with horses. No one seemed too eager. No big smiles, only a few derisive laughs shared quietly as the men slowly walked toward the covered barn where some of the Horse Sense staff waited for them: Shannon, the executive director, Jake, a combat Marine Veteran himself with a master’s degree in social work and a few volunteers like me. Jake had walked in these men’s shoes and boots. Horses had transformed his life. Now he was giving back.

Without being a mind reader, I was sure these men were all thinking, “What in the hell is this place? Why horses? I don’t know anything about horses. I don’t want to know anything about horses. When can I have a cigarette?”

Fair enough, as Shannon would say. Good question. Why horses? According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, equine therapy “has shown to be effective in treating patients, including combat veterans, with PTSD, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorders and other chronic mental illnesses.”

Shannon and Richard originally established Horse Sense as a ranch offering rehabilitation for “throw-away” and abused/rescued horses, recognizing that many of the rescued horses might never be “issue-free,” rideable, backyard horses, but that they still deserved a permanent, loving home, a place to heal and a gentle hand. They learn to trust people again through the respect and patience shown them by the staff. One day at a time.

In 2012, Shannon and Richard learned about the incredible power of horses to heal humans coping with various mental, social, emotional and spiritual issues. They began using their rescue horses to help Veterans with addiction, trauma and other issues unique to combat soldiers through interacting with horses. They also help at-risk kids who have difficult home lives, have witnessed violence firsthand or live economically-challenged lives. The rehabbed horses are rock stars that help these Vets and kids live the lives they deserve.

Again, why horses?  Horses are unusual in the animal world. They are big, a thousand plus pounds, hooves like concrete blocks, strong, powerful muscles and teeth capable of biting hard. Believe me, I know. They can run 40 miles per hour and can kick with the force of a wrecking ball. And they are total prey animals. This means that they don’t eat any animals, are not predators in any way. Yet, to them, everything else in the world that is not horse is out to eat them, to kill them. And that includes humans.

An unusual combination. Brute strength capable of doing serious damage and 24/7 antennae tuning in to what’s around and how it could harm them. This combination creates ultra-sensitivity to everything, a continual checking for foes. Horses can read the air, the land, the sound and, most importantly, when it comes to people, a person’s energy. If a person’s outside doesn’t match his inside, the horse knows and will respond accordingly. Some say a horse is a mirror, reflecting what is going on with someone. But that’s not exactly accurate. A horse doesn’t mirror back. It responds. I looked at the men arriving from the VA. What was today going to bring?

The newly arrived Veterans began the afternoon with the introductory circle led by Shannon, the head of Horse Sense. I joined the circle as the day’s volunteer. Standing shoulder to shoulder, Shannon asked the men to say their names, their branch of service, the number of days they had been sober and what they were butting up against today .“Bob, Army, sober 5 days, and I want a drink. ”“William, Air Force, sober two weeks and I’m not sure I want to be around horses.” “Charles, Marines, sober a month and I miss my family.”

The next man, somewhere in his early 20s, was not standing, but squatting as close to the ground as he could be without sitting on it. A black ball cap with a deeply curved brim shadowed his face and large, reflective sunglasses hid his eyes.

“Luke. That’s all. ”“Fair enough,” said  Shannon. On to the next man.

 After introductions, the men were invited into the arena where six horses waited on the opposite side of a thin rope hung across the width of the arena about three feet above the ground. “I invite to you observe the horses in silence for a few minutes. Please don’t touch a horse unless it touches you first,” said Shannon.

The men spread out along the rope. Most of the horses kept their distance. Two paired off and faced the back of the arena, their heads lightly touching. A few walked by the men, checking them out, found them uninteresting and wandered away, trying to find any morsel of hay left on the ground.

But a small, black horse slowly walked toward the line of men. It stopped and looked at each of them. Taking a few more steps, he stretched his neck out toward Luke and gently put his nose on Luke’s chest. Luke froze, didn’t move a muscle, didn’t reach out to return the touch. He just stood still, staring at the ground flecked with bits of hay, eyes sheltered by his cap’s brim.

After a few minutes, Shannon asked the men what they observed while watching the horses.  “Those horses in the corner don’t like us,” William said. “Okay,” said Shannon. “What about the horses tells you that?” “They took one look at us and walked as far away as possible. Pretty obvious they don’t like us. Not that I care.”

“Could there be another reason why they went to the corner?” Shannon asked. No one says anything. Eventually another Vet says, “Maybe they’re shy. ”Another says, “Maybe there are too many of us and we scared them. ”Shannon adds, “Maybe they found something in the corner that is much more interesting than a bunch of humans.”

The Vets reluctantly laugh. “So you see, there can be lots of reasons, not necessarily dislike at all, why a horse or a person can move away from us.”

The men shift feet, thinking about what Shannon just said. Luke had said nothing all this time, but his eyes had slowly lifted to look at the black horse still standing in front of him. His ball cap was pushed up slightly on his forehead, his glasses pulled up to his forehead. “Now, I’ll drop the rope and you can walk around and meet each horse, again in silence,” Shannon said. “What are the horses’ names?” one Vet asked. “We’ll tell you their names at the end. Why do you think we do that?” Again, no response.

     “What if I told you that horse was named Firecracker and that one was Cupcake and that one was Diablo?”“I guess we would kinda look at them differently rather than how we see them now, just horses.” “Exactly.”

The men mingled with the horses. The white horse with black spots retreated to a far corner, the mustang with the black mane and white blaze walked around warily, not letting anyone get too close, keeping an arm’s length away. Several others stood still and let the men pet them. I wandered among the horses and men, making sure all were safe, the men and the horses.

I noticed the black horse followed Luke as he walked around the arena. If Luke changed directions, the horse did, too. If Luke stopped, the horse did, too. If Luke turned his back, the horse bumped him on his shoulder with his nose.

 During the next hour, Shannon invited the men to interact with the horses in a variety of ways. They could pet the horses. They could groom them with brushes. They could see if they could get a horse to follow them around the arena without touching them. It was okay to talk.

Luke, now with his cap barely hanging on and his sunglasses sitting on the brim, gingerly reached out his hand and stroked the black horse along its neck. The horse turned his head slightly in Luke’s direction, watching him. Luke returned the look and smiled slightly.

I went to help William find the right brush to get the tangles out of the mustang’s mane and check on how the other men were doing. When I went looking for Luke again, I saw the black horse, but who was that with him? It was Luke with no sunglasses, no ball cap, arms outstretched, reaching all the way around the horse’s neck in a giant hug. The horse’s eyes were closed, his head resting on Luke’s shoulder. Luke’s eyes were closed. His face radiated a beautiful smile. If they were cats, they would have been purring. They stood there together for a long time.

After two hours, it was time for the white van to head back to the VA. As the men were boarding the van to leave, I noticed Luke’s hat and sunglasses propped on a hook in the arena. He had forgotten them. I grabbed them and ran to the van, hoping to catch him before they left.

“Luke, you forgot your glasses and cap,” I called out. He turned around and came towards me. “Thank you.” He had a sheepish grin. “We never found out what the horses’ names are.  What is the black horse’s name?”

“We call him Lucky. Lucky and his seven herd mates belonged to a woman who was involved in a hateful divorce. She had to leave town for a job and left her soon-to-be ex-husband in charge of their care. Out of spite, he neglected the herd. When they were discovered, seven had died and this black horse was the only one still alive, surrounded by his dead friends. He was lucky to be alive.”

Tears streamed down Luke’s cheeks. “He’s like me. I’m lucky to be alive. Thank you for this day.” He turned and disappeared into the back of the van.

July 2023 Issue

“Hard work is not a thing that you do.
It’s a way of life that you cultivate."

Hello from Richard Knapp:

 Timing is everything when it comes to the weather and haying season. Here at Meadows Town Ranch, home of Horse Sense of the Carolinas and Heart of Horse Sense, we need at least three continuous days of sunshine to get the job done this time of the year.

Our property is just under 110 acres. Most of that is pastureland with about 15 acres set aside for hay in two fields—the main hay field which is on the north side of the property, and a small hillside pasture adjacent to our house. We also lease three other fields down Teague Road with a total of about five acres. Two of those fields are in a flood plain near a creek, so they often yield more than the other fields because of the abundance of water in the area.

We harvest a mixed grass hay of fescue, orchard, and some timothy (mixed with other grasses) that’s basically a field that’s allowed to grow year after year, turning into a grassland. Sometimes the fields are over-seeded to increase production with extra grass seed. There’s also a bit of alfalfa, but that can tend to be a finicky beast as things can go wrong quickly. There’s a beetle that lives in alfalfa that can kill livestock.

Learning the Ropes
We moved here in 2000 with the intention of starting a horse rescue. I didn’t have any experience with hay production, but fortunately learned some pointers from the gentleman who sold us the property. I did a lot of research, reading issues Hay and Forage Grower Magazine and talking with other hay growers to better refine what I do, with the intention of producing better hay for our animals.

 There’s a lot more to haying than one might imagine. There’s specific equipment needed for the job and new vocabulary words to master. Right off the bat, I learned how to operate a tractor, mower, tedder, rake, and the baler that neatly creates 40–50-pound bales.

We use a rotary mower (instead of a sickle mower) which cuts very efficiently and evenly. It’s only about seven feet long, so mowing can take a while on the big fields. One doesn’t go very fast with this task, hoping to prevent clogging the machine.

The tedder takes the mowed hay, which is laid into two piles behind the mower, spreading it out on the field. It has moving forks that aerate or “wuffle” the hay, allowing it to dry for two or three days. After that, it’s raked into windrows which are long lines of hay ready for the baler.

Hay needs to be around 10-15% moisture to prevent it from decomposing. If hay is baled too wet, it can start to heat up as it decomposes, creating the chance of igniting. There are many stories of barn fires caused by putting wet hay in storage. If we find a bale that’s wet (usually heavy), we set it aside and use it for feeding first. That way, we don’t lose the hay.

Keeping everything running smoothly is a big priority, especially when the window of opportunity is short lived during haying season. I do most of the maintenance and repairs on the equipment with the help of a neighbor who’s a mechanic. There aren’t many individuals who work on machinery anymore, and besides, it’s a challenge transporting big pieces of equipment into town. I used to tow the baler into Asheville for a tune-up when the New Holland dealer was still on Riverside Road, but since then, we’re able to stay on top of things here at the ranch.

Everything up to producing the bales of hay is pretty much a solo job because we only have one tractor, and I can only do one task at a time. After baling, I like to leave the hay out in the field for one night to allow things to cool off. Just compressing the hay for baling will generate some heat.

Thanks to Shannon, Crystal Harvey, and volunteers like Matt Perry  (long-sleeved work clothes and gloves are a must), we’re ready to start lifting and loading each bale onto our flatbed trailer. Then we start moving the hay to our three barns: Big Hay Farm (down at the bottom of the main entrance with double gates), The Feed Barn loft (along the private drive), and the storage room loft in the Main Arena Barn. In the past, I’ve been able to get around 1,000 bales in the big barn, and around 300 bales in the other two. There’s no need for a gym membership; we get plenty of exercise lifting and stacking all those bales of hay!

We currently have 26 animals in our herd enjoying life out in the pastures here on the property: 25 horses, including one draft and two miniatures, plus one miniature donkey. We also take care of nine horses that are boarded here.

Working outdoors and operating each piece of equipment this time of year does the heart good, knowing our herd will always have plenty of nutritious feed through the seasons. Learning about haying has been a tremendous experience, challenging one’s mind and physical stamina. You get to wear many hats out in the field—as a grower, mechanic, scientist, meteorologist, and equine nutritionist. It’s a great way to spend a summer day! 
 

Sincerely,
Richard Knapp

Member/Manager and Natural Horsemanship Instructor at Meadows Town LLC
Farm Manager and Equine Specialist at Horse Sense of the Carolinas
Volunteer at Heart of Horse Sense

Looking for an interesting and enlightening presentation for your service club, neighborhood gathering, club meeting and other get-togethers? We’d like to introduce Shannon Knapp with Horse Sense of the Carolinas and Heart of Horse Sense. She loves to share her passion for partnering with horses in helping individuals heal and rebuild their lives. She has a beautiful and inspiring PowerPoint presentation that invites you to the farm and the amazing work she and her 25 horses do on a daily basis.

Shannon Knapp is founder and president of both Horse Sense of the Carolinas, Inc., an internationally recognized leader in the field of Equine Assisted Services, and Executive Director of Heart of Horse Sense, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting professional equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning for survivors of trauma in Western North Carolina. She has also published many books and articles in the field of equine-assisted services, including More than a Mirror: Horses, Humans and Therapeutic Practices.

She’s a trainer in Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy for Natural Lifemanship, is Eagala Advanced and has an Eagala Military Individual designation, and is an instructor of Military Horse Sense: The Fundamentals of Working with Veterans and Horses. A professional in the field since 2001, she has had thousands of hours of direct client contact with a diverse range of diagnoses.

Thanks for your interest. For more information, please contact:

Cappy Tosetti
Marketing & Communications Director
Heart of Horse Sense

828 707-7203 | info@heartofhorsense.org