Therapeutic Horses Bring Joy and Comfort to Florida Hospital Patients

In a heartwarming development at Florida hospitals, miniature horses like Pegasus are now making rounds to provide emotional support and comfort to pediatric patients. Pegasus, a gentle and well-trained therapy horse, recently visited Holtz Children's Hospital in Miami, where he brightened the days of young patients recovering from various ailments.

Pegasus, dressed in playful cowboy attire to match a Toy Story theme, trotted into hospital rooms accompanied by his handler, Alexandra Ramos. His calm demeanor and friendly presence immediately drew smiles and awe from children like 9-year-old Kumari, who, after an asthma attack, was delighted to pet and interact with the mini horse.

Hospitals such as Mount Sinai Medical Center, HCA Mercy Hospital, and Nicklaus Children's Hospital have incorporated equine therapy into their support programs. According to Gino Santorio, CEO of Mount Sinai, these visits serve as a mental reset for patients, helping distract them from their pain and illness. Pegasus originally visited Mount Sinai in 2024 for Valentine’s Day and left a lasting impression.

Pegasus is part of a broader trend where hospitals utilize therapy animals—traditionally therapy dogs—to lift patients’ spirits. Unlike dogs, horses require specialized training to ensure safe and meaningful interactions. Patients are encouraged to pet, cuddle, and even put stickers on Pegasus during visits, fostering a sense of connection and comfort.

In addition to hospital visits, equine therapy outside clinical settings is gaining popularity. Organizations like Equine Music Therapy Resources in West Kendall utilize horses and music to help children with anxiety, depression, autism, and other neurological challenges. Experts highlight the empathetic nature of horses, which can perceive and synchronize with human emotions, thereby promoting relaxation and emotional regulation.

Ramos, a longtime animal-assisted therapy advocate, grew up with farm animals in Colombia and now manages a team of rescue therapy dogs alongside Pegasus. Her experience shows that these animals serve as non-verbal but powerful support figures, helping children and adults cope with difficult treatments and life circumstances.

However, caring for therapy horses like Pegasus involves significant effort. Trainers monitor horse stress levels and provide massages to prevent injuries, especially after demanding hospital visits. Ramos ensures Pegasus receives adequate rest, limiting his work to maintain his well-being.

Stress management for horses is crucial; even mildly distressed horses can experience muscle tension, which Ramos' team addresses with structural therapy. During hospital visits, Ramos stays close to Pegasus, ensuring his safety and comfort, while also fostering new friendships between animals like Mahi the therapy dog and Pegasus.

The inclusion of therapy horses in healthcare settings offers a unique way to help children and adults find relief, build resilience, and experience moments of joy amid adversity. These programs demonstrate the powerful bond between humans and animals in the healing process.