Metaphorse Growth and Healing Center in Montrose has been providing a safe place for horses and people in their community since 2014.
The horses in their rescue become essential members of Metaphorse's many programs.
One such program is Hippotherapy, which utilizes the horse's natural gait to aid in occupational or physical therapy sessions. Another program is Equine-Facilitated Learning, where horses are used to support individuals facing mental health challenges.
“The Equine Welfare Assistance Grant has not only healed our horses but has strengthened our entire program's ability to provide growth and healing to the underserved and at-risk youth who connect with these magnificent animals,” said Jody Dixon, CEO of Metaphorse.
Many of the horses in Metaphorse's care are seniors who require specialized veterinary and farrier care. The Equine Welfare Assistance program was able to award Metaphorse a $10,000 grant to help with the care of these equines.
One horse that was helped by this grant is Amos, a 24-year-old Belgian Draught and Quarter Horse cross.
Amos’s hooves and teeth had been neglected and were causing him pain after he retired from his life as a trail horse.
Metaphorse used part of the grant to get Amos the farrier and veterinary care he needed to live his best senior life.
To learn more please visit the Equine Welfare Assistance Grant page or the Metaphorse website.