The following article ran in The Kane County Chronicle, 11/13/15. To view photos and accompanying video, click here.   

 

By SANDY BRESSNER – sbressner@shawmedia.com

One miniature horse – dressed as Mickey Mouse – nudged a giant rubber ball, prompting a resident to reach out and tap it back. Meanwhile, a second mini horse – dressed as Minnie Mouse – visited with others as they pointed and waved at the animal.

The two miniature horses were from Equine Dreams in Newark, and the residents of Marklund in Geneva all were excited to see them during their monthly visit.

Marklund is a nonprofit organization that serves infants, children, teens and adults with serious and profound developmental disabilities and special health care needs.

“I think the miniature horses enjoy having a job,” said Equine Dreams miniature horse handler Leslie Stuba. “They have a wonderful temperament. [The horses] are very attuned to the environment and behaviors.”

Marklund physical therapy assistant Rose Vicker said having the horses there is so motivating for the clients.

“They feel their breath; even if they can’t see or hear, they can feel their warmth,” she said.

.