— EQUINE-ASSISTED HEALING · FORT MYERS, FL
Every Horse Here Is a Partner in Healing
Our horses are not just animals — they are partners in healing. Weighing between 900 and 1,200 pounds, these magnificent creatures read body language, detect emotional tension, and respond in ways that create profound breakthroughs for the children and families they serve.
— OUR EQUINE MISSION
Horses That Heal. Kids That Grow.
The ripple effect we create in our community begins with the extraordinary bond between horse and human. These friendly, curious, loving animals — sometimes sassy and grumpy — are a genuine gift that deserve kindness, love, and respect.
Their emotional intelligence and connection to humans is significant, meaningful, and at times — puzzling. They read subtle body cues, recognize tension, and detect emotional strain in ways that no other animal quite can.
"There is an additional biological effect that creates calm and builds trust through this experiential therapeutic approach."
Every horse at Animals & Kids found themselves struggling to survive — by no fault of their own. Now, they have a safe home and a profound purpose: helping children find the same healing that was given to them.
— MEET THE HERD
Featured Horses
FEATURED HORSE
Meet Gus
Gus is one of our beloved equine partners and a regular participant in our Gus & Stormy's Family Storytime program. Patient, gentle, and endlessly curious, Gus has a natural gift for connecting with children — especially those who need a calm, steady presence.
Gus's story is being updated. Check back soon to learn more about how he came to us and the children whose lives he's changed.
SUMMER 2025 ENROLLMENT OPEN
Meet Stormy
Stormy is our mobile ambassador — a gentle pony who travels into the community for school visits, shelter outreach, and special events. Where Gus thrives on steady connections at the farm, Stormy brings the magic of equine healing directly to kids who can't always come to us.
Stormy has visited schools, libraries, youth shelters, and community organizations across Southwest Florida — spreading calm, joy, and connection everywhere he goes.
— EVERYONE HAS A STORY
Meet the Full Herd
Fourteen horses call Animals & Kids home. Each one brings something unique — from therapy work and peer mentoring to storytime and community outreach. Together they are the heartbeat of everything we do.
Lexi
Lexi came to us needing a safe place to land, and she's been taking small steps forward every day. She's still learning that kindness is real — and with patience and gentle consistency, she's discovering that better days are ahead. Motto: "I'm learning... you can be kind."
GROUND WORK & TRUST BUILDING
Grace
Grace is the reason Animals & Kids
exists. She's a Thoroughbred, the heart of the program, and the undeniable alpha mare of the herd — which just means she can be a little bossy, but also incredibly sweet. She teaches leadership through clarity, calmness, and consistency. Motto: "Be clear, be calm... I'll meet you there."
ALL-AROUND TEACHER
Journey
Journey came to us at just 3 months old after her mom had to be euthanized. She's grown into one of our greatest teachers — showing kids how to set boundaries and match energy in a powerful way. Not suited for novice riders; Journey needs a confident, present leader. When she chooses to join you, there's nothing better. Motto: "If you don't lead, I will."
GROUND WORK & CONFIDENCE TEACHING
Argo
Argo had an injury that ended his jumping career, but that didn't end his purpose. Now at 20 years old, this Paint Horse patiently teaches countless kids how to trot and builds confidence one ride at a time. All patience, all kindness, all heart. Motto: "I may not jump anymore, but I'll always help you reach new heights."
RIDING LESSONS & CONFIDENCE BUILDING
Captain
Captain has lived at our farm his whole
life and is the undisputed farm ham —
almost always found making silly faces and keeping everyone entertained. This 10-year-old Quarter Horse brings joy everywhere he goes and reminds us daily that a little goofiness goes a long way. Motto: "I may be the captain, but I'm really just here for the snacks and the laughs."
ENTERTAINMENT & ENRICHMENT
Stormy
Small but mighty! This 20-year-old miniature horse is a community favorite. Stormy visits assisted living homes, schools, camps, and even walks around Coconut Point — bringing the magic of equine connection to kids and families everywhere he goes. He hosts his own storytime and has left hoofprints on countless hearts. Motto: "Small pony, big heart... I leave hoofprints everywhere
I go."
THERAPY & COMMUNITY AMBASSADOR
Jiffy
At 32 years young, Jiffy is the wise elder of the herd. He came under our care after his owners passed away, and from the moment we met him, he's been nothing but heart. He takes care of everyone around him — quietly, gently, and with a softness you don't forget. Purpose doesn't fade with age; it deepens. Motto: "Come here, kid... I've still got a hug for you."
COMPANION & CONFIDENCE BUILDER
Felicity
Felicity is always watching — always keeping tabs. This 13-year-old has carried many kids into their very first horse shows and has been perfect in every way. If you ever want to know what's going on around here, just ask Felicity. She's always paying attention. Motto: "I'm not nosy, I'm just keeping tabs... you never know when you'll need my expert opinion."
JUMPING & YOUTH SHOWS
Gus
Gus has been a first horse for so many of our kids. This 20+ year old pony is kind, patient, and always up for an adventure
— though don't let him fool you, he's still got plenty of shenanigans left in him. He co-stars in our Gus & Stormy's Family Storytime program and is truly one of a kind. Motto: "I may be small, but I've got a big heart and a lot of love to give."
STORY TIME & FIRST RIDES
Luna
Luna is a kind-hearted Quarter Horse Paint cross who has become a trusted partner for many young riders entering the sport of jumping. Her gentle nature and willingness to connect make her a joy to work with in and out of the arena. At 18 years old, she brings steadiness and heart to everything she does. Motto: "Don't leave me out — I must also participate!"
JUMPING & HORSEMANSHIP
Nikki
At 23 years old, Nikki is the best horse around for the novice rider. Easy-going and sweet, she came to us after her biggest supporters passed away, and she has become a beloved part of our herd. Nikki will spend her golden years right here, surrounded by love and care. Motto: "Slow and easy is the way."
NOVICE RIDERS & GENTLE ENRICHMENT
Lumus
Lumus is the bright light of the herd — a horse whose presence lifts the energy of any arena. Often photographed alongside Felicity, these two have an unmistakable bond. Lumus brings a playful warmth that children are drawn to from the moment they meet him.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Hope
Hope embodies exactly what she's named for. This mare has a warmth that children respond to immediately, and she plays an important role in our therapeutic and enrichment programs for youth who are working through difficult seasons of life.
JUMPING & HORSEMANSHIP
Dash
Dash is a true farm baby — Grace's foal, born right here at Animals & Kids. He grew up surrounded by children and staff, which makes him uniquely comfortable with people of all ages. Full of energy and curiosity, Dash is one of our rising stars.
FARM BORN
— HELP US CARE FOR THEM
Your Donation Keeps Our Horses Healthy & Happy
Every dollar donated helps us cover feed, veterinary care, farrier services, and facility maintenance for our horses. They give so much to our youth — help us give back to them.
Animals & Kids, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. All donations are tax-deductible.