Equine Staff
Sabino Recovery’s therapeutic model is designed to heal the whole person, and so to that end, our horses are also used to work with residents on how to have fun, an experience that is often scarce for those who arrive with trauma, addiction or depression. In addition to equine therapy sessions, clients are encouraged to spend time with and care for the horses. This time with the horses outside of group can be powerfully therapeutic in that it provides clients the opportunity to connect with, touch, be accountable and take care of another living being. The process of learning, mastering new skills and, in some cases, overcoming fears builds self-esteem. Many residents report that the simple act of “being with” a horse gives them access to healing that is profound.
TOMBOY
Mare, Born 2005
Tomboy is a Wild Mustang that was adopted out of Navajo County. Tomboy worked at Snowy Mountain Stables. Tomboy is the mother to Lucky. She moved to Tucson in 2014 where she started to learn Equine Therapy. Tomboy has been slower to connect in therapy due to being a Wild Mustang. She did not have human contact in the beginning and didn’t need it. Now Tomboy is thriving in EMDR, group, and individual therapy. Tomboy is queen of the trail and still loves to get out when not in therapy. In her free time, she loves hanging out with Shorty.
Favorite Quote: “It’s sometimes easier to help others rather than helping yourself. The trick is to listen to your “self” as a friend.” – Unknown
Lucky
Gelding, Born 2013
Lucky is a Mustang born to Tomboy at the Snowy Mountain Stables located in the White Mountains. Lucky spent the first year in the mountains learning how to be ridden, good manners, and the trail. Lucky moved to Tucson in 2014 learning how to be a therapy horse. Lucky came to Sabino in 2019. He has a big personality and a genuine curiosity. Lucky is used for Equine Therapy and trail rides.
Favorite Quote: “Don’t wait for everything to be perfect before you decide to enjoy your life.”
Shorty
Gelding, Born 2014
Shorty is Quarter Horse. He is a retired roping horse. He came to Sabino in 2022. Shorty is enjoying his new life and no longer likes to do anything fast. He enjoys taking the trails nice and slow. He is very affectionate and connects easily. He frequently checks in with others to make sure no therapy is needed. He will follow you around the arena, getting him the nickname “Big Dog”.
Favorite Quote: “Sometimes the strength within you is not a big fiery flame for all to see, it is just a tiny spark that whispers ever so softly, ‘You got this, keep going.” – Unknown
Star
Mare, Born 2007
Star is a beautiful Tennessee Walker that stands 16 H. Star spent her earlier years being a trail endurance gal. Star came to Sabino in 2022 learning therapy. She now loves doing group, individual, and EMDR Equine therapy. Star is very serious about her food and snacks. Star loves attention and has no problem setting a boundary when needed. Star loves hanging out with her friend Softy in her spare time.
Favorite Quote: “If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” – Vincent Van Gogh
