December 2008 Winner
New Therapy Horse Stardust
by Debbie Garcia-Bengochea
(High Springs, Florida)
Stardust
This photo of Stardust was taken at one day old. It is the day he started training to become a therapy horse like his older sister and brother.
From the moment he was born Stardust was introduced to the sounds and sights he would see in hospitals, hospice programs and nursing homes. He walked on different textures like carpet and tile. He was touched from head to toe.
In addition to the right personality Stardust also needed to meet several physical requirements to be part of the therapy program. He had to have blue eyes, excellent confirmation and very small size (he will mature at about 28"). From day he was born we knew Stardust was something special.
Since this photo was taken many months of training have passed. He has been an amazing student. The fearless, outgoing personality we saw that first day has never changed.
Debbie Garcia-Bengochea
