Rancho de las Animales for the Disabled (RAD), in Arroyo Grande, is a ranch providing positive, therapeutic interaction with animals for people with disabilities. Their eighteen horses, ponies, and donkeys are available for free equestrian therapy for people with disabilities, and also for riding lessons for the general public.
The Rancho makes an amazing difference in their clients’ lives. Jacob, the smiling boy above, progressed from being timid near a pony, to confidently riding a Tennessee Walker, in just a little over a year. The equestrian therapy and interaction with the other animals increases self-confidence and self-esteem, and improves balance and coordination in a calm, supportive, and fun environment.
Lord Buckwheat, a Mini Rex, Homer the Potbellied Pig, and about twenty other amazingly calm and friendly animals may be met in the Rancho’s petting zoo.
Beth Currier, the Rancho’s founder and director, said that not only is the Rancho funded entirely by donations, it’s also run entirely by volunteers. Taking care of all of the animals and providing these services to hundreds of clients requires a lot of hay – both figuratively and literally.
Unfortunately, RAD will not be holding their Open House this month as planned. In support of their wonderful work, J Ferber Photography will donate $20.00 to Rancho de las Animales for each individual Portrait Session (family, pet, horse, senior, or individual action sports) held, or Gift certificate purchased, between now and December 31.
Portraits, and Portrait Session Gift Certificates are a welcome gift for those hard-to-shop-for people on your list, from grandparents to High Schoolers, who love to take a bit of home with them in a portrait of themselves with their pets and horses when they go off to college. You’ll be helping the Rancho animals and clients, and also giving yourself and your family a precious gift of artful memories.
RAD is also featured in our article in the fall issue of the Equine and Canine News. Contact us for more information, and to schedule your Portrait Session or purchase your Gift Certificates (they come prettily boxed up and resy to give!). We look forward to hearing from you, and appreciate your help in supporting RAD!
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