LAS VEGAS – A sunny Sunday at the Las Vegas Horse Rescue turned into a heartfelt gathering for a group of seniors from local assisted‑living and nursing homes. The nonprofit For the Love of Horses brought back its “Sundays at the Rescue” program, a weekly outing that lets older adults get up close with rescued horses, feed them, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship.
Program designed for seniors
The initiative was created specifically for seniors who may have limited mobility or few opportunities to leave their residences. Volunteers from the rescue guide the visitors through the paddocks, introduce each horse, and provide safe, supervised feeding stations. Participants can stroke the animals, learn about each horse’s background, and even help with basic grooming under staff supervision.
Memories revived, new connections formed
For many, the experience rekindles long‑ago memories. Nina DeCicco, a 92‑year‑old former New York resident, said the outing reminded her of the horses she once saw in Central Park. “I only knew horses from Central Park, but here, when you’re feeding them, it’s a whole different feeling. It’s nice,” she shared.
Another visitor, who had never been near a horse of that size before, described the moment as both surprising and uplifting. The simple act of offering hay or carrots sparked laughter, conversation, and a sense of purpose among the group.
Rescue benefits and future plans
The Las Vegas Horse Rescue cares for a variety of horses, some awaiting adoption and others destined to spend their remaining years at the sanctuary. By opening its doors to seniors, the rescue not only provides a therapeutic outlet for the elderly but also raises community awareness about the animals’ needs.
Program director Sarah Martinez explained that the fall session follows a successful spring launch. “We saw how much joy these visits brought to our senior participants, and we wanted to continue that momentum into the autumn months,” she said. The rescue hopes to expand the program to include more facilities and to add occasional educational talks about horse care and rescue work.
How to get involved
Facilities interested in scheduling a visit can contact For the Love of Horses through their website, HorseRescueVegas.org. Volunteers are also welcomed to assist with feeding, grooming, and guiding tours. Community members who wish to support the rescue financially or through in‑kind donations are encouraged to reach out.
As the program gains traction, organizers anticipate that more seniors across the Las Vegas area will experience the calming influence of animal interaction, fostering both emotional well‑being and a stronger sense of community.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
