ANIMAL HELPERS
Dog Helpers
Watson
My name is “Watson” and nothing makes me happier than giving other people plenty of cuddles. I usually wait in Jocelyn’s office until you arrive. Sometimes I let out a friendly howl when I’m really excited to see you. When I howl the humans in my world tell me I sound like “Chewbacca” from Star Wars.
A German Shepard/Husky cross, I am a large dog but I like to pretend I’m a small dog. I wasn’t wanted as a puppy and became fostered through Zoe’s Animal Rescue. I’m really excited and happy that Jocelyn adopted me and has given me a forever home.
I am very gentle, friendly and have a pawsitive impact on others during counselling sessions. I help foster healthy attachment, empathy and confidence. My presence helps facilitate a calm, accepting and nurturing environment. Working, playing and going for walks are some of my favorite things to do. I love learning new things so much that Jocelyn ensured my participation in three different training programs (I got sooo many treats)!
Sinbad
Howdy!! My name is Sinbad. Would you like to play? I am new therapy dog. I passed temperament testing at one years old, in June of 2021. I am best known for full body, tail waggle greeting, because I love people and love my work. Through play, I form strong bonds with people. Some of my favorite games are catch and fetch with ball or disc, Monkey in the Middle, Tug-A-War, Hide and Seek, Find the Treat, and jumping though Hula Hoops.
Reptile Helper
Ronan
Ronan is an 8 year old bearded dragon who loves to help people feel safe and comfortable in their therapy sessions. He was adopted by his human mom Dani, when he was 2 years old. Ronan had experienced a traumatic encounter with another bearded dragon where he was severely injured and required amputation of his right front foot. He also lost some toes on his left foot during the incident.
This left Ronan feeling fearful of other bearded dragons and needing a new home. Despite the amputation Ronan gets around with no problems; he doesn’t let his circumstances get in his way. He loves to meet people, have cuddles, get a shoulder ride and eat his two favourite treats: blueberries and super worms! Ronan works with registered psychologist and animal assisted therapist Dani-Lyn Neufeld in FCC’s Leduc and Beaumont offices.
Equine Helpers
Willow
Willow is an 11 year-old Quarter Horse. She has been donated to our program by her owner, Alexis. Willow needed a home where she could be loved but not ridden, as she has a handicap that prevent her from having any weight on her back. Due to her handicap she struggles with being accepted by other horses, so she prefers the company of people. Willow is the most affectionate horse in our herd and has an affinity for trying to soothe those who are struggling with sadness or anxiety.
Sterling
Flicka
Flicka is an 9 year-old Quarter Horse mare. She is one of the friendliest horses at the Ranch and often the first at the gate to say hello to clients. She is a horse who has had (too) many owners in her young life, and we hope she has now found her forever home at our ranch. She is a very kind and sensitive soul, and is very attuned to whomever she is spending time with. Our clinic sees a lot of children who have been in many homes as a result of being in the foster care system; Flicka has a very similar background and this often resonates with those clients.
Rocky
Rocky is a 19 year-old Wildy/Quarter Horse gelding. Rocky is the alpha of our herd. He lost his owner (Cindy) she passed away from cancer, and now that he can no longer take care of her is ready to take care of our clients; especially those who are struggling with loss. Rocky is gentle, reliable, calm, and confident. He is a calm and grounding presence in our program.
Solei
Solei is a 6 year-old quarter horse and the ranch owner’s main riding horse. She a retired 2D barrel racing horse who is fast as she is smart. She’s a little shy around younger children, but loves adults and teens. While she is happy to come say hi and be brushed, she only works in the program in a limited capacity until she’s been around children for longer. Her main job is a riding horse outside* the therapy program.
Oreo
Oreo is a 15 year-old shetland pony. He was a former show pony for two girls in the Leduc area and now he’s enjoying his retirement at the ranch from the show ring. Oreo is as gentle as they come and his manners are impeccable, but he can be a little shy. He also comes to the ranch with a disease called cushing syndrome which requires a special diet and daily medication, but is well taken care of and loving his retirement as a therapy pony.
Dusty
Dusty is 5 year-old miniature gelding. Dusty is a retired show pony who also was used for children’s parties, festivals, and parades due to his good nature. Dusty is curious and inquisitive, but also very sensitive. Dusty is shy and cautious at first, but once you gain his trust, he will do anything for you. He even will wave to you for horse cookies!
Shorty
Shorty is a 15 year-old miniature gelding. Shorty had a very important job before coming to FCC; he helped his former little owner go through her adoption! He followed her from her foster family to her forever home. Now he is in our program ready to help other children who are struggling with transitions. Shorty is calm, confidant, and patient—a wonderful addition for helping children with emotion regulation.
Faith
Faith is a 3 year old miniature mare. She is the most curious horse in the herd, and loves to spend time with the goats and children. She has a loving disposition and wants to get to know almost anyone who comes to visit; she is the social butterfly of our herd. She helps children who feel apprehensive about counselling open up and feel comfortable.
