September 22, 2025
Horses in costume, golf tournaments, and parenting workshops might not sound related, but Healing With Horses Ranch is bringing all of these things together this fall. Located on Highway 973 just south of Manor, the Ranch serves people of all ages, including children and adults with physical challenges, at-risk youth, veterans, and first responders.
Horses bring qualities to healing that no other therapy modality can replicate. They mirror human emotions, notice small shifts in body language, and respond without judgment. This feedback builds trust and encourages authentic communication, often faster than traditional therapies alone.
Riding horses strengthens core muscles, improves balance, and activates neurological pathways. Even without riding, simply being near a horse can calm the body. Horses generate a unique electromagnetic field through their heartbeat, and many participants report stress easing within minutes of interaction.
Importantly, therapy horses benefit from their work just as much as the people they help. When their needs are met and their environment is managed carefully, they respond positively to interactions, whic creates a supportive experience that allows both horses and participants to thrive. This combination of science-backed therapy and attentive care makes the the Healing with Horses programs so effective, and also what sets the stage for the fall season events coming up.
Two new workshops highlight the Healing With Horses Ranch fall programming. On September 24th, Flood Relief Self Care with a Horse offers survivors and first responders of the July flooding in central Texas space to focus on recovery and well-being. On October 11th, Hold Your Horses: Calm Leadership and Boundaries applies horsemanship skills to everyday parenting. Both programs continue the Ranch mission of blending life skills with lessons from horses.
Community partnerships also remain strong. On October 25th, the East Side Mini Open returns for its third year supporting the Ranch through a roving mini golf course through east Austin bars. Miniature horse Oreo will greet golfers at the first hole and Sweet Pea the donkey will be interacting with guests throughout the day out on the course.
Halloween brings the annual Trick or Treat Trail on October 31st, free and open to the public. Families can enjoy costumes, candy, and a pumpkin decorating contest. A highlight each year is the Ranch equines in full costume alongside the people.
Behind the scenes, staff and volunteers are busy preparing the property for the fall rush. Groups from local businesses are scheduling time to clear spaces, repair fences, and support operations, often ending their workday with a tour and time with the horses. Their contributions have a lasting impact on the surrounding community, just as much as the Ranch itself.
Though the Texas heat is still blazing, Healing with Horses Ranch continues to balance the onslaught of seasonal events with the ongoing work of horses helping people grow with the seasons.