Speaking of Horses Board of Directors
Ada Haensel
President/ Lead Speech Language Pathologist
Isabelle Kueser
Vice President
Stephen Bickers
Treasurer
Casey Wendell
Secretary
Our Therapy Horses and Dogs
​Blink:​
At the heart of our therapy program stands Blink, a magnificent 17-year-old Warmblood with a soul as expansive as his stature. This gentle giant, with his soft eyes and patient demeanor, has found his true calling in the world of equine therapy.
Blink's journey to our program is as inspiring as the work he does. In his younger years, he graced the A-circuit show rings as an accomplished hunter, demonstrating grace and athleticism. Today, he channels that same dedication into his role as a therapy horse, where his calm presence and intuitive nature shine brightest.
Known affectionately as our "big teddy bear," Blink exemplifies the perfect therapy horse. His gentle disposition allows him to stand peacefully for grooming sessions, soaking up affection and providing comfort to those who need it most. This patience and love for human interaction make him an invaluable member of our team.
Phil:
Meet Phil, the seasoned 25-year-old gelding whose demeanor exudes a charming blend of wisdom and enthusiasm. Despite his "slow old man" facade, Phil's passion for his work shines brightly through his every stride. A steadfast anchor of reliability, Phil is renowned for his unwavering calmness and kindness, making him a treasured asset in our stables. In his previous role as an eventing horse for a sprightly 70-year-old lady, Phil showcased his versatility and dedication to his craft. Standing tall at 16.0 hands, Phil is the go-to companion for our taller riders, providing them with a sturdy and dependable mount for their equestrian adventures. A true ambassador of equine amicability, Phil's affable nature extends to both his fellow horses and humans alike, earning him a special place in the hearts of all who cross his path.
Whinny:
Enter Whinny, the 14-year-old medium-sized pony who shines as the crown jewel of Speaking of Horses. With a storied show career that spans across Florida and Virginia, Whinny gracefully transitioned into retirement and now savors the gentle rhythm of life at a leisurely pace. Beloved by all who cross his path, Whinny holds a special place in our hearts as a cornerstone of our therapy program. His gentle demeanor, unwavering stability, and affinity for treats make him a cherished favorite among riders of all ages. Standing at just the right height to meet little ones eye-to-eye, Whinny effortlessly adapts to the needs and ambitions of each rider, whether it's a leisurely stroll or a spirited romp through a jumping course. In our team of equine superheroes, Whinny's versatility, kindness, and irreplaceable presence make him an invaluable asset, ensuring that he remains an indispensable pillar of our equestrian family.
T-Rex:
Introducing T-Rex: a gentle, 1-year-old miniature horse who joined the Speaking of Horses family shortly after being weaned from his mother. Despite standing just a bit taller than my golden retriever, Rex packs a punch of personality. This little dynamo thrives on treats and eagerly showcases his repertoire of tricks to earn them – from lying down to perching on a bean bag, and even showcasing his artistic flair through painting! Rex embodies a precocious and affectionate nature, always eager to please. His presence is a delightful addition, especially for children who may feel overwhelmed by larger horses, as Rex offers a charming and educational gateway into the world of equines on a miniaturized scale.
Red:
Introducing Red, the dashing 2-year-old Dutch Warmblood with a lineage fit for the grandest of arenas, boasting a famous show stallion for a father. Red trotted his way into the stables of Speaking of Horses shortly after bidding farewell to his mother's side. Currently, under the expert guidance of Ada, Red is being groomed as her personal project, set to dazzle as a show horse before potentially donning the mantle of a therapy horse. While Red is not yet wearing his therapy cape, yet his demeanor exudes serenity, affection, and boundless curiosity – qualities that are the hallmark of a top-notch therapy horse. With a world of potential at his hoofsteps, Red stands as a testament to the promise that lies within him. Watch out world, this charismatic equine is destined for greatness!
Blue:
Introducing Blue, the esteemed 8-year-old golden retriever whose journey from service dog to certified therapy dog is nothing short of inspirational. Once Ada's steadfast companion during her college years, Blue's compassionate nature and unwavering support helped her navigate through challenging times, especially during panic attacks. As Ada's strength grew, Blue's innate desire to extend his paw of assistance to others blossomed. Venturing into various venues from hospitals to libraries, schools, and nursing homes, Blue's presence brought comfort and joy to countless individuals. Now proudly serving as Speaking of Horses' resident therapy dog, Blue embodies the quintessential golden retriever spirit – wise, perceptive, and capable of gazing into the depths of one's soul to understand their emotions. In moments of heightened anxiety, Blue's comforting presence has a transformative effect, soothing even the most apprehensive child with his innate ability to connect on a profound level. Truly beyond words, Blue stands as a shining example of the extraordinary impact that a furry friend can have, enriching lives and spreading warmth wherever his paws may tread.