Discover Embrace The Moment

A Equine-Therapy Program for Adults With Cancer

For cancer patients, cancer survivors, & their caregivers,

our supported activities are designed for everyone on the cancer pathway.

We believe in nurturing body, mind, and spirit not only for our rescued horses but for humans too. We understand that horses are one of the few animals that form a deep bond and connection with humans. For the Santa Cruz County, Monterey County and Santa Clara County community walking the cancer road, our Embrace The Moment equine-therapy cancer program offers a unique avenue to rediscover strength, hope, and connection—one gentle hoofbeat at a time.

Why Horses? Why Rescued Horses?

- - Nonjudgmental Presence
    
    Horses respond to emotion without words. Their steady, calm nature creates a safe space for fears, grief, or frustration to be felt—and gently released.
  - Empowerment Through Partnership
    
    Activities like grooming, leading, and just being present in the moment horses let participants feel in control. Each successful interaction with these majestic animals reminds us of our own resilience.
  - Mindfulness in Motion
    
    Being with horses requires presence. As you brush a mane or walk alongside, or stand quietly in their presence, worries about treatments and appointments melt away, replaced by focus on the here and now.
  - Rescue Horses As Healers

Our rescued horses know trauma. They have lived it, breathed it and suffered at the hands of humans. But, through all that they have an innate ability to provide comfort and peace to humans going through the trauma of a cancer diagnosis. They many not know you have cancer but they feel anxiety, stress and trauma in the human body (even if you don’t think you are suffering from any of those, a horse will know and offer empathy that no human can.

“Just brushing my horse for an hour gave me more relief than any anti-anxiety pill.

It reminded me that I’m still strong, still capable.”

— Sarah, breast cancer survivor

What the Research Shows

Clinical studies confirm what many of our participants experience firsthand:

- - - - Reduced Anxiety & Depression
        
        A 2020 study in the Journal of Psychosocial Oncology found that cancer patients in equine therapy reported significant drops in anxiety, depression, and fatigue, alongside boosts in emotional well-being.
      - Improved Self-Esteem & Resilience
        
        Research published in Supportive Care in Cancer (2018) showed that time spent with horses helped survivors rebuild self-confidence, cope better with stress, and foster social connections—key factors in long-term recovery.

“Horses mirror our emotions,” explains Dr. Lynn Buzhardt, veterinary behaviorist.

“They give people an immediate, honest reflection of how they’re feeling, which can be profoundly healing.”

Our Program Offerings

- - - 1. Individual Therapy Sessions
        
        One-on-one guided visits for personalized support.
      2. Group Workshops
        
        Shared experiences that build community, led by certified equine specialists and mindfulness professionals who have walked the cancer path.
      3. Caregiver Sessions
        
        Respite and renewal for family members and friends providing crucial support.
      4. Volunteer & Ambassador Training
        
        Engage with our herd—learn equine care, safety protocols, and how to support participants on the ground. Many of our existing volunteers including our founder have cancer diagnosis or are cancer survivors.

Join Us & Make a Difference

- - - - For Community Members with Cancer
        
        Registration is open year-round. No prior horse experience is required—just an open heart and a willingness to try something new.
      - For Volunteers & Supporters
        
        Help us keep Embrace The Moment running. Volunteer roles range from barn maintenance and horse grooming to event planning and fundraising.
      - Donate
        
        Your contributions provide scholarships for families in need, cover horse feed and care, and fund specialized equipment. Every gift—big or small—helps us welcome more participants.

How to Get Started

- - - 1. Contact Us
        
        Request information
        
        Phone: (831) 588-5198
      2. Schedule Your Intro Visit
        
        Tour our facility, meet our gentle herd of rescued horses, and learn what to expect.
      3. Begin Your Journey
        
        We’ll work with you to design sessions that meet your goals—whether it’s stress relief, confidence-building, or simply spending joyful time in nature.

In the circle of hooves and heartbeats, many find a quiet strength they never knew they had.

Together, let’s harness the healing power of horses to uplift our community members facing cancer.