No horsing around here! Winnie—lovingly called “Winnie the Mini”—is Alabama’s first mini therapy horse. She is “dedicated to bringing smiles, laughter & healing to hospitals, schools, nursing homes & rehabilitation facilities” across Alabama, her Facebook page explains. Winnie has been all over the state (and all over the news!) loving on individuals with all kinds of struggles and sparking joy wherever she trods.
It’s more than just “petting a pony”—according to UCLA Health, “Humans interacting with animals have found that petting the animal promoted the release of serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin—all hormones that can play a part in elevating moods.” Animals have proven to be a great source of comfort for individuals, especially those who may be lonely, anxious, or experiencing chronic diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Here are a few fun facts about Winnie: She’s 14, her favorite color is pink, she can bow and smile on command, and she loves a good Blueberry Poptart. Her flex is that she was a 2025 NASCA Highpoint Champion. To learn more about Winnie, contact (659) 223-5177 or follow them @Winnie-The-Therapy-Mini on Facebook for adorable, heartwarming photos and videos.
