Growing up on a farm in northern Iowa and having lived on a farm for most of my life has given me many opportunities to interact with various types of animals. Especially after meeting other families as my children have gone through their school years, I realized that there are many people in the world who have never had the opportunity to have those experiences with animals that have been a part of my life ever since I was born, and have taught me so much through the years. My two favorite animals have always been horses and dogs, and for the majority of my life, I have been blessed by the companionship of both, as well as a few other types of animals. Our trainer and board members have enjoyed those same experiences. Serenity Acres was first conceived of as a way to bring those experiences to people, especially those with disabilities, who would benefit from animal-assisted therapies, whether that be physically, mentally or emotionally. Our goal is to be able to provide these services free of charge to our riders through grants and donations made to our public charity.
Currently, we have eight horses available for use in our therapeutic riding program. We also have two Newfoundland dogs, one is a therapy dog and she has visited primarily schools and care centers. Our other five year old Newfoundland is also in training for the same work, and we hope to have him tested and certified soon. Our instructor and trainer has extensive experience in both English and Western disciplines, and has raised and shown her Andalusian horses for several years. She also operates a boarding and training facility on her farm. We look forward to meeting you and discussing how we might help you achieve your animal-assisted therapy goals!
Dana Halvorson
Currently, we have eight horses available for use in our therapeutic riding program. We also have two Newfoundland dogs, one is a therapy dog and she has visited primarily schools and care centers. Our other five year old Newfoundland is also in training for the same work, and we hope to have him tested and certified soon. Our instructor and trainer has extensive experience in both English and Western disciplines, and has raised and shown her Andalusian horses for several years. She also operates a boarding and training facility on her farm. We look forward to meeting you and discussing how we might help you achieve your animal-assisted therapy goals!
Dana Halvorson