400 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine SOCIAL SERVICES AND NONPROFIT training teachers and mental health professionals to incorporate horses into their therapeutic practices. By providing a peaceful and natural environment for both horses and humans, the transformative power of therapy sessions is increased. In addition, Ms. Spillane and her husband converted their former residence on the property into a retreat center to facilitate workshops and community building. Moving forward, Ms. Spillane is expanding the services provided to at-risk children and teens, equine health and wellness classes, and best practices horse training for amateurs and professionals. She holds a BA in English and education from Creighton University and is passionate about teaching, aiming to educate others on better horse care. She plans to create a premier center for horses and human health and well-being at their beautiful new facility in the foothills of Colorado. At the age of 48, Bernadette Spillane decided to pivot her life to focus on her passion for horses and animal welfare. In 2005, she closed her martial arts school and took on ownership of a young Arabian horse. Through her relationship with this horse, she discovered the complex world of horse care and the deep connection between horses and humans. Caring for her Arabian horse exposed Ms. Spillane to an extensive range of specialized therapies and treatments — including equine chiropractic care, massages and dental work — and opened her eyes to the profound impact of horses on human well-being. This realization prompted her and her husband, John, to provide a sanctuary for horses on their property. In 2011, they began a nonprofit organization, Happy Dog Ranch Foundation Inc., and expanded their mission to include providing equine therapy for human clients in addition to their function as an animal sanctuary. In 2023, Happy Dog Ranch relocated to a much larger facility at historic Jarre Creek ranch in Sedalia, Colorado. Through the foundation, Ms. Spillane and her staff rehabilitate horses while also offering volunteer opportunities and both academic and therapeutic community programs. The Happy Dog Ranch Foundation has worked with various institutions and organizations, BERNADETTE M. SPILLANE FOUNDER, PRESIDENT Happy Dog Ranch Foundation Inc. Sedalia, CO
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