NTRC’s Mini Horse Program brings therapeutic benefits to children and adults with social and mental health needs—both on-campus and at community locations. Though tiny in size, our minis deliver powerful results through calm, connection, and joy.

Benefits of Mini Horse Visits:

• Physical Engagement – Activities like grooming and leading promote coordination, balance, and fine motor skills.

• Emotional Support – Horses mirror human emotions, offering non-judgmental connection that reduces stress and anxiety.

• Sensory Stimulation – Soft manes, quiet nickers, and gentle movement help with sensory integration and calming.

• Confidence Building – Minis respond to clear leadership, empowering participants to find their voice and build self-assurance.

• Cognitive & Social Growth – Games and guided interactions strengthen memory, communication, and relationship skills.

• Joyful Connection – Our minis light up every room they enter, creating motivation, laughter, and lasting memories.

Our Minis Are Mobile
Fully trained and adaptable, our mini horses visit hospitals, schools, memory care centers, group homes, public events, and more. We ensure safety and cleanliness by bathing, vesting, fitting safe-grip shoes, and preparing for all environments.

Ready to meet our Mini Team?
Booking a visit is easy! Our pre-visit forms allow us to give your participants the best experience while easing your workload. Obtain your forms by contacting NTRC’s Mini Program Coordinator at cvanorsdale@ntrc.org or clicking the button below.

The NTRC mini-therapy program was made possible by The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.

Meet the Mini Team

These tiny equine stars are the heart of NTRC’s Mini Horse Program. Itty Bitty and Raisin have brought smiles, comfort, and connection to facilities across Collier and Lee Counties—often dressed in adorable outfits that make their visits even more memorable.

Itty Bitty is known for her striking blue eye and love of body scratches.
Raisin, with her long, braid-worthy mane, has a special skill—she pulls a carriage and loves to move fast when she’s off-duty!

Both minis are trained regularly through lunging exercises and are calm, gentle, and incredibly intuitive during therapy work. Though small in size, they have huge personalities and a remarkable ability to brighten any room they enter.

Zoom to Reading Stardom with Little Bitty Literacy

A Virtual Reading Program with a Very Special Listener

Little Bitty Literacy is a weekly or biweekly reading program hosted over Zoom—bringing the joy of reading and the calming presence of a miniature therapy horse directly to your classroom or organization.

How It Works:
Participants read stories of their choice aloud to one of our Mini Horses, who listens and reacts in real time. With her comforting presence and engaging personality, the mini encourages readers to grow in confidence and reach new benchmarks.

Literacy skills blossom each session, including:

• Fluency

• Phonics

• Comprehension

• Verbal expression and confidence

This program offers the same sense of connection and emotional support as in-person equine therapy—without ever leaving your home or school.

Accessible. Personal. Engaging. Convenient.
Perfect for schools, libraries, group homes, and community programs.