Mini horses visit Colorado Springs retirement community

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- In a normal year, the seniors at the Inn at Garden Plaza Retirement Community would take a trip out to the Flying Horse Ranch to see the animals. But, thanks to COVID-19, that didn't happen.

So, the Flying Horse Foundation decided to bring the animals to the seniors.
Three mini horses moseyed over to the retirement community on Thursday to brighten the residents' day.

"As soon as we heard that our seniors were not going to be able to come to us during the 'Seniors at the Ranch' program, we just decided that we need to do something to help them during this time," said Kelly Rosati with the Flying Horse Foundation. "They are the most isolated. COVID-19 has hit them disproportionately. It was our desire to bring joy and sharing into their lives."

The horses were a hit.

"They are beautiful animals and they are so patient with us," said resident Barb Williams.

"Being isolated since St. Patrick's Day has been kind of tough," resident Dave Lavoie said. "This was really the first activity we've had since then. This has been really cool."

Resident Jeanne Long loved the experience.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for us. It's wonderful when we have visitors like this. Especially the little four-legged ones. We love it!"