More results...
Equine-Assisted Learning: Down the Stretch Ranch
Equine-Assisted Learning: Down the Stretch Ranch
By: Daniel McCanna ‘Boone’
Down the Stretch Ranch (DTSR), est. 2014
At Down the Stretch Ranch, our passion for horses runs deep, but even more so, our commitment to helping people heal through the incredible bond between humans and horses drives everything we do. Located on a sprawling ranch in Eastern Washington where retired thoroughbred racehorses find new purpose, we use the power of equine therapy to transform lives.
A Second Chance for Horses and Humans
Retired racehorses come to the ranch from various trainers around the northwest, mainly California. The horses arrive in good health but have certain soundness issues that have kept them from being able to compete at the racetrack. Often these racehorses face uncertain futures, but at DTSR, we offer them a second chance—not just to live out their days in peace, but to become catalysts for healing.
Thoroughbreds, with their spirited nature, teach patience, empathy, and trust—qualities that are crucial for individuals overcoming trauma, stress, or mental health challenges. By interacting with these horses, participants develop deeper emotional connections and learn essential life skills in a non-judgmental, nurturing environment. This forces each individual to be in the present.
DTSR – Creston, WA
When the horses first arrive, they are evaluated and placed in suitable corrals to assist them with healing. We are committed to giving the horses at least one year at the ranch before we consider rehoming them or whether we will keep them at the ranch for the rest of their life as a sanctuary horse. After evaluating the horse for a year, we determine if the horse is suitable for adoption or if it will live out its life at the ranch. The ranch has one hundred grazeable acres, and the horses are able to roam the entire pasture. This kind of roaming helps with the circulation in their feet and their overall digestive health. When the snow flies, we feed first cutting alfalfa, oat hay and grain. All the farrier and dental work is done on individual as needed basis. We have two experienced horseman that are always at the ranch, and both have extensive knowledge on how to care for the horses and provide farrier work and provide excellent care for the horses.
The favorite part of the ranch is watching the horses transform from the high intensity work at the racetrack, to a slow county retirement living. These horses are so incredibly smart! It is a pleasure to drive out in the field and have the whole herd run over to you to get their daily attention and treats.
Therapy for Veterans and Children at DTSR
Unlike traditional therapy, equine therapy offers a unique, experiential approach to healing. Whether it’s learning to groom, guide, or simply be present with a horse, participants find comfort and confidence in the connection they build. Horses have a natural ability to mirror human emotions, offering real-time feedback that helps individuals process feelings they may struggle to articulate.
Over the last 10 years the ranch has hosted hundreds of veterans and children with nothing but positive feedback! Our staff would like to take the credit for all the positive outcomes over the last 10 years, but it is simple to see the horses provide the magic!
Learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s accredited organizations:
