A connection that goes beyond riding.
The PERRF Horse & Human Bond Program is a non-riding equine program for adults designed to create opportunities for connection, healing, confidence, and renewed hope through meaningful relationships with horses.
Our program welcomes veterans, first responders, individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, and adults who are recovering from violence or traumatic experiences. No riding experience is necessary, and participants do not need to be experienced with horses.
Through grooming, leading, walking alongside our horses, observing their behavior, or simply spending quiet time together, participants are invited to slow down and experience the powerful connection between horse and human.
Horses have an extraordinary ability to respond to our emotions, body language, and energy. Their calm, nonjudgmental presence can create a safe space for individuals to reconnect with themselves, build trust, reduce isolation, and experience moments of peace and companionship.
For those living with dementia, the familiar rhythm and sensory experience of interacting with a horse can provide meaningful opportunities for engagement and connection. Caregivers, too, deserve a place where they can pause, breathe, and share in the experience.
For veterans and first responders, our horses offer a quiet environment where there is no expectation to explain, perform, or be anything other than present. For survivors rebuilding their lives after violence, the horse-human connection can become a gentle pathway toward trust, confidence, and healing.
At PERRF, we believe healing doesn't always require words. Sometimes, it begins with simply standing beside a horse.
The Horse & Human Bond Program is a reminder that horses have so much more to offer than riding. They can be companions, teachers, trusted partners—and sometimes, the quiet presence we need when words aren't enough.
A Sanctuary Voice in the Work of Protection
Rescued horses demonstrate that animal protection must be practical, enforceable, and humane.
Legislation We Actively Support
PERRF actively supports legislation that strengthens protections for horses and advances meaningful animal welfare reforms. Our resident horses have been directly connected to advocacy efforts that helped advance Pennsylvania Act 10 (Libre’s Law), strengthening state animal cruelty laws. We also strongly support the SAFE Act (Save America’s Forgotten Equines) to permanently ban horse slaughter in the U.S. and end the export of American horses for commercial processing, as well as the PAST Act (Prevent All Soring Tactics) to eliminate the cruel practice of horse soring. Together, these efforts reflect our commitment to stronger, enforceable protections for horses.
At the Sanctuary
Daily permanent care keeps our advocacy grounded in real lives and recovery.
In Harrisburg
Bringing rescue stories to state leaders to strengthen Pennsylvania protection laws.
In Washington, D.C.
Partnering with national advocacy groups to push for federal protections.