By Angela Moreno-Tijerina

Recognizing that animals are one way to children’s hearts, the Youth Ranch has always welcomed and encouraged “family pets” as well as traditional livestock as key ingredients in the program.  According to HCYR Director Gary Priour, “A loving relationship with critters can be the best therapy in a wounded child’s life.”

As well as providing an avenue for friendship, caring for an animal provides an excellent course in responsibility.  And by demonstrating the ideals of respect and kindness towards animals, children learn much about their behaviors toward people.  For many of our children, these are previously unheard-of ideals. 

While some children request the responsibility of caring for pets of their own, other animals are shared as cabin pets, or as Ranch pets, or as part of the “herd” (we have 17 horses, all named and well-shared). 

The Youth Ranch has a recently constructed petting zoo that houses the newest member of our family, a Spanish goat.  Children at the Ranch’s Assessment Center, where the most traumatized children reside, vie for the opportunity to spend time with this new treasure. 

Other star attractions include the melodious ringneck doves in the Arts Center courtyard, various dogs and cats, and the always beloved horses.  In the photo display at right and below, we share a sampling of some of the creatures that have called the Ranch home over the years.