A Man Left Literally in Tears After the Horse Came to Support Him

João, Audrie Spake’s father, has been facing various health challenges after an accident that has rendered him bedridden. While his doctors have been tirelessly working to aid his physical healing, João recently received a visitor who also aimed to mend his heart.

Meet the equine therapist Paçoca.

Paçoca is an equine therapy horse who collaborates with volunteers from the nonprofit organization Coletivo Inclusão. Their mission is to reach out to individuals with special needs, and the impact they make is truly remarkable. And among the activities that the NGO promotes is equine therapy — therapy with horses.

Paçoca gave the man comfort and love.

Paçoca didn’t hesitate to give comfort to bedridden João too. His daughter shared a heartwarming video that depicted the moment Paçoca paid a visit to her father. In a remarkable display of intuition, the horse seemed to sense the kind of connection João needed the most. With great tenderness, Paçoca nestled against the man’s chest, creating a serene exchange of solace and affection. “He stayed close to the father the whole time, and it was beautiful!” his daughter shared.

A few years ago, João had an accident on his way to work. He spent months in a hospital until he returned home very weak, unable to walk and speaking very little. Since then, his daughter has been taking care of him every day while looking for new ways to stimulate his body and spirit. In that sense, equine therapy did him a lot of good!

Equine therapy has certain benefits for patients.

Equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy, is a therapeutic approach that involves using horses as a form of intervention within an interdisciplinary framework in the fields of health, education, and horsemanship. Its aim is to promote the biopsychosocial development of individuals with disabilities and/or special needs.

It is crucial for the therapy setting to be quiet, calm, and free from excessive noise, as both the therapists and the horses require a relaxed, secure, and confident environment. Sometimes it can be a riding session.

Horses are majestic and helpful animals, benefiting us through riding and therapy. They don’t only enhance motor skills and neurological functions but also may surprise us with their sense of humor, offering positive treatment.