CLAY COUNTY, Minn. — Tucked away in the rolling hills of rural Clay County is a horse farm that offers something more than a stable.

The owners of Mighty Oaks Equine Learning Center say horses have a therapeutic effect, so they decided to create a new experience this year for anyone interested in spending time with them.

“Every single one of these horses back here has suffered a loss in some way, somehow,” said Amber Ferris, co-owner at Mighty Oaks.

Despite the hardships, the horses are resilient. Just like the people they meet at Mighty Oaks, they heal through community and a sense of belonging.

“You can talk to them, and they snuggle in and they ... it’s like they listen to you,” said attendee Cora Crane, who frequently participates in “Peace in the Pasture” sessions at the stable.

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