Stampede of Love: Enhancing Lives Through Miniature Horse Therapy

Stampede of Love, founded in 2002 by Tara and Mary Needham, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to using miniature horses for Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). Our mission is to bring the joy and healing power of these amazing animals to those in need across various communities.

What is Animal Assisted Therapy?

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) involves incorporating animals into therapeutic settings to improve emotional and physical well-being. Research demonstrates that AAT can:

Promote shorter hospital stays
Lower blood pressure
Enhance social interaction
Provide mental and physical stimulation
Foster a profound sense of well-being

Patients, especially children, look forward to visits from therapy animals, which often leads to improved mood, increased alertness, and overall happiness.

Meet Our Miniature Horse Therapy Team

At Stampede of Love, our miniature horses not only excel in shows but also make significant contributions through hospital visits, school interactions, and community events. Our equine volunteers are cherished for their ability to offer unconditional acceptance and emotional support.

Featured Miniature Horses

Golden Meadows Heirs Dream Girl, aka “Lola”

Foaled: March 23, 2007
Height: 32.5 inches
Description: A calm and sensitive palomino pinto mare, Lola is known for her gentle nature and has a special place as a unicorn model in children’s activities. Her kind eyes and understanding demeanor make her a favorite among our team.

Stars Graham Crackers, aka “Peaches”

Foaled: May 7, 2015
Height: 31 inches
Description: As the newest member of our team, Peaches is a spirited sorrel filly with a promising future. Despite her young age, she has already participated in parades, therapy visits, and community events, spreading joy wherever she goes.

Aupollo’s Midnight Marquee, aka “Kiwi”

Foaled: April 7, 2014
Height: 25 inches
Description: Kiwi, born with dwarfism, has overcome many health challenges. His unique condition has become a source of inspiration during therapy visits. Kiwi has received an honorary diploma from the University of North Carolina and is featured in the film Reggie: A Millennial Depression Comedy.

Azariah’s Z Royal Debut, aka “Taz”

Foaled: May 11, 2007
Height: 32 inches
Description: Taz is an all-around champion with a vibrant personality. Despite past health issues, including colic surgery and colitis, Taz has fully recovered and continues to be a joyful presence in our therapy programs.

Lazy Days Midnight Lightening, aka “Leo”

Foaled: May 10, 2002
Height: 27 inches
Description: Leo, our founding member, and the sire of Kiwi, has shown remarkable resilience. Though retired due to liver disease, Leo's spirit remains unbroken. His dedication earned him a spot in the Equus Horse Stars Hall of Fame in 2019 for his community service.

Favorite Products

We proudly support our equine partners with ExcelEQ, a supplement designed to enhance their health and performance. Discover how ExcelEQ can benefit your horses here!

Learn More About Stampede of Love

Explore how Stampede of Love and our team of miniature horses are making a difference through Animal Assisted Therapy and see the impact of our work on improving lives across the community on our website!

Be sure to keep up with Stampede of Love’s adventures on Facebook, Instagram (Kiwi_the_mini_horse) and Twitter (@kiwitheminihors)!