Visit from Blue the Miniature Pony Brings Serenity and Smiles

When it came time for Crossroads in Northeast Ohio to plan patient Donald McDonald’s Gift of a Day, he and his wife knew exactly what would make their perfect day. They wanted to visit with a miniature horse at their home.

Their wish came true when Miniature Horse Blue, donning special shoes and a tote bag, came over. Blue’s owners, Avery and her mom, Lori, were happy to make their appointment. Their nearby miniature horse farm has an outreach ministry of visiting the ill and homebound.

Miniature horses have shown their calming effect and that’s why more and more they’re being used to comfort patients in end-of-life care. Originally bred in Europe in the 17th Century, a miniature horse typically weighs around 100 pounds and is no more than 34 inches tall. Naturally sociable and calm, miniature horses have soft coats and manes that are perfect for petting and cuddling.

When Blue arrived at the McDonald’s home for his visit, he went straight to Donald’s bedside and stood quietly next to him. Family and friends who gathered were so happy to see Donald’s joy as he couldn’t stop petting Blue while reminiscing about his long-gone days riding horses bareback.