In Mongolia

The Life-Changing Impact of Horse Shelter’s Unique Approach Since 2018, B. Naranbadrakh and his younger brother J. Ochirbat have dedicated themselves to the noble cause of saving horses from slaughterhouses. Their organization, Horse Shelter, operates as a non-profit and has successfully made a significant impact in various domains, particularly in the realm of physical and mental health. One of the key areas of focus for Horse Shelter is conducting research to understand how owning a horse positively affects the overall well-being of an individual. To undertake this study, the organization employs the traditional Mongolian horse-human communication method. This methodology can be likened to a hybrid between Equine Therapy and Horse Therapy. However, what sets it apart is its unique emphasis on individuals having their own horse. In Mongolia, the culture of interacting with, riding, and loving horses in solitude has been prevalent for an astonishing 7,000 years. Drawing inspiration from this rich heritage, Horse Shelter initiated a program in 2021 that provided 50 individuals with their own horse. Crucially, the horses were not simply handed over to the owners; rather, they were required to regularly visit their horses, engage in communication, and shower them with love. The services rendered by Horse Shelter in this program were provided entirely free of charge. The impact of this groundbreaking initiative has been nothing short of astounding. Teenagers who received their own horse during this period found themselves liberated from the clutches of electronic addiction. Furthermore, a powerful testament to the transformative power of equine companionship was demonstrated by a 117 kg individual who successfully shed a remarkable 74 kg in just one year. These heartening stories are not just grounded in physical transformations but also in the profound emotional growth experienced by these individuals. What adds to the uniqueness of this program is the fact that each horse given to an individual has been rescued from the slaughterhouse. These horses, which would have otherwise met a tragic fate, have been granted a newfound lease on life. Today, they are thriving in the loving care of their respective owners, with 96 remarkable horses fostering love, compassion, and empathy among 50 fortunate individuals. The impact of Horse Shelter’s work extends beyond the evident physical and mental health benefits. By combining the ancient wisdom of Mongolian horse-human communication with contemporary practices, they have not only saved horses from the brink of despair but also fostered a profound sense of connectivity and empathy within their community. Horse Shelter’s initiative serves as a reminder of how the timeless bond between humans and horses can lead to personal growth and societal harmony. As B. Naranbadrakh and J. Ochirbat continue to rescue and rehabilitate horses, their achievements grow not only in magnitude but also in their ability to inspire and transform lives. Horse Shelter stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that simple acts of compassion and understanding can yield significant positive changes in both human and animal lives alike.