Once a month, the nonprofit Wyo-Hoofbeats brings a unique kind of therapy to the long-term care center at Cody Regional Health—a visit from horses, cats, dogs, and even the occasional chicken, Q2 Montana’s News Leader Billings reports.
“Only here in Wyoming will you see a horse on an elevator in a nursing home,” said Kyle Watson, a social worker at the facility, as Norman, a therapy horse, made his way inside.
Wyo-Hoofbeats, co-founded by Jody Goldbach and Heather Bales, aims to bring joy and emotional support to residents, staff, and visitors alike.
“It’s as good for us, as it is for the staff, as it is for the residents,” said Bales. “A lot of people say it’s magic.”
For Lynne Chadwick, a veterinarian of 52 years who was preparing to return home after a two-month stay, the visit was especially meaningful. Missing her golden retriever, she anticipated an emotional reunion.
“We will have to have special things to keep me standing, ‘cause she’ll come—Boom,” Chadwick said.
Chadwick is no stranger to the healing power of animals. Over two decades ago, she herself brought animals to visit this same hospital, making this program part of a long-standing Wyoming tradition.
While the visits bring joy and nostalgia, they can also be bittersweet.
“The hardest part for us is: We come one month and see some of our people, and the next month they’re gone,” Bales shared.
Despite this, Wyo-Hoofbeats remains committed to providing comfort, companionship, and a brief escape for residents.
“It transports them out of here. Just for that, two minutes, or whatever, it at least helps them remember something else, besides sitting in here,” said Goldbach.
To continue their work, Wyo-Hoofbeats will host a concert and fundraiser on May 16 at the Yellowstone Valley Inn. The event will help support the program and provide financial assistance for medical expenses, including co-pays and deductibles, for those in need in Wyoming.
For many residents, these visits are more than just a moment of happiness—they’re a reminder of home, community, and the deep connection between people and animals.
