DonKAY is the most famous guy at XO Ranch and the face of our logo! You’ll find his adorable ears on our shirts, signs, and just about everything we do.

DonKAY is more than just a mascot, he is a teacher, a friend and a favorite among our visitors. Especially children on the autism spectrum. He has an incredible way of connecting with kids who need a little extra patience, understanding or space. He communicates clearly what he needs in return. Helping us all slow down, listen better, and grow in our horsemanships and our hearts.

He’ll often leave his hay to come to say hello or get a good scratch. He is also very selective about who he works with which makes it extra special when he choses you. When he is not supervising ranch life DonKAY is working on his cart training and stealing hearts along the way.

Noah is our lead therapeutic riding horse and a beloved member of XO Ranch family. As our founder’s very first horse he carries the heart of the ranch with every step and now helps carries others through their journey of healing and growth.

Patient, intuitive, and full of personality, Noah has grown into a steady, reliable partner for riders of all ages and abilities. He gently challenges students to build confidence, balance and trust while humbling even the most seasoned horseman with his quiet wisdom.

From ground work to mounted sessions Noah brings out the best in those who work with him. He is not just a riding horse, he is a teacher, a guide and a four hoofed therapist.

Princeton is our fancy broke gentleman and a true heart horse of XO Ranch. With a long career behind him, he has done it all. Summer camps, advanced horsemanship and teaching people the magic of joining up.

Now in his golden years, Princeton takes on a gentler role. He primarily works with lighter riders and leads powerful ground sessions where his calming energy helps others release tension and reconnect with themselves. He was truly made for this work. Quiet, intuitive, and full of grace.

Though his riding days are slowing down, Princeton remains a cornerstone of our herd. XO Ranch will love and care for him through retirement just like he’s cared for so many of us.

Andi is our certified therapy mini horse and official XO Ranch unicorn. With his gentle spirit he became our go to for off-site smiles.

Andi travels to schools, nursing homes, libraries and community events bringing comfort, joy and connection wherever he goes. He has a special way of making people feel seen and safe. Whether its a child on the spectrum or senior in need of gentle moments.

On or off the ranch Andi is an example of the heart at XO Ranch. He is small but mighty and made for this work.

Penelope or Penny is our therapeutic horse in training and she is already winning hearts left and right. This sweet 13.3 hand haflinger mare is sturdy, steady and full of try.

With her golden coat and gentle eyes Penny brings a calm, grounding energy to the ranch.

She is currently working hard to master the skills needed for therapeutic riding lessons, from standing quietly at the mounting block to her riders’ cues and emotions.

Patient and perceptive, Penelope is quickly becoming a trusted partner for our students. We are so proud of the progress she is making and grateful for her willingness to learn to grow along side of us. She maybe in training but she is already part of the magic here at XO Ranch.

Maylee is one of XO Ranch’s certified therapy miniature horses and a total star. Both on the ranch and out in the community.

Gentle, confident and full of sparkle Maylee works with students of all ages on site and now travels off site to schools, libraries, nursing homes and special events. Whether she is helping a child navigate emotions or offering comfort during a visit Maylee brings a calming presence and a whole lot of love.

She is always obstacle course savvy, van trained and potty trained making her a true professional in ever sense (with a little bit of sass on the side). We are so proud of the tiny therapist she became.

At XO Ranch we believe healing happens in the dirt too. Our garden is a space for planting seeds, pulling weeds, and growing both vegetables and emotional resilience.

There are countless therapeutic benefits to gardening. Calming the nervous system, building patience, and offering hands on connection with nature. Watching the garden flourish with care and intention is a beautiful reflection of what happens within ourselves to those who tend it.

Our bunny program is always a favorite. It is nearly impossible to be sad around these soft snuggly fluffs.

The rabbits at XO Ranch bring joy and comfort to kids and teens while also teaching important lessons in care and responsibility.

For our older youth our bunnies provide opportunities to develop animal husbandry skills- feeding, grooming and learning gentle handling techniques.

And their not just cute, they are useful. Their natural fertilizer helps nourish our garden, making them a vital part of our ranch ecosystem.