At Horses Healing Humans in Frederick, Maryland, Peggy Magnanelli has seen her horses create moments of profound connection. But her mare, Rose, gave one Army veteran an experience that changed her life.
The veteran, a former interrogator in Iraq, had endured significant trauma, including an assault by a fellow soldier. For years, she had struggled with anxiety, avoided crowds, and hadn’t slept through the night in over a decade. Even visiting the farm was a challenge.
Before the session, Peggy guided her through a grounding exercise. Then, as they entered the arena, something extraordinary happened. Peggy’s herd—three full-sized horses and a mini donkey—lined up single file and approached the veteran one by one, as though introducing themselves. Peggy had never seen them act this way before or since.
But it was Rose who made the deepest connection. After the introductions, Rose walked up and stayed close to the veteran, offering her quiet presence for nearly half an hour. Without rushing, Peggy allowed the two to share the moment. Rose’s calm and steadfast energy created a space for the veteran to feel safe for the first time in years.
The next morning, Peggy received a call that left her in awe. For the first time in 10 years, the veteran had slept through the night—no nightmares, no stress. She was deeply grateful, and so was Peggy.
“I am so grateful to my horses for being who they are and showing up for her and all my clients,” Peggy says.
This National Horse Day, we celebrate horses like Rose, whose quiet strength can transform lives. To read more inspiring stories about the incredible bond between humans and horses, visit our main blog.
Thank you, Peggy, for sharing Rose’s incredible story with us. At Horses for Mental Health, we are honored to celebrate the impact of horses like Rose and the lives they touch every day.
