Author: Christina Tsirkas

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Forming a deeper bond with your pet

“We all have the ability to connect with our animals on a deep spiritual level,” says Elaine
McCarty, animal Reiki master teacher and animal empath. Known as “the Animal Reiki Lady,” McCarty is dedicated to helping people establish deeper connections with their animal companions. We asked her to share that wisdom.

Q. How do you help people build a deeper connection with their animal?

A. The secret to forming a deep connection is balance and harmony and peace and calm. I show people how to release stress so that they can be fully present for their animal.

Q. What does being fully present mean?

A. Animals pick up on stress. Being fully present means clearing your mind and putting your stress aside. You can do that by meditating, focusing on your breathing, focusing on what you love about your animal companion.

Q. And once our mind is clear?

A. Spend time that’s not for you, but for them. I think that’s especially important right now. A lot of pets were adopted during the pandemic and are used to having their human companions at home. But now many people are going back to work. When left alone, this causes stress for the animal. They need to know you’re still there for them.

Q. How do we do that?

A. If you have a dog, take him for a decompression walk — a walk where you take your time, letting him go where he wants, sniff what he wants, not making him heel. The walk has to be for him, not for you.

Q. You practice animal Reiki. What is that?

A. Reiki therapy is a relaxation practice that rebalances our pet’s energy. It helps reduce stress, promote healing, and create an amazing space of love and compassion for people and animals. It’s a complementary practice to veterinary care that supports our pets’ spiritual well-being.

Q. What is Reiki used for?

A. Connection, behavioral changes, healing, end-of-life transitions. For animals that are exhibiting a certain behavior — say a dog that always barks when it’s raining — Reiki can help change their behavior without punishing them. Animals cannot voice their discomfort or confusion. They can’t say “I don’t understand why I feel this way.” When a vet tells you your horse has cancer, your horse doesn’t freak out. It doesn’t know it has cancer, it only knows how much pain it’s in. But the horse can feel your stress when you hear that your horse has cancer. Reiki helps keep them calm and in a space that allows their bodies to heal.

The healing benefits of Reiki are not limited to animals. Both the Mayo and Cleveland Clinic incorporate Reiki into their holistic treatment for pain management.

Elaine McCarty lives in Colorado but frequents Parkland at least four times per year, teaching animal Reiki at Three 7s Animal Sanctuary and seeing private clients. If you’re interested in learning more, check out her informative videos on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, under the handle “The Animal Reiki Lady.” For additional resources, or to get in touch with McCarty, visit her website at theanimalreikilady.com.

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Different isn’t a disability – Helping young adults on the spectrum live authentic, independent lives

“We’re people who have goals and feelings and dreams. We can do anything.”—Haley Moss, neurodiversity expert

She was diagnosed with autism at 3 years old, and doctors told Haley Moss’s parents they would be lucky if she were to be able to hold a minimum-wage job or obtain her driver’s license. Not one to accept any limitations placed on her by others, she not only defied but obliterated those expectations.

At 27 years old, Moss has already reached a number of milestones that many people would be grateful to accomplish in a single lifetime. She graduated from the University of Miami School of Law and passed the Florida bar, becoming the first openly autistic attorney in Florida. A published author, Moss has written four books, her latest debuting this month. She’s also an advocate, public speaker, artist, adjunct professor, and leader on disability inclusion, autism, and neurodiversity in the workplace. Her op-eds have been published by NBC News, Fast Company, Insider, Teen Vogue, and The Washington Post.

Oh, and she did also manage to get her driver’s license.

Living on her own, Moss is busy loving life her way. And with her latest book, “The Young Autistic Adult’s Independence Handbook,” she is determined to empower others on the neurodiversity spectrum to do the same — to live fulfilling, independent lives their way.

“I really wanted to make the book as inclusive as possible, realizing that everyone on the spectrum is different,” explains Moss. “It’s not just autism. The neurodiversity spectrum includes people with learning disabilities, ADHD, mental health disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and even acquired differences like dementia, Alzheimer’s, or traumatic brain injuries.”

The inspiration for the book stemmed from the lack of available resources for young adults on the spectrum on transitioning to adulthood. “A lot of us are expected to be perpetual children, or we’re just expected to know how to be adults.”

Moss’s book provides advice and a framework for navigating situations many young adults struggle with that may present unique challenges for those on the spectrum — from relationships to maintaining a household, managing finances, and creating healthy habits.

The book is also a resource that can aid parents in preparing their children for adulthood. “There are all sorts of little things that you may not realize are stressful,” advises Moss, who uses grocery shopping as an example. “You’re not thinking maybe this is hard for them because there are so many options, or the lights are overwhelming, or it’s really crowded, or the carts are clattering. You’re not thinking like that because it’s not your experience. But it might be your child’s experience.”

Complete with advice from experts, personal experience, and practical ways to handle these challenges, the book emphasizes — as does Moss herself — the ability of people on the spectrum to make their own decisions and create their own lives.

“We might need more support in reaching those goals and dreams, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t exist. We all want to be happy. We all want to feel fulfilled. We all want to feel loved. That goes for anybody.”

“The Young Autistic Adult’s Independence Handbook” releases on Nov. 18 and is available for pre-order on Amazon.

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Grab life by the reins: Experience the value of an equine adventure

There’s something inherently satisfying about embarking on an adventure. Whether it’s the thrill of trying something new or pushing past your comfort zone, adventures offer us the opportunity not only to challenge ourselves but to know ourselves better. They also make for great stories.

Equine adventures are particularly rewarding because they come with a 1,000-pound comrade with its own mind and personality. Whether you’re a green or an experienced rider, at times, horses will test your patience, confidence, and perseverance. And when you manage to develop trust and understanding with your horse, you are rewarded on a whole different level.

My most recent equine adventure was a cattle drive in Colorado. It was 8 a.m. on a Friday when I arrived at the 8,000-acre working cattle ranch just outside Steamboat Springs. As I pulled into the dirt parking lot, I was greeted by a line of horses saddled and waiting. My mount for the day was Moca, a beautiful dun mare.

There were six riders including myself — my partner in his recently acquired cowboy hat, a retired couple who sold all of their property and were traveling the country in an RV, and a mother-daughter duo on a mission to visit all 50 states before the girl’s 18th birthday.

Continue reading “Grab life by the reins: Experience the value of an equine adventure”

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Parkland gives back, providing 1,119 backpacks for students in need

This year, Parkland’s annual Backpack Project provided 1,119 backpacks complete with back-to-school supplies for students in need, aiding a number of nonprofit organizations, including Kids in Distress, Hope South Florida, God’s Little Lambs Preschool, and SOS Children’s Villages Florida.

 

What started as a small family and friends operation eight years ago has become a community favorite. “I think the first year we ended up with 300 backpacks,” recalls Heather Khalil, founder and driving force behind the annual drive. “We helped one agency with a backpack project.”

 

Over the years, as the Backpack Project grew in popularity, Khalil ran out of room in her house to store the donated backpacks and asked volunteers to become team leaders in their neighborhoods. “More friends and neighbors asked to participate as I added projects, so I reached out to other agencies.” She now has team leaders not only in Parkland, but also in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs, Weston, Plantation, and a growing number of other communities. “Everything grew beyond what I thought was possible.”

 

One of the unique aspects of the Backpack Project, and perhaps the reason it resonates with so many, is its personal touch, an idea that originated with Khalil and one that she brought to fruition. “I think I was the first to bring the idea to do it for specific kids so people could actually shop for an assigned child and write a note to them.”

Each year, the participating agencies provide Khalil with a list of children in need. Volunteers are then given their particular student’s name, age, size, and gender so that they can purchase appropriate backpacks, first day of school outfits, socks, underwear, toiletries, school supplies, and a book, and they can also include a note of encouragement addressed to their child.

“Many people in the community tell me the whole family shops together for ‘their’ child,” enthuses Khalil. “Volunteers often provide more than what is asked for because they really want to make a difference. I get to witness a lot of kindness and love firsthand, which is truly amazing and a blessing!”

Next up for Khalil is the Halloween Project, which provides Halloween costumes for children in the foster-care and homeless system. “Children in the foster system and homeless system do not get new costumes for Halloween. If they get anything at all, it’s usually someone’s old costume. This project offers those children the chance to choose their own brand-new costume,” explains Khalil.

Again making the experience personal for both child and volunteer, Khalil asks participating agencies to provide a list that includes each child’s name, age, gender, size, and top two costume choices. Volunteers are then assigned a specific child and are responsible for providing one of the costumes requested, a durable trick-or-treat bag, and a full-size bag of candy.

For more information or to get involved, head to Facebook. Khalil has a local group called

“Heather’s volunteer opportunities” that regularly posts new events and calls for volunteers.

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The co$t of owning a horse

“A pony is a childhood dream; a horse is an adult treasure.”

—Rebecca Carroll

Many people dream of one day owning a horse. The allure is even greater in a place like Parkland, long known for its equestrian community. But before diving in headfirst, there are a number of factors to consider, especially given that the average lifespan of a horse hovers around 30 years, making them long-term companions. 

“A pony is a childhood dream; a horse is an adult treasure.” —Rebecca Carroll Many people dream of one day owning a horse. The allure is even greater in a place like Parkland, long known for its equestrian community. But before diving in headfirst, there are a number of factors to consider, especially given that the average lifespan of a horse hovers around 30 years, making them long-term companions. Aside from the initial purchase investment, horses require costly ongoing care. Tack and Grooming According to Ellie Scofield, owner of Spectrum Saddle Shop in Coconut Creek, essential grooming supplies average $50, and tack (saddle, bridle, girth, and pad) can range from about $350 for the essentials to thousands for show-level equipment. Boarding If you don’t have property equipped for horses, then you’ll need to board yours at a nearby stable. The following facilities offer monthly rates that include a private stall, bedding, feed (both hay and grain), stall cleaning, water, and turnout. Millpond Stables, Coconut Creek — $1,000 monthly Wattland II, Coconut Creek — $900 monthly or $300 monthly for stall only Jump On In INC, Parkland — $850 monthly Galloways Farm, Parkland — call for a customized quote. Lessons To refine your horsemanship skills, you’ll want to continue training in the discipline of your choosing. Millpond Stables teaches English and Western at a rate of $75 per hour. At Wattland II, lessons are $60 per hour and include instruction on grooming and tacking, a beneficial feature for new riders/owners. Jump On In INC teaches Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation, and Western. All lessons include basic horsemanship skills and are $65 per hour. At Galloways Farm, dressage lessons run from $65 to $80. Equine Vet and Farrier Your horse will require annual vaccinations, dental care, deworming, and hoof trimming/shoeing. Treatment for medical emergencies can cost thousands, though there are insurance plans available to help offset some of these costs. Even if you can afford the cost of upkeep, horses also require a significant time commitment. Boarding rates do not include grooming and exercising, which you’ll need to do regularly, not only to maintain your horse’s health and happiness, but to develop a bond as well. For those unsure if they’re ready for horse ownership, there are alternate options available to see if ownership is right for you. Many barns have leasing opportunities, and horse rescue ranches offer sponsorship programs and riding privileges. [Put in sidebar box?] For those itching to jump in, here’s some takeaway advice from the experts: “Make sure you get help. Watch and learn. Horses are very, very delicate.” 
—Dawn Watt, owner of Wattland II “You don’t become a rider in a day. Horsemanship takes time to learn. This is the only sport in the world where you are dealing with something that has its own mind.” 
—Amanda Myman, owner of Jump On In INC “Listen to your veterinarian, trusted trainer, and professionals, as well as good, experienced friends. Having horses is hard work, expensive, and one of the best experiences in a lifetime for both kids and adults!” 
—Ellie Scofield, owner of Galloways Farm

Aside from the initial purchase investment, horses require costly ongoing care. 

Tack and Grooming 

According to Ellie Scofield, owner of Spectrum Saddle Shop in Coconut Creek, essential grooming supplies average $50, and tack (saddle, bridle, girth, and pad) can range from about $350 for the essentials to thousands for show-level equipment. 

Boarding 

If you don’t have property equipped for horses, then you’ll need to board yours at a nearby stable. The following facilities offer monthly rates that include a private stall, bedding, feed (both hay and grain), stall cleaning, water, and turnout. 

  • Millpond Stables, Coconut Creek — $1,000 monthly 
  • Wattland II, Coconut Creek — $900 monthly or $300 monthly for stall only 
  • Jump On In INC, Parkland — $850 monthly 
  • Galloways Farm, Parkland — call for a customized quote. 

Lessons 

To refine your horsemanship skills, you’ll want to continue training in the discipline of your choosing. Millpond Stables teaches English and Western at a rate of $75 per hour. 

At Wattland II, lessons are $60 per hour and include instruction on grooming and tacking, a beneficial feature for new riders/owners.

Jump On In INC teaches Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation, and Western. All lessons include basic horsemanship skills and are $65 per hour. At Galloways Farm, dressage lessons run from $65 to $80. 

Equine Vet and Farrier 

Your horse will require annual vaccinations, dental care, deworming, and hoof trimming/shoeing. Treatment for medical emergencies can cost thousands, though there are insurance plans available to help offset some of these costs. 

Even if you can afford the cost of upkeep, horses also require a significant time commitment. Boarding rates do not include grooming and exercising, which you’ll need to do regularly, not only to maintain your horse’s health and happiness, but to develop a bond as well. 

For those unsure if they’re ready for horse ownership, there are alternate options available to see if ownership is right for you. Many barns have leasing opportunities, and horse rescue ranches offer sponsorship programs and riding privileges. 

For those itching to jump in, here’s some takeaway advice from the experts: 

  • “Make sure you get help. Watch and learn. Horses are very, very delicate.”
    —Dawn Watt, owner     of Wattland II
  • “You don’t become a rider in a day. Horsemanship takes time to learn. This is the only sport in the world where you are dealing with something that has its own mind.”
    —Amanda Myman,     owner of Jump On In INC 

  • “Listen to your veterinarian, trusted trainer, and professionals, as well as good, experienced friends. Having horses is hard work, expensive, and one of the best experiences in a lifetime for both kids and adults!”
    —Ellie Scofield, owner of Galloways Farm

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‘Witness the magic’ – empowering people through equine connection

Tucked away on the north side of Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek is a place that has been empowering all who pass through its gates — both two-legged and four-legged — for almost 40 years. That place is Equine-Assisted Therapies of South Florida (EATSF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing therapeutic riding and equine activities to children and adults with special needs. 

“We’re here to build people up, no matter what their ability is,” emphasizes Molly Murphy, executive director of EATSF.

And that’s exactly what the organization does through its hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, equine-facilitated psychotherapy, and equine-facilitated learning programs.

“None of my peers rode horses,” recalls Murphy, who participated in both EATSF’s therapeutic riding and hippotherapy programs as a child. “This was something I did and was really good at, and I felt really powerful. For kids with disabilities, that is not the case a lot of the time. You don’t feel powerful in a lot of ways because you don’t have power over the way your body moves or your mind works.” 

Throughout the years, EATSF’s program has demonstrated that fostering a connection between horse and human consistently produces inspiring results for participants on both a physical and an emotional level. 

A 4-year-old, nonverbal participant rode with the program for a full year and out of nowhere in January exclaimed to everyone, “Happy new year!”

Another participant qualified for nationals for the Special Olympics. Others have started out only able to lie across the back of the horse and, over time, developed the muscle strength to sit up with support. 

“It’s moments like that that have shaped and defined me,” says Missy Tussing, certified therapeutic riding instructor and barn manager, who has been involved with EATSF for 25 years. “One of the most important things I’ve seen is the growth of the participants.” 

The sense of empowerment derived from working with horses is not limited to the riders. 

“I’ve seen volunteers come across our threshold with no horse experience develop confidence and leadership skills that have transcended other areas of their lives,” says Murphy.

What is it about horses that makes them such effective therapy animals? 

“They understand emotions. They’re a lot more knowledgeable than we give them credit for,” explains Tussing. “I’ve seen a horse you wouldn’t expect to reach out and catch his rider reach out and catch his rider.” That horse is Goose, an off-the-track thoroughbred that EATSF acquired through its partnership with Florida Thoroughbred Rescue and Adoptive Care.

Goose serves as an example of the positive impact that therapeutic riding can have on the horse as well. “For him, that was the day everything clicked,” says Tussing. “Off-the-track thoroughbreds come with their own set of challenges, and for him as a horse to overcome that and become such a wonderful horse for the program is a testament to him as well.” 

EATSF is open to new participants, volunteers, and horses. To get involved, visit its website at http://equineatsf.org or call the office at (954) 974-2007. 

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