The pigs, miniature donkeys and silky chicks at Kristan Mosley's therapy farm, in McDonald, aren't your ordinary everyday animals. They work in nursing homes, help in therapy and lessen the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder.
The healing happens in an environment far different from that of a sterile medical clinic, and that may be just what patients need.
"They don't feel like they're working. They are enjoying themselves," said Mosley.
Mosely is an occupational therapist who specializes in helping patients with neurological impairments. She uses nature and animals to help motivate her patients.
Five-year-old Rayana Alnaser was born with a syndrome that causes developmental delays. When she came to the therapy farm almost two years ago, she could not speak or walk. Alnaser had made amazing progress using hippotherapy. The motion of riding a horse helped build trunk strength and balance, which has aided her in walking and opened her rib cage so she can make sounds.
"She can talk now, and she can walk with hardly any assistance. Before they were carrying her everywhere," Mosley said.
Reem Mulla, Rayana's mother, added it has also helped her daughter learn social skills.
"She has developed a lot in terms of interaction, taking turns, being involved in a conversation or activity," she said.
Rayana's father also credits the care his daughter gets at the farm.
"Because they love her. They don't do the job only for the sake of the job," said Tamim Alnaser.
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