Ruth, 12, suffers from severe anxiety and when COVID-19 hit, her condition worsened to the point that she spent most of her days walking or crying.
Just as she began to feel hopeless, her parents came up with a brilliant idea.
Since Ruth was eight years old, Ruth used to walk over the fence every day to see their horse. She will wait there and hope that the horse will come close enough for her to pet her.
Knowing how much she loved horses, Ruth’s parents finally decided to adopt a 14-year-old pony named Diva. Diva is being raised by a volunteer at the Hickory Hill ranch.
Ruth’s parents researched, built a suitable horse shelter, and purchased all the necessary supplies before applying for adoption.
When Ruth’s mother, Kristie, visited Diva, she knew right away that Diva would be the perfect fit for their family, especially for Ruth.
Ruth and Diva developed a very special relationship almost immediately, and Diva’s positive impact on Ruth was magical.
“Diva saw Ruth coming and instead of hesitating, she ran towards her,” Kristie said ASPCA. “It was the sweetest relationship ever.”
Ruth takes care of Diva every day, including feeding her, cleaning her cage, brushing her coat, and exercising her. She also spends time reading books to Diva.
Diva helped Ruth release a lot of stress and made her feel comfortable every day.
“I almost forgot that my daughter has anxiety,” says Kristie ASPCA. “Diva has made such a difference. Even though Ruth’s condition was once crippling, it’s now just an occasional and non-permanent strain when she’s with Diva. There is a toggle switch. That is a beautiful thing. ”
Learn more about Ruth and Diva’s story in the video below:
