Holistic and heart-centered is how Nicole Linke, owner and rehabilitation lead at Heartsong Equine Center, describes her approach to horse rehabilitation and wellness. She focuses on uncovering the root causes of each horse’s challenges and supports their healing on all levels—mental, emotional, and physical. Every horse’s recovery is unique and personalized, and each horse at Heartsong is treated as an individual with their own character, needs, and story. Some stories are simply more traumatic than others, as in the case of Hawke.
Hawke, a stunning Paint Horse, that at one time frolicked with his buddy, Bo on the picturesque grounds of Sylvan Dale Ranch, arrived at Heartsong after being evacuated as the flames of the Alexander Mountain Fire roared menacingly around the ranch. Tragically, the floorboards of the horse trailer collapsed during their journey. Hawke and his friend, Bo were dragged down a paved and gravel road, resulting in severe injuries. Hawke suffered large wounds on both hind legs as well as injuries to both shoulders. Bo unfortunately passed. But Hawke has fought his way back. He has received extraordinary care and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at Heartsong for his injuries.
“When Hawke first arrived, he was very underweight, atrophied, and in considerable pain from the accident,” Nicole explains. “He was highly reactive and tried to bite anyone who touched him. In one month, he’s made huge strides, and we’re excited to see his continued progress. He has gained weight and muscle back, is less reactive to touch, and his wounds are healing nicely.”
Many of the horses that Nicole works with at Heartsong have endured some form of trauma, but this is where she feels that the Heartsong team’s holistic approach to rehabilitation and healing truly shines. Their approach is always slow, patient and highly responsive to each horse's unique cues.
“We respect their boundaries and never push beyond what they are mentally or physically ready to do. Our team continuously adapts the rehabilitation process, ensuring that we honor each horse’s ‘no’ while still getting essential health tasks done.”
It’s by balancing these tasks with respect for each horse’s comfort, that the team at Heartsong is able to create a safe, supportive environment where horses can rebuild trust, confidence, and a sense of security at their own pace. And Hawke in particular has responded positively to the healing philosophy and environment at Heartsong. Nicole describes Hawke as a sweet horse with an endearingly goofy side, and has found that keeping him mentally engaged with puzzle games, especially during his stall rest, is important to his healing journey. They’re also providing a comprehensive blend of therapies, including splint bandage changes 2-3 times per week with laser therapy, Bemer and red light therapy, Craniosacral therapy, Reiki, fascial release, and massage. He also has a customized nutritional and herbal regimen to support his recovery.
Beyond treatments, the team spends plenty of time with Hawke offering grooming and scratching sessions, and has created an outdoor enrichment stall where he has access to puzzles and activities to keep him mentally stimulated. Then once he’s ready for more mobility, their functional movement therapist will support him in regaining strength and stability.
“Hawke is doing remarkably well. His pain has improved, allowing us to reduce his medications, and he seems to appreciate the extra care and attention,” says Nicole.
As a result of this care and rehabilitation, Hawke’s future looks bright but there’s still a long way to go. His journey to full recovery will likely take 8 months to a year, with at least another month or two for his wounds to heal. Over time, he’ll gradually transition from stall rest to strength-building rehabilitation exercises. Beyond that, he will need lifelong support to maintain his comfort. Due to his physical limitations, he will make a wonderful companion horse after his recovery but will not be suitable for riding. However, the rehabilitation costs for Hawke’s recovery are daunting.
“Hawke’s splint bandage changes, which require a five-person team, are our most significant current expense. We also have daily costs for hay, shavings, supplements, and medications. In the coming months, he will also need supportive braces to stabilize his joint as it heals.”
Nicole is floored by the incredible support that they have already received from the community so far to assist in Hawke’s healing. “It’s truly heartwarming to see all of the amazing support. And the entire Heartsong Team has been amazing, generously donating so much of their time and services to help Hawke on his journey.”
This continues to be a story of hope, community, courage and strength of purpose. If you’d like to donate to Hawke’s healing journey please email Heartsong at donationsforhawke@gmail.com.
“It’s truly heartwarming to see all of the amazing support.”