Brenda York, a retired director of disability and veteran services at Montana State University, now dedicates her time to rescuing and caring for miniature horses at Cowboy Heaven Miniature Horse Safe Haven near Belgrade, Montana. Since starting the rescue in 2021 with just two abused horses, York has taken in 13 miniature horses and other farm animals, many suffering from severe neglect, medical issues, or abuse. Despite the challenges of funding and full capacity, she balances her rescue work with a job at Ace Hardware and continues to provide a safe haven for these animals, many of whom become therapy animals for trauma survivors, including veterans and juvenile offenders.

York’s work goes beyond animal rescue; she sees the healing process as mutual, with miniature horses helping people recover emotionally while she also finds solace in their companionship, especially after the recent loss of a beloved horse named Macy. Facing financial hurdles and a decline in donations, York is actively fundraising and seeking grants to expand the sanctuary. Her ultimate goal is to acquire more land to create a larger refuge where both miniature horses and traumatized individuals can find healing together, ensuring no animal in need is turned away.