In this powerful episode of The Leah Belding Show, we go behind the scenes of animal therapy that saves both horses and humans. Fresh from visiting Rush Creek Sanctuary and Patches Place in Northeast Texas, host Leah Belding and her team share what they witnessed: severely abused draft horses—rescued from auctions and kill pens—being "resurrected" through dedicated care by Karen Renee Lucchese and her partner.

Karen details the cruelty: overbreeding in Amish/Kentucky areas, owners refusing vet care for arthritis or injury, and kill buyers profiting off slaughter. Yet these same horses, once starved of kindness (many never tasting a carrot), now provide profound therapy—helping veterans like Jerome Vahia overcome suicidal thoughts, chronic pain, and PTSD after Iraq tours.

Jerome, a mathematician/author/Marine veteran, opens up about his healing journey, while the team connects the dots to broader issues: man's inhumanity to animals, each other, and the planet. We call for more sanctuaries, government funding, and political action to stop the slaughter pipeline.

Plus: updates on the October 4 Healing Hoofs and Happy Hearts Festival—open to the public (tickets required), with free access for veterans and families. Discover how equine therapy isn't just "nice"—it's transformative, saving lives on two legs and four.

Listen now for inspiration, education, and a call to action. Contact Karen at (817) 822-9116 to get involved!