Sometimes human beings unconsciously cannot fully understand the beneficial effects that animals exert on them. Our four-legged friends perform real acts of love for us. They give us high doses of affection without ever asking for anything in return. Many new studies are focusing on how to use this ‘magic’ for beneficial purposes, such as for hospitalized children or vulnerable people. In this article, we will talk about pony therapy and how it can bring moments of relief to young patients.

Our four-legged friends, be they dogs, cats, horses or hamsters, are often considered as simple companions which take part in our daily lives. However, their contribution goes far beyond the smile they give when they receive a caress. The positive power of animals is now widely recognized, not only in family and domestic contexts, but also increasingly in healing and therapeutic contexts.

Animals show tenderness, protection, trust and deep love. These feelings can produce positive effects on human beings, sometimes on a par with medicines and treatments, sometimes even more so.

We had the pleasure to meet Francesca Pollara, champion and international equestrian entrepreneur. She is sunny and loves life, nature and animals, especially horses. Despite being a dreamer, Francesca has a concrete and practical vision that enabled her to turn her passion into her work.

She teamed up with Vanni Oddera, her great friend. They decided to give hospitalized children and vulnerable people the possibility of coming into contact with ponies in hospital facilities.

The first objections raised both for hygiene reasons and because of the temperament of these animals.

However, Francesca did not let this get her down. She bought a special pony, renamed him Olaf and then decided to educate him as a human. She also involved behavioral veterinarians to train him to enter hospital wards.

But what does Olaf do?

Olaf enters rooms and does magic. Children, and adults are captivated by his energy. Olaf brings joy and relieves their suffering, at least for a while.

What is pony therapy?

As Francesca explains “Pony therapy has not yet been classified as a medical treatment and falls within scientific research. It is promoted by the Gaslini Institute in Genoa, where the first meeting with Vanni to define the details of this project took place. The relationship established between animal and patient is special. It represents an exchange of emotions and an heartfelt interaction where it is almost always the animal that gives. This vital energy absorbed by the patient helps with recovery or brings a shy smile.”

These are the values Magni cherishes. These are the people whose story and testimony we wish to tell you. They carry out projects for others and have big hearts and great passion. Magni puts the same passion into its work in order to satisfy its customers.  Thank you, Francesca, for your enthusiasm and collaboration. Magni supports you and your work!