A New Pony with a Heart for Healing

There’s a new pony at the paddock—and her name is Pearl.

Pearl is a small, soft-eyed pony with a gentle heart. She’s quiet, kind, and very good at standing close when someone needs a little comfort. Pearl has come to help people who are feeling sad, worried, or going through something really hard—like grief or change.

Not too long ago, Pearl helped someone very special with a loss when she lived with her previous owner. When that special person was able to find peace and a small understanding of loss, Pearl's owner felt that she would be perfect to join our program and help others work through the challenges of grief. Pearl came to Heartfelt and found she was the new pony in the paddock. But here’s a little secret: being new isn’t always easy, even for ponies like Pearl.

When Pearl first arrived, everything was different. New sights, new smells, new routines. The other animals already knew each other. They had their favorite spots in the field and their own way of doing things. Pearl sometimes felt a little unsure—like she didn’t quite know where she fit in yet. Pearl didn’t quite know what to do. The world felt strange and different without them. One day, feeling confused and overwhelmed, Pearl ran away. She didn’t know where she was going—she just knew she didn’t want to be the new pony anymore. For a while, Pearl wandered. She missed her old home and felt unsure about where she belonged. Everything felt unfamiliar. She was grieving, even though no one could see her tears.

Have you ever felt that way?

Even though Pearl is great at helping others feel better, she needed a little kindness too. Kind hands reached out and gentle voices spoke softly. Her new owner found her wandering and brought her back to Heartfelt. Pearl was brought to a place where healing happens—not just for people, but for ponies too. Now, Pearl is slowly learning that even though she’s in a new place, she doesn’t have to be alone. The other animals are curious and friendly. Slowly, Pearl started to feel more comfortable. She began to recognize the voices of the humans who care for her. She found her favorite patch of grass. She even learned which pony likes to nap in the sun and which one loves to play. The humans give her time and space. And slowly, Pearl is finding her rhythm again—one step, one breath, one soft nuzzle at a time. And she got it! A quiet nuzzle from a horse named Hobo, a soft “hello” from a new friend, and plenty of space to just be herself.

Because she knows what it feels like to be new and struggle with feeling

s of loss, Pearl has a special way of connecting with people who feel the same. She doesn’t rush. She doesn’t judge. She just stands close, listens with her big soft eyes, and lets you know—you’re not alone.

So if you’re ever feeling out of place, like you don’t quite fit in yet, Pearl gets it. She’s been there. And she’s here now, to walk beside you—hoof by heart.

Pearl enjoying her hay

Enjoying the warmth of the sun.