Across the globe, horse centers have emerged as sanctuaries of healing—places where majestic equines help individuals overcome psychological trauma and rebuild their lives. It’s a beautiful truth that our mental and emotional well-being shapes our physical health, and working with horses offers a transformative path toward recovery.
In Syria, a remarkable mission is underway at the Deemas horse farm near Damascus. Arabian stallions—once lost, stolen, or abandoned during the country’s conflict—are not only being rescued and rehabilitated but are also becoming powerful healers themselves. These magnificent animals, many discovered malnourished and in distress, are now gaining strength alongside the people they help.
Preserving a Legacy During Crisis
Syria’s Ministry of Agriculture has stepped up to protect this precious heritage through the Arabian Stallions Office. The mission is clear yet challenging: preserve the Syrian Arabian stallion breed while navigating extraordinary circumstances.
“The first and basic task of the Arabian Horses Office is to maintain the existence of the Syrian Arabian stallion in Syria. Such a task puts us into very hard circumstances during the crisis,” explains Mohammad Ghayyath al-Shaeib, Director of the Arabian Stallions Office in the Ministry of Agriculture.
Healing Horses, Healing Hearts
The work at Deemas extends beyond basic rescue and recovery. The horses are being carefully rehabilitated and prepared for breeding programs, ensuring the survival of this noble Arabian bloodline. But perhaps most importantly, these stallions are beginning to fulfill an even greater purpose—serving as therapeutic partners for people recovering from trauma.
There’s something truly magical about the connection between horses and humans. Equine therapy has proven to be one of the most effective healing modalities available. The gentle presence, unconditional acceptance, and intuitive nature of horses create a unique therapeutic environment that traditional medicine alone cannot replicate.
The Future of Equine Therapy
As we look toward the future, the role of horses in therapeutic settings will only continue to grow. These Arabian stallions represent hope—not just for their own survival as a breed, but for countless individuals seeking healing and restoration.
The work being done at the Syrian Arabian Stallions Office demonstrates that even in the darkest times, compassion and dedication can shine through. By rescuing these horses and giving them purpose, we’re creating powerful tools for human healing and recovery. That’s the remarkable promise of equine therapy, and it’s a future we should all be excited about.