Veterans have a chance to experience the outdoors with farm animals this summer

GLYNDON, Minn. (KVRR) — Chickens, horses, dogs, and cats. The Fargo VA brings together veterans for a summer full of rest, relaxation, and connection.

“We use rhythm, relationship, repetition. Those are all healing to the brain. So we can literally bring about healing by being out in nature,” said Dawn Robson, Owner of That’s the Dream Farm.

“To see their reactions, they really really enjoy coming out here, and in fact they often will say I just felt healthier just on the drive out. So, once they get here, they’re just like, it reminds me of home, and I say me too,” said Nancy Ruud, RN Health Coach in Whole Health at the Fargo VA

Ruud‘s family previously owned the farm that the ‘That’s the Dream’ currently owns. A few years back, Ruud reached out to Robson requesting a piece of wood from the barn her family had carved their name on. After they had connected, they soon began to work together to collaborate on events for the Fargo VA.

“Several years ago, I put down my horse, and I just had to put down my daughter’s horse, which I’ve had for twenty years. That’s why I wanted to come here just to see horses again, because I can’t get her out of my min,d because now I have stray cats that moved into her stall, which I have to go in there every day to feed them,” said Dave Buelow, Vietnam Army Veteran.

That’s the Dream Farm’s mission has helped people experience life outdoors with animals.
And shared ways to be energized and be healthy.

“I didn’t realize honestly, that there was this much that’s part of what the VA is there to want to help veterans with. It’s amazing. So, I’m glad I’m a veteran, I’m glad I’m able to participate, and I’m glad I’m able to help out,” said Gracia Fulwiler, Navy Nurse Veteran.

The Veterans Honor Flight and Heart and Soul also came to share their piece with many of the veterans.