Willie Nelson the miniature pony

Akron Children’s Hospital has enlisted the help of the Doggie Brigade to comfort patients since 1992. This specialized group of dogs offers children joy in the face of their medical issues with the opportunity to have a visit from a trained animal during their hospital stay. Though the group is made up mostly of varying dog breeds, it also contains one special member, Willie Nelson, the miniature pony.

However, Willie is not the first miniature horse to make its debut in the Akron Children’s Doggie Brigade. The Hospital began hosting horses around 20 years ago starting with another horse who worked with the program for many years. Petie the Pony made visits to the hospital for 21 years.

Sue Miller, the owner of the therapeutic riding program “Victory Gallup,” where the miniature horses are located, began the process by bringing their horse to areas that were strictly appointment-based originally, then it grew from there into what it is today.

To inquire about Willie Nelson’s next visit to Akron Children’s you may call Victory Gallop at (330) 666-0300 at visit them online at https://www.victorygallop.org/ for more information.

Volunteer Services may also have a visitation schedule for Willie Nelson. They can be reached at 330-543-8424.