Across the River Horse Ranch and Sanctuary

History of the Ranch

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     Amita C. Smith moved from Sun Valley to Bliss more than several years ago, hoping to find a place to raise her two young daughters with a sense of connectedness to the land and the local people who earn a living from the land.  Thus was born the Across the River Horse Ranch, located "across the river" from the small town of Bliss, Idaho.  

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The Sanctuary

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     Amita started the ranch with just a few horses and dogs.  Over time, the ranch has evolved into a sanctuary for rescued horses and other stray or unwanted animals. Presently, the ranch is home to a few dozen horses, several dogs, several more cats, two goats, a lama, and a cow.

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Equine-Assisted Motivational Guide

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     In 2015, the Ranch started working with wilderness therapy programs to provide equine motivational guidance to youth, employing Amita Smith's unique and innovative methods for connecting a child's interaction with horses as a guide to acquiring self-confidence, focus, and communication skills. 

 

     With her expertise in animal behavior, equine therapy, and the cooperative nature of running a working ranch, she reinforces important lessons in life that help young people develop into mature, caring adults, and good citizens.       

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