Miniature therapy horses spend the day with healthcare workers at John Muir hospital

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (KGO) -- Miniature therapy horses paid a visit to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek to support frontline healthcare workers.

Staff were able to pet, hug and take selfies with the miniature horses, from the organization Angels for Minis Horse Rescue.
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Healthcare workers say they've had a tough year.

RELATED: Walnut Creek miniature horse rescue struggles as COVID-19 pandemic slows donations

The therapy animals have given them a way to cope with pandemic-related stress from caring for people sick with COVID-19.

Dana Maiorana, a critical care nurse says she's volunteering with the organization.
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"They've really helped me a lot during the pandemic. I go there," Maiorana said. "It's really therapeutic and stress-relieving for me. Even though I'm still being a care giver there. It's very different with the animals."



The families of healthcare workers were also invited to come see the horses, which turned the event into a good time for kids too.

VIDEO: Horse therapy changing lives at SoléAna Stables