Rikki LaRoche has had a love for horses since she was very young, and recently she has used that passion to bring smiles to many faces.

LaRoche is the business development marketer for Healthback Home Health in Durant. She had seen pet therapy on a television program and how it could positively affect people. She realized through her job she had an opportunity to help people in this way. LaRoche went on a search to purchase a miniature horse that could be used to brighten someone’s day.

“A lot of people in our senior homes have been brought up in and around farms,” said LaRoche. “I think they get comfort out of it and it can bring back a lot of memories for those who may have memories that are suppressed.”

LaRoche conducted a thorough search for the right mini horse that could be used to make the visits. “They have to have a special personality,” said LaRoche.

Traits she looked for in the pint-sized horses included, enjoying attention, friendliness and being able to trust people.

LaRoche found that special something in Sparky. “He seemed very people oriented and calm. He seemed trusting,” said LaRoche.

LaRoche brought Sparky home at about three months old and has been preparing him for anything and everything he might encounter while making his visits.

Sparky is currently almost eight months old and is 23 inches tall at his withers.

Sparky has since become a part of the family and LaRoche also refers to him as her “mini-man.”

“There has to be a bond between horse and owner,” said LaRoche. “He knows I’m going to take care of him and now he will go anywhere with me.”

There were many shocked faces, laughs and smiles at Sterling House and Reunion Plaza on Tuesday afternoon when Rikki and Sparky made their way inside the building.

Sparky received many reactions on his first official visits at the senior homes. One resident even joked he was ready for his ride around the building.

“He’s precious,” said Margaret K., a resident at Sterling House.

“It means so much, said Sherri Mullins, administrator at Reunion Plaza. We just love it.”

Sparky’s first day was successful and LaRoche plans to continue with her visits. “Whoever will let me come, I’ll be there,” said LaRoche.