Thor was the very first horse to join the Still Breathing Equine family and remains the steady leader of the herd. A Percheron gelding with a confident presence, Thor has a remarkable ability to help people feel safe simply by standing beside them.

Whether he’s greeting a first-time participant or managing the herd, Thor reminds us that leadership is about creating an environment where others can grow.

Thor’s Lesson: True strength creates safety for others.

Loki’s journey has taught him resilience. Once a hardworking cow horse in Texas, he later found himself in a kill pen before being given a second chance. Today, that same resilience has become one of his greatest gifts.

Although naturally cautious with new people, Loki forms incredibly deep bonds once trust has been earned. He reminds participants that trust doesn’t have to be rushed—it can be built one quiet moment at a time.

His story is proof that difficult chapters do not define the rest of the journey.

Loki’s Lesson: Trust is earned through patience, consistency, and kindness.

The Gentle Giant

Odin is the definition of gentle strength. A retired Amish plow horse, he spent years working faithfully before finding his home with Still Breathing Equine.

Despite his immense size, Odin possesses one of the calmest and most compassionate personalities in the herd. Many participants are immediately drawn to his peaceful presence, often finding themselves relaxing simply by standing beside him.

Odin teaches us that strength and gentleness are not opposites—they belong together.

Odin’s Lesson: Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is stand quietly beside someone.

The Curious Heart

Freya has a balance of dominant strength and on point empathy. Rescued as a young filly, she approaches life with curiosity, confidence, and a playful spirit that often brings smiles to everyone around her.

Her willingness to investigate new people and new experiences reminds participants that growth begins with curiosity rather than fear.

Freya has a special way of helping people laugh, relax, and rediscover moments of joy.

Freya’s Lesson: Courage often begins with curiosity.

The Herd Mom

Athena’s story is one of remarkable resilience. Having survived significant hardship earlier in life, she is one of the herd’s most nurturing and intuitive horses.

She possesses an extraordinary ability to connect with people who need quiet reassurance. Rather than asking anything in return, Athena simply offers her calm presence and unwavering acceptance.

Her gentle spirit reminds us that even after experiencing hardship, compassion can become one of our greatest strengths.

Athena’s Lesson: Healing begins when trust returns.

The Young Explorer

Born on Independence Day and named in honor of General James Mattis, Mattis represents hope, growth, and new beginnings.

As the youngest member of the herd, his playful curiosity encourages participants to slow down, smile, and embrace the present moment. Watching Mattis learn about the world reminds us that every day brings another opportunity to grow.

He reminds us that resilience isn’t only about overcoming hardship—it’s also about embracing the future with optimism.

Mattis’ Lesson: Every new beginning starts with one curious step.

The Gentle Guardian

Standing the tallest member of the herd, and currently tallest Belgian in the United States, Arion is impossible to miss. Yet beneath his impressive size is a horse whose greatest strength is his kindness.

After spending many years as a carriage horse, Arion now spends his days helping others discover peace and connection. His calm demeanor and affectionate personality often make people feel comfortable within moments of meeting him.

Arion reminds us that the strongest among us are often the gentlest.

Arion’s Lesson: Great strength is best measured by the comfort you bring to others.