Heartland Mini-Hoofs – News Progress

Local Seniors enjoy equestrian visitors

•June 25, 2025•

by DM Williamee

Photo by Tawnya Marshall Carolyn Doss, 87, enjoys her visit with 14-year-old Jasper. A former farm girl, she said, “It takes me down memory lane, makes me happy” about her time with Jasper. Her brother was a great horseman, and she cared for his horses while he was serving his country in Vietnam.

On Tuesday, June 17th, Andra and Bill Ebert of Taylorville, who own “Heartland Mini-Hoofs,” brought their American Miniature horses to the Mid-Illinois Senior Services in Sullivan. Accompanying them were 14-year-old Jasper and 4-year-old Ollie. Andra advised the group they visit day cares, nursing homes, children’s hospitals, homes for the blind, and have an anti-bullying program that they take to schools, free of charge. Jasper has had well over 1,300 visits under his reins and is one of the top service horses in the country.

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