about us

A place where all families can feel safe, understood, and free to

just be—

Spirit’s Respite Ranch brings people and animals together to create real moments of healing, joy, and connection for everyone who visits.

We created the ranch to be a haven—a place where you, your family, and loved ones can come to feel accepted, understood, and simply breathe a little easier.

Here, our gentle animals—horses, donkeys, pigs, and even miniature cattle—invite you back into play, fun, connection, and peace

The Ranch

Every part of the ranch, from the riding arena to accessible play areas is designed with you in mind, caring for the unique needs of each person who steps through our gates.

We know how hard it can be to find a place where you truly feel supported, especially for families like yours and ours who need a little extra understanding. Spirit’s Respite Ranch was created to be that place for you—a space for exploration, comfort, and the freedom to simply be. This is home for anyone who needs it, and we’re here to welcome you.

We know you need a place to do things differently. This is why Spirit’s Respite opened its barn doors in the first place.

Our son has severe autism, which has completely changed our lives. During COVID, all of those services that helped us so much were shut down and caused so many regressions. We knew we needed to offer a safe place for families like us need to be able to do things differently or in their own time.

Whether you or your family members want to play in the dirt, enjoy the swings, help on the farm, or spend time with horses, you can do that here! Our horses are handpicked for their demeanor, and their ability to remain calm no matter what is going on around them.

our story

TheRobinsons
Meet

Janelle Robinson and her husband Kent created Spirit’s Respite Ranch from a deep, personal need to build a place of acceptance and support for families like theirs.

Their son, Dax, who has severe autism, sparked their vision for a safe space where people of all abilities can connect, relax, and just be themselves. Dax has a special bond with animals, especially horses, that showed them the calm and comfort animals can bring to people who experience the world differently.

Along with their teenage daughter, Tova, the Robinsons have poured their hearts into making the ranch a welcoming, down-to-earth place where everyone feels like they belong.

Meet the Robinsons, the heartbeat of Spirit's Respite Ranch.

Our Team

The Spirit’s Respite family is bigger than just the Robinsons—meet the ‘cowboy boots on the ground’ who make it all happen!

Our team is a passionate group of coaches, mentors, horse enthusiasts, animal caregivers, and support staff, each bringing their unique skills and plenty of heart to the ranch. Together, they create the warm, welcoming environment that defines Spirit’s Respite Ranch, making sure every visitor feels safe, understood, and right at home. Get to know the people who turn our mission into reality every day.

Support the
Ranch

supporting the ranch

Spirit’s Respite Ranch is here because of the support of people who believe in creating a place of acceptance, healing, and joy for all. Every donation makes a difference, helping us care for our animals, expand our programs, and keep the ranch accessible to families who need it most.

If our story resonates with you, we invite you to be part of our journey. Join us in making Spirit’s Respite Ranch a lasting refuge for everyone who finds comfort here.

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Box 938
39446 RR19, 3,
Stettler, AB T0C 2L0

stettler, red deer, calgary, central & southern alberta, serving all of alberta with therapeutic riding and equine programs

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