A University for Children

A Sanctuary for Animals

Joanna has been Melanie’s right hand, teaching children through her profound knowledge of domestic and farm animals, especially horses.  She is a favorite at summer camps, always bringing a smile to everyone’s faces with her exuberant nature.

Joanna has been attending McDonald Ranch since she was 9 years old.  She started first as a student, seeking to obtain more knowledge in horse-back riding.  She wanted to become a safer and more confident rider, but also wanted to learn everything she could about horse care.  Upon her completion of the student trainer program at only 12 years old, Joanna became a Jr Trainer and was awarded her own horse, Romey, whom she had worked towards in the years past.  She knew when she first laid eyes on Romey that she wanted her to become her very own, and never lost sight of that goal.

At 12 years old, Joanna first came to live at the ranch during the summer to learn how to be a camp counselor, and to learn how to teach children about the animals and the care they need.  She attended almost full-time throughout the summer to master more knowledge and to earn the money to pay for most of Romey’s board.  Joanna helped teach students how to ride with a balanced seat up through a trot, and learned more about how to teach lessons.

Joanna will again be with us this summer, and the ones after that until she goes to college.  She is hoping to be accepted to UC Davis, majoring in Veterinary sciences.  She would like to become a vet, and continue her involvement in McDonald Ranch by providing her veterinary services.

McDonald Ranch is honored to have the support and involvement of such a wonderful person as Joanna.