Muffin, a miniature therapy horse with the City of Cayce, has joined an initiative to promote emotional wellness and healing at Prisma Health through a partnership with the Cayce Fire Department. 

Muffin is the first miniature therapy horse to work in a mental health facility in South Carolina.  

According to a news release, Muffin will assist patients at Richland Springs and Prisma Health’s Behavioral Care Hospital in the Midlands, alongside her handler, Lindsay McDade.  

“Our goal in therapy is to provide as many resources as possible to support our patients’ healing journeys,” said Betsy Neal, manager of Clinical Care, who also coordinates pet therapy. “We recognize that each individual may respond differently, and we are committed to meeting those needs in creative and compassionate ways. Partnering with the City of Cayce to welcome Muffin is a unique and meaningful opportunity to expand how we connect with those in our care.” 

Muffin will participate in group sessions focused on boundary setting, emotional regulation, safe medication compliance and one-on-one patient visits. 

“It’s a true blessing to see this new partnership between the City of Cayce and Prisma Health, as Muffin and Lindsay provide emotional and comforting support to those who need it most,” Cayce Councilman Bryon Thomas said in the press release. “Muffin brings a smile to everyone’s face, and I look forward to hearing about the continued impact she makes with patients at Prisma Health.” 

Muffin and McDade will make monthly visits to the mental health facility.