Miniature Therapy Horse Brings Smiles to Faces At Kravis Children's Hospital

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A therapy horse is bringing smiles to the faces of patients at the Kravis Children's Hospital at Mount Sinai.

CBS2's Vanessa Murdock reported Wednesday "Honor," a miniature therapy horse, is making a big impact to the sick kids at the hospital.

"This is what the kids need. They do need these activities to take their minds off why they're here," Dr. Lisa Satlin, system chair of pediatrics for the Mount Sinai Health System, told CBS2.

Satlin explained that being hospitalized is stressful for these young children.

"They're sick, they don't feel well. They're not with their friends. They're here in the hospital being poked and prodded," Satlin said.

Jorge Garcia-Bengochea is the co-founder of Gental Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses where "Honor" is from. He told CBS2 he knows his little horses make a big impact.

"There's something mystical about a little horse walking into a children's hospital," he said. "It's a magical moment every time."

Natalea Bentenitc told CBS2 her daughter Maria has been at Kravis for more than two years and seeing "Honor" is a magical moment for her.

"They really need something to help them feel better in their heart," she told CBS2.

"Honor" also appeared on a live closed circuit television show at the hospital. Children too sick to meet him in person could call in or text with questions for his trainer.