About The Ranch
Imagine a safe haven for animals. A a place where children in the foster care system enjoy a day among furry faces, fresh air, and playing in the dirt. Imagine an outdoor art class with a live animal model right in front of the students. Imagine a truck and horse trailer arriving at the children’s home full of animals for hands on interactions. Or a quiet place for an autistic child to experience farm life. Imagine a place to go where your stress melts away as you handle animals, help others, and do ranch chores.
Well, no need to imagine because that is exactly what we do here at The Ranch!
Well, no need to imagine because that is exactly what we do here at The Ranch!
About Our Founder
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Kate is originally from Los Gatos, Ca; where she grew up enjoying the responsibility and companionship of many animals. With a childhood filled with so many amazing creatures, she was determined early on to dedicate her life to the care of animals.
At a very young age, she experienced adversity, however, animals were always a consistent source of love and companionship during these difficult times. As a result, she empathizes with many creatures from traumatic situations and her understanding of trauma has proven beneficial to her rehabilitation and training efforts. As Lead Trainer and Handler, Kate started with volunteer work for both domestic and wild animals. In addition to a dog training certification, she has been the Avian Specialist for the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa. Kate has studied numerous trainers for various species as well as mentorships with equine trainer Martine Groeneveld (2011-2013) and Susan Wirgler (2018- current). Kate is also certified through Equine Om for Equine Integrated Yoga. 
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"When I was younger, I spent time in a children's shelter. I was not available for adoption, however, I can't help but empathize with shelter animals. Just like many children in the system, these animals have been saved from neglectful, abusive, and dysfunctional homes. At the shelter, they are free from harm and receiving the care and food they need. Whether it be kids or animals, both should be in safe and loving environments. I've dedicated my life to helping animals and I'm very excited to be working with rescued animals for the joy of rescued kids."
Kate (Regarding Outreach Programs for children in foster care.) |
Board Members & Volunteer Staff
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Kate Kohagen
President, Board Member Animal Trainer and Outreach Program Handler Veronica Chala Secretary, Board Member Risk Management Brittanie Burgess Board Member Public Relations Polly Gehr Board Member Program Development |
Leslie Ackerman
Board Member Lead Outreach Dave Lockwood Facility Management |
Our founding board members: Kate, Brittanie, Lynda, and Veronica
These ladies made this dream come to fruition.
Together, we grew this organization for the first 10 years of service to the community.
These ladies made this dream come to fruition.
Together, we grew this organization for the first 10 years of service to the community.
