Meet the Whinny Hill Team
Kiera Wassink, Horsewoman
A horse lover since she could put on her first pair of boots, she grew up around all kinds of livestock but has always been specifically drawn to horses. She has been the proud owner of her beautiful mare Rhapsody and sweet gelding Comanche for the past 10 years. Their favourite activity is riding the trails together. When she's not out horsing around, you can catch her exploring Nova Scotia's many trails and beaches.
Vanessa Sarty, Horsewoman
Vanessa’s love for horses has been foremost in her life since she was a young girl. It was in her early teenage years when her equestrian journey really started. It began with Western riding lessons. In less than a year of riding under her belt, Vanessa also began her debut in the show ring, where she successfully competed in both Western and English events, such as halter, showmanship, western pleasure, horsemanship, English pleasure and hunt-seat equitation.
She was fortunate to ride and show multiple great horses over the years, and had the opportunity to be coached by some great horsemen and horsewomen within the Atlantic provinces, along with a few clinics from trainers from the US.
She learned from the very beginning the importance of animal health and welfare, not just in equines, but in all animals.
Vanessa has over 15 years of experience within the horse industry and is currently working on completing her western coach certification requirements.
Vanessa is actively involved with 4-H, where she is a proud co-general leader and Horse Leader with the Lapland 4-H Club, as well as being on the 4-H NS Horse Committee.
She loves each animal as her own at Whinny Hill and is committed to putting their own individual needs foremost.
Kayla Wile, Horsewoman
Kayla joined us at Whinny Hill about four years ago and has been looking after and riding our wonderful animals ever since. She is also studying the sciences at St. Mary's University, and is part of the Dalhousie University Equestrian Team.
Alicia Crooks, Owner, Dreamer
Approximately seven years ago, Alicia and her husband, Robert, serendipitously discovered an equine facility whose owners had departed, taking their horses and had a desire to sell. Seizing the opportunity, Alicia and Robert decided to acquire the property, transforming it into a sanctuary not only for horses in distress but also for individuals facing challenges.
Over the years, Whinny Hill has blossomed into a heartwarming haven, now home to 30 horses, 1 mule, 5 donkeys, 9 goats, 3 sheep, and a myriad of cats and dogs. Some residents were rescued, others carefully chosen, and some even born into the nurturing embrace of Whinny Hill—each one cherished and tended to with love.
The Whinny Hill Equine School stands as a testament to their commitment, offering riding lessons catering to all ages and skill levels, delivered with unwavering passion and care.
In an exciting development now in process, the Whinny Hill Therapy Facility will focus on the profound communication between horses and humans, aiming to instigate transformative changes in individuals. Recognizing the remarkable ability of horses to delve deep into human emotions, the program seeks to facilitate connections that unveil aspects of life needing attention. Merely engaging with a horse can catalyze self-realization, identify areas for healing, and prompt resolutions in one's life. Alicia harbours a heartfelt aspiration to witness these profound transformations take root at Whinny Hill, envisioning a future where the sanctuary becomes a catalyst for positive change and healing in the lives of those it touches.
