Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga Welcomes New Board Members to Expand the Impact of Horses on Mental Health and Wellness in the Saratoga Community

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: January 20, 2025

Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga Welcomes New Board Members to Expand the Impact of Horses on Mental Health and Wellness in the Saratoga Community

Ramon Dominguez, Sharon Dominguez, Keith Augustine and David L. Swank bring shared passion and diverse talents to their leadership roles at THS

Saratoga Springs, NY (January 20, 2025) – Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (THS), a non-profit (501c3) organization dedicated to providing sanctuary for retired racehorses and to sharing their horses and farm with the community through programs focused on mental health and wellness, is thrilled to announce the appointment of four new board members: Ramon Dominguez, Sharon Dominguez, Keith Augustine, and David L. Swank.

“The addition of these dedicated individuals to the THS board will ensure that the organization continues to thrive and expand its equine-assisted therapy programs,” said Dr. Erin Christopher-Sisk, co-founder of THS. “Their unique expertise, shared passion for our mission, and commitment to mental health will help us make a lasting impact on our community. We are excited to work together as they bring their talents and insights to help move THS forward.”

Meet the New Board Members

Ramon Dominguez, a Hall of Fame jockey with a lifelong bond to horses, emphasized the profound impact of equine connections. “Horses have always been an integral part of my life. I’ve experienced firsthand the positive impact they have on people. Knowing an organization like THS exists in our community is an incredible opportunity for individuals to benefit from this connection.”

Dominguez began his equestrian career in Venezuela, transitioning from show jumping to Thoroughbred racing before moving to the U.S. in 1996. With nearly 5,000 career wins, including 160 in graded stakes, and numerous accolades, his impact on the sport continues post-retirement through advocacy for humane treatment of horses and support for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF). His leadership roles include serving as President of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy and as an Ambassador for Brooke USA.

Sharon Dominguez highlighted her personal connection to THS’s mission. “Horses are healing – I’ve seen it in others and experienced it personally,” she said. “Mental health needs are growing, and while there are many ways to heal, I believe horses are magical. In a perfect world, everyone who wanted equine-assisted therapy would have daily access. I’m especially drawn to the Veterans program; our Service Members have given so much, and it’s an honor to support their healing. The organization’s dedication to the well-being of both horses and humans resonates deeply with me.”

Sharon’s lifelong passion for horses began in Delaware, where her father trained Standardbreds and her mother owned riding horses. With a BA in Visual Communications, she combined her career and love of horses by supporting Thoroughbred racing industry initiatives, including the New York Race Track Chaplaincy and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF). Sharon’s commitment to community service and equine welfare continues to inspire her work with THS.

Keith Augustine brings a growing love for horses and deep community connections to the board. Reflecting on his journey, Augustine shared, “Over the past few years, I’ve developed a passion for horses and the organizations that support them when racing has ended. Having gotten to know THS and its impactful programs, I’m impressed with the team and the facility. I hope my experience and community ties can bring awareness to THS and support its ongoing goals”.

Augustine is a results-oriented sales executive with over 17 years of experience in sales, marketing, and business management. He serves as Vice President of Sales and Co-Owner of The Lazy Dog Cookie Co., Inc., where he has played a pivotal role in transforming it from a home-based business to a prominent brand with distribution across the USA, Canada, and beyond. In addition to his professional pursuits, Keith is active in community service, serving on the boards of organizations such as Dogs on Deployment and mentoring small businesses through Business for Good.

David L. Swank expressed his enthusiasm for lending his expertise to the organization. “Joining THS allows me to help a growing organization in areas where I have experience. Being involved with the horse industry and building relationships with like-minded people is deeply satisfying,” said Swank. His background promises to be an asset as THS expands its programs and reach.

Swank is a seasoned software executive and entrepreneur who founded Pacific Triangle Software, Inc., leading the company to significant growth before its sale in 2010. His career spans roles in management, sales, marketing, and IT, with a history of forming impactful partnerships and restructuring operations for success. His experience in both technology and consulting adds a valuable perspective to THS as it grows.

About Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga

Founded in 2018, Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (THS) is accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.  The organization provides a safe and nurturing sanctuary environment for 27 retired Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses, utilizing them in programs built around the Horse-Human connection to support mental health, wellness and personal growth.  Working in partnership with ECS Psychological Services P.C., THS provides the therapy horses and peaceful farm environment to deliver Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to children, families and adults including military veterans, active servicemembers and their dependents through its Freedom Rein Program.

In 2024, THS facilitated more than 500 hours of EAP to individuals of all ages from across the Capital Region.  In addition to the organization’s collaboration with ECS, THS directly offers programs focused on personal growth, wellness and education through TeamBuilding, HorsePlay, Field Trips and Farm Experiences to the community at large.

For more information, visit www.thsaratoga.org.

Contact:
Enzo Tirino
Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga
enzo@thsaratoga.org
c: 518-290-6240 Ext. 104