About Us
Our Vision
Velvet Noses Horse Ministry connects horses with humans to educate, encourage and enrich the lives of both on the foundation of God’s love.
Our vision is to provide a safe environment to care for and connect with horses and begin to learn about them and learn from them. It is a place for families to enjoy the ranch and a peaceful atmosphere while we give educational lessons with God’s love. The goal is to learn and grow through positive reinforcement and encouraging words to promote personal growth in a relational environment. This can help those who may be struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, loneliness, disconnection, and insecurities to name a few.
We envision a place for unwanted horses to be cared for, lovingly re-homed, and an essential part of the ministry.
Meet the Team!
We are a group of experienced animal lovers with like-minded hearts for helping both horses and humans. Through our faith we strive to serve and love what God has created.
Mike and Libby Zaiser
Mike and Libby are the founders of Velvet Noses Horse Ministry.
They have been passionately involved with educating children and adults about horses for 15 + years. They have had training in creating this ministry and are blessed to be able to share the love of horses with many. They have raised 3 adult children, are new grandparents, own a landscape business for 30 years, and love serving God In many different ways.
“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you, says the Lord, plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster to give you a future and a hope.”
-Jeremiah 29:11
“Changing lives one human and one horse at a time”
Kristin Mehiel
CEO of Mad Jack Snowsports and professional marketing consultant as well as an experienced horsewoman.
Tammy Hay
Tammy is retired from 30 years of service with the State of California in various capacities. The last was CalFire for 9 years. She has been a major contributor to helping keep things organized and moving forward at Velvet Noses. She loves spending time with her family-husband, kids & grandkids while exploring the beautiful central coast.
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hands to do so.”
-Proverbs 3:27
Mary Gallagher
Mary is a board member and long time friend and counselor. She has a career in caring for people as a physical therapist and a strong love for animals.
She brings a wealth of knowledge and support to the ministry.
Emerald & Kaia
Emerald & Kaia have been coming to Velvet Noses for a few years now. As Kaia started lessons, Emerald quickly realized she wanted to be a part of helping Libby & the herd. It’s been an amazing mother/ daughter bonding opportunity for them as they learn and grow together. Emerald is a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as doing Integrative Mental Health- working together with the horses to help people heal from trauma or major life transitions and thrive in life.
Amy
Amy is our newest board member and ranch hand/ assistant to Libby. She has 4 grown children, has worked in various professions such as finance, law enforcement and the medical field. She is a strong believer in Jesus and is also leading Corral of Encouragement once a month at Velvet Noses.