Meet Fabio: The Myth, The Legend, The “Therapy Dude Supreme” Miniature Horse

by Natalee Herrig, Ruby Tevis, and Olga Zarlenga

Thunderous hoofbeats echo across TerraNova’s cross-country gallop track, sheer speed slices the heat of day sending gusts off windswept manes through moss-draped oaks, and the ancient land harnesses the unbridled power of a horse and rider, reverberating underground currents felt by rapt onlookers. In the midst of this intensity is a small but mighty steed. Stoic, resolute, and determined, his mission is clear and his purpose all-important. His name is Fabio, a name he embraces fervently with its ties to supermodels and celebrity chefs.

From his vantage point on the outskirts of TerraNova Tiny Town, his view of the competition grounds makes him uniquely qualified to serve critical roles in equestrian facility oversight. Yet, his equine soul gravitates toward an inner call to be a force for good. Setting aside all corporate-ladder-climbing ambition, the thrill of certain victories and consequent awards, and the accolades showered on the powerful, Fabio focuses on the simplicity of happiness. His prize is the laughter of a child delighting in his wardrobe, the tearful joy of an adult reaching out to touch memories that resurface just by the sight of him, and the connection he makes with human souls when all other means of reaching them seem lost. To compensate for his size, however, Fabio has taken on an air of confidence, bolstered by overcoming challenges and finding his special role among a field of elite athletic competition horses. Events at TerraNova’s own Ruby Tevis caught up with Fabio recently to get a more in-depth look into his life.

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

I only remember my previous owner from Arcadia, FL. She was a nice lady, but she had too many of us and I was her stallion. When my BFF Olga found me in February 2022, my owner’s health was not good, and she could no longer take good care of us. Olga was lucky to have the honor of getting me and two of my friends. And I reside now with Olga in Bradenton, Florida.

WHAT BREED OF HORSE ARE YOU?

I identify as a miniature horse, but I have dwarfism which makes me really special.

WHEN DID YOU BECOME A THERAPY HORSE?

I was so well-behaved that they had no choice and gave me the title of “Therapy Dude Supreme” a month after my arrival.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BEING A THERAPY HORSE?

I get lots of treats and people admire me and then I make them happy, which in return makes me happy. I have helped children who were afraid of horses overcome their fear and let me walk them around their school. I have made grown adults cry from joy; I have that effect on people. No one can resist me.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN VISITING TERRANOVA?

My work schedule was packed, but I made a point to visit my BFF Olga’s work last year during TerraNova’s horse show season in 2023. I loved it because I got to see bigger horses and make them cry because I am so good-looking.

DO YOU LIKE TO DRESS UP IN COSTUMES? WHICH COSTUME IS YOUR FAVORITE?

I let Olga dress me as she wishes for the occasion we are going to. I like dressing up because it enhances my looks. My favorite costume is my Superman costume. Do I need to say more? I am that super!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SNACK?

I have no preference. If it fits in my mouth and is good for me, I eat it. Olga must put a muzzle on me in the summer because I eat too much grass in the pastures with my Missouri Fox Trotter friend, Brandy.

IF YOU COULD BE ANY OTHER ANIMAL, WHAT WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

A lion, definitely a lion. I want everyone to hear me roar. I might be small, but I am mighty!

IF YOU WENT TO THE OLYMPICS, WHICH SPORT WOULD YOU CHOOSE AND WHY?

My dream is to compete at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris 2024. I can do all sports depending on the occasion. For example, I perform “Diving” under the property fence and go exploring around the neighborhood sometimes. Other times, I choose the sport of “Sprinting.” I love to run the 100-meter dash. This year, I might try “Para-Dressage” at the Paralympics. First, I need to persuade my rider, Xena. She is a Jack Russell who is even smaller than me. Together we will smoke the competition!

WHO IS YOUR ROLE MODEL AND WHY?

The talking horse named Mister Ed. He was a movie star from the 1960s and he is one of my role models. I wish I could talk like him. I’d tell all of the humans to bring me more carrots. Then, I would travel the world and become famous. I have many other role models too. I admire anyone who can overcome their special abilities, be happy, and make others happy. I have dwarfism, but it doesn’t stop me from ruling the world!

Come say hello to Fabio! Visit TerraNova Tiny Town for a chance to meet the celebrity himself.