In the hills of Malibu, California, a unique sanctuary is offering solace and healing to those impacted by devastating wildfires and life’s challenges. Big Heart Ranch isn’t just a haven for rescued animals. it’s a place where humans, too, can find comfort and begin to mend their hearts through the power of animal interaction. The ranch has become a beacon of hope, particularly for those grappling with trauma following the destructive Palisades Fire, which ravaged parts of Los Angeles County beginning January 7, 2025.
The ranch, described as a nature-based wellness center, provides a safe refuge for animals that have experienced abuse or neglect. But its mission extends beyond animal welfare. Big Heart Ranch actively facilitates healing for people, offering animal therapy and wellness events designed to foster emotional recovery. This dual focus – healing both animal and human hearts – sets it apart as a truly special place.
Recent events at the ranch highlighted this unique approach. On March 8, 2026, nearly 50 volunteers from the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu, along with individuals impacted by the Palisades fire, gathered for a healing day hosted by Big Heart Ranch, as reported by the Daily News. The event, funded by the California Community Foundation, provided an opportunity for connection and recovery through interactions with the ranch’s diverse animal population.
The Healing Power of Animal Connection
The benefits of animal-assisted therapy are increasingly recognized by the scientific community. Studies have documented the ability of animals to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and stress responses. Corey Cardenas, the ranch’s animal specialist who has offered equine therapy since 2011, explained that animals compel people to be present in the moment, creating a sense of safety and connection. “This is the special part: Our animals that are healing, that are finding a forever home, get to heal us,” Cardenas said during the event, according to the California Community Foundation.
For seven-year-old Felix Koch, the chickens at Big Heart Ranch evoked cherished memories of a happier time before the Palisades fire claimed his family’s home. His father, Arno Koch, noted that the chickens reminded Felix of the pets he had before the disaster, stating, “It just coincidentally reminds them of happy times in the home…He basically grew up with chickens. All his life, he was around chickens.” The simple act of interacting with the animals provided a sense of normalcy and comfort amidst the upheaval.
Another attendee, David, a middle school student whose school was closed for weeks following the wildfires, found relief from stress whereas cradling a black chicken. He described feeling “really, really happy,” stating it was “the happiest I’ve felt in a long time.” The event, which also included an outdoor sound bath and a communal lunch, was designed to support healing and recovery more than a year after the wildfires devastated Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades and Pasadena.
A Sanctuary Born From Crisis
Big Heart Ranch’s commitment to rescue extends to animals impacted by the very disasters it now helps people recover from. The ranch has become a sanctuary for animals displaced or injured during wildfires, offering them a safe haven and a chance at a new life. The ranch is described as Malibu’s most-loved, rescued farm animal sanctuary, offering educational and experiential programs for healing, support and connection with animals, according to its Facebook page.
The March 8th event wasn’t an isolated occurrence. Big Heart Ranch regularly hosts wellness events and provides animal therapy sessions, creating a continuous cycle of healing for both animals and people. The California Community Foundation’s support has been instrumental in enabling these programs, recognizing the vital role the ranch plays in the long-term recovery of the community.
As the region continues to rebuild and heal from the aftermath of the Palisades Fire and other disasters, Big Heart Ranch stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound connection between people and animals. The ranch’s work demonstrates that healing isn’t just about rebuilding structures; it’s about nurturing the emotional well-being of individuals and fostering a sense of community.
Looking ahead, Big Heart Ranch will continue to provide a vital space for healing and connection, offering a unique blend of animal-assisted therapy and wellness programs. The ranch’s ongoing success relies on continued support from organizations like the California Community Foundation and the dedication of volunteers who believe in the power of the human-animal bond.
What are your thoughts on the role of animal therapy in disaster recovery? Share your comments below and facilitate spread the word about the incredible work being done at Big Heart Ranch.
