Three Little Burdes
Three Little Burdes, founded in 2002 by Krystal Sieben, is a nonprofit that offers people of all ages and abilities the gift of connecting with horses. The idea began when Krystal noticed how much her son with special needs thrived in the stable environment while accompanying his sister to riding lessons. Inspired by the joy and benefits she saw, this mom of three and former middle school teacher set out to create a welcoming space where everyone can experience the healing bond between horses and humans.
When visiting Krystal at one of the three barns she works through, it was clear that her passion for helping people connect with animals in a very real and healing way. What started as a quiet moment watching her children at a riding lesson blossomed into a heartfelt mission: to give people of all ages and abilities a place where they can feel at home, surrounded by horses, kindness, and the simple magic of the barn.
The most extraordinary part is that it’s all completely free. Every visit is designed for individuals with special needs to experience the joy and calm that comes from being with horses. Guests may gently brush a coat, walk hand in hoof with a new friend, or even paint a horse’s nails. Every session also includes professional photos, capturing not just the smiles but the quiet, meaningful moments. No two visits are ever the same, but with every moment, you can see confidence grow and spirits lift in ways that are truly unforgettable.
To ensure the horse experiences remain free to all, Krystal uses family photography, travels, and resort UGC partnerships to fund her efforts. As you can imagine, keeping Cougaroo, Syver, and Sunflower fed, clean, happy, and healthy at their respective barns in Hugo, Stillwater, and Hudson is expensive and time-consuming. She relies on volunteers to help give of their time when she isn’t able.
Every session at Three Little Burdes includes 3-5 professional photos as a gift and remembrance of your time. There is never a cost to guests, but there is a lottery system to secure your appointment, all done through Three Little Burdes’ Instagram page.
Krystal’s goal for Three Little Burdes is clear: “Through heartfelt horse moments, relatable parenting content, and a touch of nostalgia, we aim to build community and spread kindness—one pony hug at a time.”
