Down the Stretch Ranch was founded in 2015 by Hall of Fame trainer Jerry Hollendorfer, his wife, Janet Hollendorfer, and Boone McCanna. The 501(c)(3) organization uses ex-racehorses to provide therapeutic rehabilitation for military veterans, their families, and under privileged children.

As these equine athletes offer comfort and companionship to the visiting groups, the organization provides a situation for the horses and humans to thrive. In this form of equine therapy, there are parallels and connections to be made between horse and guest.

When a guest arrives at the Washington- based ranch, McCanna offers a tour of the facility, which includes an area for the main herd to roam over 100 acres. Just as each guest has their own story, so does every member of the herd at Down the Stretch Ranch.

Once a guest selects a horse, they are told the story of that horse and shown race replays to understand the animal’s background. The guests are given the opportunity to ride around the ranch to spend more time with the off-the-track Thoroughbred.

The ranch also offers housing for attending guests, with many choosing to extend their stay or return to the ranch later.

Down the Stretch Ranch collaborates with Fairchild Air Force Base and the department of defense. Fairchild is the largest aerial refueling station in the world and is home to 600 families. 

In the last 2 years the ranch adopted 20 horses to qualified homes. This adoption process helps the ranch continue to bring in newly retired racehorses.