Henry’s Home Horse and Human Sanctuary

Now I understand what a sanctuary is, and you will too — immediately. This experience isn’t about getting on a horse and going for a ride. It’s realizing that there really is love in our world. You will need to make arrangements to go in advance and you’ll be asked about your experience with horses, but probably in an unexpected way. The founder, Donna, simply said to me «tell me your story» and I thought wow, ok. Somewhere in there she gets to your experience with horses and what brought you to Henry’s. Definitely go to the website in advance and read the profiles of the horses. Henry was the first, and when they took him in he was so emaciated he had to be held up with a sling so he could eat. He’s a doll. Not every horse is a starvation case, but most have come from a background of abuse and neglect. They know their horses, and they choose one for you. Plan on spending several hours there. You start with bringing one in on a lead rope and you’ll go through tacking, grooming, haltering, bridling and saddling. It’s pretty impressive. Rides are in the arena, but that’s up to them. I went on a few rides as a teenager (long, long, long ago!) and I did ride, but you’ll find that’s actually a small part of the overall experience. They use the foundation of natural horsemanship. The horses aren’t in stalls — they’re in a pasture. They aren’t shoed, and they get what they individually need. The fee ($ 75 on my visit) goes directly to them. Henry’s has no paid staff. Trained volunteers do everything. Farriers, dentists, vets and other specialists are brought in according to the horse’s needs. I worked with Jinx, who is very sweet and docile. She’s also the biggest horse there! Like, real real big. I’m 5’2″ and the top of my head didn’t quite reach the top of her back so when I met her I thought ok, this is going to be interesting! It’s a different world. This is not a recreational, trail ride kind of place. There are good places that do that. Henry’s is unique. It’s fascinating and rewarding. I can only give it five stars and my highest recommendation.

This place is amazing, beautiful horses & owners that really love and take care of their horses. They are so great to talk to and they’re very friendly and open. Definitely coming again

I almost don’t want to leave a review so this place can remain a hidden gem, but they deserve 5 stars. My boyfriend and I were visiting his parents for the week and were delighted to be able to schedule a ride with short notice. Just Us Gals were very flexible with us and asked the right kind of questions about our abilities that I’d expect from a reputable barn. We were matched to the perfect horses for us! Not knowing what to expect we couldn’t have been happier with the length of the ride and quality of the horses. Finally a place where you can ride with some freedom and speed and not just in a single file line at a slow walk! We can’t wait to visit again and will definitely be going for as many rides as possible with Just Us Gals.

This really was the perfect date for my husband and I! I loved it and I’m definitely going back!!!

I stumbled upon this family owned business about 2 months ago. I’m not from the area and took a chance on horseback riding for a relaxing evening with my girlfriend who has ridden before, even though I haven’t done it in 15 years. Ms. Donna went above and beyond to help me not look dumb or make any huge mistakes despite the fact that I really had no clue what I was doing. I think she put me on the most tame, confident, and calm natured horse she owns. His name was Henry and he made me look like a pro after the first 2 minutes. We both had an absolute blast, the weather was perfect, the venue was perfect, the instruction was informative and helpful, and the horses were completely well behaved and a pleasure to bond with. I have a new found respect for horses in general and can’t wait to ride again next time I’m near The Woodlands.

Just Us Gals is the best trail riding option in the Houston area. I have tried a few different locations around here and not only is Just Us Gals the best «bang for your buck», but it also is by far the best quality around. Donna clearly loves her horses and treats each and every rider as an individual, with distinct personalities, riding/​comfort levels, etc. She personally takes care of the public trails around the area and has taken great pride and respect for the land, the animals, and the people. I highly recommend Just Us Gals!

Having ridden about a dozen times in various locations I knew I wasn’t a beginner but I wasn’t a confident rider either. Donna from Just Us Gals and Our Horses was quite intuitive as to which horse would be best for my skill level and persona, and boy was she right. The horses here all have a story, a heart and are full of personality. Donna takes them from whatever situation they were in (e.g. in some cases, they were starved and abused), gives them hope & love, teaches them to trust humans again, and helps the horses become whole again and in return they become the most amazing trail horses — the best I’ve ever seen. They are very well cared for and are treated with respect. I never knew how to tack a horse before but Donna took the time to show me how to place the pad and saddle on the horse’s back and how to put the bit (the part that goes in the horse’s mouth and over their head/​ears) on. She helps riders adjust their stirrups and is very patient. I asked a ton of questions and Donna was happy to answer all of them. She knows these horses inside and out and takes pride in what she does. Someone who has passion for what they do, is good at it and treats the horses like they matter is the real deal. Definitely recommend riding with Just Us Gals. You won’t regret.