Bernadette and John are co-founders of Happy Dog Ranch Horse Sanctuary, and Bernadette serves as its executive director.

Bernadette’s background includes 18 years of operating a martial arts studio designed to help kids find confidence, self-esteem and a sense of worth. The studio embraced a family-friendly environment and a philosophy of physical fitness, self-defense and inclusivity, rather than competition. The next phase of the Spillane’s life made room for Bernadette’s love of horses, but her background in martial arts paved the way for Happy Dog Ranch and its inclusive environment. Today, people of all ages and backgrounds find confidence, learn new skills, pursue personal growth and feel grounded at the ranch by interacting with horses and enjoying the natural world.

John has embraced horsemanship and ranch life. After a career as an attorney, he retired and now devotes his time to Happy Dog Ranch. He handles many of the business and legal aspects of running the nonprofit, and he’s become handy with ranch repairs, maintenance, operational duties, and is the self-proclaimed “head volunteer” at Happy Dog. Living in Texas when he was young, John was intrigued by cowboy life and is thrilled that his path led to running a ranch that helps heal both horses and people.