Smiling Goat Ranch

Last week, we lost a remarkable man, leader, and friend. Lt. Colonel Dick Merritt, retired US Marine Corp, touched countless lives through his service, generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others.

For those of us at Smiling Goat Ranch, his impact will NEVER be forgotten. He was instrumental in helping launch our veteran program, believing deeply in the healing power of our equine therapy work. His support and encouragement helped create opportunities for veterans to find connection, purpose, and hope.

Dick led by example. He understood that true leadership is not measured by rank, but by the lives we lift up along the way. His generosity, compassion, and dedication to others left a lasting mark on our family and our community.

We are grateful for the privilege of knowing him and for the many ways he enriched our lives. His legacy lives on in the veterans he helped, the young people he encouraged, and the countless individuals who were fortunate enough to call him a friend.

Rest in peace, Colonel. You served with honor, lived with purpose, and made the world better through your kindness. Your memory will continue to inspire us, and your example will not be forgotten.

We will be honoring Dick with a special tribute at our annual Hay Bale Ball, August 23, 2026, Snowmass Rodeo Grounds, 4:30 pm.

We are coming to Snowmass again this summer!

Smiling Goat Ranch Free Open House on Friday, June 26, 10 am- 1pm Snowmass Rodeo Grounds

Smiling Goat Ranch customized private sessions for families from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Friday July 3
Friday July 10
Friday July 17
NOTHING JULY 24
Friday July 31
Friday Aug. 7
Friday Aug. 14 (last one)
Email [email protected] to register

Smiling Goat Ranch Special Needs Summer Camps
$175 per camp
$500 for all 3
Sunday June 28
Saturday July 18
Saturday Aug. 8
Register here: https://SmilingGoatRanchHorseBoySummerCamps.eventbrite.com

We serve the whole family because we need them as consultants! Parents, siblings and grandparents are our consultants. They will tell you how to interpret a behavior or what the passionate obsessive interests are. What the child loves or what he hates or is afraid of. They are your way to the child. And it gives use a chance to help heal the whole family! ❤️❤️❤️