Horse Whisperer

This photo, from the New York Times, is of one Joseph Cesarelli, who is the volunteer caretaker for three horses belonging to a medieval society based on Long Island. This volunteer work, which staved off his depression during a long period of unemployment, may have led to a permanent job as a barn manager.

It is just one more example of how working with animals, in particular horses, often gives the workers a new lease on life. Cesarelli, in particular, looked long and hard (since 2002) for work and taking care of the horses, "gave [him] a reason to wake up," as he put it. "I consider this a sign of my mental health," he continued. "If I were depressed, I couldn't function. The horses' health wouldn't matter to me."

But because it does and because Cesarelli found solace, company and good old fashioned exercise, in his work, he just may have found a permanent job.

One more reason why horses seem to be particularly good for what ails you.