Grey Muzzle Manor Sanctuary, a nonprofit organization located in Fleetwood, was created from the immense love that fills Marcy Tocker’s heart. As a sanctuary for senior animals, it provides hospice care, adoption services and community outreach programs to assist senior pets from entering the shelter system. Tocker’s belief in the power of love and healing has saved not only the lives of animals, but in a sense, the lives of people as well. Her passion for helping animals and humans connect and heal is innate. “It runs through my veins,” she enthuses. “Creating this sanctuary is a dream come true!” 

Grey Muzzle Manor provides animal-assisted and equine-assisted therapy, allowing individuals to interact with a variety of animals in a therapeutic setting. Tocker has a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Immaculata University, and is certified by the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association to practice an evidence-based, accredited model of equine assisted therapy. As a member of the Pennsylvania Association for Play Therapy, she often utilizes art in sessions as well.  

“This unique form of therapy can be beneficial for a variety of issues. We have worked with adults and children with issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, impulse control disorders, autism, addiction struggles and many more,” explains Tocker. “Interactions between client and animal are the essence that enables individuals to develop awareness and coping mechanisms, helping them to take control of their lives.” 

Monthly sponsorships, along with donating funds and items listed on the website, sustain the important work being done. Grateful for everything and all parts of the experience, Tocker says, “Each animal has different fans. I love being able to share the journey with people. 

“Animals promote non-judgement and acceptance,” she explains. “They teach us to be present and enjoy what’s important because they enjoy every minute of what they are doing in the moment, like taking a nap or eating grass.” 

Visitors are surrounded by calming energy, positivity and encouragement. “We believe people have the internal power and strength to attain a positive lifestyle,” affirms Tocker. “Our animals enable them to not only find this strength, but also to harness it and move forward.”  

 

 

Grey Muzzle Manor is located at 57A Kutz Rd., in Fleetwood. Visits and services are by appointment only. For more information, visit GreyMuzzleManor.com.