Shepherd Woman Honored for Life-Changing Work with Montana Veterans

If you’ve never heard of Amanda Tusler or Horses Spirits Healing, you’re about to. This Yellowstone County-based powerhouse was just named the Q1 2025 “Salute to Service” Award recipient by the Veterans Navigation Network (VNN), and for good reason.

Tusler, who runs the show as Program Director at Horses Spirits Healing near Shepherd, MT, has been quietly making a big difference in the lives of Montana veterans.

The organization uses equine therapy—yes, horses—to help veterans struggling with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and the sometimes tough transition from military to civilian life. Under Amanda’s leadership, the program has gained national attention.

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Amanda is making a life-changing difference for Montana Veterans.

According to VNN, Tusler goes way beyond a 9-to-5. She spends long hours mentoring veterans, organizing family events, and working to expand access to equine-assisted therapy. She’s even partnered with MSU Billings to help student vets tap into this unique healing method.

Veterans who’ve worked with Amanda call her “life-changing” and “a trusted ally”—not praise that’s handed out lightly in that world. The award, made possible by an anonymous donor, includes a plaque, a gift card to the restaurant of her choice, and most importantly, the recognition she so clearly deserves.

Blake Fuhriman, Executive Director of VNN, summed it up, “Amanda embodies the spirit of this award. She’s a beacon of hope and resilience.” Learn more about Veterans Navigation Network at veteransnavigation.org. Find out more about Horses Spirits Healing HERE.