Our Mission and Team

We enrich lives through relationships with animals, nature, and the community

The Monkey Tail Ranch mission is very simple. We’re here to provide a truly rare experience for adults, children, and families who face the daily challenges of autism, post-traumatic stress, and anxiety issues.

  • Each of our service dogs is raised, socialized, and trained to help overcome the specific challenges of its handler
  • Our therapy horses provide an opportunity to build confidence and trust
  • The ranch itself presents a serene environment for guests to unwind

We strive to foster deep and meaningful relationships with each and every family we serve. We look forward to doing the same with yours.

Meet the person who built the ranch

Elise Lalor is the caring and enterprising founder of Monkey Tail Ranch

Education: Sonoma State University

  • Career:
  • Focused on special education, working for Morgan Autism Center, Bay Area Easter Seals, and the YMCA
  • 2006 launched her own business, K9 Training Concepts
  • 2011 co-founded GoodDog! Autism Companions
  • 2013 established Monkey Tail Ranch with its broader vision of animal assisted learning

Other:
Elise also trains and certifies search and rescue dogs. She’s an avid equestrian, as well, breeding, raising, and training the horses at Monkey Tail Ranch.

Email Elise

We are a 501(c)3 organization. Our tax ID is 46-1465794.

Pitch in at the ranch

Our volunteers have all the fun

Join the team