Individualized Programs for Disabilities
OUR THERAPEUTIC PROGRAM
Our Therapeutic Sessions are provided on a pro bono basis. Our special needs friends receive five, 30 minute sessions, free of charge, at a time. They are eligible to repeat in five session increments as many times as they wish. We schedule based on space available. At most times, we have 12 pro bono sessions available weekly, once those sessions are filled a waiting list is formed and as soon as space opens, another special needs friend is able to begin or continue their equine experience. If you are interested in a permanent and regular lesson schedule, please check out our Riding and Horsemanship for more information or contact us for more information and arrangements.
Our therapeutic sessions are provided as private sessions, unless otherwise requested or the instructor feels it would be beneficial to involve other riders for socialization. We feel that the use of private sessions allows us to provide more attention to the specific needs of the individual being served. We tailor the sessions to focus on areas that the families wish to have focused on or an area of specific need.
Our instructors are ARIA Certified and our staff and volunteers are knowledgeable and caring. Safety is our top priority. We use well trained, well mannered school horses and always require helmets when mounted. ASTM-SEI Approved Helmets are provided.
BENEFITS OF THERAPEUTIC RIDING
Therapeutic riding benefits almost any disabling condition including: autism, learning & speech disabilities, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, head injuries, hearing and/or visually impaired, multiple sclerosis, seizure disorders, etc.
The physical, mental, and emotional benefits of therapeutic horsemanship are many. Therapeutic riding helps increase balance, muscle and flexibility.
As the horse and rider progresses through their different gaits, the rider experiences a wide range of sensory input. At a walk, the rider benefits from the calming effect of the rhythmic movement. As the horse moves to a trot, the rider’s alertness is increased, and they become more aware of their own body. During the session, games, activities and exercises take place to encourage speech, identifying objects, and sequencing multiple tasks. Students also participate in games and socialize with others.
Our Lesson Fees fund our Therapeutic Program and our Equine Sanctuary and Rescue, and allows us to continue these important programs.
The lesson fees go toward helping to support the rescued and sanctuaried horses that are used in both our riding programs and our therapeutic programs. Theses funds are also used to support our rescue efforts and the rehabilitation and long term care.
Additionally, lesson fees will go toward funding some necessary upgrades, equipment and lesson aids for some of our special needs friends.
Our Therapeutic Sessions are provided on a pro bono basis.