Equine Therapy combines the physical benefits of horsemanship with an emotional connection that promotes a fun and successful therapeutic environment. The three dimensional movement of the horses pelvis are identical to the human pelvis. When the rider is on the horse, the horses movements is translated from the horse to the rider thus improving their overall mobility. Regular therapy sessions require 400-600 repetitions in order to make permanent changes in the body's systems that can be carried over into walking and other functional activities; this goal is met during equine therapy because with each step the horse takes a repetition is completed. The heat of the horse provides an additional benefit that helps relax the riders muscles to allow for optimal results. During the session the rider is strengthening, gaining confidence and balance skills, and has the ability emotionally connect with the horse in a fun atmosphere. The benefits of equine therapy can be extended across a broad spectrum of potential riders while providing a unique opportunity to encounter horses in a 'camp-like' atmosphere that makes work fun. It is an experience that will impact riders for a lifetime while positively impacting the way they function in their daily lives.



Equine therapy benefits have been recognized for many years. It is a proven method of increasing physical, mental, emotional and developmental capabilities for individuals with disabilities, functional limitations, medical and behavioral challenges. When a student and a horse connect during therapy a unique and wonderful bond develops - unspoken, yet, life chancing.

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Equine therapy combines physical benefits of horsemanship with an emotional connection that promotes a fun and successful therapeutic environment. A place where therapy is disguised as fun.
 

Learning to ride a horse requires balance and coordination. Many physically disabled children lack muscle tone and as a result their coordination is severely lacking.  Equine therapy gives a disabled child a physically enjoyable experience (learning to ride a horse) that helps develop muscle tone, balance, and coordination. It also helps the child develop and improve hand-eye coordination. Imagine a toddler, unable to even grip a walker, take their first steps after building upper body strength through therapeutic riding.
 

Our therapy program includes more than just riding. Student also learn how to care for and groom a horse which helps build a strong bond between horse and rider, allowing the student to eventually direct the grooming process on their own. This is a huge step in developing a student's self-esteem and decision making/ problem solving skills.
 

Some disabilities and disorders that can be improved with equine therapy include:
 

- Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Spina Bifida
- Autism
- Spinal Cord and Cerebral Injuries
- Attention Deficit Disorder
- Stroke
- Visual impairment
- Behavioral problems

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Riding therapy provides positive physical and emotional benefits including:

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- Increased Cognitive Activity
- Sensory Integration
- Increased Muscle Tone/ Strength
- Improved Gross & Fine Motor Skills
- Increased Physical Stamina
- Promotes Proper Posture
- Builds Independence & Social Skills
- Supports Emotional Stability & Positive Self Esteem
- Increases Vocalization & Smiles
- Relaxes Muscles with Warmth from Horse
- Stimulate Muscle and Improves Tone and Flexibility
- Reduce Fears and Phobias