"Trail Blazers” - For Individuals (Private or group session)

                   "Trail Blazers" is our life-changing program for the physically and mentally challenged and disabled.  Horseback riding is a uniquely beneficial form of therapy.  The horse provides a movement that is similar to the human walk.  The movement helps strengthen the spine and pelvic muscles, improves posture and coordination and increases joint mobility.  Along with the physical benefits, horseback riding gives participants a feeling of control, a sense of accomplishment and increased self-esteem.  The ability to control a horse as well as one’s own body inspires self-confidence, responsibility and teamwork.  Sessions are a thoroughly enjoyable experience, which creates a special relationship between rider and horse and promotes personal challenge.  Starting from the very first session, participants learn balance, coordination and self-assurance while receiving therapeutic muscle stimulation.  As a result of successive lessons, poise, posture, strength and flexibility improve. 

“Trail Blazers” is a metaphor for breaking new ground and trying new things.  Riders will benefit physically, mentally and emotionally.  As our riders grow in their horsemanship skills they will have the opportunity to participate in trail rides, horse shows and other events.

We serve individuals with physical and mental handicaps.  We offer tailored programs to meet the particular needs our clients.  We screen our applicants prior to acceptance into the program so that we can be sure we can safely accommodate each individual.  Each participant must have a physician’s written approval and we work closely with our physical therapist to tailor just the right session.  Each session is facilitated by an Equine Specialist and a physical therapist along with several trained volunteers.

"Horses lend us the wings we lack." Pam Brown

Below you will read a list of benefits that Therapeutic Riding may provide.  Benefits may differ depending on each participant's need. 

Click here to read a letter received from a parent about some of the benefits it brought her child, Erin.

Physical Benefits:

• Stretching of tight or spastic muscles
• Decreased plasticity
• Increase range of motion of the joints
• Reduction of abnormal movement patterns
• Improved respiration and circulation
• Improved appetite and digestion
• Sensory integration

 Psychological Benefits:

•  Improved self-confidence
• Increased interest in the outside world
• Increased interest in one's own life
• Development of patience
• Emotional control and self-discipline
• Sense of normality
• Expansion of the focus of control
  

Social Benefits:

• Friendship
• Increased experiences 
• Enjoyment
• Work Ethic
• Relationship building

Educational Benefits:

• Sequencing, patterning and motor planning
• Improved eye-hand coordination
• Visual-Spatial perception
• Differentiation