Equine Therapy for the disabled is recognized as one of the more progressive forms of therapy. It combines instruction in traditional horsemanship skills with concepts of physical therapy, occupational therapy and social/emotional therapies to improve the riders in the following areas:
Our Programs
Physical Benefits
Improved balance, posture & coordination (fine and gross motor skills), faster reflexes, improved motor planning, stretching of tight or spastic muscles, decreased spasticity, increased range of motion, reduction of abnormal movement patterns, improved respiration and circulation, improved appetite and digestion, provides sensory integration, normalization of muscle tone, increased strength & stamina, endurance and relaxation.
Mental Improvements
Strengthens auditory short term memory, improves visual memory, sequencing, patterning and motor-planning, improves math and reading skills, problem solving, spatial relationships, strengthens ability to follow directions, improved eye-hand coordination
Social & Emotional Benefits
Provides general sense of well-being, improved self confidence, Increased interest in outside world and interest in ones own life, develops patience, emotional control and self-discipline, Provides sense of normality, improves communication skills, develops courage and a willingness to take risks, social relationships, breaks down barriers, teaches kindness and develops a respect and love for animals.
Our clients are children
and adults facing many
different challenges.
Among them:
Cerebral Palsy (CP)
Down Syndrome
Developmentally Delayed
Autism
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Visual and Hearing Impaired
Learning Disabled
Prader-Willi Syndrome
ADD / ADHD
Hunters Syndrome
Spina Bifida
Brain / Spinal Cord Injury
Eating Disorders
Mentally and Emotionally Impaired
Muscular Dystrophy (MD)
Cystic Fibrosis
At-Risk Children