MISSION STATEMENT
To enhance the cognitive, physical, and/or emotional well-being of individuals with special needs, disabled veterans, and seniors through horse therapy and equine-assisted activities.
BENEFITS
The non-clinical environment and the interaction between the rider and the horse is an effective and unique way of improving the physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities of individuals with special needs. Horse therapy provides medical benefits through recreational activities. Some of these benefits include:
Physical:
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Strengthens weak or atrophied muscles
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Relaxes tight, spastic, and rigid muscles
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Normalizes muscle tone
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Increases flexibility
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Assists in acquiring balance
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Improves posture
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Increases blood/oxygen flow to all areas
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Increases lung capacity; improves speech
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Improves fine motor skills
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Increases endorphin and serotonin levels
Cognitive:
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Improves body Awareness
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Improves hand/eye coordination
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Improves sensory integration
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Improves fine and gross motor skills
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Improves decision making through natural consequences
Psychological:
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Improves self-worth and self-esteem
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Improves relationships
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Promotes independence
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Improves social awareness
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Reinforces proper social skills
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Encourages empowerment
PROGRAMS
SPECIAL NEEDS THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACK RIDING PROGRAM
Designed for individuals of all ages with special needs
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​This program offers the opportunity to benefit from the movement of a horse in a controlled and safe environment. Therapeutic riding is a wonderful, emotional, physical and social activity for the disabled person. Many individuals with physical disabilities have seen vast improvement in core strength, flexibility and balance from our program. Often riders with mental disabilities improve his/her cognitive comprehension. Although the movement of the horse has proven benefits to the body and mind, the bond between the horse and rider cannot be put into tangible terms. We look forward to working with each rider and his/her individual goals.
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HORSES FOR HEROES
Designed for veterans of all ages
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This unique program provides equine therapy for wellness and rehabilitation to disabled veterans. Horses for Heroes programs are endorsed by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), formerly the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA).
Research has proven that veterans with physical limitations, brain trauma and/or PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) can improve in the following areas:
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Builds self-esteem, empathy, and a sense of responsibility through the bond between veteran and horse.
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Improves posture, balance, and symmetry and muscle control through the rhythmic movement of the horse.
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Gives the rider self confidence through the leadership they exhibit with their mount.
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Encourages a new visual perspective of independence.
The success of horse therapy for veterans is the intangible aspects of the therapy. When riding or grooming a horse, the veteran will form a special bond with his/her animal. This bond creates a sense of independence for the veteran that other types of therapy cannot provide.
AUTISTIC MUSIC CLASS ON HORSEBACK
Designed for children and adults with autism
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The songs will be interactive with the riders while the movement of the horse along with the repetition of the songs can be soothing to an autistic individual. This class is beneficial for individuals with sensory issues.
SENIORS IN SADDLES
Designed for individuals age 55 years & up
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The classes will be structured to help the senior with the following areas by grooming and riding the horse: increased blood circulation, increase liver function and digestion as well as stimulation of the internal organs, help bone-density and muscle mass, and keep the mind sharp.
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