Therapeutic Horse Training

History of Therapeutic Riding:

The first centers for therapeutic riding in North America began operation in the 1960’s. The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA), formed in 1969, consisted of four member centers and 60 individual members during its founding year. Today, the number of NARHA-affiliated centers and members has drastically increased to more than 550 centers and 3,200 individual members. There are more than 30,000 riders who take part in NARHA programs with help of 1,100 instructors, 25,000 volunteers, 600 licensed therapists and 4,000 therapy horses.

Benefits of Therapeutic Riding:

The benefits of horseback riding are as numerous as the types of disabilities and conditions served. Research shows that students who participate in therapeutic riding can experience physical, emotional and mental rewards. Because horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.

For individuals with mental or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem. The sense of independence found on horseback benefits all who ride. Many medical professionals, including the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Occupational Therapy Association, recognize the therapeutic qualities of horseback riding.

What Can I Do?
What it means to become a “friend” . . .
	Financial support of one of our therapeutic riding horses means a very special opportunity for a mentally, emotionally or physically challenged individual.
	Financial support of a new housing facility for these special horses will allow accessibility for their very special riders and a safe environment for these partners.
	Financial support for travel involved in picking up horses for training, then taking them to the chosen Riding Program for donation will provide greater opportunities for existing/non-existing handicap programs.

Beyond financial support . . .
	Beyond your financial support, you will be welcome to meet your “friend” by visiting Sul Ross.
	You will also be invited to see training sessions and riding practices to see the joy and enthusiasm that your “friend” brought to these special individuals.
	Not only will you have the opportunity to help the riders and horses but the student trainers involved in preparing the horse for their special life.

Who Gets to Use the Horses?
Individuals of all ages, with a wide range of physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities benefit from therapeutic horseback riding and other equine activities. The types of disabilities and conditions served include:
	- Amputations - Autism - Brain Injuries - Cardiovascular Accident/Stroke - Cerebral Palsy - Down Syndrome - Emotional Disabilities - Hearing Impairments - Learning Disabilities - Mental Retardation - Multiple Sclerosis - Muscular Dystrophy - Post Polio Speech Impairments - Spina Bifida - Spinal Cord Injuries - Visual Impairments