We have seen amazing strides in physical abilities and emotional growth and satisfaction. For example, when an elementary school student with Down Syndrome began riding, he was not able to maintain an upright sitting position on the horse for longer than 10 minutes at a time. By the end of his riding program, he was capable of standing in a half-seat position at a trot.
An 85+ year old gentleman rode as therapy for a physical condition. He used a cane or walker on the ground, but up on the horse, he could walk, trot, and canter with no hindrances. For a little while each week, he was free and able to enjoy movement.
Adults and children with PTSD and/or depression come out to the facility and interact with our horses. They overcome areas of fear, develop self-confidence and learn to trust others again.