Equine Assisted Therapy
Horses are special creatures. They are majestic, strong and can display a broad range of emotions. Whether they’re around humans or other horses, they are amazingly communicative and thrive in social settings. These qualities are part of the reason why horses can develop such a strong bond with humans.
The relationship between humans and horses has a long history. As they have evolved and become domesticated, horses became a valuable source of transportation, labor and companionship. With qualities unique to their species, horses have become one of the few mammals that can form a lifelong, mutually beneficial and deep emotional connection with humans.
Using horses as part of an equine therapeutic program has been known to help the individual build confidence, self- efficiency, communication, trust, perspective, social skills, impulse control & regulating emotions and learn boundaries. Horses become the most popular animal to use in animal therapy because they give immediate feedback to the handler or rider’s actions.
We work with children and adults with a variety of illnesses, physical, cognitive and/or emotional challenges, providing enrichment and recreational opportunities that involve interaction with horses.
Our goal is to help each rider reach their fullest potential as a human being and as a horse person. Riding not only improves muscle tone, balance, posture, coordination and motor development, but also the rider’s confidence and emotional well-being.
We provide services using groundwork, riding or both all in a relaxed atmosphere.
Equine Therapy runs September-July weather permitting.
STUDENTS RIDING HORSES CANNOT EXCEED 190 LBS. THIS IS DUE TO THE SAFETY OF OUR HORSES AND STAFF. THERE IS NO WEIGHT RESTRICTION FOR THOSE WHO ARE ONLY DOING GROUNDWORK AND NOT RIDING. HELMETS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES WHILE ON HORSES AND/OR IN THE ARENA. Insurance not accepted.
Equine Therapy Registration Form
Equine Therapy Arena:
2175 E. Memory Lane Cottonwood AZ 86326
Directions to the arena: Turn on Mingus and head to 17th Street (block before Main Street) turn left on 17th Street and go to Coconino, turn right. Take Coconino all the way. You will see a little bridge, cross bridge then make a sharp left. Take the little dirt road all the way to the back until you reach the house. You will see parking sign. Barn is right there.