Therapeutic Riding

Participants in our programs learn horsemanship and riding skills in a therapeutic environment.  The benefits of therapeutic riding often carry over into other aspects of riders’ lives.  Some examples of these benefits include:

• Improved balance, posture and coordination
• Increased muscle tone
• Improved memory skills
• Ability to follow single and multi-step directions
• Increased self confidence and self esteem
• Enjoyment of working with positive people and incredible animals—our horses!

We offer group and private lessons.  Horses and equipment, including any special equipment you may need to be able to ride, are provided.

Most people with disabilities are eligible.*  Individuals with a variety of disabilities have participated in our program (some examples follow). 

Physical Disabilities	Cognitive/Developmental Disabilities	Disabilities Involving the Nervous System
Amputation Limb Deficiencies Achondroplasia Arthritis Arthrogryposis Cerebral Palsy Spinal Curvature Poliomyelitis Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Hypertension CVA/Stroke Traumatic Brain Injury Hip Replacement Spinal Cord Injury	Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/Fetal Alcohol Effect Mental Retardation Developmental Delay Down Syndrome Fragile X	Multiple Sclerosis Muscular Dystrophy Epilepsy/Seizure Disorders Learning Disabilities Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorder Tourette Syndrome Apraxia

*Mounted activities (i.e. riding a horse) are not appropriate for everyone, and in some cases present more risk than benefit to a particular rider.  Applicants are screened for eligibility to ensure that riding is not contraindicated.

Please contact Denise Spittler, CKRH Program Director, at (859) 231-7066 or if you are interested in finding out more about our equine assisted activities.