Equine Assisted Therapy and Hikes

Come ride, relax, and connect with nature and our friendly horses and experienced instructors. We also offer therapeutic riding for special needs. 

Is treatment through equine environments and activities that offer several forms of growth in individuals with a host of afflictions ranging from anxiety, depression, dementia, post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), and genetic syndromes such as down syndrome to name a few. 

The University of Washington state School Mental Health Assessment Research & Training Center reported that since 2010 there has been an 33% increase in the rate of students who reporting depression and anxiety. These numbers are most alarming amongst African American students whose numbers have doubled since 2014. 

The Covid-19 Pandemic exacerbated these stressors. According to the EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association), mental health is more important than ever and is at an all-time high. Because horses are highly sensitive creatures, interacting with horse's aids individuals in working through personal struggles and is extremely beneficial. Horses have a unique sensitivity to people’s feelings.

 In addition, horses react to changes in their environment. They can sense the emotional state, including states of depression or anxiety, as well as hear a humans heartbeat from 4ft away. Thus, the horse acts as a sort of biofeedback machine for adolescents, responding to and reflecting their emotions. Horses don’t judge teens based on their appearance or their diagnoses. As a result, teens feel accepted and unconditionally loved. Through horse-based activities, people gain confidence, build trust, and form healthier boundaries. learning how to work with and take care of a horse, with our buffalo soldier program coordinators, helps cadets practice empathy and develop authentic connections.