Therapeutic riding uses equine-oriented activities for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well being of people with disabilities. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of therapy, education, sport and recreation and leisure. The ability to control a horse as well as one’s own body inspires self-confidence, responsibility and teamwork.
Best of all, it is a thoroughly enjoyable experience, which creates a special relationship between rider and horse and promotes personal challenges.

Classes may be a half-hour or hour long in length and may be private or group lessons. All potential participants undergo a comprehensive in-take process that includes completion of registration forms including a physician release form and attending an evaluation. Participants will focus on learning riding skills and develop the skills needed in the sport chosen (such as riding, driving or vaulting).   

What is Hippo-therapy?                                                 

Hippo-therapy is a physical, occupational and speech therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement in the controlled Hippo-therapy environment, the therapist modifies the horse's movement and carefully grades sensory input. Specific riding skills are not taught (as in therapeutic horseback riding); but rather a foundation is established to improve neurological function and sensory processing. This foundation can be generalized to a wide range of daily activities.

The term Hippo-therapy means treatment with the help of the horse. The purpose of Hippo-therapy is to provide rehabilitative services combining classical equine techniques with the long and short-term goals of traditional physical, occupational and speech therapy. Participants do not learn ‘riding skills’ while participating in this program. 

Diagnoses commonly treated at Freedom Riders

- Cerebral Palsy

- Autism

- Developmental Delay

- Down Syndrome

- Asperger Syndrome

- Mental Retardation

-Sensory Integration Issues

- Muscular Sclerosis

- Muscular Dystrophy

- Seizure Disorders

- Attention Deficit/ Hyperactive Disorder

- Global Delay