Therapeutic Riding
Morning Dove’s Therapeutic Riding program provides people with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities with an excellent opportunity to improve their mind and spirit as well as physical strength. Therapeutic riding helps our riders build a trusted and accepting relationship with a horse, meanwhile being surrounded by supportive instructors and volunteers. The horse’s soothing rhythm, strength, warmth, and three-dimensional movement pattern provides healthy exercise while improving circulation and muscle tone. The confidence gained from working with horses and the social interactions among their peers raises self-esteem and increases self-sufficiency. This unique interaction with horses has proven to reduce anxiety, encourage interaction, and offer a haven where riders can feel a sense of empowerment.
During each of the four 8-week sessions, Morning Dove’s riders participate in group or private lessons, based on their individual needs. The therapeutic riding lesson program is modeled after the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) guidelines for accredited operating centers. A PATH certified instructor conducts each lesson. Lesson activities may include developing basic riding skills, exercises, games, horse care and grooming and riding the trails.
Download the Participant Form
Download the Registration Supplement for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
2011 Therapeutic Riding Sessions
Session I March 25 – May 30
Session II June 10 – August 15
Session III August 26 – November 14
Therapeutic Riding Fees: Each 10 week Riding Session Tuition is $350.00*
*Fees are kept as low as possible to provide access to the greatest number of riders. Program fees cover less than 50% of the operating costs of Morning Dove. Morning Dove raises the difference through donations and fundraisers. Please contact us regarding possible scholarship opportunities.