The efforts of numerous people are necessary to facilitate each therapy session; specifically, the therapeutic riding instructor, a horse leader and a side-walker are required for each client.  In addition to the people you see during the therapy session there are the behind the scenes people who groom, tack, feed, care for our horses and maintain the barn.  Each week FHTRC serves individuals with many different types of disabilities including: Spina Bifida, Autism, Down’s Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, CVA/stroke, trauma victims and Rett Syndrome.  Many of the program clients require many hours of expensive traditional therapy, and the client or family may become frustrated when they do not see the quick improvements they desire.  

    Therapeutic riding provides an alternative form of therapy that cannot be obtained through conventional methods of care. The warmth of the horse relaxes tight muscles, strengthens core muscles and the rhythmic walking motion mimics the motion of the human gait, thus helping stimulate the muscle and brain patterns necessary for improving balance, coordination, and language.  Some clients and parents notice immediate results which boosts confidence and faith in the therapy benefits.
     Furthermore, the therapy provides a positive human-animal relationship and further motivates the client to continue with a cost- effective treatment program that is extremely beneficial as well as fun, exciting and challenging.