Horse SenseAbility

Helping children and young adults who are underserved, at risk

or have special needs develop life skills by learning about, caring for

and being with horses in a peaceful, rural setting.

Why
Horses?

As dynamic, sensitive, prey animals, horses communicate through the subtle use of body language. They provide immediate, honest feedback without judgment. Working with these large, powerful, sentient creatures naturally creates an opportunity for individuals to overcome fear, develop self-confidence and enhance self-awareness. Participants often perceive therapeutic riding and horsemanship as a more positive experience than traditional therapy, serving as a strong motivator in achieving their therapeutic goals.

Equine-assisted activities foster patience and empathy, deepens the ability to trust and relate to others, increases control over frustration and anger, develops a strong work ethic, improves social and communication skills, and builds self-esteem and self-regulation.

Programs

Horse SenseAbility offers 6 core programs:

Therapeutic
Riding & Horsemanship

Occupational

Therapy on Horseback

City to Saddle

(summer only)

Young child in mother's arms next to a horse

Occupational therapy on horseback incorporates equine movement into an individual’s treatment plan. This strategy, often called hippotherapy, is tailored to the needs of each patient. We do not bill insurance but can provide documentation.

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Girl riding a horse in therapeutic riding program

Therapeutic riding and horsemanship lessons are available for children and young adults with one or more of the following characteristics: autism spectrum disorder; emotional, behavioral, or mental health issues; experience with violence, abuse, neglect or trauma; growing up in stressful economic circumstances or at-risk.

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City to Saddle gives 6- to 13-year-old children from underserved communities an opportunity to interact with horses and other farm animals. Each day, participants groom the horses, learn about horse care, do barn chores, and take a riding lesson.

FULL FOR 2025

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Wildstar Wranglers

Horse Tales

(summer only)

Horse Tales is a 1-week summer reading & riding program for children entering 4th, 5th or 6th grade. Each day, participants care for, ride, and spend time working with horses. They also explore books and videos about some fascinating famous horses to reinforce literacy skills.

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Wildstar Wranglers helps young adults with autism spectrum disorder prepare for future employment. The program teaches basic job skills, such as following directions, accepting feedback, initiating tasks and communicating appropriately, in a safe, supportive, supervised environment.

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Hugo's Pony Club

for Preschoolers

A unique experience for young people ages 2 to 5 years old. The children interact with our little Shetland Pony Hugo in our indoor climate-controlled space or outdoors in good weather. At each session, they groom Hugo, do a craft project and listen to a story about horses.

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I never thought I'd be riding horses given my balance issues yet here I am every Friday. You make every lesson fun, safe and enjoyable. My confidence becomes stronger each week

–– KRISTIN

Testimonials