Therapeutic horseback riding is a unique form of therapy utilizing horses. The Hands On Therapeutic Program specializes in riding for children and adults who have physical, mental or emotional disabilities. Some of the benefits of therapeutic riding are:
* Relaxation of tight or spastic muscles
* Improved balance and coordination
* Enhanced self-awareness
* Increased independence
* Increased self-confidence
* Increased attention span
The movement of a walking horse so closely approximates the movement of walking for people, that a physically challenged person can actually experience the feel of walking while riding a horse.
Persons benefiting from therapeutic riding range in age from toddlers to the elderly. Riders have a wide range of physical or mental disabilities including but not limited to; cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, autism, blindness, spina bifida, developmental disabilities and multiple sclerosis.
Hands On Therapeutic Riding Program is recognized as having a Pennsylvania Qualified Instructor by the Pennsylvania Council on Therapeutic Horsemanship. (PACTH)
It is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.
PATH International, formally (NARHA)
Hands On is a 501c3 all volunteer non-profit. We are able to offer at cost services because of generous donations from local businesses and individuals like you.
