Our Riders
Recreation
A NARHA-certified riding instructor works with riders who benefit from horseback riding as an enjoyable, fun experience. Additional benefits include a sense of pride and accomplishment in learning how to control their horse. Personal achievement translates into improved confidence and self-esteem. Depending on ability, riders may advance to the level of riding independently. Along with learning to ride comes an opportunity to enjoy the magical bond that happens between horse and human. Participants who are unable to ride may benefit from horse grooming activities.
Therapy
Volunteer physical and occupational therapists use the horse as a tool to improve posture, balance, mobility and function of clients with disabilities. Riders positively respond to the movement and warmth of the therapy horse. Horses are tested for their ability to tolerate various equipment and rider positions so that each session is challenging yet fun and safe. Therapeutic riding can benefit persons with cerebral palsy, hemiplegia, autism, Down's syndrome, mental retardation, mental illness, multiple sclerosis, stroke and traumatic brain injury. Individuals are advised to obtain their doctor's permission to ride.
Slide Show:
For information on how you can become a rider, Email gstrides@gmail.com or phone 563-419-1621. Space is limited. You may be placed on a waiting list until an opening is available. All applications must be approved by the program coordinator prior to participation. For session schedule and directions to arena, see Events/Contacts page. For more information, see Introductory Letter to Participants.
All participants are required to complete the following forms prior to their scheduled session:
Client Registration & Release Form and Client Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
Participant's "Special Needs" Form
Participant's Consent for Release of Information
Precautions & Contraindications Letter to Physician
Participant's Medical History & Physician's Statement
All required forms must be complete before any rider can get on a horse!
