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)

Also called hippotherapy, OT on horseback incorporates equine movement into an individual’s treatment plan. While we do not bill insurance, we can provide documentation.

APPLY

Therapeutic riding and unmounted horsemanship lessons are available for children and young adults with social, emotional, behavioral, or mental health issues including autism as well as individuals with physical disabilities.

APPLY

A 1-week, no cost summer camp for children from underserved communities. Each day, participants groom the horses, learn about horse care, do barn chores, and take a riding lesson.

FULL FOR 2025

APPLY

Wildstar Wranglers

Horse Tales

(summer only)

Hugo's Pony Club

for Preschoolers

A 1-week summer reading & riding program for children entering 4th, 5th or 6th grade. Each day, participants care for, ride, spend time working with horses and also learn about famous horses with unusual talents.

APPLY

A vocational program for young adults with autism to help prepare them for future employment by teaching basic job skills, such as following directions, accepting feedback, initiating tasks and communicating appropriately, in a safe, supportive, supervised environment.

APPLY

A unique experience for 2 to 5 year olds to interact with our little Shetland Pony Hugo. At each meeting, the children may groom Hugo, do a craft project, listen to a story about horses and/or lead Hugo around the property.

APPLY

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