Frequently Asked Questions
What are therapeutic riding activities?
Therapeutic riding activities are individualized, specialized activities that use the horse to provide physical, emotional, and psychological benefits to children and adults with disabilities. Through carefully planned activities developed by a certified riding instructor and/or therapist, the horse is used as a treatment tool to help the rider achieve his or her goals.
How does the horse’s movement help riders?
The movement of the horse at a walk provides sensory input that stimulates normal muscle responses in the human, enhancing cognitive and physical development. The horse’s three dimensional, swinging gait simulates the movement of a human’s pelvis, trunk, and shoulder girdle when walking.
How can participants register for sessions?
For additional information about the MSU Extension Equine Assisted Therapy Programs or for a program application, contact Cassie Brunson at (662) 325-1718 or cbrunson@humansci.msstate.edu.
How are goals set for riders?
Before a participant begins riding in the program, an instructor and licensed therapy professional (PT, OT, SLP) conduct an assessment to establish goals. Participants’ parents, teachers, counselors, and therapists may make suggestions.
How can you help the therapeutic riding program?
• Make a financial donation.
• Donate a horse or sponsor a rider.
• Volunteer to assist with riding classes.
• Share information about the program.
Publications
News
STARKVILLE, Miss. -- Amy Knight has seen her 13-year-old son, Cameron, make substantial strides in his speech and core strength since he began horse riding three years ago.
WEST POINT, Miss. -- Sometimes, supporting veterans can be as easy as showing up for dinner.
The Mississippi State University Extension Equine-Assisted Therapy program will hold a fundraising event Oct. 12.
Success Stories
When 10-year-old Hasib of Starkville trots his horse during therapeutic riding, he experiences a lingering calmness that his mother attributes to the experience he shares with his horse.
More than 80 grade-school students from Choctaw Tribal Schools visited Mississippi State University in March to participate in Choctaw Preview Day.
Trauma survivor benefits from Extension hippotherapy program
General outpatient therapy is a major step in helping trauma victims on the road to recovery, but hippotherapy has emerged as an effective method of helping them regain mobility over time.
