Our History
Equus Therapeutic, Inc. held its first session of therapeutic riding in 1982 as a community 4-H project. Since that time is has become a non-profit organization and an accredited North American Riding for the Handicapped Program (NARHA). Equus complies with NARHA's rigorous safety standards, and has a Board of Directors that oversees the program.
Therapeutic horseback riding is recognized as one of the most beneficial forms of therapy for the disabled as well as those healing from injury. The purpose of the program is to help individuals master many of the skills others take for granted, such as balance, coordination, and sensory integration. The relationship that develops between riders and horses often helps the riders to expand their physical, emotional and intellectual potential. Horses provide a relationship that requires attention, concentration and caring. The movement of the horse gives individuals who lack mobility or those that are confined to a wheelchair, a freedom of movement similar to walking. Horseback riding allows for the relaxation of the inner body muscles, helping the rider to develop better posture, balance, coordination, muscle control of the extremities, and joint mobility. For the learning disabled, visualization, and memory skills can be increased. Therapeutic riding helps with left and right coordination, and helps develop a sense of spatial relationships.
Over the years, riders have ranged from age three to seventy, with special needs ranging from learning disabilities to profound physical limitations from illness and injury. At present, we serve 75 riders.
Funding for the program comes from donations from businesses and individuals, the Williamstown Community Chest, an annual tag sale, an annual Ride-a-thon, as well as rider fees. Volunteers assist with the classes, assuring that the riders are in a safe and controlled environment.
Lessons are designed to promote success, and are held year round in the indoor arena at Oakhollow Farm. Many of our riders participate in Special Olympics.
The horses for the program are carefully screened and trained. They are very special animals who are trained to be safe and who enjoy working with special riders.
For more information about the program, called our instructors, Linda Budz at 413-458-3703 or Sandy Brown at 413-458-0062. Our Board President, Mark Paquette, can be reached at 413-743-4965 or call Oakhollow Farm directly at 413-458-8427.
History of Equus Therapy
Horseback riding as a therapeutic technique has been dated back to the 1600's. In 1952 it gained worldwide attention when Liz Hartel of Denmark won the silver medal for dressage at the Helsinki Olympic Games despite paralysis from polio. Soon after, riding began to be used for rehabilitatio in England and later in North America. In 1969, NARHA or the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association was formed. More and more medical professionals are seeing the therapeutic value of Equus Therapy and becoming more involved. Therapeutic riding has been benefitted those with physical, emotional as well as mental stress and disabilities.