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Therapeutic Horseback Riding

 

We have five, 5 – 9 week therapeutic riding sessions throughout the year: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, & Holiday.  

Riders meet once a week at the scheduled day and time.

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All lessons at Reins are taught by our experienced PATH Intl. Certified Instructors. We are able to work with a wide range of disabilities.

      Common diagnoses include (but are not limited to):

Autism, ADD/ADHD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Ambulatory/Orthopedic Challenges, Down Syndrome.

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Prospective riders can contact us without a referral from a physician

or therapist. Prospective riders/Rider families will be provided with

ROL information and the required forms. Once all forms are completed

prospective participants undergo a rider assessment conducted by a

Certified Instructor to determine appropriate class placement.

 

Evaluation includes choosing a suitable horse

(size, gait, and temperament), assessment of rider’s need for adaptive

equipment and volunteer support (type of support –thigh hold,

ankle hold, number of volunteers, personality – calm, energetic,

chatty, outgoing, calm, quiet) and type of class.

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We offer 3 types of classes:

Private – (30 min, 1 rider) PATH Intl. standards require 2-3 year olds & as dictated by rider’s needs determined by Instructor during evaluation.

  1. Semi-private – (45 min, 2 riders) PATH standards required 4-5 year olds & as dictated by rider’s needs determined by Instructor during evaluation.

  2. Group – (60 min, 3-6 riders) Available for 6 years old through adults. 

 

      Once an applicant is accepted in the program, therapeutic goals are established and progress is documented. Therapeutic riding lessons are planned with the individual’s educational, physical, social and recreational goals in mind. To the extent of their abilities, riders participate in pre-mounted and post-mounted horse care. Lesson activities may include developing basic riding skills, exercises, games and riding the trails.

             Rider Benefits

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Physical

  • Improved muscle control

  • Increased balance and strength

  • Improved cardio-respiratory function

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Cognitive

  • Increased concentration and memory

  • Improved basic learning skills

  • Improved communication skills

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Social

  • Improved self-esteem, discipline and courage

  • Improved interpersonal relationships

Next Session:

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Winter Session Begins

January 12, 2026

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Per Rider Per Week

$30

$30

$30

Financial assistance is available on an as-needed basis. Forms may be requested through the office. Please read the Reins of Life Class Cancellation Policy & Seasonal Weather Restrictions & Guidelines.

GROUP SESSIONS

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One Hour

SEMI-PRIVATE

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45 Minutes

PRIVATE

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30 Minutes

Eligibility Guidelines:

 

We follow PATH Intl. standards and adhere to their list of precautions and contraindications in assessing applicant’s eligibility.

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Summary of ROL policies for accepting riders:

  • Rider with a documented diagnosis/disability.

  • Minimum age: 2 years old (no upper age limit).

  • Maximum Weight: 180 lbs. (Participants over this weight are invited to participate in un-mounted activities).

  • 6 months free of grand mal and/or drop down seizures.

Winter Session

Jan 12 - Feb 14

Fall Session

Aug 10 - Oct 3

Spring Session

Mar 9 - May 2

Holiday Session

Oct 26 - Dec 12

Summer Session

May 26 - July 18

Contact Us

Thanks for submitting!

 

55200 Quince Road, South Bend, IN 46619     

9375 W. 300 N., Michigan City, IN 46360

SB P. 574-232-0853  |  MC  P. 219-874-7519 

E. staff@reinsoflife.org

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