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Horses and the Handicapped of South Florida, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1981 and located on the North side of Tradewonds Park in Coconut Creek. We are dedicated to providing effective therapeutic horseback riding and other equine assisted activities for children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional difficulties.
We serve individuals from 4 years old and up who have cognitive, physical, and emotional disabilities. Although we can serve most individuals, there are some precautions and contraindications to consider. All our students are evaluated by physical therapists prior to entering our program.
Our NARHA certified instructors supervise all of our riding sessions. Our students are assisted by volunteers who lead their horse and walk beside them for support if necessary.
Our riding program consists of both therapeutic riding and hippotherapy. Hippotherapy is a treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement facilitated by a physical, occupational, or speech therapist. The therapist will change variables that include the horse�s speed and direction, the position of the patient, and the therapeutic activities the patient performs. These decisions are made based on the patient�s specific needs. Because horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner similar to the human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.
Therapeutic riding is a recreational program in which the riding instructor designs a lesson plan adapted to the needs of the individual students. The goal of each student is to improve their riding skills. Therapeutic Riding enhances cognitive, perceptual and motor skills through an integrative and goal-oriented approach. There are explicit objectives that include improved circulation, balance, coordination, strength, tone, postural reactions, proprioception, agility, self-confidence, social adjustment, and both mental and physical relaxation.
