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The equestrian program became a part of Eagle Mount the summer of 1992. The program was primarily a recreational program with therapeutic goals. Since then, the size and scope of the program has dramatically increased to four parts - therapeutic riding (Hippotherapy), advanced riding, recreational riding, and buggy driving.
The recreational riding and advanced riding programs focus primarily on teaching individuals with disabilities to ride a horse safely. This riding helps the individual with disabilities by improving balance, posture and coordination and helps the person psychologically by improving their self-confidence and motivation. The participant is able to experience the sensation of being high above others, independent and mobile. Educational goals of sequencing and color identification are also met for those participants who have difficulty with these areas. Advanced riding is for participants who have developed a more secure seat, and who are able to perform more difficult maneuvers.
The Eagle Mount buggy program is designed for those persons with disabilities who want to work with horses but cannot, even with the use of adaptive equipment, ride them. They, like the recreational riding participants, learn to control the horse and perform this activity safely and responsibly. They too, develop a sense of accomplishment and pride in their ability to smoothly handle a large animal.
