Horse care 'helps disabled people'

Monday, 8 November 2010 16:27

Disabled people appear to be getting a lot out of horse care at the Bedford County Therapeutic Riding Program in the US, with owner Lois Claycomb noting that they improve physically and socially as a result.

Speaking to the Altoona Mirror, Ms Claycomb explained that seeing the youngsters come in so excited to spend time with the equines "[makes] you melt", adding: "If it's just one kid at a time, that's all that matters."

The centre runs six-week sessions three days every week between April and October for both adults and children, with the therapy workshops tailored for the specific needs of the participants.

Activities include working on balance by carrying a tray with a toy on it as they ride around a ring, while grooming proves beneficial for everyday life skills.

Similar work is being carried out by Pegasus Rising, with the North County Times recently reporting that war veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder find that horses' sensitivity to human emotion helps them handle their conditions.

By Katherine