This was more of a class field trip to try it out and see what it’s like. They do offer sessions that are more hippotherapy and some that are more traditional riding lessons, though the two aren’t mutually exclusive.

The horse he rode on was quite old and extremely calm. Horses who do hippotherapy with kids are chosen because they can remain relaxed even with children going wild on their backs. The person leading the horse has some level of control of things, and the horse’s familiarity with the farm staff helps them too. But a lot of these horses wouldn’t be fazed even if a full marching band went by.

The main thing I had to keep in mind was that walking sideways beside the horse while steadying the J-Man meant I had to watch where my feet were going so the horse didn’t step on me. Not like he could see my feet. The idea is that you won’t have to do this as your child gets more comfortable, but at first it’s a bit interesting.

I’d recommend everyone give it a try. Horses are often incredibly kind and loving, and many have quite a fun sense of humor. The gentle bouncing motion while they’re riding can be so soothing for children. It might not be for every child, but many kids with autism and/or sensory issues get a lot of wonderful benefits from it.

If you decide to try it out, let us know how it goes.

I grew up in horse country but frankly know little about them. I am glad, though, that various people have taught me to appreciate the beauty of a horse (physical, personality, etc.) even if I couldn’t tell one breed from another.

This particular horse farm is more affordable than I imagined all that would cost. One ‘lesson’, which I think is almost an hour, is about the same as the price of a meal in an average sit-down restaurant. Since we’ve long since given up going out to eat, maybe we’ve saved up enough money to go see the horses some if he grows to like them.

We already have two cats. One is very old; the other is now technically a ‘senior’ cat, but she’s always in to everything. The J-Man doesn’t much notice them, but we had some territorial issues with the younger cat and the kids that still aren’t quite resolved. I’m not sure our house is a great environment for cats or any animals. We can barely take care of ourselves it seems like.

I can say all that, but I know that resistance is largely futile for me when it comes to the adorableness of furry animals in shelters. There’s a lot to be said, though, for being able to spend time with adorable creatures and not have to bring them home. That’s what the grandparents say about all the grandkids in our family.

Thanks for your suggestion!

We ended up not going back to the horse farm for their open house day in October. A bunch of things came up, people were sick, and physically and mentally we were on the ragged edge. I’ll be out of town the Saturday they’re holding it this month. (My one work trip a year.) So maybe December we’ll go if the weather is good. The advantage of living here is that you can still do things most of the winter!

There’s another resource that may be available in your city that probably wouldn’t be thought of as a resource. (I say “May Be,” as there could be permission/legal/access/liability issues.

The last time I was at the Reno, NV. Animal shelter (it’s quite new) – they had a room that was the residence of all the elder and sick cats that were un-adoptable for various medical reasons. It was filled with pillows and awaited anyone who wanted to drop in and enjoy a kittypile.

At any rate, your local animal shelter is an affordable option for families who might not be able to afford (or, for that matter, even find) a horse ranch, and they are always, always always looking for volunteers.

Of course, you do run the risk of bringing something home with you. Something furry.