Special Needs T.R.A.I.L. Program

 
Research continues to document the success of animals as a means of therapy for children with special needs. Therapeutic horseback riding introduces children with special needs to freedom, confidence and the spiritual and physical therapy of riding a horse.

 

 
The T.R.A.I.L. Project (Teaching Riding as an Access to Independence and Learning) was developed by a group of youth in Mendocino County’s 4-H Youth Development program. With the help of many adults and 4-H volunteers, young special riders are introduced to horses in a safe and positive atmosphere. Walkers accompany the riders, either leading the horse or steadying and supporting the rider. Most of the special riders have been referred to the program through local occupational therapists, by word of mouth or through other 4-H members and their families. Working through local children’s service agencies, we learned that foster children also often have significant emotional and spiritual needs that can be met with the riding program.
 

 
Since the T.R.A.I.L. rides began in 1993, the program has aided therapy for over 100 riders. We have seen balance, language and other skills improve in many special riders. In addition, the motion of the horse and use of the hands on the reins increases blood flow and slowly but gently loosens contracted muscles. One blind child with cerebral palsy who at first required a “back rider” to keep her upright and secure on the horse is now riding on an English saddle by herself. The biggest payoff is the independence and trust that the riders develop. The foster children in our program benefit as well. Not only do they experience “pet” therapy, but they also learn responsibility and the self esteem that comes from working with horses and assisting other special riders as volunteers for the program.
 

 
An occupational therapist: “There has been no better way to facilitate an all-over relaxation, stretch and circulation as well or as painlessly as therapeutic horseback riding.”
 

Supporting Unit: Mendocino County
 
Linda Edgington, Program Representative, UCCE, Mendocino County, 579 Low Gap Road, Ukiah, CA 95482
(707)463-4495 lgedgington@ucdavis.edu