Welcome to Serenity Saddles Therapeutic Riding Program!
My name is Renee Croog. In September 2019, I created Serenity Saddles. I am so proud to have watched this program provide equine-assisted activities to more than 80 children and adults with special needs in the community.
Our Therapeutic Riding Program addresses the cognitive, physical, and social well-being of these individuals, teaching horsemanship skills tailored to their individual needs and abilities. Classes are taught by me, an Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor through PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) and assisted by one of the many volunteers that support the program.
What is Equine Therapy?
Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT)
Hippotherapy (HPOT)
A physical, occupational, or speech therapy that may incorporate equine movement, non-mounted activities, and the equestrian environment.
Refers to how occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech language pathology professionals use evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning in the purposeful manipulation of equine movement to engage sensory, neuromotor and cognitive systems to achieve functional outcomes.
In conjunction with the affordances of the equine environment and other treatment strategies, hippotherapy is part of a patient’s integrated plan of care. Hippotherapy is derived from the Greek word “hippo,” meaning horse.
Why Use a Horse for Therapy?
Horses used in a therapy setting have received substantial specialized training in order to optimize the movement quality transmitted to the client. The movement of the horse is multi-dimensional and provides simulation of what a normal walking pattern should feel like. It is rhythmic, consistent, and predictable, like human walking. The repetitive movement allows the rider many opportunities to practice and refine balance responses, leading to improvements in core stabilization and postural control. The movement of the horse cannot be duplicated by any piece of equipment. The dynamic movement of the horse, combined with the dynamic environment, lead to functional change.
Partnerships
Partnering with NorthBay Regional Center, Alta Regional Center, and Aveanna Healthcare means providing equine therapy as part of Specialized Recreation Therapy services. These partnerships classify the provider as a Specialized Recreation Therapy Vendor, offering therapy and/or training to individuals and their families to help achieve goals outlined in their Individual Program Plan (IPP). The focus is on strengthening skills and fostering positive interaction through activities such as horseback riding, horsemanship, and therapeutic play, supporting physical, emotional, and social development. If you work with one of these centers and are interested in riding with us reach out to your service coordinator today.
Northbay Regional Center
Alta Regional Center
Aveanna Healthcare