What is Therapeutic Horseback Riding?

Therapeutic horseback riding is a method of animal-assisted therapy that improves and empowers the lives of individuals with disabilities by experiencing the life-changing friendship with a horse.

For thousands of years, the relationship between a horse and rider has been unique and cherished. Horses are highly effective at mirroring and responding to the attitudes and behaviors of the humans with whom they are working. This, coupled with the physical act of riding has been shown to be a powerful physical and mental health therapy.

Who benefits from our programs?

For more than 30 years, HorseSense has helped thousands of individuals with disabilities establish their independence through a life-changing bond with the horse. Our 501c3 nonprofit organization was originally established to care for children; however, our program has since expanded to serve adults, and military Veterans and their loved ones, in need as well.

Although the main demographic of riders at HorseSense live with diagnosed disabilities, our therapeutic riding center also works with riders who don’t. Working hands on with the horse has positive mental and physical health benefits for all people, regardless of their health condition.

HorseSense has been dedicated to enriching the lives of youth, adults and military Veterans with disabilities in the greater La Crosse area since 1989. Through our therapeutic horseback riding program and strong partnerships with our therapy horses, we have created a unique combination of sport, recreation, education and most of all, fun. Our programs provide multiple benefits for individuals with physical, cognitive or psychological disabilities. Students also gain confidence by mastering riding skills and in the process will find new friends in the horses, instructors, volunteers, and other students.

HorseSense operates under the rules and regulations of PATH Intl.
(Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.)