The LEAP horses are our co-therapists.
Their participation engages patients in a novel experience that not only encourages change but is also challenging, fun, and immediately rewarding.
The horse’s size, sensitivity to body language, and responses to people’s behavior and emotions offer opportunities to recognize and alter patterns of behavior that are ineffective in patients’ daily lives.
Horses cannot be emotionally manipulated or intimidated. They are honest and straightforward when responding to people and are incapable of deception. Because they live in herds, horses are highly social. Their means of communication is based on body-language and other non-verbal signals and they use this in relation to people as well as other horses.
When treated with kindness, no matter how ineptly, horses offer immediate and unconditional love and friendship. This draws patients into a process that they otherwise might avoid.
Our LEAP equine partners have been donated for our use by owners who are committed to improving the lives of others, for which we are grateful. Each horse has a unique background and personality, giving us flexibility when we tailor treatment tasks to the specific needs of each patient.
Meet our horses...
Blue is an American Paint born in Tennessee. He is named for his striking baby blue eyes. Blue has a unique ability to sense what his patients need –whether it be challenge, support, playfulness, or just a little love.
Sugar is a beautiful Palomino mare who has two loves – trail riding and LEAP therapy. Sugar is easy going and highly effective at teaching her patients good communication and sensitivity to others.
Maggie is a chestnut Quarter Horse. Being a former lesson horse, she loves being around and working with kids. Maggie adapts readily to changes in approach that the kids take with her.
Tank is a mixed breed Quarter Horse. Tank is great at teaching his patients how to control their impulses and rely on positive, supportive behavior. |
