Programs and Services
Therapeutic RidingTherapeutic riding is an equine-assisted activity designed for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of people with disabilities.
At Savannah Station TRP, we currently focus on cognitive and physical disabilities, with future plans to develop programs in other areas that equine-assisted therapy has been proven to aide. Riders are accepted into the program based on an individual assessment to ensure safety and a proper method of therapy. The minimum age of acceptance into the program is four years old. There is no maximum age for services at Savannah Station TRP, as long as the participant has no physical or medical limitations that would make riding unadvisable. Savannah Station is more than just therapy for our students. It's a relationship between the rider, the volunteers and the horses. No other therapy students receive has this type of bond. The educational value is immense. I've observed non-verbal students give the horse and handlers verbal commands to stop and go. I've watched parents literally cry because their child makes measurable progress both physically and cognitively. I couldn't be more happy with our partnership.
Craig McVay, Superintendent, El Reno Public Schools How Therapeutic Riding Works:
There is much more to therapeutic riding than just giving a child a ride on a horse. It is a proven form of valuable therapy that produces physical, cognitive, social, and educational benefits.
How does it work? The swinging gait of the horse is very similar to the human gait, which provides the rider with a unique sense of walking. The side to side movement of the horse keeps the rider constantly adjusting to keep their center of gravity. Movements of the horse benefit the rider’s balance, strength, posture and mobility. In addition, children with cognitive disabilities, learning disorders and speech impairments often try harder and produce better results in an effort to please the horse. Benefits of Therapeutic Riding:
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Program ScheduleSavannah Station TRP offers three group riding sessions:
Spring - 13 weeks - January to May Fall - 13 weeks - September to December Summer - 6 weeks - June to July Wondering how to get enrolled as a participant at Savannah Station TRP? Please complete and send in the Participant Application and we will be in contact with you to set up an interview. We will ensure that our program is appropriate for the applicant and that there are no limitations to participation in mounted equestrian activities.
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