While both hippotherapy and adaptive/therapeutic riding involve using a horse, they vary in many ways.
Hippotherapy is the utilization of the horse’s movements to achieve functional gains. Hippotherapy can only be practiced by a licensed clinician (physical, occupational or speech language pathologist) with the proper training, expertise and knowledge. Insurance covers this service. Learn more at Americanhippotherapyassociation.org
Adaptive/therapeutic riding is the recreational activity for individuals with disabilities that involves both unmounted (off the horse) and mounted (on the horse). It is not a medical intervention, therefore insurance cannot cover this service. Riding instructors do not need a medical background, but are strongly encouraged to be certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Inc.). Learn more at Pathintl.org
For safety reasons, every participant needs to wear an ASTM/SEI helmet when interacting with horses. Alternatives cannot be used at this time. If you are unable to wear a helmet, participation in this program will not be allowed due to protocol. Helmets are provided during the sessions. Every helmet is checked and cleaned after each usage.
Sessions will be canceled if it is under 40 degrees or above 85 degrees. For air quality ranging from 101-150 a decision will be made depending on wind, weather, and other-related factors. If there is heavy rainfall with significant puddles or mud in the arena, it is unsafe to navigate the arena. Lastly, if thunder and lightning occur, sessions will stop immediately.
Horses can be easily startled and volunteers need to focus on the participant and horse during the session. care providers, friends and family members need to stay within the waiting area and not draw attention. Taking videos or photos can be arranged with clear communication with the Achieve Tahoe staff in compliance with the privacy of the other participants. Photos and videos can only be taken from outside the arena in a designated area.
This depends on several variables including, but not limited to functional and cognitive levels, weight limit, ability to follow directions and maintain safe behavior and medical history. Some participants are unable to ride the horse, but can partake in overground activities with the horses as appropriate.
Every horse can tolerate different weights safely. The horses used in the adaptive horsemanship program are evaluated thoroughly to ensure the wellbeing and safety of the horse, participant, and staff. Weight limits are established and re-assessed on a yearly basis or if a change occurs with the horse. The horse can safely tolerate about 10-15% of its own body weight including tack and equipment within the adaptive horsemanship setting. The horse’s fitness, age, medical and work history, and body conformation are addressed to determine the appropriate weight limit.