CTRC's Equine Therapists

Hello readers!

"We love horses for what they embody: freedom, spirit, adventure, perseverance, and drive." – Family member of a current CTRC rider.

Equine Therapist?

Horses, or as they are known at CTRC "equine therapists", are clearly at the heart of CTRC and its programs.  Equine therapist are fundamental to CTRC's mission of changing lives through equine assisted activities not only because the horse’s natural three-dimensional movement mimics a typical human gait is critical to our riders’ clinical progress, they provide the unconditional acceptance and bond with our riders that often becomes the motivating catalyst for every area of our riders’ lives. CTRC humbly recognize that without the generous support of our community through the donation of steadfast and endearing horses our mission would cease to be achievable. 

CTRC Cares:

Smokey

Undeniably, each equine therapist, in their herd of 25 - meet them here-, takes exceptional care of CTRC's riders. They in turn, see to the equine therapists every need - optimal nutrition, exercise, a preventative care regime that maximizes health (regular vaccination and de-worming), soundness (routine hoof care and farrier services), and well being (monitored work and daily turn out on 30 irrigated acres of pasture), an individual run with shelter, fitted tack and last but certainly not least a personal “barn buddy” and "schooler". A “barn buddy” is a volunteer that provides that extra one-on-one undivided love, care, and attention to their assigned horse and a "schooler" is a specially selected and trained volunteers that keeps each horse physically fit, balanced and mentally fresh. 

Another perk to being part of CTRC's therapy heard is that every other Friday they are the recipients of deep tissue massages performed by members of the Boulder College of Massage Therapy. If this doesn’t sound like horse heaven, I don’t know what does!

Having the right stuff?

CTRC is always considering horses for their Therapeutic Riding, Hippotherapy and Summer Camp programs. Do you have a horse or know of a horse that is qualified and up for the challenge?

Sally

·    My horse is physically sound, and does not have any major health related problems.

·    My horse tolerates two people working on both sides simultaneously.

·    My horse is at least 6 years of age and has some level of professional training.

·    My horse can tolerate loud noises and does not startle easily.

·    My horse can maintain his cool when startled by moving objects.

·    My horse is a comfortable mount with even gaits.

·    My horse can handle uneven weight on his back.

·    If a rider becomes unbalanced, my horse will stop and wait for the rider to regain  

control.

If you checked each box then the horse you are thinking is a great candidate for a career as an “Equine Therapist”! Call 303-652-9131 or contact Loraine at loraine@ctrcinc.org to find out more and start the donation process.

The process begins with a phone assessment of the background and current condition of the horse in question. If all goes well a meet and greet and evaluation of the horse is conducted by CTRC staff.  If selected, the horse enters a 60-day trial period at CTRC. If the trial period is a success, donation papers are signed and the horse becomes a proud and beloved member of CTRC therapeutic herd. When the time comes for the horse to retire the donor is always offered to have the right of first refusal. If first refusal is waived, CTRC ensures to either continue providing exceptional attention and care for the horse or carefully selects an appropriate loving home.

Shane sticking his tongue out for the camera

 So keep in mind this wonderful home and career for qualified horses that could use a new career! Anyone can make a profound difference in the lives of our special needs participants by donating a horse to CTRC. Not only does donating a horse provide a much needed service for our riders but is also tax deductible.