Providing EDUCATIONAL and THERAPEUTIC RIDING Instruction for PEOPLE with SPECIAL NEEDS OF ALL AGES

Providing EDUCATIONAL and THERAPEUTIC RIDING Instruction for PEOPLE with SPECIAL NEEDS OF ALL AGES

Save the Date EEU Spring Fundraiser Dinner

Equine Therapy to the Mentally Divergent

EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPY

Horses have unique powers. They seem to understand our feelings and let us connect with them. Horses accept all of us. Exceptional Equestrians has been harnessing equine therapy for children and young adults with autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and other challenges. We teach horseback riding and in doing so bring self confidence, joy, and a host of benefits to the student riders.

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THERAPY HORSES

BARNEY

Barney is the senior statesman of the EEU herd, having been with the program for more than 10 years—longer than any of our other horses. This approximately 23-year-old Austrian Haflinger is known for his sturdy build, golden coat, and unmistakable charm. Barney’s playful nature and big personality make him a favorite among both students and volunteers. Whether he’s showing off his expressive “smile” or soaking up attention in the barn, Barney brings joy to everyone he meets.

RED

Red may be officially retired from active lessons, but he remains a beloved presence at the barn. This distinguished Paso Fino began his career with the Porter County Mounted Posse, where his calm temperament and responsive gait made him a dependable partner in the community. Today, Red enjoys a slower pace of life while still soaking up plenty of attention from riders and volunteers who adore him. His gentle wisdom and kind eyes continue to make him a favorite at EEU.

Boo

Boo, a 2019 April Fools’ Day baby, brings plenty of playful spirit to the barn—his prankster personality keeps everyone smiling. This Standardbred gelding began his life on the racetrack and was once a member of the U.S. Trotting Association before a career-ending injury led him to a new purpose. Boo has been part of the EEU family for two years now, and his athletic background, gentle heart, and mischievous charm make him a standout partner for our riders. He even claimed victory in last year’s Giving Tuesday virtual horse race, proving he still has a winning streak.

Prince

Prince is a 27-year-old purebred Arabian and one of the most distinguished members of the EEU herd. With his elegant build and gentle demeanor, he lives up to his royal name. Prince has been part of the program for about two years, quickly winning over riders and volunteers with his calm spirit and patient nature. Despite his age, he still carries himself with the proud presence characteristic of his breed, making him a treasured partner in our lessons.

Joe

Joe is a 20-year-old registered Paint horse owned by Barn Manager Lisa and generously on loan to the EEU program. Known for his kind eyes and dependable nature, Joe is also a horse with a surprising list of adventures. His most memorable escapade? The day he managed to get himself stuck in a tree—requiring a rescue from the local fire department! Despite his occasional mischief, Joe is steady, patient, and well-loved by everyone at the barn.

Bandit

Bandit is a 20-year-old Paint/Gypsy Vanner gelding and a longtime favorite among our student riders. Known for his calm, steady presence in the arena, Bandit helps riders feel confident from the moment they meet him. He also has a festive side—peppermints are his absolute favorite treat, making the holiday season an especially joyful time for this sweet, gentle horse.

Missy

Missy is EEU’s leading lady—the only female horse in our herd. A beautiful Paint and approximately 24 years old, she has been part of the program since 2018. Missy is known for her patient, nurturing demeanor and her steady way of caring for each rider who works with her. As the lone mare in the barn, she also garners more than her fair share of attention from the geldings—though she handles all the admiration with grace. Missy’s gentle spirit and dependable nature make her a cherished partner year after year.

Link

Link is a striking, solid-colored registered Paint horse, approximately 14 years old, with a calm and steady presence in the barn. He also has a touch of celebrity—Link once appeared in The New Yorker as an illustration for a short story, earning him a bit of fame beyond EEU. With his gentle demeanor and photogenic charm, Link is a favorite among riders and volunteers alike.

Volunteering

Volunteers play a vital role in our therapeutic horseback riding program. Volunteers do not need prior experience with horses or helping the disabled

Volunteers may assist with student riding lessons by...

Leading the horses: Guide the horse during the therapeutic riding lesson. Also assists with grouping and tacking to prepare horses for lessons.

Side-walking: Assures the rider is safe, reinforces the instructions, provides encouragement, gives physical support. ost riders need assistance during their therapeutic riding lessons.

Volunteers also assist with: