The Horse Rescue, Relief & Retirement Fund, Inc. (HRRRFI), was created because there was an urgent need for service and education as well as change public attitude regarding equines and persons with disabilities.

Case studies and research projects all clearly validate that riding is an effective form of treatment for many physical and cognitive disabilities. Through therapeutic and enjoyable equine activities, riders learn horsemanship that stimulates physical, mental and emotional growth. The definition of therapeutic riding has been expanded and enhanced by including those whose mental health, emotional well-being and ability to learn has been severely challenged as well. Our "Dreams of Courage" program uses the rescued horses to help disabled children and adults improve their lives through the movement and involvement with these horses. On the back of a horse, a disabled person becomes equal as they ride beside able-bodied persons.

In our ongoing attempt to establish equine rescue services and to improving the quality of life for these horses, it became apparent to us that the horses we were saving could also improve the lives of people. By forming a bond between the two, we can improve the quality of life, health and well being for both the horse and the person.

This program is a nonprofit, public benefit, corporation dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of horses suffering from abuse and the successful retirement of working horses. We are an all-volunteer organization operating solely on tax-deductible donations.

Therapeutic Riding has been used since the early 1950's in Europe as a tool for improving the lives of individuals with physical disabilities.

Individuals with almost any cognitive, physical and /or emotional disability can benefit from a safe and supervised interaction with equines.

Because horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. For individuals with mental or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem.

The sense of independence and acceptance found through these activities with the horse benefits all.

Individuals with the following disabilities commonly participate and benefit from equine facilitated therapy and activities:
Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy, Visual Impairment, Down Syndrome, Mental Retardation, Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Spina Bifida, Emotional Disabilities, Brain Injuries, Spinal Cord Injuries, Amputations, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder, Deafness, Cardiovascular, Accident/Stroke.

Information on our Therapeutic Riding Program, "Dreams of Courage" is available in the brochure listed below. Please open, download and print the brochure for information.

Dreams of Courage - pdf format.

Forms for Dreams of Courage Program - pdf format.