I'm going to look into this program for Jim
 

This is a horse riding program that provides free lessons to those who are disabled. They accept children and adults. I think Jim would love to do this program because he used to ride and has talked about missing it before.

I hope they accept people in wheelchairs! They may require strong upper body strength so who knows? Jim's is pretty good but his balance is off. I'll call them Monday.

EQUINE DREAMS

I am hoping there are good supports for once Jim gets on the horse.

I think it would be a wonderful experience. I would love to do it myself.

I hope they have the supports too! I'm going to show him the website tonight. I've mentioned it before and he seemed interested.

Good luck with this, Sandy! I hope it's something that he can do and enjoy. :)

I read something about that on their site how they evaluate and decide how many volunteers one will need.

Giddyup! :cool:

Yippeekyaaaaa, I hope it works for him, Sandy.:hug:

A "horsey" family here in town is doing that. :)

I think it's wonderful and it seems to be working out well for all. Our newspaper did an article and it showed the ramps for wc users and transfer benches used to get them on the horses back.

The horse looked like he was sleeping and was so patient while the volunteers put the (big) guy on the horses back and the guy had such a big smile I had tears looking at the pics.

I say "go for it"! :D

that sounds like great fun sandy.
being around animals is great therapy.
please let us know how it goes.

That sounds awesome! I hope it's something he will be able to do and enjoy it to the fullest.

Sandy - he'll love love love it!

I volunteered at a hippotherapy center and it was a fantastic experience. The class was led by a certified trainer and there were three volunteers per horse/student. One to lead and one on either side of the horse/rider. I only worked with kids but it was obvious to see how much they benefitted from it no matter what their level of ability or disabililty. I can't wait to go back to VA to do it again.

I haven't called yet because we're busy this week but plan to call first thing Monday. I know we have to have a signed release from his doctor and we can get that on the 22nd.

Sounds like a great idea. Once a horseman, always a horseman.
Provided they're a good stable, their saddles will be super supportive and their horses will know exactly what's going on.
and if it doesn't work out, i'll send you some pics of Rob a Dob and you can go on a virtual ride. :)
If only my boys were as well behaved as these horses. ;)