Therapeutic Riding

When someone hears the words "therapeutic riding", they might envision nothing more than a pony ride with games. This could be nothing more from the truth. Let me share a testimony about a little girl named "Erin". She is 6 years old and has Rhett's Syndrome; this affects her balance, muscles, cognitive thinking, verbal ability and other challenges. For the last 3 years, her parents religiously bring her to our program for her 'sessions on horseback.' She alternates riding two horses, "Baby" & "Shrimpy."

Her first two years involved 'backriding'. She would sit in front of the instructor and balance against her for support. This progressed into riding bareback with a surcingle and two sidewalkers. I wondered if she could ever sit in a regular saddle and become more 'independent.' The all-purpose saddles we had didn't seem to have the support Erin required. Of course, there's always a budget to work with, too. Where would I find a secure, comfortable (for the horse & rider), affordable saddle?

In my search, I discovered Barefoot Saddles! What is this? It was perfect! A lightweight, attractive, comfortable, secure saddle! Plus, it was treeless; no worrying about those 'points' and the 'perfect fit.' This saddle moves with the horse and has plenty of flexibility for the rider as well. No more screwing in hard-to-fit gullets or struggling with tough leather. The pommel inserts couldn't work any easier!

How does this testimony conclude? Erin rode for the first time with minimum assistance in the Tahoe Barefoot saddle!! She would lean back a little, but the higher cantle 'caught her' and she could correct her own balance. The 'deep seat' and comfort of this saddle proved to be the answer to our prayers! The horses love it and don't pin their ears when they see it coming out of the tack room. They actually sniff it and seem to say, "Oh yeah, this is that wonderful, comfortable saddle; go ahead, put it on me!"

We couldn't be happier with our new saddle. There's a little more relaxing when our riders sit in it and this makes me relax, too. Knowing they are happy, the horses are happy and I'm happy is nothing more than a win-win! Thank you Barefoot Saddles and Brita!! We want to recommend this saddle to everyone, not just therapeutic riders.

Thank God for Children & Horses!
Jennifer Hill, Director
Kids Korral, Inc., NJ