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The benefits of Therapeutic Horseback Riding are threefold:

Physical

In many physical conditions, there has been a disruption in the ability of the rider to perform basic purposive functions. Balance, proprioception (spatial orientation), ambulation, posture and manual dexterity are frequently limited – many times severely. Therapeutic Horseback Riding is well suited to people who are in need of improvement in any combination of these functions.
Psychological

On a psychological level, participants have identified many benefits of therapeutic riding. Chief among these is self-confidence. As riders learn a new experience, they gain a new level of confidence in their abilities and accomplishments. Self-esteem improves. Because riders work in cooperation with their horse – which often has its own agenda – they frequently learn patience and an improved ability to deal with stress. Riders also learn about responsibility as they prepare their horse for each week’s lesson.
Social

Socially, riders interact with a wide variety of individuals while at the barn for their lessons. Other riders, family members, aides, and volunteers are all a part of the lesson environment. Riders become members of a much larger community made up of individuals with common interests and goals.

Riding Fees

Lesson

Riding Fee

per lesson

$40.00

Registration Fee

Summer

$45.00

Registration Fee

Fall – Winter – Spring

all inclusive

$45.00

How To Pay

You can pay online, through the mail or at the barn. Online payment is safe and secure.

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New Riders

New rider applications and additional information can be found on our New Riders page.

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Area students – regardless of reading level – are invited to read to CATRA dogs, cats, horses, and other farm animals. The opportunity to read to animals in a safe, non-judgmental environment has been shown to strengthen reading skills of children and teens.

Small but fun horses

MINIATURE HORSE EXTRAVAGANZA

The Miniature Horse Extravaganza is a team of Miniature Horses that have been trained by CATRA volunteers under the guidance of CATRA co-founder, Ben Nolt.

Unicorn Quest

HIGH HOPES MINATURE HORSE PROGRAM

Children ages 7-11 and their parent/guardian are invited to participate. The course is designed to promote healthy choices, effective communication skills and volunteerism using equine-assisted learning.

College Students

ALTERNATIVE BREAKS

Each year CATRA hosts ‘Alternative Break’ students from various colleges and universities in the United States. Students typically spend 4 or 5 days volunteering at CATRA while learning more about the role and benefits of therapeutic riding for individuals dealing with a wide variety of special needs.

Our Mission

CATRA provides quality equine and animal-assisted therapeutic programs to the people of the Capital area.

Our vision is to be a center of excellence where equines and other animals enrich the lives of people of all abilities to enhance physical, spiritual, intellectual, mental, emotional, and social well-being through a holistic approach.

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