Our Horses

What makes a great therapy horse:

It takes a very special horse to become a therapy horse. We think of them as real life unicorns. A great therapy horse must be sweet-natured, well-trained, patient and able to adapt to the needs of each unique rider. 

Therapy Horse Selection and Training:

Rainbow horses are carefully evaluated and trained before they are allowed to participate in any lessons. We select horses who have prior experience, physical capabilities and temperament to participate in lessons. Once they arrive at the farm, horses enter a trial period. Our instructors, horse leaders, and side walkers work with the horses extensively to train them in the skills needed to be a therapy horse. 

They learn about working with multiple volunteers who assist our riders and the horses are methodically introduced to wheelchairs, walkers, canes, a special mounting ramp, and other equipment that our students might use. Our veterinarians and farriers ensure their health and well-being.

Matching Horse and Rider:

Our instructors work to make the perfect horse and rider teams. Depending on the riding skills the participant is working on, their goals and individual needs, our instructors pair each participant with a therapy horse. At Rainbow, we love that our riders often get to work with multiple horses and learn from each one.