| Many of the horses in our programs have been donated
to High Hopes.
What makes a great therapy horse?
Though it may not
seem demanding, it is a mentally and physically challenging
job for many of our equine friends. A great therapy horse is
sound at the walk, trot and canter, with three rhythmic and balanced
gaits. The quality of the horse’s movement is what most
benefits the participant. The horse should be obedient to both
voice and leg signals, quiet and well-mannered on the ground and
accepting of assistive devices and equipment. The horse must
work easily in hand, and tolerate one or two people walking and
trotting beside it.
What is life like for a High Hopes Horse?
Our horses typically serve two participants per day, five or six
days per week. They receive routine farrier care, vaccinations,
regular worming and dental care. Occasionally we are also able
to offer complementary therapies such as chiropractic, acupuncture,
massage and trigger-point myotherapy. We are fortunately able to have
our 25 horses turned out 24 hours per day in small herds at our
126-acre facility, where they always have shelter available in
three-sided sheds. Daily care and feeding are provided by the
barn staff and a dedicated group of volunteers.
The horse trial process is as follows:
- The owner provides High
Hopes with a video of the horse being tacked and ridden at
all three gaits.
- If the horse seems appropriate, a High Hopes staff
member will
visit the horse and make a video of the ride to share with other staff.
- If
the horse suits our current program needs and space at
the facility allows, the horse will come to High Hopes for a minimum 30-day trial. Forty-five days or more is preferable.
- During the
trial, the horse will be schooled by staff and trained volunteers.
We will evaluate its temperament, soundness and
ability to participate in the program in a manner that is safe and
comfortable for the horse and our participants, volunteers and staff.
If you are interested in considering High Hopes as a home for
your horse, please complete the Prospective
Horse Form and contact
Lauren Fitzgerald, Equine Program Coordinator, at 860-434-1974 ext. 20
or lfitzgerald@highhopestr.org
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