Animal-Assisted Programs at The Root Farm
Our animals are at the heart of everything we do. We provide both therapeutic and recreation-based programs that impact emotional, cognitive, physical and mental health, enriching the lives of our visitors and staff alike.
Horse Riding Lessons
Consider spending time with our horses – it can boost your confidence and overall mood!
Participants in our riding programs build a relationship with their horse through a variety of activities. Riders learn all about these sensitive animals who have a keen ability to understand human emotions and bond with the rider.
Riders learn the basics of mount/dismount, warm-up, lead walk, steering and guiding the horse through various patterns and gaits.
Horseback riding can improve posture, muscle tone, flexibility and core strength. Our certified instructors will develop your personalized lesson plans and can recommend adaptive options if needed to achieve your individual goals and objectives.
Groundwork Education Programs
Spending time with our animals offers a great opportunity for enhancing your physical, mental and emotional health. Our horses, cows, sheep, cats, rabbit, chickens and goats need daily care, and the time you give them can in return benefit you – animals unconsciously teach us compassion, empathy, kindness. Caring for animals also encourages responsibility.
Groundwork education programs cover a variety of topics including animal care, health, behavior and nutrition.
Private session and small group options are available so you can enjoy time with our animals in their natural environment. Whether it’s spending time at our coop to see how chickens communicate, learning to lead a horse, or finding out if sheep wag their tails when they are happy, you are sure to learn something new!
Groundwork programming includes:
- Brushing animals
- Preparing meals and feeding animals
- Art projects related to animals and nature
Cow Cuddling
Looking for a new way to support your health and well-being?
Cow cuddling offers a lighthearted opportunity to connect with a large animal to help you feel grounded and secure. The positive energy exchange you can experience with cow cuddling can help to promote positivity and reduce stress.
Our Equine Facility
At The Root Farm, our state-of-the-art equine therapy center provides a welcoming environment for riders of all abilities. Open year-round, our facility is designed to offer a safe and supportive space for therapeutic and recreational riding, as well as other outdoor activities that foster growth and connection with nature.
- 8,000-square-foot heated indoor riding arena for year-round lessons and therapy.
- Outdoor riding arena for open-air sessions.
- Barn space for up to nine horses, ensuring each horse receives quality care.
- Expansive paddock areas and lush pastures for horses to roam and graze.
- Dedicated therapy rooms for private sessions and care.
- Access to additional farm activities, including our agriculture and adventure programs.
What is Equine Therapy?
Research shows that a horse’s walking pattern closely mimics that of a human. When a rider sits on a walking horse, the horse’s movement helps improve the rider’s pelvic mobility, posture, weight shifting, coordination, and sensory regulation. This equine movement can be even more effective than traditional clinical tools like physio balls, balance boards, or exercise programs in providing therapeutic benefits to the rider’s body.
Equine Therapy can be very beneficial for people who experience:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Cerebral Palsy
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Stroke recovery
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Developmental delays
- Down Syndrome
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and depression
- Sensory processing disorders
- Physical disabilities affecting balance, coordination, and motor skills
Plant Your Roots.
Your support and contributions are a vital part of shaping our future, and your involvement leaves a lasting mark on everyone who walks through our doors. Together, we can nurture growth and make a meaningful impact.
There’s always something happening at The Root Farm.
Whether you’re interested in our farm-fresh products, team-building activities, or equine programs, we welcome visitors of all ages and abilities.
