At Pine Stump we are excited to offer you a variety of nature-oriented activities. All of these activities center out of our location on the Colville Indian Reservation in Okanogan County, some 12 miles east of the town of Omak.

This is a gentle, individualized approach to horseback riding that stimulates impressive physical and emotional benefits to participants. People who have limitations in other areas of their lives can experience newly developed muscle control and tremendous insight from caring for and riding horses.

What is Therapeutic Riding?

It is the innovative use of equine-related activities to improve the body, spirit, and mind of individuals who have special challenges, be it physical, mental, or emotional. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of sport, recreation, education, and medical arenas.

What are the specific benefits of Therapeutic Riding?

Benefits happen in many areas: psycho-social, cognitive, physical, and language:

• balance and coordination
• concentration and following directions,
• self-esteem and confidence
• bonding and caring
• fun and recreation,
• strength and endurance,
• communication skills,
• improvement of muscle tone

This is healthy exercise. The rhythmic movement of the horse stimulates muscles that are infrequently used and improves balance. Muscle control and coordination become integrated skills. Better posture and upper body strength, not to mention the pure exhilaration of riding atop a 1000 pound creature. are only a few of the results. This is a great equalizer, anyone who rides becomes part of an life, in spite of other physical or emotional conditions. The sense of freedom and achievement that comes from riding is irreplaceable.

Who can participate?

This program is designed for individuals who have special needs, which can be as mild as learning disabilities or as involved as multiple sclerosis. Volunteers are also welcome to assist. For more information on enrolling or volunteering, contact Carey Hunter at pinestmp@hotmail.com for more specific detail about your interests.