Healing Hooves

About the Program

Therapeutic and adaptive riding pairs each student with a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and a horse in a horsemanship lesson. For speech hippotherapy, Healing Hooves partners with UAMS (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences) speech-language pathologists, who work with clients while they ride.

Horse Powered Reading takes an integrative approach for children who struggle with reading, including when anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns get in the way of learning. Leadership development and team building run as half-day, full-day or two-day ground-based workshops, and no horse experience is needed. Mindfulness with Horses sessions are kept to six participants, and the six-week Mindfulness Fitness Program pairs a daily mental fitness practice with weekly gatherings at the barn.

The Horses and Staff

Stacey Garrett is the executive director. She has more than 20 years in the equine industry, was a member of Oklahoma State University's inaugural NCAA Equestrian Team, and holds Certified Horsemanship Association Level III Instructor and Stable Management certifications as well as a Certified Equine Therapy Practitioner credential. Instructors work with a herd of specially trained horses. Kerry Wright chairs the board of directors.

Getting Started

For riding or hippotherapy, families create a rider profile online, then contact Healing Hooves to schedule a consultation and join the waitlist. Healthcare professionals can refer clients by calling 501-680-6686. Donations help keep costs low for students and families, and the office can explain current rates (see our guide to equine therapy costs).

Volunteering

Volunteers serve as horse leaders and side walkers during riding lessons, care for the herd and stables, and help with facility upkeep, office work, fundraising and special events. Many volunteers start with little or no horse experience, and staff teach them to work safely with the horses and riders.

Location

Healing Hooves is based at Pine Hill Ranch, 110 W. Colonel Glenn Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210. The 250-acre ranch has rolling pastures, a covered arena, an outdoor riding arena and miles of trails. Pine Hill Ranch also offers its own beginner to intermediate riding lessons, English or Western, for children and adults. Call or email to schedule a consultation or tour.