Location: Rancho Santa Fe, California, United States
Helen Woodward Animal Center offers a therapeutic riding program for children and adults with special needs as part of its broader animal-assisted services mission. The program is built around equine-assisted activities that support physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and motor development in a safe, rewarding environment.
Therapeutic riding lessons are offered year-round for students ages 4 and up. Riders participate in weekly sessions with PATH-certified instructors, volunteers, and specially trained therapy horses, with lesson plans shaped around each rider’s goals.
The program operates at Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe and continues at full capacity, with a waiting list and an active volunteer-supported barn program.
Key Details:
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Services: Therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities
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Who they serve: Children and adults with special needs, ages 4 and up
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Notable programs: Year-round weekly therapeutic riding lessons
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Facility or setting: Therapeutic riding program at Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe
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Certifications or credentials: PATH-certified staff and specially trained therapy horses
Last Verified: March 12, 2026.