Bit By Bit Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc.
Oologah, Oklahoma
Bit by Bit Therapeutic Riding Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Oologah, Oklahoma, serving Northeast Oklahoma. It offers therapeutic riding, equine-assisted learning and a program for veterans and first responders. According to its website, it serves nearly 70 riders each week from eight surrounding counties, of all ages and with a range of disabilities.
- Therapeutic riding
- Equine-assisted learning
- Veteran-First Responders program
- Facility rentals (pavilions and arenas)
- Horse boarding
- Children and adults of all ages
- People with disabilities
- People living with anxiety, ADD, PTSD, addiction or trauma
- Veterans
- First responders
More about this center
About the Program
Bit by Bit was founded in 1997 by Linda Barron. The program began in Claremore and is now based on US-169 in Oologah. Its stated mission is to engage the body, mind and spirit of people with diverse needs through partnership with horses.
The center lists three programs. Therapeutic riding is its largest, with adaptive lessons led by certified instructors and tailored to each rider's goals, such as strength, balance, coordination and confidence. The center says it offers 31 lessons a week over a 27-week season and works with homeschool groups, schools and other community organizations. Equine-assisted learning works on communication and teamwork skills. The Veteran-First Responders (VFR) program combines riding and groundwork with horses; see our guide to equine therapy for veterans.
The Horses and Staff
The center says it works with nearly a dozen specially trained horses and more than 50 volunteers. McKenzie Oefelein, a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and mentor, is the executive director. Barn staff include an instructor-in-training.
The facility has indoor and outdoor arenas, a round pen and pavilions, which are available to rent for events. A limited number of horse boarding spots are offered, with daily feeding and pasture turnout.
Getting Started
Families start with an online registration form covering the rider's age, medical history and any accommodations, followed by a paperwork packet. A licensed medical professional must sign a medical release before anyone rides. Staff then complete a rider assessment, and a confirmation email gives session times and payment details.
Sessions are sold as packages, with payment due at enrollment. Payment plans and tuition assistance are available. Riders should wear long pants and sturdy shoes or boots; helmets are provided.
Volunteering
Volunteers can serve as sidewalkers, horse leaders, barn helpers or administrative support. The minimum age is 16, with exceptions possible. Lesson volunteers commit to the same one-hour slot each week for at least 12 weeks, and all volunteers attend an orientation. Volunteers over 18 pass a background check.
Location
Bit by Bit is at 14674 US-169, Oologah, OK 74053, and serves riders from across Northeast Oklahoma.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How do I enroll a rider?
Complete the online registration form on the center's website, return the paperwork packet, and have a licensed medical professional sign the medical release. Staff then assess the rider and confirm session times.
How much do lessons cost?
Lessons are sold in session packages, and payment plans and tuition assistance are available. Call 918-371-1750 to ask about current rates. Our guide to equine therapy costs explains typical pricing.
Is there a program for veterans?
Yes. The Veteran-First Responders (VFR) program offers therapeutic riding and groundwork for veterans and first responders. Call 918-371-1750 for schedule and enrollment details.
How old do volunteers need to be?
Volunteers must be at least 16, though the center says exceptions may be granted. Volunteers over 18 complete a background check.
Location
Oologah, Oklahoma 74053
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.