Many children with various disabilities and support needs benefit immensely from therapeutic horseback riding. Equine Therapy is a unique form of intervention that has shown significant improvements in riders' quality of life by enhancing physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. For many families and individuals relying on these therapeutic services, it is a core component of the individual's support and treatment plan and can have an overwhelmingly positive impact.

However, the At Home Program's recent decision to require delivery of services or supervision by an Occupational Therapist (OT), Physical Therapist (PT), or Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) threatens the accessibility and effectiveness of Equine Therapy. This policy not only places a financial and logistical strain on families but also inadvertently limits the availability of these vital services due to the scarcity of such professionals specially trained and willing to oversee Equine Therapy sessions. This requirement will drive up the cost per session significantly for the At Home Program and leave parents with the difficult decision to either discontinue beneficial services or pay out of pocket, which many families of children with complex medical needs simply cannot afford.

Research has shown that Equine Therapy, which is guided by experienced equine therapists with extensive and specified training, offers substantial benefits to participants. Children participating in Equine Therapy programs often demonstrate marked improvements in core strength, coordination, and social interaction skills. Therapeutic horse riding can be a wonderful compliment to OT, PT, and SLP services without direct involvement from OT/PT/SLP professionals.

We strongly urge the At Home Program to reconsider these new requirements for Equine Therapy services. Let equine therapists, who are experts in their field, continue to provide this impactful therapy without undue restrictions. This will make Equine Therapy more accessible to all children on the At Home Program who would benefit from therapeutic riding, supporting their journey to a better, fuller life. Sign this petition to voice your support for inclusive, unrestricted access to Equine Therapy for those who need it most.

"For us, it’s been crucial for both my twins. For one, his back strength and posture have improved so much that he doesn’t have scoliosis anymore (had very mild case before), plus hand coordination (hemiplegic CP). My other son is GMFCS level 5, non mobile, started taking steps in his walker after about a year of riding. Plus his trunk control and head control is massively improved. But even more importantly, both LOVE this kind of therapy! The enjoyment is such a huge piece because often we have to do so much physio in an office building etc. nothing wrong with that, but for a child, compare that to riding horses? No comparison.  

Now with the new changes, will cost between $3-4000 out of pocket per year for our family (for both children). That’s a massive hit to already tight budgets. I think this change is short sighted because this is a recognized therapeutic service that benefits kids, and should be a valid use of funding." - M, parent of equine therapy recipients

"My two autistic children love equine therapy. We've noticed improvement in regulation, self-advocacy skills, social interactions, and anxiety levels since they started. We have only been able to access equine therapy because it is covered by AHP. Without this funding option, we will have to discontinue this beneficial therapy." - S, parent of equine therapy recipients

“As a volunteer side walker and Horse handler at an Equine Therapy organization, and Grandparent of 2 in the program, I have seen first hand the benefits of Equine Therapy on children with disabilities. Each child benefits differently, some may gain core strength and stability, others vocalization or communication through sign language. Empathy, responsibility, and discipline for one's self and others are skills that are promoted through the program. The confidence and willingness to keep trying these children learn is not to be underestimated. Please reconsider funding for this important program.” - T, equine therapy volunteer and grandparent of equine therapy recipients