STEPHENVILLE — Tarleton State University’s Texan Therapeutic Riding program has earned the designation of Premier Accredited Center by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.).
Texan Therapeutic Riding brings together individuals with special needs and other participants to join certified professionals and horses to support health, wellness and learning goals.
By earning PATH Intl. With Premier Accredited Center status, Texan Therapeutic Riding has demonstrated its operation in accordance with nearly 200 PATH Intl. standards for the equine-assisted services industry. Out of the more than 760 PATH Intl. member centers, only 250 hold this prestigious distinction.
“I wish to thank Texan Therapeutic Riding for being part of the PATH Intl. community and to congratulate them on their success in renewing their Premier Accredited Center status,” said PATH Intl. Chief Executive Officer Kevin Price. “This is a true reflection of Texan Therapeutic Riding’s commitment and continued dedication to provide quality services and opportunities for individuals seeking equine-assisted services.”
To become a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center, Texan Therapeutic Riding, successfully passed an evaluation by trained PATH Intl. site visitors.
“The site visit is to make sure we’re following industry standards relating to safety and practices for equine services,” said Director Dr. Ellen Rankins. “It’s a comprehensive visit that includes all aspects of our program.”
Center evaluations cover a wide range of topics, including horse management, participant safety, equipment, quality of instruction, facility operations, volunteerism and best business administrative practices, all of which must meet specific standards. Texan Therapeutic Riding passed the site accreditation visit with flying colors, earning 100% compliance.
Texan Therapeutic Riding Services leverages horses and their movement for the health and well-being of people with all types of abilities and disabilities through adaptive/therapeutic horsemanship lessons.
The program, founded in 1995 by Tarleton State animal science professor Dr. David Snyder, combines evidence-based research with hands-on learning to support individuals through equine-assisted services.
“We offer therapeutic riding services to the community, adults and the youth population,” Dr. Rankins said. “I have riders from 5 years old to over 70 and a variety of diagnoses and disabilities.”
“Right now, we offer adaptive horsemanship skills like grooming, leading and riding in a way that’s safe given their diagnoses and medical history.”
For more information about Texan Therapeutic Riding, visit tarleton.edu/ttr/.
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