Horse Heroes Help Individuals with Special Needs

Have you met Fire yet? He’s a truly remarkable member of our herd at Equine-Assisted Therapies of South Florida (EATSF). At just 3 years old, Fire is the youngest horse we've ever welcomed into our therapeutic riding program. Rescued and adopted into the EATSF family, what Fire lacked in experience, he more than made up for with heart and potential!

When Fire joined us in 2006, our team was committed to helping him realize his bright future. With dedicated training, Fire has blossomed into an invaluable part of our program, showcasing not just his physical strength but his patience, empathy, and incredible connection with our participants, staff, and volunteers.

Our horses are the heart of what we do, providing support and healing to some of the most delicate participants. Fire, alongside his 10 fellow herd members, continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those who rely on our therapy programs.

We are deeply grateful for your continued support of our mission and these amazing equine heroes. We invite you to come visit and see firsthand the difference your generosity is making in the lives of our participants – and maybe give Fire a pat on the back while you’re here!

One of the most challenging parts of the mission at Equine-Assisted Therapies of South Florida (EATSF) is finding the horses, or “unicorns” that serve in our program. Horses at EATSF not only need to be able to carry some of the most delicate participants, but they also need to have patience, and empathy for participants, staff, and volunteers alike. While a typical horse can be owned by up to seven people in their lifetime, a horse at EATSF is touched by up to 25 people on a weekly basis! One of the most paramount parts of getting a new horse acclimated to their new environment at EATSF is a trial period that can last up to 90 days. 

During the trial period, new horses are tested in a variety of ways to ensure that they are a perfect fit for the EATSF program. We are grateful to be able to rely on a team of professional staff members, vendors, and volunteers who are integral to a successful trial and training process.  A few important parts of the EATSF trial process can include:

• A ride with an EATSF team member to determine additional equipment or training needs.
• A meeting with the veterinarian and farrier to determine the current health and long-term healthcare needs of the horse.
• Interaction with volunteers in a “mock lesson” setting to introduce the horse to what their new job is like.
• A meeting with other horses to determine which herd the horse may join for evening turnout.  

While the trial period is extensive, the EATSF team leaves no opportunity unturned to ensure that a horse is ready to take on their position on the program schedule! Through your gifts, EATSF has been able to give horses a new and meaningful job or chance at a “new chapter” of life – like Fire who was rescued from a slaughter truck at age 3, or Jose who retired as a little girl’s show pony – all EATSF horses have a story to tell that impact the overall mission of our organization.

Thank you for loving our 11-member herd – they are the true heroes of our work. We thank you for your support of our mission. I invite you to come out and see the impact of your gift.