“I didn't understand how much horses actually teach me instead of me teaching them. I've been in senior management positions for a long time. I'm used to being in charge, calling the shots, and expecting people to get things done when I ask. I love working with Andy, but he's stubborn and doesn't always do what I ask. I've realized that until I relax, change my body language, and calmly give him the right cue, he won't respond to me. Because of Andy, I've learned I need to make some changes in the way I deal with people around me. My favorite part about the program is the people. I’ve spent a lot of time with Richard, helping him get the horses ready for class and just learning from him. Janelle kind of adopted me and has helped me feel so welcome. I was excited when I trotted for the first time on Andy. I realized I could not have done it without the community around me.”

Paul

Hi everyone! I’d like to introduce myself, my name is Danita and I came to the Tri-Cities from Arizona about 6 months ago. Many of my friends in Arizona were involved in equine therapy programs for mental and physical challenges. When I moved to the Tri-Cities I began to research equine therapy facilities in the Tri-Cities because my friends have had so many great experiences. This is when I came across Therapeutic Riding of Tri-Cities (TROT). I sent in my registration and quickly found that I qualified for their Horses Helping Heroes program. The first day of class I was paired with a horse named “Cowboy”. I learned how to groom him (always brush in the direction that the hair grows), how to clean his hooves, and tidy up his mane and tail. I learned how to properly use tack, such as stirrups, bridals, halters, reins, bits, and much more.  I would like to express that my story starts here at TROT. During these classes I became a part of Cowboy. It felt as if he could talk back to me. I was in a bad places when I came to TROT, I was struggling with BTI, PTSD, a bi-polar disorder, and anxiety. Struggling with these are mentally challenging. As the class went on I became more aware of how Cowboy was feeling. It felt as if Cowboy could feel my emotions as well. He could sense my pain, both physical and mental. I would recommend TROT to those that suffer emotionally, mentally, and/or physically. TROT changed me and I am so grateful for that. I believe you will find a sense of freedom and happiness in your life after this program because it is truly therapeutic. Throughout this program you will build confidence, social skills, impulse control, self-efficiency, and learn boundaries. Please come out and join us to experience equine therapy for yourself!

Danita