Menu |
Merry LegsBob and Jackie Schafer are the proud operators of "Merry Legs", a therapeutic riding program using the principles of Hippotherapy. Hippotherapy literally means treatment with the help of a horse, from the Greek word "hippos" meaning horse. More specifically, it is the 3-dimensional movement of the horse's hip, pelvis and shoulders at the walk that provides a movement challenge to the client. References to the physical and emotional benefits of horseback riding date back as far as the 1600's. This model formed the basis of the first curriculum established by Hippotherapy in the United States in 1987. The demand for therapeutic riding programs by doctors and physical therapists has increased rapidly in recent years If anyone would like to sponser one of our therapy horses, please contact us by phone or email. The cost of training them and insuring their good health rises like everything else. Special EquipmentRiders are generally advised to wear a safety helmet while they are on the horses back. Safety belts are worn by individuals with poor balance. These belts are made of strong leather with handles on either side for the helpers to hold on to. English style saddles or bareback pads are most often used in therapeutic riding because they enable the rider to feel and follow the forward movement of the horse, and also facilitates balance. Requirements for enrolling students in Merry Legs Program at the Schafer Farm are as follows:We now have a camp devoted to Autistic riders. The camp for 2009 is still up in the air, pending sponsorship. Feel free to contact us for more information. Our Merry Legs Program is set up in 15 minute increments. As the student progresses, it may be possible to build up to a full hour training session. When the student first enters into the therapeutic program a complete assesment will be made in order to guide the student's therapy, chart progress, and set goals. The student's progress is evaluated on a weekly basis, and therapy is adjusted accordingly. An indoor riding arena is used for our sessions and unless it is very cold - the weather does not limit our schedule. Currently in the United States, the Multiple Sclerosis Society is the only organization that offers financial reimbursement of 50% for therapeutic riding sessions with written approval from a doctor. We accept several different forms of insurance, including PA Access. Please contact our Occupational Therapist, Louise Sheridan, for more information. Patients, parents, physical therapists and physicians are welcome to tour the facility at any time. Just call us to set up an appointment 724-927-9361. Below, Mac takes Jackie and Brady for a ride around the arena, with volunteers leading. Here, Kallie is brushing Honey. Students of Merry Legs are shown how to care for a horse, which helps them learn responsibility. 
Site created and maintained by LCDesigns |
