Canyon Acres Children and Family Services

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Therapeutic Horse Riding Program

Canyon Acres Therapeutic Horse Riding Program
Located at Canyon Acres Children’s Treatment Center “The Ranch” in Anaheim Hills

Canyon Acres’ Therapeutic Horse Riding Program is a NARHA Premiere Accredited center. It is a non-public riding program serving the abused and neglected children cared for by Canyon Acres Children and Family Services

There is something magical about the bond between a horse and a child. The authentic environment, the lowering of defenses and the natural progression of trust help children heal by building a relationship with the horse. This is done through the youth caring for the horse, bonding, and having opportunities to build their self esteem when riding. The program allows for creativity, assertiveness, leadership, teamwork, and positive relationships.

Photo Gallery

Why Horses?

Horses are herd-animals. They have personalities, are social beings, and can teach a lot about communication.
Horses know how to keep themselves safe. They use their senses and trust each other. Children can learn from this, learning the non-verbal language of a horse.
The size of a horse can be intimidating at first. Once a relationship is established, a healthy control of a horse empowers the children and their self esteem.

Meet Our Horses

	Seria is an Arabian mare, around 25 years old. She has been at Canyon Acres since at least 1997! Seria is the most versatile horse we have: wonderful with the kids, helps to put her own halter on, can be used Western or English, and allows us to paint her.

	Buddy is 15, and is a Bay Quarter Horse. He is a retired track-pony, meaning he used to lead the racehorses to and from the start gate! Now at Canyon Acres, he if often a favorite because of his personality. He gets songs sung to him, goes through obstacle courses without question, and teaching teamwork with unbelievable insight. He stands 15.3” but he is patient, mellow and kind, making him great at his job.

	Teddy recently moved programs so he can be used for advanced riders in both a therapy program as well as a traditional riding program in Oceanside. Teddy earned the hearts of many children at the Ranch, and will now be able to share his love with even more children.

	Firefly is a sorrel colored American miniature that is used for grooming, leading and other silly activities. She came to us November 2008, and celebrated her 10th birthday with us in May (where she dressed up in a cape and bows in her hair). She’s a mischievous and spunky horse, providing lots of entertainment and laughs to the children.

	Fred is a 15 year old Thoroughbred gelding that joined Canyon Acres in May 2009. He is a retired race horse and show jumper that now thoroughly enjoys his job being cuddly and affectionate towards kids. Standing 16.3 hands, he might look intimidating and tall, but he’s sensitive and safe, mellow and trusting, making him a great example to teach social skills and reading body language of others.

	Shadow is a dwarf American Miniature who just joined the family February of 2010. He immediately cuddles up to your leg and digs his head in your lap when you go near him. He gets along with the other horses very well, and brings lots of "Awww's" when people get to meet him!

	Remington is the newest edition to the barn. Still on his 30 day trial, Remmy is proving to fit in very well! Calm, versatile, affectionate and responsive, this 18 year old Arabian gelding is sure to be used to make many children smile and make therapeutic gains.




Thank you to our current sponsors!

Sandy Benson Chandelle Humphries Linden Family Foundation