what is pony therapy?

so, what exactly is pony therapy?

In Pony Therapy, equines (horses or ponies) provide psycho-social, emotional and physical benefits for a variety of people. It proves especially valuable when working with vulnerable groups of children and adults, including those with a mental or physical disability, young or elderly people.

Ponies are sentient beings, and have a special emotional intelligence and tend to mirror humans which can teach us a lot about ourselves, and can bring a variety of benefits.

Pony Therapy sessions can be ground-based or mounted depending on specific individual needs. We have ponies that are particularly good in indoor locations such as care homes and hospitals, and others who teach children to ride/drive. For adults wanting to ride, we also have some horses who can be used for riding lessons and leading outdoors.

how does pony therapy help?

There are many ways in which it can benefit people, including:

• reducing stress and anxiety

• improving self esteem, confidence and trust

• encouraging communication and sharing

• improving mental and physical well-being

• providing a tangible connection to animals and nature

• managing emotions

• encouraging empathy

• encouraging the building of relationships

• physical benefits of riding such as building muscle strength, mobility, coordination and balance

• reduce blood pressure

• shorten recovery time

• release endorphins - which is particularly good for people who are depressed or lonely

• and the best therapy of all, bringing happiness and a smile!

who can benefit from pony therapy?

Pony Therapy can benefit everyone but is particularly valuable for:

• people with a mental or physical disability

• people on the autistic spectrum

• young people

• elderly people, especially those with dementia

• veterans

• recovering addicts

• people with PTSD

• people who have suffered abuse

• adults and children with illnesses

here’s what some of our clients are saying:

What an incredible organisation you are! Seeing the impact beautiful Larry & Leo has had on our members with dementia at Age UK Sheffield's Wellbeing Centre has moved myself & my team deeply. It has been a joy to witness our members be so engaged with the boys and sharing those moments with their families has given us so much job satisfaction. I'm sure you will be able to see from the photographs the joy you bring to people and I sincerely hope this gives you immeasurable pride in your work also. We will most definitely see you again soon!

Natasha Wilson - Age UK Sheffield Wellbeing Centre

We are a residential care home for the elderly, we were visited by Larry and Leo and the ladies ,this was one of the most heart warming activities we have had in our home ,the reactions from our residents was amazing, even residents who do not always react or join in were animated and clearly loved the visit of these two beautiful ponies, their human assistants were amazing too, so friendly and good with our residents ,this is one of the best pet therapies we have had and will certainly be having again. Thank you to the smile team and Larry and Leo !!!

Nicola Smith - Twelve Trees Care Home