To get started, please review our eligibility guidelines, complete
ALL application forms, and submit the required physician’s form:
Eligibility Guidelines: MARE Riding Center will make every effort to meet the needs of all participants who apply for our equine-assisted services. However, the nature of these equine activities includes limitations, precautions and contraindications. These are due to an assortment of causes, especially the following:
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Size and weight-carrying ability of the available horses
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Nature of a disability or condition that would make it unsafe for an individual to ride
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Inability to schedule lesson time to coincide with a participant’s school or work schedule
Age Requirements: The minimum age for a participant to begin at MARE is 4 years old.
Weight Restrictions : MARE reserves the right to impose a maximum weight limit for participants while taking into consideration the safety of staff, volunteers, and our equines. Decisions regarding participation will be based on the availability of a suitable horse related to the height, weight, cognition and balance of the participant. The maximum weight listed for participants is 250 pounds. The weight limit may be lower as determined by available equines and the ability of staff and volunteers to safely support the participant at the time services are requested. MARE staff will evaluate the participant’s weight and physical abilities to determine if riding is a safe and suitable activity based on available equines, staff, and volunteers.
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250 lbs. for a well-balanced centered participant not requiring sidewalker.
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180 lbs. for an unbalanced participant needing sidewalker assistance.
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Each horse has individual weight limitations based upon the horse’s height, weight, age, and physical/medical condition. (Not all horses can safely manage the above weights)
Postural Control: Participants must have adequate head and neck strength to prevent hyperextension.
Participants over 80 lbs. must be able to maintain a sitting position; at least by holding on with one hand.
Behavior: Inappropriate, unsafe or disruptive behavior or any condition where the individual is harmful to him/herself, others, or animals is a contraindication to our equine-assisted services.