Published: November 27, 2007 09:42 pm      

Therapeutic horseback riding program grows

HOOVERSVILLE — Carefully sweeping walkways between horse stalls at her barn, Elizabeth Wyandt said she has loved horses since she started riding at age 5.

“They have always been my best friend,” she said. “They are the only animal that is truly forgiving.”

Horses’ gentle nature also may be part of the allure of Best of Friends, a therapeutic horse riding effort offered through the Cambria County Cooperative Extension 4-H.

The 25-year effort has been growing and now will be available both in Cambria County and at Curtitsy Acres Inc., Wyandt’s Hooversville ranch. After being housed for years at Rose Hill Stables near Mineral Point, the program is relocating to Saddle Rock Ranch in Portage and Curtitsy.

“I feel really privileged to have this here,” Wyandt said.

Last year, 36 students participated in the program for the physically and mentally handicapped.

Riding exercises students’ muscles and offers an exciting and stress relieving experience, said Veronica Vansco, the horse/rider coordinator and instructor.

“The students are always thrilled with it,” she said. “We have a lot of autistic students who can’t communicate much. But they get on the horses and smile because they are able to do something special.”

Vansco and others, such as volunteer coordinator Sandy Robertson, work year-round to prepare for the summer sessions. This year, they may start in April because of increased interest.

The group is looking for more volunteers and has room for more students: 243-0599.

Next up, Best of Friends may expand to include adult disabled students.