Leader and Sidewalkers for a Hippotherapy Program that uses horses for speech, occupational, and physical therapy sessions.

NO PREVIOUS HORSE EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED

Horse handlers play a pivotal role in the effectiveness and safety of the therapy sessions

at Stable Friendships Foundation. Essential duties of a horse handler include the

pre-session preparation of the horse, which encompasses catching, grooming, warming

up, and tacking up the horse in anticipation of the client's arrival. At times, horse

handlers may also guide clients in grooming and tacking up, providing an educational

and engaging experience.

During the session, horse handlers are responsible for leading the horse, ensuring the

safety of both clients and volunteers by always maintaining gentle control over the

horse. A key aspect of being a successful horse handler is possessing a calm demeanor;

this is vital in preventing any stress on our horses before and during sessions. It is

essential for horse handlers to follow instructions from the therapist diligently, yet

ensuring the horse's behavior remains composed and manageable.

Safety and the well-being of our horses and clients are our utmost priorities. While

having prior experience with horses is preferred for this position, Stable Friendships

Foundation offers specialized training for those eager to learn and step into this role,

with a strong emphasis on developing the gentle and calm handling skills crucial for

maintaining a stress-free environment for our horses.

Qualifications:

• Age Requirement: Must be 14 years old or older.
• Physical Requirements: Capable of walking for 60 minutes, occasionally

jogging short distances, and consistently controlling horses with a calm and

steady hand.

• Time Commitment: Approximately 1.5 hours per lesson.

We seek individuals who are not only skilled in horse care but who also embody patience

and tranquility, ensuring our horses remain relaxed and content, reflecting the therapeutic and nurturing atmosphere of Stable Friendships Foundation.

At Stable Friendships Foundation, the well-being and safety of our clients during

mounted sessions are paramount. To support this, we rely on the invaluable assistance

of side walkers, who play a crucial role from the moment our clients arrive until the

completion of their sessions.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Welcoming Clients: Side walkers warmly greet clients upon arrival, ensuring a

smooth transition until the session begins with the therapist and horse.

• Ensuring Safety: The primary duty of a side walker is to accompany riders on

either side during sessions, providing safety and support. This may involve

walking alongside the horse and rider, offering physical assistance, and

facilitating lesson activities as directed.

• Active Participation: Under the guidance of professional therapists, side walkers

might demonstrate tasks, aid riders in specific exercises, or lead engaging games

and activities.

• Mounting and Dismounting Assistance: Side walkers are often called upon to

help riders mount and dismount safely, a critical aspect of each session.

• Teamwork and Direction: Effective side walkers are adept at following

instructions, collaborating with the team, and prioritizing safety in every action.

No Prior Experience Necessary: While familiarity with horses is beneficial, it is not

required for the role of a side walker. Comprehensive training will be provided to ensure

you're equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to support our riders effectively.

Requirements for Side Walkers:

• Minimum Age: Applicants must be 14 years of age or older.
• Physical Ability: The role requires the ability to walk for up to 60 minutes and

occasionally jog for short distances, ensuring active engagement throughout the

lesson.

• Time Commitment: Each lesson demands a dedication of approximately 1 hour

and 15 minutes.

Becoming a side walker at Stable Friendships Foundation offers a unique opportunity to

make a tangible difference in the lives of our clients. You'll be part of a team dedicated to

providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all participants.