Military Horsemanship Program

2024 Sessions 

Classes currently offered on Mondays

    • 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
    • 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Session 1: March 4-April 29th (no class on April 1st)

Session 2: July 8th-August 26th (no class on July 1st)

Session 3: September 9-November 4th (no class October 14th)

This program is open to veterans, active military individuals, and their immediate family members (up to 4 participants from the same household, ages 7 and above).

Benefits

Physical: The movement of the horse’s gait at a walk is similar to a human’s walking motion.  The horse’s simulated gait can assist wounded military/veterans to strengthen specific muscle groups, which may ultimately aid the participant as he or she relearns how to walk or use prostheses.

Social: The ranch and classroom setting provides a safe and peaceful environment for wounded military and veterans to share issues and fears.  They bond in a non-judgmental atmosphere with fellow veterans, the equines and volunteers.

Cognitive: Wounded military and veterans working with and around horses learn the proper sequence of completing tasks to ensure that the horses remain cooperative and responsive.  Good judgment is needed in making decisions during activities around the horse and when riding or participating in other Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT).  The order and directions required to develop riding skills are familiar strategies to veterans and wounded military personnel.

Emotional: Bonding with a large animal can be emotionally satisfying and comforting.  Wounded military and veterans have found a great deal of relief in the grooming of a horse. The repetitive motion proves soothing to individuals with anxiety issues. 

Cost: 100% free

8-week military horsemanship class: Horsemanship is the introduction to horses, learning how to enjoy, groom, and lead horses. No experience needed.

Free Rein introduced a Military Horsemanship Program beginning in 2013, this program offers military veterans the chance to participate in horsemanship with their peers in a safe and nurturing environment.

Location: 6919 N. Walnut Spokane WA 99217 (Near Bigelow & Argonne)

To learn more about our Military Program and whether it might be appropriate for yourself or someone you care about, please contact us at info@freereinspokane.org.