Mount Pleasant Magazine Nov/Dec 2021

83 www.MtPl easant . Pet | www.MPVet s . Pet | www. f acebook . com/MPpet s PETS F E A T U R E “We work with students from the age of 4 into their 80s,” Trepen said. “Their abilities range from being on the autism spectrum to Downs Syndrome to cognitive and memory issues, as well as many different physical challenges.” CATR’s program is centered on two 12-week programs, one in the fall, the other in the spring. The organization also offers inclusive camps and summer programs for adults. During CATR’s signature spring and fall programs, partic- ipants enjoy one 45-minute riding lesson each week, on a mount specially chosen to meet their physical and cognitive needs. The 11 mounts range in size and shape from quarter horses to draft horses to warmbloods. All horses are “fit, sound and sane” in Trepen’s words. “We thoughtfully pair each student with a specific horse to benefit each student as much as possible.” Trepen explained, “No one can really control a thou- sand-pound animal without their cooperation. Equine-as- sisted activities and therapies are very much about devel- oping a partnership between horse and rider. We teach our students to communicate with their horses in a way that the horse understands, and that is incredibly empowering and motivating to our students.” “One marker for success occurs when a rider is able to guide their horse through an obstacle course or ask it to trot without doing anything physical — if they can just think their commands. That’s an amazing confidence builder,” said Trepen. Trepen has witnessed dozens of remarkable transforma- tions during her years with CATR, from nonverbal autistic children speaking their first words to their horses to stroke victims decreasing their spasticity to severely-withdrawn children suddenly smiling and laughing. “Horses are very intuitive animals, and their lower heart and respiration rates have a calming effect on the rider's own bodies. Riders become more relaxed,” explained Trepen. The overall result is a fun experience that is also very motivating and empowering, promoting social, communi- cative and cognitive progress, as well as aiding balance and other physical goals. Executive Director Trepen noted that in addition to school-age and senior citizen participants, Two children enjoy a therapeutic riding session at CATR.