The Healing Power of Horses
At Hearts and Horses, a therapeutic riding center located in Loveland, Colorado, the sight of people riding horses is more than just an activity—it’s a form of healing. Amanda Weinstein, the communications manager at the center, has seen firsthand how the experience transforms individuals. “Their eyes are lighter, their smiles bigger, their bodies more relaxed,” she says.
The ranch serves communities across Northern Colorado with horseback riding programs designed for a wide range of participants, including at-risk youth, veterans, and individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities. For Weinstein, who grew up on a horse farm in Virginia, this work is deeply personal. Her parents were involved in therapeutic horseback riding, and while she had always been passionate about horses, it wasn’t until recently that she decided to make this her full-time career.
The Science Behind Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic riding isn’t just about fun—it’s rooted in science. According to Weinstein, the movement of a horse closely mimics the three-dimensional motion of human walking. This means that when a rider is on a horse, they experience a series of movements that help improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength. In a 30-minute session, a horse might take around 2,000 steps, providing participants with repeated exposure to these beneficial movements.
Beyond the physical benefits, therapeutic riding also supports social, emotional, and cognitive development. Unlike traditional therapy sessions, which can sometimes feel clinical or unengaging, the experience at Hearts and Horses is fun and empowering. “It keeps them motivated and engaged,” Weinstein explains.
Research and Innovation
Hearts and Horses is not only focused on helping individuals but also on advancing the field through research. One of the most exciting projects currently underway involves children with autism. A study led by Dr. Cory Smith from Baylor University is using real-time neuroimaging to explore how riding impacts brain development in these youth. The research includes a special device in the riders’ helmets that tracks brain activity during sessions, allowing researchers to observe both the rider and the horse simultaneously.
This groundbreaking work is supported by a $150,000 grant from the Horses and Humans Research Foundation, highlighting the organization’s commitment to innovation and evidence-based practices.
Community Support and Sponsorship
As a nonprofit organization, Hearts and Horses relies heavily on community support. One way the community can get involved is through equine sponsorships. Individuals, families, and businesses can sponsor a horse for a year at a cost of $5,000. This sponsorship covers the horse’s food, veterinary care, and other essential expenses, while also offering perks like name recognition and exclusive one-on-one experiences with the animals.
Expanding Access Through New Horses
Despite its success, Hearts and Horses is always looking for ways to serve more people. The organization actively seeks new horses to add to its program, as each horse plays a critical role in the therapy process. Not every horse is suitable for therapeutic riding—only those with a calm temperament, good health, and a “huge heart” are considered. Once selected, the horses go through extensive training before they begin working with participants.
The demand for services is high, and the center maintains a long waitlist. By expanding its herd, Hearts and Horses hopes to serve more individuals in need.
Strengthening Community Ties
Hearts and Horses has been a fixture in Loveland since 1997, and its impact on the community is evident. Families, participants, and local partners consistently express gratitude for the organization’s work. The center also goes beyond the ranch by bringing its donkeys to places like hospices, allowing those who cannot visit the facility to still benefit from the connection with animals.
“We’re not just a place where people come to ride—we’re part of the community,” Weinstein says. Whether through direct services or outreach efforts, Hearts and Horses continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
