Zia Ranch Horsemanship Program, Brentwood

At Zia Ranch, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, the dedicated equestrians on staff view horsemanship as a valuable aid that can help anyone enjoy life, regardless of ability or handicap. Therapeutic Horsemanship, the ranch’s hallmark program, gives individuals with physical, emotional, and psychological struggles a chance to interact with gentle horses through arena work and sensory games. Sessions can help improve the rider’s flexibility, endurance, and strength, as well as help them establish an emotional connection with their steed. Complimenting this focus on connecting with nature is their Ecotherapy program, during which participants walk through the property and immerse themselves in the quiet country setting, promoting inner-calm and self-esteem. Their traditional riding lessons teach students how to groom and saddle their steed, then present each student with a choice. They can finish their lesson by trotting around the arena, heading out on a trailride, or challenging their horse in a thumb war for who gets to decide.