Equine Assisted Therapy Programs
MSU Extension Equine Assisted Therapy Programs promote therapeutic riding experiences through educational and research-based activities. The program has earned premier accreditation status through PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship). The main goal of the programs are to develop model therapeutic riding experiences based on PATH Intl. guidelines, which require high safety and professional standards. The primary location of the MSU Extension Equine Assisted Therapy Programs is the Elizabeth A. Howard arena (1769 Old White Rd S, West Point, MS 39773). The arena was donated by Tommy and Brenda Howard, and it is on property donated by Jimmy Bryan.
4-H and Equine-Assisted Therapy Programs Work Together
Regardless of ability, all people desire and deserve challenging, fulfilling lives. Equine-assisted therapy programs focus on the individual’s abilities rather than his or her disabilities. 4-H recognizes this philosophy and promotes it in its programming. The mission of 4-H is to help youth acquire knowledge, develop life skills, and form attitudes that will enable them to become self-directed, productive, contributing members of society. The 4-H ideals are represented in the mission of the MSU Extension Equine Assisted Therapy Programs.
Publications
News
The Mississippi State University Extension Equine-Assisted Therapy program will hold a fundraising event Oct. 12.
WEST POINT, Miss. -- The groundwork portion of therapeutic horseback riding offers emotional and mental benefits to veterans who take part in a program at Mississippi State University.
Lance McElhenney of Webster County served in the U.S. Marine Corps around the world. Injured by a mortar fragment in Iraq in 2004, this Purple Heart veteran now fights a different battle -- with multiple sclerosis. One of his weapons is an old horse he named Archie, for Archibald Henderson, the grand old man of the Marine Corps.
Success Stories
He joined the US Marine Corps to serve and protect the country, and, as a Marine in Iraq, Lance McElhenney felt 10 feet tall and bulletproof.
In this "What's New in Extension," Extension agents implement better safety standards, train to deliver Mental Health First Aid, and receive national recognition. Also, new irrigation and specialists join the Extension family.
