Frequently Asked Questions

If you would like your dependent with special needs to participate in our program (or you would like to be a participant), the first step is to fill out and submit the RIDER APPLICATION PACKET. This packet requests information about the prospective participant, and includes a rider goal sheet, scheduling request, emergency contact information, and various release forms. Additionally, a ‘Physician’s Letter” and “Medical History/Physician’s Release” are included and must accompany all applications, including those from our Senior Riders. Returning riders must also fill out a new application packet yearly.

At NMCTR, we truly believe that interacting with horses is therapeutic for everyone! We offer services to a wide range of individuals who are living with cognitive, physical, emotional, and/or social-behavioral disabilities. Some issues and disabilities for which equine-assisted activities are beneficial include (but are not limited to):

• Down Syndrome
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Cerebral Palsy
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Vision, Speech, and Hearing Impairments
• Developmental Delay/Cognitive Delay
• PTSD
• Attention Deficit Disorder/ADHD
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Behavioral Disorders
• Emotional Problems
• Learning Disabilities

Children must be a minimum of five years old to participate. At the other end of the age range, NMCTR offers a program for seniors over 60.

Volunteers must be a minimum of fourteen years of age. Additionally, teenagers who are 14–16 and wish to volunteer must be accompanied by a parent or guardian while they are at our facility.

All prospective volunteers must fill out an application and attend an orientation session.  Please refer to “Volunteer Your Time” under the “How You Can Help” heading.

Currently, therapeutic riding activities at NMCTR are not covered by insurance. The State of New Mexico “Mi Via” program does fund our services.  If you or your rider are enrolled in this program, please refer to your case manager for further information; the cost of our services must be incorporated into your Mi Via budget.

Our lessons are provided in sessions of eight weeks.  A student’s lesson will be scheduled on the same day of the week and at the same time for that eight-week block.  Lessons are one hour in duration. Each session has a variety of days and times available depending on the time of year and client demand.

Comfortable, season-appropriate clothing should be worn.  Baggy clothes are prohibited for safety reasons; overly loose clothing items can get caught in stirrups or other saddle components.  Pants should be worn; full length is best.  Regarding footwear, boots are best; if not available, closed-toe shoes are mandatory.