Live from the PATH Intl. International Conference – Denver, CO!I

n this special episode recorded live in front of a studio audience, we dive into a lively and thought-provoking group discussion on one of the most frequently debated topics in equine-assisted services: How do we define a “balanced rider,” and what impact does that definition have on setting equine weight limits?Join us as a panel of experienced instructors, therapists, and equine professionals unpack the nuances of rider balance — exploring physical, sensory, and emotional components that influence how weight is carried and distributed by the horse.Our guests and audience members share their insights on:

• The many factors that go beyond the number on the scale when determining safe and ethical weight limits
• How movement, tone, and stability affect equine welfare and performance
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Register now for the NEW MINI COURSE Launching December 1st:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/BalancingTheScalesMiniCourse

Go to our social media to see the pressure map impact of a cell phone in your back pocket while riding courtesy of Centaur Biomechanics!

In this episode, Kaiti Otte, OTD, OTR/L, PATH Intl. CTRI, builds on a topic recently explored in our Neurodivergent Mini Course—understanding how the vestibular system and gravitational insecurity can impact our participants’ experience. The question came up in our live office hours discussion that was part of the live course course.   Join us for the mini course at any time if you want to better understand how to support neurodivergent participants so they can truly thrive, not just get by.

Today, we take that discussion into the arena, looking specifically at how vestibular system sensitivity can create fear of heights or movement in adaptive riding settings. As instructors, recognizing and responding to these challenges can make all the difference in helping riders feel safe, supported, and successful. We examine how to make adaptations to maximize independence in horsemanship for participants who may struggle with this sensitivity. 

Join us in the Neurodivergent Mini Course now! https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/NeurodivergentEducation

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In this episode, we’re joined by Rachel Elder, PATH Intl. CTRI, CHA IRD, and Program Director at Agape in Cicero, Indiana, to explore the inner workings and far-reaching influence of Agape’s programs. Rachel shares insights into how Agape’s hippotherapy program operates through a unique hospital partnership, the interconnected nature of their equine-assisted services, and the organization’s legacy as it approaches its 40th anniversary.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Hippotherapy Program Logistics & Partnerships. Rachel explains how Agape’s hippotherapy program is offered through a contracted partnership with a local hospital, allowing therapists and students to integrate real clinical experiences in an equine environment—bridging healthcare and horsemanship in powerful ways.
• The Interconnectedness of Our Programs. Learn how Agape’s programs—hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, equine-assisted learning, and mobile outreach—are designed to complement one another. Rachel discusses how participants often transition from hippotherapy to therapeutic riding, continuing their progress and building confidence in new and meaningful ways that support physical, emotional, and social development.
• Our Statewide Impact & Legacy. As Agape celebrates nearly 40 years of service, Rachel reflects on how the organization’s leadership and innovation have influenced nearly every equine-assisted services center in Indiana. It’s a story of collaboration, mentorship, and legacy—how one program’s success can lift and inspire an entire community.

Learn more about Agape and reach Rachel at www.agaperiding.org

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On this episode we are honoring World Mental Health Day.  The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. I’m honored to share the work that HETRA does through our mental health services partnering with horses and on this episode to help spread the word is mental health therapist Kelli Hatzenbuehler. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, contact a mental health professional near you or call the national suicide prevention lifeline, 988.

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You have identified a potential horse for your program and you’re ready to go take a look.  What you do at this initial visit is a pivotal part of setting your new herd members up for success.  What do you do while you’re there? How do you do a thorough investigation of their behaviors and medical status? Join us to hear how we do it at HETRA including some policies that we have that help save time, money and keep great herd prospects coming through our barn doors! 

Potential HETRA Horse Form: https://hetra.org/donate/horse-donation.html

Equine Welfare Mini Course: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/EASEquineWelfareMiniCourse

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For many participants in equine-assisted services (EAS), challenges with memory can impact everything from following multi-step directions to staying engaged in a session. We’ll explore 10 practical, research-based tips for strengthening working memory that you can start using right away in your arena. 

Register now for the Neurodivergent Mini Course:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/NeurodivergentEducation

In this episode of Not Just a Pony Ride, we’re talking about one of the most critical skills for every Equine-Assisted Services team—emergency dismounts. Whether it’s a sudden horse reaction, a participant complication, or an environmental hazard, having a clear plan of action can make all the difference in keeping participants, volunteers, and horses safe. Expect to hear conversation around:

Creating a plan of action – why it’s essential and how to ensure every team member knows their role

Emergency Dismount Scenarios – What if your rider is independent? What if a horse is loose? What if There are other teams in the arena?

Practice & preparedness – how to build confidence so that everyone can act quickly and safely when it matters most. 

Plan of Action emergency dismount example is available on Patreon!:  www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride

Learn more about the EAS Workshop, HETRA University Live: Level Up and Lead! https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/hul-level-up-landing

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In this episode, we explore how a horse’s unique conformation and natural movement patterns directly influence the rider’s experience, posture, and progress.  Kaiti Otte, OT will discuss why we may pair different participants with certain horses including how different diagnoses and impairments may impact those decisions. 

Learn more about the EAS Workshop, HETRA University Live: Level Up and Lead! https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/hul-level-up-landing

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The world of equine-assisted services is always evolving—and sometimes that means letting go of long-standing tools we’ve relied on for years. In this episode of Not Just a Pony Ride, we dive into the recent ban on peacock stirrups, a staple in many EAS programs, and explore what this change means for safety, accessibility, and your organization’s budget. We’ll discuss:

• Why peacock stirrups are being phased out and the safety concerns behind the decision.
• Alternative stirrup options now available for adaptive and therapeutic riding.
• The financial impact of making the switch and how to plan for it.
• Strategies for managing change within your staff, volunteers, and participants.
• Tips for fundraising and budgeting to cover equipment updates.

Get our tips and example verbiage we used to apply for a grant to replace our peacock stirrups over on Patreon!:  www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride

Check out options for safety stirrups and LOTS more at  https://freedomrider.com/

 In this replay from episode #21, we’re diving into maintaining our Steady Eddy’s.  We all have them and we love them - but how do we balance keeping them happy, healthy, sane and sound with our budget?  Shelby Schult, HETRA’s Program Director explains how we do that at HETRA including discussing conditioning regimens, vet work, nutrition supplements and more. 

GLC Joint Supplement:  https://kbchorsesupplies.com/glc-direct/

Equine Sustainability Mini Course:  https://hetra.org/education/register-for-webinars.html

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

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