03/09/2026
SUPER exciting announcement for Journey Equines current and future participants!
We now have an accessible mounting ramp! This adaptive piece of equipment opens the door to riding for SO many more people! Having this ramp not only will make riding possible for current participants but it is also the major first step in the goal of adding Hippotherapy to our area one day! For more information on Hippotherapy visit: https://www.americanhippotherapyassociation.org/what-is-hippotherapy
Anyone licensed as OT, PT, SLP and this peaks your interest hit me up! I would LOVE to partner to bring this to the community!
The purchase of this ramp was made possible by Mountrail-Williams Electric Cooperative through their Impact Grant. It was truely humbling and inspiring to be chosen as a recipient of this grant. The support for Equine Assisted Services in this community has been amazing. THANK YOU!
Why are mounting ramps beneficial?
Getting on a horse (mounting) requires a combination of lower-body strength, core stability, and hip flexibility, particularly if mounting from the ground. While a mounting block makes the process much easier, the act generally demands enough strength to lift your body weight, flexibility to swing your leg over the horse's back, and balance to do so safely without hurting the horse or falling. A good amount of participants who look to Equine Assisted Services to enjoy riding experience limitations in the body mechanics to mount the horse safely or at all from the ground or mounting block. Making riding impossible.
WITH the ramp:
1. Accessibility for All
Horse mounting ramps make it significantly easier and safer for not only those using mobility devices, but people of all abilities to mount and dismount a horse. Individuals with disabilities, elderly riders, children, or those recovering from injuries can experience the joy of horseback riding without straining themselves during mounting. For any facility offering equine-assisted therapy, a horse mounting ramp is a necessity. Even without therapeutic services, having a horse mounting ramp at your location ensures that horseback riding remains a viable activity for a diverse range of people. As part of the certification to become a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor we had to learn and perform different types of mounting for people with limitations of movement in their lower body. The traditional way of getting on a horse is NOT the only way. And a mounting ramp makes that possible!
2. Increased Safety
Safety is paramount when working with horses. Using a horse mounting ramp minimizes the risk of accidents that can occur during mounting, such as falls or injuries caused by sudden movements. A ramp and stable platform ensures a controlled and secure mounting process and a horse that’s less prone to being spooked.
3. Reduced Strain on Horses
Because mounting a horse traditionally entails pulling on the saddle and the horse’s back, it can cause discomfort and potential injury to the horse when done by inexperienced riders. Horse mounting ramps allow riders to approach the horse closer at the level of the saddle, eliminating strain and reducing the risk of back or spine injuries for the horse.
4. Positive Psychological Impact
Horses are intuitive creatures that can sense their rider’s emotions. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, traditional horse mounting by inexperienced rides can cause discomfort and injury to the horse. Using a mounting ramp creates a more relaxed and positive atmosphere during the mounting process that translates to a more pleasant riding experience for both the rider and the horse. This is especially crucial when facilitating equine-assisted therapy.
6. Preserving Tack and Gear
Lastly, the use of a horse mounting ramp reduces the wear and tear on saddles and tack that can occur when riders scramble to mount. This can prolong the lifespan of equipment and save a considerable amount of money in the long run.
I want to thank the Mountrail County Fair Building for allowing us to have this at the arena. It is mobile (not light..but mobile 😜) And to Hamad for being my skid steer guy on delivery day! Again..I am so grateful for the support of the community.
