CARD is a therapeutic riding centre located in North York, Ontario, that is dedicated to improving lives of children and adults with special needs through quality therapeutic riding programs. CARD horses are the therapists and we cannot do this without them.
Currently, there are 11 horses and one pony in the CARD stable. Four of the horses and the pony have yet to be sponsored. Splash was featured recently and today we feature CODY, a recent addition.
With its small staff and large number of volunteers, CARD supports between 85-98 students per week. Benefits to the rider include balance improvement, coordination, range of motion in joints and limbs, communication skills, confidence and self esteem. CARD’s herd of therapy horses is considered our most important asset. Each therapy horse is carefully selected for temperament and movement to offer a specific type of movement (smooth, bumpy, lots of movement or minimum movement) to maximize the benefits of therapy for each disabled rider. CARD’s horses range in size in order to accommodate the range of riders we work with.
Cody is a 14.2 hands dun Fjord gelding, born in 2009, and his arrival at the CARD stable caused great excitement, particularly among the younger, smaller riders.
Cody’s background as a pleasure and lesson horse makes him well-suited to the CARD program. His small but sturdy stature make him a top choice for the children and small adult classes, ideal for riders who need a broad platform to explore on, or those who have balance difficulties. He has a tremendously active walking gait, especially helpful for riders with sensory input needs or for those who have range-of-motion goals.
His shaggy forelock and bright eyes are unmistakable and he is a curious soul who wants to be in the midst of the action. An exceptionally social ‘dude’, Cody enjoys having a group of horsey and human companions, and is always willing to make room for more!
HOW TO HELP
A single horse annual sponsorship is $11,000 per year. That level of support is always welcome, but we also find that many donors like to contribute partially to the care of a particular horse. In Cody’s case, CARD welcomes a donation of any amount. Donations quickly add up.
CARD also has many donors who do a monthly donation through Canada Helps. Donations can be made through the CARD website, on Canada Helps, or directly by cheque to CARD.
Please visit this link.
There is a DONATE NOW button on the front page. Your donation to Cody will enable young riders with disabilities to develop muscle tone and focus, thereby enhancing their health in important ways.
We at CARD thank you for your support.
