We don’t look for a specific breed, as each horse is viewed as an individual. Traits we look for include: soundness, three good clear gaits (no gaited breeds) at walk, trot and canter, a nice temperament, low flight response, a minimum of 14hh and ideally between the ages of 10 and 17. We look for horses that are well-schooled in either English or Western. Experience in 4H, Pony Club and the competitive riding disciplines is a huge asset. They should have good ground manners and be able to tolerate the attention of many people.
All horses coming into the PARDS program must be functionally sound at walk, trot and canter. Horses that are lame do not have the movement required to create a 3 dimensional walk (up/down, back/front, side/side) desired for physical therapy. It is also extremely unfair to the horse. All horses, whether donated or purchased, undergo a lengthy assessment and vet check before they come into the program as a PARDS ‘Trial Horse’. During a trial period of approximately 7 weeks, PARDS instructors will further assess the horse before accepting them into the program.
If you are seeking a new home for your equine friend and feel they may be suitable for our program, please contact us.