Rosewood Ranch, a full-working horse ranch, near Pawnee Rock, that offers therapeutic riding sessions to people with developmental disabilities, was awarded a grant for $1,800 by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at Via Christi Health.

The grant helped to underwrite the cost of hippotherapy sessions for 12 children who participated on a weekly basis this fall at the Ranch. The grant covered a $25 riding fee per lesson for the children riders during the fall period.

Rosewood Ranch is a certified member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, the leading therapeutic horsemanship organization in the world. Ranch instructors provide weekly equine therapy training throughout the year to more than 90 people with developmental disabilities. During sessions in the spring, summer and fall, Fridays are reserved for children.

Horse therapy is more than just riding horses, explained Rosewood Ranch manager Eric Hammond. Maneuvering on horseback around barrels and poles, while placing flags and rings at different stations, allows riders to develop motor skills and improve muscle strength, balance, and dexterity. Hippotherapy has also been shown to be beneficial in advancing cognitive and emotional development.