Hooves for Heroes

Introduction to Horsemanship for Veterans

In 2024, QMA launched Hooves for Heroes, a camaraderie-based Introduction to Horsemanship program. This program offers veterans an opportunity to connect with horses while learning essential horsemanship skills, including:

  • Grooming and tacking
  • Horse health and behavior
  • Groundwork and basic riding techniques

Program options:

  • Participation at your own pace—engage as much or as little as you feel comfortable
  • One-on-one instruction or group sessions with fellow veterans or family members
  • Volunteering for therapeutic riding sessions on Tuesdays

The Challenge Veterans Face

Transitioning from military to civilian life presents unique challenges, and many veterans struggle with a lack of support, resources, and coping tools. The consequences can be devastating—high rates of suicide, depression, divorce, homelessness, and substance abuse.

Why Horses?

Horses and veterans share key similarities: both are highly attuned to their environment, communicate through body language, and rely on trust-based relationships. A horse can sense a veteran’s pain, anxiety, and emotions, responding in a way that helps veterans regain balance and self-awareness. This deep connection fosters healing, trust, and emotional resilience.

The Science Behind Equine Assisted Services

A Columbia University study found that equine therapy significantly reduces PTSD and depressive symptoms within three months post-treatment. Equine-Assisted Services (EAS) has been shown to improve emotional, social, and physical well-being for individuals dealing with:

  • PTSD
  • Depression & Anxiety
  • Substance use disorders
  • Social and panic disorders
  • ADHD & conduct disorders

Benefits of Equine-Assisted Services for Veterans

If you are a veteran interested in experiencing the healing power of Equine-Assisted Therapy, we invite you to join us. To learn more or get involved, please get in touch with us today!

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Emotional Healing: Working with horses can help veterans address emotional trauma, such as PTSD, by providing a safe space to process feelings. The non-judgmental nature of horses creates a therapeutic environment where veterans can work through their emotions.

Improved Communication: Horses are sensitive to human emotions and body language. This helps veterans practice non-verbal communication and improve their ability to express themselves. This is particularly valuable for veterans who may struggle to communicate their feelings or experiences verbally.

Building Trust: Veterans who have experienced trauma may have difficulties trusting others. Equine therapy helps veterans rebuild trust through their bond with the horse, which requires patience, consistency, and understanding.

Stress Reduction: Spending time with horses has been shown to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and promote relaxation. The calm presence of horses can help veterans manage anxiety, stress, and symptoms of PTSD.

Increased Confidence and Empowerment: Equine therapy allows veterans to take control of their interactions with horses, which can translate into increased confidence. As they work with horses, veterans learn new skills and gain a sense of accomplishment.

Physical and Mental Wellness: Riding and caring for horses provide a physical outlet, improving coordination, balance, and muscle strength. It also helps veterans focus on the present moment, reducing rumination and improving mental clarity.

Improved Mood and Coping Skills: Interacting with horses has been shown to release endorphins, boosting mood and providing an alternative outlet for processing difficult emotions. Veterans can develop better coping mechanisms through their experiences with horses.

Mike

QMA welcomed Mike, an Air Force veteran, in 2024. Mike affectionately refers to his mare, "Tuni," as his 900- pound girlfriend. His face lights up every time he gets to brush her, and it’s clear the feeling is mutual—Tuni seems to adore him just as much.

Steve

QMA also welcomed Steve in 2024. A disabled veteran, Steve spent many years riding and driving horses until a tragic accident—a car hitting his carriage and horse after a parade—brought that chapter of his life to an end. Now, Steve finds joy and healing as a volunteer at QMA. He helps in the barn, assists with classes, prepares horses for lessons, and enjoys trail rides with us. Steve has shared that being part of QMA has been deeply therapeutic for him, and he truly appreciates the warm, supportive barn atmosphere.

The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. -Psalm 34: 17-18

Quarter Moon Acres Equine Therapy is a Christ-centered facility that connects people with horses in a therapeutic environment, empowering individuals to turn disabilities into abilities.