Crystal Valley Ranch

Welcome to Crystal Valley RanchROMNEY, WEST VIRGINIA

Crystal Valley Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Home of the "Challenged Champions"
Individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities can benefit greatly from therapeutic horseback riding activities.

Crystal Valley's Therapeutic Riding program provides direct mental and physical benefits to challenged children and adults. Whether it's a 5-year-old with Down Syndrome, a 21-year old with a spinal cord injury, or a 55-year old suffering from the effects of aging - horseback riding provides challenges as well as rewards.

Research shows that individuals of all ages who participate in therapeutic riding can experience physical, emotional and mental rewards. Because horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance, and muscle strength. For riders with mental or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience, and self-esteem. The sense of independence found on horseback benefits all that have the opportunity to ride.

Benefits At A Glance

Unlike mechanical therapy devises, the horse produces rhythmical, multi-dimensional movement that recreates natural movements. The horse's natural movement will facilitate activation of client's posture control, balance, motor and sensory systems.
Equine facilitated activities offer the opportunity to be in control of one's own mobility.
Equines can elegantly and easily get a person to places inaccessible wheelchairs or unsteady walking.
The relationship with the horse can serve as a "bridge" between a psycho-therapist and a client.

Equine can become an equalizer, offering people who move at very different speed to get their destination together.
For individuals accustomed to a clinical setting, the barn is a totally new and exciting change and represents a "fresh start" in their recovery
People with disabilities can join with or successfully compete against those who have different physical functions.
Horses (and other animals) can model positive and negative personality traits for clients.

Call, 304-822-7444, for more information.

Testimonials:
Dear LaFaye,

I want to tell you how very much I appreciate the work you do with Alana in riding the horse. When she came there, she could not hold her head up, however, after just a few sessions, I can see the biggest improvements. I am sure her therapists and teachers also notice it. If she happens to miss a session, you can tell it.

I deeply admire the way you handle your horses, and especially, my special angel, Alana.

Please keep up the good work, as I am sure there many a child or person in our area that needs this type of therapy.- - Mary Lou Kady (Alana's grandmother) and Patti Cohen (Alana's mother)

LaFaye Massie
Ranch Manager and Riding Instructor

Route 28, (4 miles north of Romney)
HC 65 Box 1350
Romney, WV 26757
Phone: (304) 822-7444
Or
Fax: (304) 822-8888

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