People with physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioral or mental health needs can gain self-confidence, strength, mindfulness and independence through partnering with horses during the fall sessions of Bison Strides.
Bison Strides is NDSU’s equine-assisted services program offered through the Department of Animal Sciences. Three types of programs are available – adapted horseback riding, equine assisted learning and military and veteran’s horsemanship.
Registration is now open for two six-week fall sessions. The first session is scheduled from Sept. 11 through Oct. 21, and the second session is set for Oct. 23 to Dec. 2. Adapted riding is offered Mondays 6-8 p.m. and Tuesdays 9-11 a.m., equine assisted learning is held Sundays 5-7 p.m., and military and veteran’s horsemanship is offered Fridays 8:30-9:30 a.m. Each class is one hour per week.
The cost for one six-week session of adapted riding or equine assisted learning is $300. Financial assistance of up to 75% is available for qualified participants. There is no cost for the military and veteran’s horsemanship classes. The registration deadline is Aug. 30 for the first session and Oct. 15 for the second session. Sessions will be held at the NDSU Equine Center.
Individuals must have a physician’s release and be evaluated by the Bison Strides director prior to taking part in the program. Participants are matched with horses depending on their needs and the amount of volunteer support required.
Training for volunteers involved in this program is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 29, at 6 p.m. at the NDSU Equine Center.
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