There is nothing more satisfying than knowing you are helping your community thrive. That’s what Sleepy Sheep Ranch is doing for kids with disabilities. Sleepy Sheep Ranch is partnering with therapeutic riding centers around the area to raise money for the equine assisted therapy programs.

“I am so proud to pitch in and help children with disabilities improve their lives and their bodies,” says David of Sleepy Sheep Ranch. “Therapy horses work wonders for these children. You can find no better animal that can help these kids gain confidence in themselves.”

Therapeutic riding centers provide the equine assisted therapy for children with many different types of mental, physical, and emotional disabilities including cerebral palsy, spina bifida and Down syndrome. Horses are used because of their sensitive nature. The animal seems to be able to respond to the thoughts, feelings, and body language of the rider. In turn, the rider is able to bond with the animal, and in turn, apply that relationship in an interpersonal way.

“As humans, we tend to mask our emotions,” says Dr. Kate Bellows. “Horses are able to identify what we are feeling and help us work through any issues. That’s the importance of the bond between the human and the animal.”

Sleepy Sheep Ranch knows how strong the bond between horses and their owners can be. The ranch also knows equine therapy is good mentally and physically. Studies have shown vast improvements in the muscle activity of children with cerebral palsy after they have engaged in this type of therapy. It also helps with balance and posture as well as muscle control.

“I have seen the benefits of equine therapy,” says Dave of Sleepy Sheep Ranch. “That’s why I decided to create fundraisers to help these centers which use mostly volunteers.”

A number of therapeutic riding centers have benefited from the generosity of Sleepy Sheep Ranch. There is nothing more important to the farm than to help out its neighbors, especially such a good cause.

“My community is important to me,” says Dave. “I want to do everything I can to help my fellow man.”