PROGRAMS

Horsemanship & Rehabilitation for Veterans
“It’s not therapy… it’s therapeutic.”
– Valorie Jones, WLF President
Second Careers for Horses
The Second Careers for Horses Program has been successfully run by the Arkansas Equine Foundation for the last 11 years and has re-homed over 300 horses that were donated by very good owners who received tax benefits for their donation. WLF will fund this program, and many of the horses will serve at the Ranch. Approved veterans’ organizations and other organizations using horses in their programs can adopt these animals free of charge.



Horsemanship for the New-Horseperson
This is a two-day intensive course for individuals who are interested in working with horses on a regular basis and would like to be considered candidates for adopting a horse from the Second Careers for Horses Program. This program combines classroom learning and hands on exercises with horses and equine specialists.
The class will cover:
Non-violent approach to working with horses
Touching and handling a horse
Horse safety and barn etiquette
How horses learn
Spatial awareness
Equine interaction in the round pen
Building a trust-based partnership
Approaching the horse
Grooming / use of tack



Equine Interaction
This 90-minute course is for individuals who have completed the Introduction to Equine Interaction course and have expressed an interest in the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted activities.
The class will cover:
Round pen / arena entrance safety overview
Horse-speak (interpreting the language of the horse)
Building a trust-based relationship
Methods for controlling the movement of the horse
Interpreting the horse’s response – aka “looking into the mirror”
Learning to control the movement of the veteran
Successful bonding with a horse
Complementary Wellness Treatments
At Warhorse Ranch, we are excited to offer on site complimentary wellness treatments to veterans. These treatments are designed to work in conjunction with traditional treatments, and alongside our horse therapy and recreational activities. Currently, we have a hyperbaric oxygen chamber (for treatment of wounds and general wellness) and one of the only Biocharger NG™ units in the state of Arkansas. A biocharger is a subtle energy revitalization device for focus, performance, sleep, and recovery.
Family Activities
At this time, family activities are limited to the spouse, children, and/or caregiver of the veteran. Exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis. Groups of more than four must have a pre-approved itinerary. General activities are scheduled 48 hours in advance on predetermined family days.
Family activities may include:
Pre-planned horsemanship demonstrations or activities
Hiking on the trails
Specific events planned by WLF staff and volunteers
Picnics
Fishing in one of three stocked ponds