Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic riding is an excellent form of exercise therapy that is fun, safe, challenging and socially rewarding. The goals of therapeutic riding revolve around learning horsemanship, improving basic riding skills and many times, learning a specific riding discipline such as dressage or western pleasure. In therapeutic riding, special attention is paid to facilitating improvements in muscle strength, coordination, balance, stamina, self confidence and social interaction. Lesson plans are tailored individually to address clients’ special needs. Our therapeutic riding instructors are specially trained and certified to instruct clients with a wide variety of physical and mental disabilities, as well as clients who are not disabled.  Sessions are conducted in our covered riding arena, pastures and round pen. Therapeutic sessions are conducted according to each rider’s interests, needs, abilities and rate of progress.

Participants in our therapeutic equine programs are self-referred or may be referred by a medical professional.

The Purpose

“We serve children and adults with special needs, kids with cancer, veterans, military service members and their families. Participants in our therapy programs range from age 2 to 92 and are diagnosed with a variety of conditions. Participants are referred to us by word of mouth, physical practitioners and by other agencies. Learn more about the benefits of our services here.”

The Programs

“We offer a comprehensive approach to therapy in five different services: Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Occupational Therapy (Hippotherapy), Equine-Assisted Self Exploration (E.A.S.E.), Warrior Mission: At Ease (W.M.A.E.) Military Retreats and Family Fun Days. We believe healing starts with the individual, but expands to the entire family and community. All of our services involve interaction with horses whether in saddle or on the ground and are administered by certified professionals. Learn more about our services below.”

The People

“Quantum Leap Farm was founded by Edie Dopking, PhD after an academic endeavor revealed the benefits of equine therapy for adults with disabilities. Twenty-one years later, the Farm consists of 12 staff members with an array of degrees and certifications in Hippotherapy, EAGALA, PATH and mental health counseling. Beyond what schooling can provide, the Quantum staff has a passion to help others find healing, a genuine love for all living things and a spirit of fun and friendship that can’t be quantified.”

The Pasture

“Our facility is on a 20-acre pasture in Odessa, FL nestled next to a 1,700-acre environmentally sensitive land preserve owned by Hillsborough County. We currently have 9 horses, 2 donkeys, 2 goats and 1 cat. You can read their biographies in the links below.”