Helping Hooves Equine Therapy Program

                                                                         TESTIMONIALS

My special needs daughter Jamie came to Helping Hooves as a total beginner about a year and a half ago when her Aunt purchased a lessons package for her as a gift. I admit that I was somewhat skeptical of the whole idea at that time and I wasn't sure how it would turn out. To my delight it has turned out to be an extraordinarily positive experience, not only for Jamie, but for myself and my wife Mary. Jamie has progressed beyond what I ever thought possible. She is a very high functioning special needs young adult, but I never expected her to do so well so quickly. Under Ann's patient guidance she has learned about basic horsemanship and how to handle a horse while in the saddle, up to and including being able to trot the horse, and is even beginning to canter. This has done wonders for her self-confidence and self-esteem. And it gives her something in her life that she truly loves and looks forward to doing, building upon the love she already had for horses. It inspired my wife Mary to begin her own private lessons with Ann, which is going very well indeed as Mary's lifelong dream of learning to ride is now being fulfilled. They both look so forward to their lessons and time with the horses and it's a wonderful thing that brings them both much happiness. As for myself, I have learned much about these magnificent animals, and even though I don't ride or want to ride, I've gotten great satisfaction from seeing the joy it brings Jamie and Mary, and had my consciousness raised about these extraordinary creatures. I truly enjoy the time we spend together with the horses, and I am so grateful to Helping Hooves and Ann for bringing this positive activity into our lives. Whether it's for special needs therapeutic riding or for private lessons I would highly recommend Ann and her organization. 5 Stars! 

-Tom Rush, parent of student

Our son loves going every Sunday to ride Buster. He has gained so much self confidence since he started back in February 2011.  His balance has improved, and his tolerance to a lot of things has improved. The volunteers are so happy to be there and help. (I think that they get as much out of it as the kids do!)  I would recommend Helping Hooves to anyone who has a Special needs child. It is one of the best things that we have ever done for our son.

-Laryn Nolan, parent of student

There is truly something for everyone at Helping Hooves: Therapy riding, riding lessons from beginner to advanced - of any and all ages - and volunteering opportunities. With the owner, Ann Simon, leading the way, you will learn from her many years of combined experience in all of these areas. You will learn so much. As a volunteer, you get real-time, hands-on experience working with students and horses. There are also many exciting things going on at Helping Hooves. In the two years I've been going there, she's done all kinds of lessons - some in fun groups, volunteer trainings, parties and more. It's a great program, with great horses and fun, experienced people. One of the great things about Ann is her incredible calmness and patience with her students and horses. She has an endless amount of both. If you are looking for fun, safe and skilled lessons in Orange County, this is the place for you and your family. Two thumbs way up for Helping Hooves.

-Nicole Falconer, volunteer

There is truly something for everyone at Helping Hooves: Therapy riding, riding lessons from beginner to advanced - of any and all ages - and volunteering opportunities. With the owner, Ann Simon, leading the way, you will learn from her many years of combined experience in all of these areas. You will learn so much. As a volunteer, you get real-time, hands-on experience working with students and horses. There are also many exciting things going on at Helping Hooves. In the two years I've been going there, she's done all kinds of lessons - some in fun groups, volunteer trainings, parties and more. It's a great program, with great horses and fun, experienced people. One of the great things about Ann is her incredible calmness and patience with her students and horses. She has an endless amount of both. If you are looking for fun, safe and skilled lessons in Orange County, this is the place for you and your family. Two thumbs way up for Helping Hooves.

-Rachel Sutherland, parent of student

Helping Hooves is an awesome program. I have been volunteering with this program for coming up on two years now. This experience has enriched my life in so many ways. I have seen so much progress and growth among the students and volunteers alike and it is truly inspirational.  Anne is an amazing instructor who has made major benefits in the lives of so many children and adults. Whether you are considering becoming a student or volunteering you should come check this program out at the Anaheim Hills Saddle Club. It is most definitely a worthwhile venture.

-Mary Ellsworth, volunteer

This is a great program full of helpful people and good times! It is a great place to start learning about horses and all the benefits that Horseback riding has to offer. Helping Hooves, the name says it all! It is beneficial for both the people and the wonderful horses. I can say as a volunteer myself you get to learn first hand and see the benefits this program provides. Watching the kids with their smiles and laughter makes a big difference. Just being around the horses does something for the spirit. I say it is a win-win for everyone!

-Duane Wolfe, volunteer

I enjoy therapy riding so much, that I wish I could ride everyday! I also think so highly of the volunteers and Ann. All of you are simply awesome! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

– Lynne Woods, Student

I wanted to extend my deepest gratitude for your expertise and patience working with Jamie. She has gotten so much joy and a real sense of accomplishment from training with you and building relationships with the horses. We all feel very fortunate to know you and about your program.

-- Sue Rush, parent of student