Serenity Saddles hosted its annual Pony Rides and Santa event Dec. 20 to raise funds for facility upkeep and scholarships. Photo courtesy of Serenity Saddles

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Serenity Saddles Therapeutic Riding Program has been providing equine-assisted activities to children and adults with special needs in the Dixon area since its founding in September 2019.

Located at JBar 4 Ranch, 7778 Nunes Road, Serenity Saddles serves a wide variety of clients through a therapeutic riding program designed to address cognitive, physical and social development. The program is directed by Renee Croog, an Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor certified through PATH International, the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship.

“Changing one life at a time is our mission statement,” said Croog. “Healing and support are delivered with understanding, empathy and care.”

Serenity Saddles works with individuals with a wide range of disabilities and conditions, including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, ADHD, ADD, depression and anxiety. The program also serves accident victims, veterans and individuals preparing to enter the workforce. Participants include children in the school system as well as adults seeking physical, emotional or social support.

The therapeutic riding classes are tailored to meet each rider’s individual needs and abilities. According to Croog, the movement of the horse plays a key role in the physical benefits of the program.

“The horse’s movements help strengthen the upper body core, lower extremities and coordination,” said Croog. “They’re learning how to move their arms and legs in coordination with the horse, like steering techniques.”

Cognitive development is also emphasized during sessions. Riders learn sequencing, balance and communication skills while engaging in horsemanship activities. Croog said the program sometimes works alongside occupational therapists to support participant growth and goal setting.

Emotional and social benefits are fostered through interaction with the horses and the supportive environment. Croog described the bond that develops between rider and horse as an important part of the experience.

“The mental part is the bond with the horse; brushing them, feeling their fur, the attention the horse gives to the child or adult, they learn to return it,” said Croog. “They’re almost like big dogs; they’re very affectionate.”

Participants are given individualized goals to track progress over time. Croog said the changes can be seen through improved confidence, engagement and communication.

Serenity Saddles works with individuals with a wide range of disabilities and conditions, including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, ADHD, ADD, depression and anxiety, regardless of age or demographic. Photo courtesy of Serenity Saddles

“We give our clients goals to track their improvement,” said Croog.

Serenity Saddles also hosts community events to raise funds and increase awareness of therapeutic riding. Dec. 20, the program held its annual Pony Rides and Santa event, which included pony rides, arts and crafts, photos with Santa, cookies and hot cocoa.

Croog said the event serves as both a fundraiser and an opportunity to welcome the broader community.

“That was a fundraising event that we do every year,” said Croog.

Proceeds help with facility upkeep and provide scholarships for participants who cannot afford lessons.

Pony rides were offered for $10, while other activities were free. Croog said affordability was a priority.

“We do that so they can have a really nice time going into the holidays,” said Croog.

Despite rainy weather, Croog said the turnout was strong.

“We got a great crowd, around 80 percent of our usual response,” said Croog. “We even still had people walking in at the last minute.”

Croog credited J Bar 4 Ranch for its continued support.

“We’ve been there six years now, and they’ve been nothing but kind to us,” said Croog.

Community events also help introduce new families to the program.

“People come and they realize we’re there,” said Croog. “When we open to the public, word of mouth helps us grow.”

Croog expressed gratitude to those who support Serenity Saddles.

“We would not survive without our volunteers; they are the backbone of this business,” said Croog.

She also thanked office administrator Aimee Jenkins and assistant manager Aurora Scott.

For families considering therapeutic riding, Croog emphasized flexibility and training.

“We’re very flexible with our hours and tailor our program to everyone’s needs,” said Croog. “We have a very friendly atmosphere, trained instructors and we’re a PATH-certified center.”

For more information, visit serenitysaddles.com or call 707-392-4102.