Some people have asked how the programs of East Point Horspice began. It started strictly as a horse rescue wherein animals that were confiscated, relinquished or donated were then introduced in to a rehabilitation program, be it physical recovery and/or behavioral modifications to allow them to be safer and more adoptable to forever homes. As the number of horses increased it became clear that this herd of horses, many of which were headed toward a very permanent solution of euthanasia or kill pens, still had so much to offer this world, just perhaps in ways not conceived of previously. The horses simply needed a new job.
Thus, the concept of using rescued horses for a therapeutic riding program was born and has proven to be wildly successful. As you might imagine, there aren’t a lot (that is to say maybe enough) horse rescue operations around and our research has shown that there are but a few in the world who use rescued horses for this type of program. There are rescues and there are riding programs; EPH feels blessed that we incorporate both. While this concept of giving horses a second chance feeds the human ego, if you allow a step back to honestly examine what is happening here, it becomes apparent that it is the people involved is such programs are the true beneficiaries of this relationship.
It would be difficult to name a beast on this planet that is as patient and forgiving as the horse. This may not be a fair generalization, but humans throw them in trailers, we strap heavy leather objects to their backs then proceed to tug and pull on their mouths with metal objects, at times incorrectly using spurs on the heels of our boots to make a point, pun intended. If all goes well, this 1000-pound animal will not try to remove you from this planet during the process, but instead will graciously try to learn what it is you’re asking of them and make attempts to remain cordial and cooperative. Sure, people get hurt and accidents happen. At the end of the day though, the horse will show more restraint than most people would ever consider and then allow this occur again and again until we humans get it figured out.
Horses exhibit character traits we should all try to emulate. The examples of patience and a willingness to learn, even things that at first scare us or make no sense whatsoever, have been presented. The fact that horses don’t normally try to stomp us in to dirt on a regular basis is a good case for restraint. We can all learn how to communicate more honestly and openly, like the horses do, without taking it personally or getting our feelings hurt. This type of honesty can be harsh and for some difficult to digest, but understanding that this is done from a space of friendship and with the intent of maintaining herd safety helps lessen the sting. If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to have that grumpy curmudgeon of an uncle or grandma tell you how it is then you can relate. After reflection and applying mental salve to your perceived injuries, you probably realized they were right and will appreciate their honest and direct nature for always.
Rescued horses rescuing us, who knew? It is a proven model in the human world that if you want to improve yourself, you should surround yourself with people who are better than you in whatever endeavor you’re pursuing as they will increase performance, standards and overall success. Surrounding yourself with horses, and the people who appreciate them, will consistently provide opportunities for improvement in your life and how you live it. While we think we are doing them a favor through rescuing them, the horses are the true deliverers of a life worth living. Contact EPH if you’d like to tap in to this resource. Check out www.eastpointhorspice.com, call (308)762-3848 or email eph@bbc.net. The horses would love to see you.