Therapy
Since 2009 the Nerja Donkey Sanctuary (NDS) has provided weekly sessions for children with a range of physical and/or emotional special needs. Therapy using ponies and horses to assist with people’s physical and mental development is known as “Hippotherapy”. The main themes of these sessions are to provide therapy, education and enjoyment for all the children involved. In the Spring of 2011 the facilities at NDS were expanded to include a larger exercise area, improved access and a more extensive program.
The therapeutic benefits of Hippotherapy
· Relaxing tight muscles
· Improving balance
· Helping with breathing and stimulating the
cardiovascular system
· Building muscle strength
· Sharpening hand-eye coordination
· Gaining a sense of body awareness
· Gaining a sense of self control
· Gaining a sense of self confidence
· Improving communication
· Improving concentration
· Improving socialisation
· Improving patience
· Improving fine motor co-ordination
When do the hippotherapy sessions take place at the Nerja Donkey Sanctuary?
Every Tuesday and Friday afternoon*. We hope to extend this to four nights each week. *times dependant on season. The qualified riding therapy teacher is Jone Jauregui. We also work closely with A.M.E.T. (the Málaga Association for Riding Therapy Currently we provide free therapy for children under the age of five who have been referred from the Taller de la Amistad (Association of People with Intellectual Disabilities). Older children and adults can be provided with lessons at a rate subsidised by NDS. If you know someone who could benefit from hippotherapy please contact us for an assessment
