Horse Illustrated Magazine

As we all know, horses are extremely therapeutic for people going through all sorts of physical, mental and emotional issues. Therapeutic equestrian centers exist in every state across the country. One such center, the Compassionate Friends Therapeutic Horseback Riding Center in New Jersey, provides equine-assisted therapy for youth, including a nonverbal 18-year-old, an 11-year-old with a neuromuscular condition, among others, Action News reports.

“When they get involved with horses their whole personality changes. It gives them a confidence in dealing with all situations in life,” Nancy Roswell, a volunteer at the center, told Action News.

Even though the center is usually closed this time of year, President Sherri Briggs kept it open for a special celebration this month, saying, “[W]e wanted to see our children for the holidays.”

Riders had the opportunity to see their favorite horses decked out for the season and enjoyed a visit from Santa. From the looks of the photos, the children (and the horses) enjoyed it immensely.

To find out more about the Compassionate Friends Therapeutic Horseback Riding Center or to see additional photos, visit the center’s Facebook page.