Program FAQs

The horse/human relationship offers a unique opportunity for self-confidence and development. Not only does learning how to care for and ride horses encourage growth and independence, the horse itself becomes the therapist as it quietly reflects our emotions back to us.

Cloud Dancers serves a broad range of participants, both children and adults, with special needs. Riders must be at least 5 yrs old, with a weight limit of 185 lbs, and no contraindications for equine activities. Please call or email to determine individual eligibility.

Lessons at Cloud Dancers run in sessions of 4 to 8 consecutive weeks. Each weekly lesson is 30 to 60 minutes long, typically with some mounted and unmounted activities.  Read our Riders Handbook for more information on lesson format and expectations.

A 6-week session of 60-minute group lessons costs $247.50 and a session of private lessons costs $382.50. An 8-week session of 60-minute group lessons costs $330 and a session of private lessons costs $510. There is also a one-time, non-refundable administrative fee of $25. See more detailed information.

No, medical insurance does not cover therapeutic horsemanship because it is not being done under the guidance of a medical professional.

Yes, the Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation offers scholarships to its patients and some state programs with self-directed budgets.  DD Waiver has approved therapeutic riding in their client budgets—contact your care coordinator for more information. To learn more about scholarships from Cloud Dancers,  see more detailed information or call/email for more info. 

Call 505-926-1426 or email our Program Coordinator; complete our Rider Application; contact your doctor to complete and sign the Rider’s Medical History and Physician Statement.

Refer to our News List for the current Covid-19 Guidelines and Protocol.