The term hippotherapy refers to how occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology professionals use evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning in the purposeful manipulation of equine movement as a therapy tool to engage sensory, neuromotor, and cognitive systems to promote functional outcomes.

The average horse walks at a rate of approximately 100 steps per minute.  Just 5 minutes on a walking horse represents 500 neuro motor inputs to the patient.  In a typical therapy session, 15 to 25 minutes of equine movement may be incorporated by the treating therapist – which represents 1500 to 2500 neuromotor inputs to the patient.

Incorporating hippotherapy into an occupational therapy, physical therapy or speech language pathology session can serve as a powerful tool for the facilitation of the key neuromotor systems that support function.  Skillfully applied equine movement, under the direction of a therapist, can offer the patient the opportunity for complex motor learning.  Hippotherapy is combined with other standard therapy tools/strategies in an intervention plan designed to address the treatment needs of the client.

-American Hippotherapy Association

The unique movement of a horse has proven extremely valuable in increasing control and balance, core strength, and muscle development. It is so similar to the human gait that, for those who struggle to walk or cannot walk, it imitates the rhythm needed for their own independent steps. The use of hippotherapy in an OT/PT/ST session has been proven to improve trunk strength, fine and gross motor skills, postural control, sensory integration, attention and communication skills, visual perception, and more! The unique relationship formed with a horse can also help interpersonal relationships, and improved self-esteem and self-regulation. The innumerable benefits of a horse are only multiplied when coupled with OT/PT/ST treatment.

Here at Iron Mills Ranch we have an Occupational Therapist or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in EVERY session. Every client receives a formal evaluation from one of our Occupational Therapists who then sets goals to be worked on each session. All of this sets us apart from Equine Assisted Therapy and Therapeutic Riding. The use of hippotherapy is part of a one-on-one medical treatment implemented by a team that includes a licensed, credentialed therapist.

Everyone should have the opportunity to experience the healing powers of a horse. At Iron Mills Ranch we want to share that possibility with those who need it the most! As our motto goes, IMRTS is “where horsing around is the tool to success!“

H.O.O.F. (Horses Offering Outlasting Friendships)

H.O.O.F. is a venture/experience we devised to share our love of horses, and everything they do for us. Spending time with a horse can be very beneficial for physical, mental, and emotional health. Although horses are obviously very therapeutic, H.O.O.F. is not a therapy service, it is simply an opportunity to learn and grow with these incredible animals we call friends. It is a chance to be around horses, learn some basics on horse care, etiquette, grooming, anatomy, and some riding. Each H.O.O.F. experience is run by Shannon. Shannon has been around horses her entire life and was also a Certified Veterinary Technologist for 6 + years. It is a unique opportunity for to be around horses for those who would not normally get the chance. We love sharing these incredible animals with you!

Age: 22yrs
Breed: Tennessee Walker
Color: Sorrel
Favorite activity: Playing with his feed trough
Height: 15 hands (almost)
Dewey belongs to the Mills humans as well, and Doug is definitely his best friend. Dewey is very much a lover, but also has a bit of a playful side to him. He is definitely our jokester of the ranch and has a childlike personality!

Anna Bailey M.S. OTR/L

Anna is an Occupational Therapist, who graduated from Eastern Washington University in 2020. She has a love for working with children and animals. Anna was born and raised in Central Whidbey. As a child, she could not convince her parent to get a horse, so summer horse camps were her next best option! She is excited to be a part of Iron Mills Ranch Therapy Services. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and exploring the PNW with her husband and two dogs.

Chrysalis Kendall M.S. OTR/L

BIO Coming Soon!

Jade Castro M.S. OTR/L

Picture and Bio Coming Soon!

Ozzie Dog

Ozzie is a certified good boi! Oz is an Australian Shepherd mix that adopted Shannon 6 years ago and now Jaimie (his best friend). He likes to come to the ranch and hang out, smell the smells, chase his ball, and say hello to as many hoomans possible. He has deemed himself the official greeter for evaluations and introducing everyone to the therapy services. Oz is a giant loveable fluffball and gives great hugs if you are ever in need!