Three Gaits, Inc

Located near Stoughton, Wisconsin, Three Gaits, Inc. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide equine-assisted activities and therapies that enhance the lives of adults and children with physical, emotional, and/or intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1983, the horseback riding program provides more than 1000 lessons and occupational therapy sessions each year.

The equine oriented activities promote and enhance the development of each rider's cognitive, physical and communicative abilities and positive self-esteem. We offer the chance for students to extend the goals of therapy, special education, recreation and competition into the horsemanship experience.

Participants may enroll in group therapeutic riding lessons with the focus of teaching horsemanship skills; hippotherapy (physical/occupational/speech therapy session that uses the horse's movement as a tool in treating clients), or for those who are unable to ride, un-mounted activities.

Volunteers are critical to the program; this year 200+ volunteers will assist with lessons, complete barn chores, help with horse care, support events and administration, and complete one-time projects. Training is provided for all roles to assure that volunteers are confident, safe and effective in their roles. 

Three Gaits mission is to provide equine-assisted activities and therapies that enhance the lives of people with physical, emotional, and/or intellectual disabilities. Therapeutic riding uses equine-oriented activities to promote and enhance the development of each rider's cognitive, physical, and communicative abilities, and positive self-esteem. Three Gaits strives to serve all interested individuals within Dane County and the surrounding area.