First Therapeutic Riding Program in a Zoo Environment
Over the past seven years, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens has been home to James S. Brady Therapeutic Riding, a collaborative program to expand the important work and healing power of horses in the community. Since moving onto Zoo grounds, Brady has expanded its program from one day to seven days per week, year-round. The long-established equine-assisted therapy program, where children with special needs and those who are systems-impacted benefit socially, psychologically and physically through their interactions with horses and mindfulness practices, is the first equine-assisted therapy program in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility. Together, the two organizations has built a scalable model for other zoo/therapy program partnerships to follow.
“This inspiring and impactful community program is part of our overall mission to connect people with animals in innovative ways,” said Cassandra Costello, CEO and Executive Director of the San Francisco Zoological Society. “Horses can connect with humans on a different level, with an innate way of calming individuals by their very nature, sparking joy and a general sense of well-being. As we near our 100th anniversary in a few short years, we recognize more than ever that our zoo has evolved as more than a zoological park, but as a valuable community resource, where people come to learn, play, explore and heal.”
Brady, located in an open stable setting on the southeast side of the Zoo, near Bear Country, operates the program as a third party but is viewable by zoo visitors. Brady’s volunteer staff is led by Executive Director Sarah Meakin, whose parents, Hugh and the late Melba Meakin, founded the program in 1987. Meakin holds a certification from Greg Kersten’s OK Corral Series. Brady is insured by Hallmark Equine Insurance Agency. The program offers therapeutic sessions throughout the week for Bay Area youths and families with special needs or who are systems-impacted, as well as special programs like their summer camp, Reading Education Assistance Ponies (R.E.A.P.) program, and a volunteer training program that strengthens leadership, confidence, and compassionate responsibility—especially for youth.
Brady prioritizes rescue horses, giving them a renewed sense of purpose while they help humans heal. Currently, the Brady herd consists of four full-size horses for riding and groundwork and two dwarf Shetland ponies for their reading program. Their head-of-herd gelding (Pete) and grey mare (Phoebe) were rescued from a slaughter yard in Texas, while their Paint mare (Magpie) and dwarf Shetlands (Toby and Tallulah) were adopted together from a rescue in Lancaster, CA. Their Kiger mustang mare (Lola) was donated by supporter and artist Isabelle Truchon.
The healing power of equine-assisted therapy has been well-documented, with physical benefits such as increased muscle strength, range of joint movement and sensory integration, and improved respiration, circulation, appetite and digestion. Psychologically, horse riding is known to build self-confidence and self-control, development of patience and self-discipline. Individuals learn recognition of shapes and colors, and visual spatial perception. Importantly, participants develop a love and respect for animals, foster friendships and experiences with people.
Programs and lessons are adapted to meet the needs of each individual participant and their family. Potential participants are asked to apply directly with Brady Therapeutic Riding through bradyriding.org.