Military and First Responders Horsemanship Program
This program is open to veterans, active duty and first responders*.
*Law enforcement officers, paramedics, EMTs, firefighters, and nurses, doctors and other medical personnel required to respond directly to disasters and critical situations.
6-week horsemanship program: Horsemanship is the introduction to horses, learning how to enjoy, groom, and lead horses. No experience needed.
Free Rein introduced a Military Horsemanship Program beginning in 2013, this program offers military veterans the chance to participate in horsemanship with their peers in a safe and nurturing environment. Starting 2026, we are including first responders to take part of this program.
Location: 6919 N. Walnut Spokane WA 99217 (Near Bigelow & Argonne)
Benefits
Social: The ranch and classroom setting provides a safe and peaceful environment for wounded military and veterans to share issues and fears. They bond in a non-judgmental atmosphere with fellow veterans, the equines and volunteers.
Emotional: Bonding with a large animal can be emotionally satisfying and comforting. Wounded military and veterans have found a great deal of relief in the grooming of a horse. The repetitive motion proves soothing to individuals with anxiety issues.
Cognitive: Wounded military and veterans working with and around horses learn the proper sequence of completing tasks to ensure that the horses remain cooperative and responsive. Good judgment is needed in making decisions during activities around the horse and when riding or participating in other Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT). The order and directions required to develop riding skills are familiar strategies to veterans and wounded military personnel.