O.A.T.S. Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles

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United States
Ortonville, MI
O.A.T.S. Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles

O.A.T.S. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides equine-assisted activities and therapies.

Therapeutic riding:
• Improves balance, flexibility, muscle
strength and tone
• Develops communication, listening and
attention skills
• Encourages social interaction
• Builds confidence and self-esteem

The goal for every rider at O.A.T.S. is to ride independently (without assistance from a leader and/or sidewalker), no matter the disability. While not always possible, the important thing is that it’s encouraged.

04/18/2025

We are saddened to announce the recent passing of our beloved therapy horse, Katy. This extraordinary mare was donated to O.A.T.S. in 2021 and lovingly served numerous riders, inspiring countless lives until 2024 when she was retired from our program and returned to her donor. Our hearts go out to all who were blessed by Katy's presence. Share your memories of Katy in the comments below

04/08/2025

It may be cold outside today but our hearts are warmed knowing that our friends from the Oakland County Sheriff's Office will be joining us for our Spring Event and Easter Egg Hunt at O.A.T.S. this Sunday.

The Oakland County Sheriff’s Mounted Division and K-9 Unit will be at the O.A.T.S. Spring Event and Easter Egg Hunt this Sunday! Join us and all of our animal friends this Sunday from 1pm-5pm for food, fun, animals, shopping, and a picture with the Easter Bunny!

02/17/2025

Riding classes at O.A.T.S. are canceled for Monday and Tuesday while the horses try to stay warm during this next round of cold weather.

Think warm thoughts - Spring is less than 5 weeks away!

02/14/2025

🚨 Important Announcement 🚨

Due to the possibility of inclement weather, all riding classes at O.A.T.S. Therapeutic Riding Center are canceled on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

The safety of our riders, volunteers, and horses is our top priority. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Please stay safe, and we’ll see you back in the arena soon! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

02/12/2025

Due to the potential for unsafe driving conditions we are canceling all evening classes for Wednesday 2/12/2025.

01/20/2025

Due to the severe cold temperatures all riding at O.A.T.S. has been suspended for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Please stay safe and warm if you are headed out.

01/11/2025

It is snowing a bit and roads are not the greatest by the farm. Please use caution if you are coming for classes today.

01/08/2025

🐴 Missing Your Favorite O.A.T.S. Horse? 🐎

We know it’s chilly outside, but you can still enjoy some horsey fun from the comfort of your home! Stay warm and cozy up with one of these fantastic horse movies:

🎥 Secretariat (Disney+) – An inspiring true story about a legendary racehorse.
🎥 A Horse Tale (Prime Video) – A heartwarming tale of family and friendship.
🎥 My Heroes Were Cowboys (Netflix) – A touching documentary about second chances and the healing power of horses.

Which one will you watch first? Let us know your favorite horse movie in the comments! 🧡🐴✨

Stay warm, and we can’t wait to see you back at O.A.T.S. soon!

01/08/2025

🚨 Weather Update: Classes Canceled 🚨

Due to the cold temperatures, all riding classes at O.A.T.S. are canceled for Wednesday. ❄️🥶 The safety and comfort of our riders, volunteers, and horses are our top priority.

Stay warm, and we’ll see you back in the arena soon! 🐴💙

Thank you for your understanding!

01/03/2025

Our winter riding session begins this Monday, January 6, 2025. We still have a few openings for riders and we are always happy to have new volunteers!

Address

Ortonville, MI

Telephone

(248) 245-1020

Website

http://www.OATShrh.org/

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Our Story

O.A.T.S provides equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) for individuals. Each of our instructors has undergone the educational and practical requirements set forth by PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) and other accrediting agencies to become certified, and include Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) and Experiential Learning with Horses (ELH) certifications.

Though our instructors are not certified Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, or Speed Language Pathologists, we are open to working with these professionals in developing activities and plans to ensure we are offering the best value and care for our riders. We welcome their support and input.

Therapeutic horseback riding is recognized throughout the U.S. and other countries as a valuable activity to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Benefits include

· Improves balance, flexibility, muscle strength and tone