Programs

What We Do

Every program at Hoof & Paw blends riding, horsemanship, and hands-on farm activities to build real skills: social, physical, and emotional. Lessons are individualized to each rider’s goals and abilities, led by experienced instructors and supported by trained volunteers.

Therapeutic Riding Lessons

Individualized riding lessons at Hoof & Paw include grooming, horsemanship, and post-ride care, tailored to each student’s goals. Riders build balance, motor skills, and muscle strength in the saddle, while groundwork before and after each lesson builds confidence, focus, and independence.

Appointments are available Monday through Saturday; we’re closed on Sunday.

Volunteer showing a young special needs boy how to sit on a horse

Special Olympics Training

Hoof & Paw is the Special Olympics Northern Piedmont equestrian training site. Athletes with intellectual disabilities train in horsemanship and riding fundamentals with our instructors, and can qualify for the NC Championship in Raleigh.

This program fosters a sense of accomplishment, teamwork, and belonging alongside the technical skills of competitive riding.

Girl with a blue ribbon standing in front of a Special Olympics photo wall

Skills We Help Build

Balance & Strength

Motor skills and muscle development through riding.

Focus & Independence

Concentration and self-reliance built lesson by lesson.

Social Skills

Working alongside instructors, volunteers, and peers.

Confidence

A sense of accomplishment with every new skill.