A Helping Hoof (or Paw): Therapy animals and human wellness.

• Author: Orr, Vanessa
• Position: HEALTHCARE

Some animals play a critical role in helping people. Therapy dogs, for example, are used to instill confidence in children learning to read or to provide comfort for patients during cancer treatments. Even horses are getting into the act, not only providing a soothing presence but helping those with physical disabilities to learn balance and gain confidence.

"We have so many success stories here," says Christy Constantini, executive director of Equine Assisted Therapy Alaska (EATA).

The Anchorage-based nonprofit organization's goal is to enhance the physical, psychological, and social well-being of Alaskans living with disabilities through therapeutic horsemanship. Originally called The Rainbow Connection, the seasonal program provides services to children and adults with mental, behavioral, cognitive, and physical disabilities.

"Some of the kids who don't speak come for speech therapy." Constantini explains, "and once they get on a horse, they start talking or relating to the horse. We've had a number of people with social anxiety start to talk to other people once they're in the arena, and this happens with our volunteers as well."

Constantini has been with EATA since 2007, first as a rider before joining the board of directors.

"I look at it from a different point of view than those who are ablebodied," she says. "I have multiple sclerosis, and working and riding horses fills my cup. I have dealt with a lot of things in life, and I find that horses give me support and keep me grounded. They help with my physical and emotional needs."

Constantini says she observes the same fulfillment in others, both riders and the volunteers who lead them around the ring at the William C. Chamberlin Equestrian Center or on trails in Ruth Arcand Park in the Lower Hillside neighborhood.

"Being able to relate to an animal builds confidence, improves socialization, and builds strength and character," she adds. "When a person attains their goals, it builds confidence and they feel empowered, and after they leave the center, that carries on in life."

While children may at first be worried, Constantini says that it only takes one try before they begin to feel comfortable.

"Kids are nervous and scared the first week; they're not used to being around a 1,500-pound animal," she says. "By the second week, they are ready to go. Kids are amazing because they bond with the horses that they are assigned for their sessions. They draw pictures of them and bring them...