COUGAR PASS RECOVERY RANCH

Therapeutic Riding Lessons for Those with Special Needs

ABOUT COUGAR PASS RECOVERY RANCH

Cougar Pass Recovery Ranch, or CPR, provides therapeutic horseback riding lessons on the nearly five acre site of Miller Equestrian Services at Valle Vista Farm in Escondido. We offer a full range of horseback riding services and as Ann Miller, owner of Miller Equestrian Services, started receiving more requests for riding lessons geared towards individuals with special needs, the idea of CPR was born.

Established in 2014, CPR is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides therapeutic horseback riding lessons geared towards those with a variety of special needs to help improve their emotional, social and physical well-being.

Our mission is to provide social, emotional, and behavioral growth

through learning about and working with horses.

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THERAPEUTIC RIDING LESSONS

Experience the joy of riding a horse while reaping the many benefits they offer for those with a wide range of challenges in a fun, safe environment!

Our therapeutic horseback riding lessons are geared towards helping people with social, emotional, physical and behavioral challenges. Our instructor tailors each lesson to meet each individual's unique challenges and goals. In addition to developing mounted riding skills, we also include horsemanship activities which are carried out on the ground, such as grooming, saddling, and leading activities before and after the lesson. These activities help students gain confidence through the personal connections they develop with the horses and the pride in the tasks they accomplish.

Who can Benefit?

Research show numerous benefits to people of all ages from participating in equine assisted therapy which can positively impact various aspects of an individual’s well-being. It can benefit those with autism, attention deficit disorder, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, learning disabilities, anxiety, and muscular dystrophy to name a few.

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Lessons

Lessons are offered Tuesday through Friday between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Participants must be at least 4 years of age.
Lessons typically last 30-60 minutes, depending on the rider's tolerance level and stamina.
Cost is $65 per lesson. You can pay as you go or you can set up a few at a time.

FAQs

Check out our FAQ section for more detailed information about our lessons, where to park, what to wear, cancellation policies, and much more.

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BENEFITS OF THERAPEUTIC RIDING

Research shows numerous benefits to people of all ages from participating in this type of therapy which can positively impact various aspects of an individual’s well-being.

Communication

Improved social skills and communication by creating an environment that encourages interaction, communication and teamwork between instructor, volunteer, horse and rider.

Strength

Physical benefits such as enhanced balance and coordination, improved muscle strength and flexibility as the rider adapts to the rhythmic movement of the horse’s gait which stimulates the rider’s muscular system to control their movements and posture.

Behavioral

Improved behavior and impulse control as the structured and goal-oriented nature of riding sessions can help individuals develop better focus, concentration and discipline.

Emotional

Emotional well-being by fostering a sense of accomplishment and increased trust by developing a connection with the horse.

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VOLUNTEER

Make a Difference in Someone's Life!

Here’s a chance to merge your passion for horses with a purpose that truly matters. Join our team of volunteers in our therapeutic riding program and be a part of the incredible transformation your love for horses can bring to others.

Whether you just love being around horses, are looking for volunteer hours for school, or just want to give back to your community, volunteering with us will help create a positive experience in the lives of our students and will give you the joy of being a part of their journey.

No experience is necessary as we will teach you everything you need to know.
You must be 16 years of age (parental consent required if less than 18 years old).
Ideally you can commit to at least 1 or more hours weekly.
Responsibilities can range from grooming and tack care before lessons, leading horses during lessons, or side walking next to the rider to provide encouragement and extra support as needed.
Volunteers are needed: Tuesday - Friday, and Sundays in the morning or afternoon.

Come join our team or contact us if you have more questions.

DONATE

As CPR is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization all donations are tax-deductible within the guidelines of tax laws.

Your donation will help CPR create opportunities for growth, connection and joy in the lives of individuals facing diverse challenges through therapeutic riding.

As we continue our mission, we are dedicated to providing a positive experience to our students that will improve their social and emotional well-being one stride at a time!

Thank you for supporting CPR!

Tax ID: 47-1460424.

Other ways to Donate below.

Donate by cash or check. Mail checks to Cougar Pass Recovery at 936 Vista Ave., Escondido, CA 92026

Make a donation through our Amazon Wish List. Order an item and have it delivered directly to our facility.

Donate gently used tack for our horses such as saddles, bridles, and halters. We also take equipment and building materials. Contact us if you're interested in making a donation.

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MEET OUR TEAM

Ann and Frank Miller

Owners

Ann and Frank Miller have been working together since they met years ago in the horse business and got married in 1989. They moved to Escondido in 2001 and opened Miller Equestrian Services.

Ann has been riding horses since she was 14 and today focuses her attention on developing young riders into saddle and hunt seat World Champions, which she has several to be proud of. She's been a member of the USEF, AMHA, ASHA and UPHA for over 30 years.

Frank has a stellar reputation for breaking the yearlings and developing them into top quality show horses. He works with the drivers and his positive energy, humor and supportive coaching style make learning fun for his students.

Together they have accomplished many things and they continue to grow their business. With more people asking for lessons for those with special needs, CPR was established to meet this need.

Sarah Lewis

Instructor

Sarah is a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, having completed specialized training and certification to safely teach horseback riding to individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, and developmental challenges. She has been riding horses since the age of 12 and is passionate about sharing the physical, emotional, and therapeutic benefits that horses can provide.

In addition to her certification, she is an active member of the American Morgan Horse Association, the American Saddlebred Horse Association, and the United States Equestrian Federation. She is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment where riders of all abilities can build confidence, develop new skills, and experience the unique connection between horse and rider.

Jessica York

Instructor

Jessica started off assisting with lessons in April 2022 at CPR and in December 2022 began teaching lessons on her own. One of her greatest pleasures is teaching kids to ride and enjoying the different opportunities that horses bring to their lives. "I see what horses can do everyday. It's therapy and you don't even realize it." After assisting with her son’s classes and seeing the positive impact across a multitude of behaviors, she was inspired to work towards a PATH certification as a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor.

Jessica's past experience and current training play a pivotal role in structuring lessons to develop skills to meet her students unique goals and challenges.

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Sam Parrott

Lesson Assistant

Sam is integral is our lesson program. She is often seen leading the students, helping groom, or getting out necessary equipment. Sam helps us run lessons smoothly and efficently.

Clark (SNR Steel Blue Magnolias)

2000 Morgan Gelding

Clark is a favorite among our students! Most of our students start out on him. He is a trustworthy steed who will show you the ropes.

Windy (Windchaser's Gates of Gold)

2002 Morgan Mare

Windy is our gentle giant. She is great at teaching our students independence. And she loves scratches!

Beetlejuice

approx. 2007 Gelding

Beetlejuice is tiny but mighty! He is a great lesson horse for kids and adults. He is a big personality in a little pony body.

Milo

1999 Quarter Horse Gelding

Milo is our newest lesson horse but is fitting in like an old pro. He is wonderful for teaching steering and trotting.

Mercy (Mantic Merci Amour)

2001 Morgan Mare

Mercy is an occasional lesson horse we use from time to time.

Gloria (Gloria Vanderbilt)

2003 Saddlebred Mare

Gloria is another occasional lesson horse so you may see her from time to time.

The Dogs

We have lots of dogs on our property, including Kiwi and Frosty shown here. They may bark at you, but they are really sweet.