The Guadalajara Reporter

Gates open at equine therapy ranch

The Centro de Equitacion Terapeuta (CET) opened its gates for a country-style grand inauguration Saturday, February 16, showcasing the benefits of putting human beings together with a string of gentle horses, experienced professional therapists and a team of caring volunteers.

The new equine therapy center has been launched through a collaborative effort between Chapala Family Development Agency (DIF) and the non-profit organization Nuevos Pasos Pepe Martinez.

Originally developed as an approach to help trauma patients recover from injuries, equine therapy evolved into a widely-accepted therapeutic method to treat persons with physical handicaps. Now it is practiced to alleviate a broad range of physical, mental and emotional disabilities.

The CET program is geared for the full gamut of equine therapy concepts to treat persons coping with impairments associated with cerebral paralysis, multiple sclerosis, spinal bifida, Down syndrome, anorexia, bulimia, drug addiction, neurosis, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, behavioral problems and deficiencies in learning, language or motor skills.

Following a brief inaugural ceremony and a religious blessing of the Rancho La Ilusion facility, Jalisco Education Minister Jose Antonio Gloria shared honors with Chapala Mayor Joaquin Huerta, First Lady and DIF President Marisela Navarro, ranch owner Miguel Martinez and his wife Maria Guadalaupe Gomez for the official ribbon cutting. Immediately afterwards, CET coordinator Eduardo Lalo presented a demonstration featuring equine therapy techniques being practiced with four of the 30 individuals already enrolled in the program.

Among them was Hugo, a middle-aged man who is recuperating from the severe trauma of an automobile accident that left him with extensive paralysis and complete speech loss. After just four sessions being straddled over the back of a horse, he is already regaining mobility in his limbs and communication abilities beyond simple yes and no movement of his thumbs.

Siblings Dana and Citlali are young school girls who were enrolled at CET to boost their academic performance and social integration. One is diagnosed with hyperactivity, the other is intellectually gifted. Their infant brother Mateo, aged three months, is also taking sessions to enhance his physical and mental development.  

The CET program operates daily and is open to persons from all walks of life, including those who reside outside the boundaries of the Chapala municipality. Prior to starting therapy new patients are put through pre-screening to determine medical, psychological and socio-economic status.

Patients are scheduled for 15- to 30-minute therapy sessions depending upon the individual’s specific needs and physical conditions. The cost runs at 100 pesos per session. DIF has set up a Padrino sponsorship program to cover expenses for patients of limited means.

Rancho La Ilusion is located approximately one kilometer off the Libramiento bypass via the unpaved road that leads to the Chapala Media Park. Special transportation services for the physically handicapped may be arranged through DIF.   

For full information visit DIF headquarters at Degollado 327, telephone 765-2849. Enquiries may also be directed via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .