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Therapeutic Riding Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

National Veterinary Associates

$100K - $130K/yr

Laser surgery & therapeutic laser treatments - minimize pain, accelerate healing * Avian and exotic ... horseback riding Snowshoe, Canaan Valley, and Winterplace - skiing, snowboarding, and tubing ...

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Therapeutic Riding information

What Are Therapeutic Riding Jobs?

Therapeutic riding, also known as equine therapy, is a program in which a client with a mental or physical disability interacts with horses. The program does not treat a condition like ADHD or depression, but instead helps clients learn necessary skills, social cues, and responsibilities. Your duties in therapeutic riding involve assisting clients with a ride, showing them how to groom or feed a horse, teaching them how to stock or clean a barn, and talking to clients during and after their experience about what they learned and how to apply those lessons to their life. An equine therapist, riding instructor or aide, program director, and program manager are some therapeutic riding positions.

What are some common challenges therapeutic riding instructors face when working with clients and horses?

Therapeutic riding instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting lesson plans to meet the diverse physical, cognitive, or emotional needs of their clients. They must also ensure the safety and well-being of both riders and horses, which requires strong observation skills and quick decision-making. Coordinating with therapists, volunteers, and horse handlers is essential for smooth sessions, and instructors need to be flexible and patient as progress can vary greatly among participants. Additionally, maintaining the physical health and training of therapy horses is an ongoing responsibility.

What is therapeutic riding?

Therapeutic riding is a form of equine-assisted activity where individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges participate in horseback riding sessions. These sessions are led by certified instructors and aim to improve balance, coordination, confidence, and social skills. Unlike hippotherapy, which is conducted by licensed therapists for medical treatment, therapeutic riding focuses on overall well-being, recreation, and personal development. It can benefit people of all ages with a variety of needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, and learning disabilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor, you need a strong understanding of horsemanship, equine care, and the basics of physical or occupational therapy, usually demonstrated by certification from organizations like PATH Intl. Familiarity with adaptive riding equipment and safety protocols is essential, as is experience with lesson planning and record-keeping systems. Exceptional communication, patience, and empathy set instructors apart when working with individuals with diverse physical, emotional, or cognitive needs. These skills ensure safe, effective sessions that foster client progress and well-being while maintaining high safety standards for both riders and horses.

What is the difference between Therapeutic Riding vs Equine Therapist?

AspectTherapeutic RidingEquine Therapist
CertificationsCertified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, PATH Intl. certificationEquine-assisted therapy certification, related mental health or occupational therapy credentials
Work EnvironmentEquestrian centers, therapy facilities, clinicsTherapy clinics, mental health settings, equine therapy centers
Industry UsageFocuses on riding as a therapeutic activity for individuals with disabilitiesProvides mental health or physical therapy using horses, often including riding and groundwork

Therapeutic Riding primarily involves instructing individuals with disabilities in riding activities to promote physical and emotional well-being. Equine Therapists may incorporate riding but often focus more on therapy sessions that include groundwork and mental health interventions. Both roles require specialized certifications and work in equine-assisted environments, but their primary goals and methods differ.

More about Therapeutic Riding jobs
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Therapeutic Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapeutic Riding job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Performer - Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction

Dolly Partons Stampede Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Have you ever dreamed of performing at Dolly Parton's Stampede? Now is your chance! We're seeking talented performers with positive attitudes, energetic personalities, and a passion for entertaining.
To apply, please include:
  • A recent portrait headshot
  • Any dance reels or horse-riding clips (if available)

After applying, please email your head shot, resume and performance reels to: leroyr@dpstampede.com
Please include "Performer 2026 Season" in your email subject line.
Position Overview
This role involves physically demanding and safety-sensitive performance activities, including working with live animals, props, and dynamic stage environments. Performers are expected to carry out their duties in a manner that ensures the safety of themselves, fellow performers, animals, and guests.
We are committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive workplace. All employees are expected to follow established safety policies, procedures, and training requirements.
Essential Functions & Physical Requirements
The following are essential functions of the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these functions:
  • Perform horseback riding as part of live show performances, requiring balance, coordination, and control
  • Stand and move for extended periods during rehearsals and performances
  • Frequently bend, stoop, twist, and engage in dynamic physical movement
  • Occasionally move and/or lift materials weighing up to 100 lbs as part of performance or production needs
  • Occasionally push or pull equipment exceeding 100 lbs
  • Use hands for grasping, handling, and controlling equipment and reins
  • Work in a variety of environments, including elevated positions, confined spaces, sand, and areas with moving mechanical parts
  • Perform in proximity to live animals and moving objects
  • Communicate effectively with team members in both routine and high-pressure situations
  • Maintain awareness of surroundings, including visual and auditory cues, to support safe performance execution
  • Respond appropriately in emergency situations, using sound judgment

Safety Expectations
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA-related guidelines
  • Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) when applicable
  • Participate in safety training and rehearsals
  • Report hazards, incidents, or unsafe conditions promptly

Benefits & Perks
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Company-matched 401(k)
  • Complimentary and discounted tickets to our shows and select area attractions

If you're ready to be part of an exciting, fast-paced performance environment, we'd love to hear from you!

Apply