Telemundo DFW Story on ManeGait
April 11, 2025
Telemundo DFW 39 visited ManeGait on April 2 to interview a ManeGait rider family (Enrique and his mom, Juanita) along with a dedicated ManeGait volunteer (Andrea).
English Transcript
Anchors:
Well, April is crucial for those seeking awareness and understanding about autism. Often, some people report facing stigma and discrimination due to a lack of knowledge about their experiences and the unique needs they have. Today, we’re talking about a ranch here in North Texas that focuses on helping people with disabilities in a unique way—with horses.
"It's heartwarming to see how horses change people’s lives," Andrea.
Equine therapy is a therapeutic tool where the movements of horses lead to physical and psychological improvements in patients.
“The difference in my son over the past 17 years is like night and day.”-- Juanita.
For Juanita, this type of therapy has been a huge help for her son Enrique, aiding him in communicating better at school and at work.
“The control he has while riding the horse has significantly boosted his self-confidence, independence, and ability to translate those skills into his daily life. He even drives by himself now, and you can clearly see the difference between sessions."-- Juanita.
"How much children improve after equine therapy. It has so many benefits.”-- Andrea.
ManeGait, with over 14 acres of land, has become a nationally recognized therapeutic riding center. They help 150 people with disabilities every week. However, they say there are over 400 people currently on a waiting list.
"It’s heartbreaking to have so many people," shares Nelson. She explains they are working on an expansion plan to increase the number of horses and double the available classes.
Currently, they offer five sessions per year, each consisting of a 6-week course. To participate, the cost is $300 for group sessions or $400 for private lessons. It’s worth mentioning that financial assistance is available, covering up to 75% of the costs. Classes are open to all ages, starting at 5 years old.
"Horses are very empathetic; they instinctively know what someone is feeling and help them overcome or cope with their fears, leaving them behind. It’s a deep connection that forms."-- Juanita.
Anchors:
These animals are amazing. In fact, one of the volunteers also shared that even though they can’t communicate verbally with the horses, it’s a friendship—a bond that’s created where they connect emotionally.
They also offer other programs, not just for individuals with autism but for others with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more.
