The Program

The Industry of Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) in America has been growing rapidly for the past 12 years. It’s root can be traced to animal therapies used for decades in Europe.

Here in the United States a high level example of this learning application was used at the University of Arizona to teach medical students patient communication skills.

A benchmark EAL project that has realized great success in the public school system of Indianapolis, Indiana is the Cowboy Poetry curriculum developed and implemented by Strides To Success in Indianapolis. The combination of teaching Character building traits blended with academics helps youth stay out of trouble, stay in school, and become successful and productive students.

The curriculums, contracts and measuring tools are very flexible. The lesson plans are strength based and add value to adopted curriculum. The pathways for such effective lessons are the magnificent horses and the non-threatening and unfamiliar environment of the ranch.

The People

Terri Dussault

A registered dental hygienist by trade,Terri began researching equine assisted growth and learning about 10 years ago after training in "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People". It was through the leadership courses that she decided to take her two passions, working with horses and teaching, and combined them!

It took her 25+ of year's horse experience and innate teaching abilities to become EAGALA Level I certified and start her own business, Full Circle Resources, Inc. Serving as president of the company Terri facilitates equine assisted learning classes, creates innovative lesson plans, heads fund raising and marketing efforts and manages the 10 acre facility where Full Circle Resources is based.

Catherine Butski

Catherine is a Riding Master VI graduate of Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre and a Certified Riding Instructor. After graduation, she worked in Kentucky & North Carolina at sport horse centers teaching lessons & training. It was during this time she began developing equine assisted learning programs. Catherine has co facilitated equine assisted experiential learning (EAL) activities since 2003.

Through her education and experiences, she has gained many skills, as well as an understanding of communication, social interaction, and behavior. As a certified horseback riding instructor and EAGALA equine specialist, her education and work experience complements all programs. She continues her own development with regular dressage lessons and continuing education courses.

The Horses

Colin's Song

(aka- Little man): This comedian of a horse is 13 years old gelding and a great teacher of why we all need boundaries.

He was hand raised as an orphan foal then actually started in 6 thoroughbred track races in New Mexico as a 2 year old.

Sienna

"What a sweet horse!" is the standard comment made by everyone who meets "Ce Ce" as we call him. A 17 year old Trekaner cross, gelding who needed a home…and we thank God for him every day.

He is our go-to guy for almost every lesson.

Pete

Is our fabulous Appaloosa Quarter horse and a rock steady man! He has done so much is his 16 years but his greatest achievement is over coming being blind in one eye.

He is our friendship and tolerance teacher as well as an example of patience and perseverance.