Drug Rehab and Working with Horses

Cirque Lodge is known for its experiential program. At the forefront of this program is our equine experience. Dave Beck, our experiential director and horse expert, discusses the invaluable experience that comes from working with horses in a drug rehab setting. The disease of addiction does a number of things to the central nervous system of the brain. By working with horses, the drug rehab client can come to terms with a number of their limitations, and learn the importance of asking for help.

A metamorphosis and bond occurs in working with horses. A connection is established between man and another living creature. Such a bond can be extremely therapeutic to the person in drug rehab. For a long time the only thing they could connect with were drugs or liquor. Now they have established a deep connection with another living thing. Once this connection is established, the horse shows amazing loyalty. This can be the vital spiritual experience that creates that internal change to overcome addiction.