Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary

427 - 51 St SE, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Tel (403) 270-7379

AFCC Traditional

Horse Culture and

Equine Assisted Learning

Program

Carol Mason - AFCC Executive DirectorJim Mason - Certified Traditional Horse Culture Trainer

Kari Fulmek – Certified EAL TrainerChris Hylton, AFCC Board Member, also has Canada wide EAP

Introductions

“Unless a child learns about the forces which shaped him;

The history of his people, their values and customs, their language, he will never really know himself or his potential as a human being.

Indian culture and values have a unique place in the history of mankind.

The Indian child who learns about his heritage will be proud of it.

The lessons he learns in school, his whole school experience, should reinforce and contribute to the image he has of himself as an Indian.”

George Manuel - 1972

Who are we? Program Summary Brief History In Practice Hippotherapy Elk-Dog Therapy Costs Certifications Research Fundamental Concerns Conclusion

Agenda

Organizational Mandate:

The Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary (AFCC) is committed to a holistic and traditional approach in the development and provision of services and resources for the Aboriginal peoples of Calgary. We are dedicated to serve as an ethical, community minded organization, respectful of Aboriginal Cultures and Teachings for the benefit of all Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples.

AFCC Mandate

AFCC Youth Program

“Traditional Horse Culture Program” engages Aboriginal youth of both genders between the ages of 10 to 18, as a means of helping them develop positive communication skills, appreciation of self and life, build self-esteem and empower them to stay in or return to school.

The youth are engaged with the Horse, Equine Therapists, Horse Trainers and Elders who guide them through the traditional teachings, stories, medicines and other traditional ways so that they may develop positive life skills.

What is Horse Therapy?

The goal is directed at intervention in which the horse is an integral part of self-fulfillment.

Animal Therapy is a therapy that uses animals to help heal children and adults. Animal therapy is not bias, a wide range of animals are used in animal therapy dogs, cats, birds, elephants, dolphins, rabbits are some popular animals that are used.

Animal therapy or pet therapy as it is sometimes called is most commonly used to help people heal emotionally, physically and mentally.

Source: http://www.worldwidehealth.com/

What is Horse Therapy?

What is Animal Therapy?

• An animal, such as a dog or horse becomes a basic part of a person’s day

• Having an animal around reduces stress, creates a relationship, helps people feel loved and needed, provides a listening ear without judgment and it can improve social skills and boost the confidence of an individual.

Also referred to as:• (ET) Equine Therapy• (HT) Hippo therapy (Greek word meaning “Horse”)• Ponokamita Therapy (Elk-Dog) - Blackfoot word for horse • AAT-Animal-Assisted Therapy• Pet Therapy-informal/generic• AAA-Animal-Assisted Activities

Source: http://www.worldwidehealth.com/

What is Animal Therapy?

What is the Traditional Horse Culture?

Photo curtsey International Traditional Games Society

What is the Traditional Horse Culture?The efforts of the International Traditional Games Society over a twenty year period resurrected the tribal cultural games. Knowing that the ancient games were for the youngest to the oldest in each tribe as a means to promote the cultural values, native language, and well-being of the families.

Over twenty-five American Indian games including the Horse Culture Series have been revived for their active preservation in native cultural activities at schools and at ceremonial events.

The Traditional Games Society has not only brought together families from dozens of American Indian tribes, but also visitors from Korea, Japan, Scotland, Australia, Canada, and U.S. states from California to New York, to participate in the traditional games of North American Indians.

For more information call DeeAnna Leader at (406) 226-9141 or e-mail your questions to games@traditionalnativegames.org - Head office: East Glacier, MT

The exercise is to promote the improvement in human physical, social, emotional, psychological and/or cognitive behaviour.

To gain a healthier understanding, increase in self-understanding through emotional growth and self discipline.

To develop skills in self-awareness, self-responsibility, non-verbal communication, self-control, self respect and most importantly self-confidence.

“SUICIDE PREVENTION” is the Main Objective. (This however, is not readily conveyed to the students)

The Traditional Games is an exercise of fun and games, to stimulate active play. But most importantly to maintain Native American Traditions.

General Objectives

Aboriginal/European Historical Perspectives To explore and understand the traditional heritage of the Aboriginal peoples. To provide Cultural Reconnection programs in: tradition, language, spirituality, and family values.

Residential School Syndrome Primary focus is placed on the impact of residential schools to all Aboriginal People. Address the history of residential school (boarding school) trauma, the generational affects within

Aboriginal communities.

Dynamics of Grief and Loss Explore the loss and consequential grief. To gain knowledge of these issues in the Family

Reconstruction settings; to establish continuation of healing and recovery from the trauma of residential school survivors; and the healing of generations yet to come.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder To identify and develop programs and tools to help participants recognize and assess post

traumatic stress disorder; and to understand its relationship to residential school survivors.

Cultural Systems – Values & Beliefs To provide participants with knowledge and skills in the identification and exploration of cultural

ramifications; to provide an opportunity for participants to enhance their effectiveness by addressing systemic and personal issues of living in a culturally diverse atmosphere.

“It’s time to open the doors to healing”

Specific Objectives of AFCC

So….Why the Horse?

Why Equine Therapy?

Why Traditional Games?

WHY NOT?

The Elephant in the room• Anyone have any ideas please?

Canada Suicide Rates

Youth suicide is an urgent issue for First Nations and Inuit youth in Canada. While there is much variation among communities, overall rates are high.

Suicide rates are five to seven times higher for First Nations youth than for non-Aboriginal youth. Suicide rates among Inuit youth are among the highest in the world, at 11 times the national average.

Government of Canada - http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fniah-spnia/promotion/suicide/index-eng.php

Canada Suicide Rates 2006

Government of Canada - http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fniah-spnia/promotion/suicide/index-eng.php

  

National Suicide Statistics at a Glance Suicide Rates* Among Persons Ages 10 Years and Older,

by Race/Ethnicity and Sex, United States, 2002-2006

During 2002-2006, the highest suicide rates were among American Indian/Alaskan Native males with 26.18 suicides per 100,000 and Non-

Hispanic White males with 24.69 suicides per 100,000. Of all female race/ethnicity groups, the American Indian/Alaskan Natives and Non-

Hispanic Whites had the highest rates with 6.70 and 6.15 suicides per 100,000, respectively.

The Asian/Pacific Islanders had the lowest suicide rates among males while the Non-Hispanic Blacks had the lowest

suicide rate among females.

National Suicide Statistics at a Glance Suicide Rates* Among Persons Ages 10 Years and Older, by

Race/Ethnicity and Sex, United States, 2002-2006

Source: Suicide Prevention Resource Center

As scientists have discovered, animals have healing powers. “When you stroke a cat or pet a dog, you experience a surge of healing hormones and chemicals that produce feelings of peace and serenity.” Edward T. Creagan, M.D. - Mayo Clinic oncologist

Why Healing Occurs

AFCC HCP Photos

AAT – Animal Assisted Therapy

• Wikipedia Research states this is a relatively new field of study

• However - The human-animal bond has existed for thousands of years.

• AAT is a type of therapy that involves animals as a form of treatment.

• The goal of AFCC is to improve the social, emotional, or cognitive functioning for Aboriginal youth

• Animals can also be useful for educational and motivational effectiveness for participants

AFCC HCP Photos

Because they can make people feel safe and loved when they have been deprived of social interaction or hurt by other people. “ANIMALS DO NOT LIE OR JUDGE” (Jim Mason)

They do not communicate with words, and so patients afraid of approaching people can comfortably approach an animal.

When animals are given respect and trust by their student/companion, animals will give back respect and trust.

The simple physical actions of stroking/petting, and talking to the animals is calming in a “non threatening/non pressure” environment.

Why do animals heal?

Jim Mason, Horse Culture Trainer AFCC HCP Photos

A therapist who brings along a pet is viewed as being less dangerous by the patient.

The previously uncommunicative patient is willing to share more with the professional.

Animals commonly used for therapy include dogs, cats, horses, birds, rabbits, and other small animals.

Why do animals heal?

Kari Fulmek, Equine Assisted Learning TrainerAFCC HCP Photos

Is the use of horses in therapy. Hippos is the Greek word for horse

Hippotherapy has also been approved by the American Speech and Hearing Association as a treatment method for individuals with speech disorders

Hippotherapy

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal-assisted_therapy#Equine_therapy

Picture: http://www.greekmyths-greekmythology.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/trojan-horse.jpg

The concept of therapeutic horseback riding has existed for over a century

Became popular after Liz Harwell won the Silver Medal in dressage at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, as she was nearly paralyzed from waist down from polio.

History

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal-assisted_therapy#Equine_therapy

Hippotherapy Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational,

and speech-language therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement as part of an integrated intervention program to achieve functional outcomes

Pelvic rhythmic and repetitive movement

No actual hippotherapists

Trained “therapy professionals” evaluate appropriateness of hippotherapy on individual basis

Therapy professionals work closely with horse handler

Manipulate aspects of horse’s movement to promote favorable outcomes pertaining to a particular therapy

"Source: Animal Therapies and Autism presentation, Dr Matt Colligan & American Hippotherapy Association."

Autism Therapy On Horseback, The Horse Boy, CNN Dr. Sanjay Gupta Talks With Rupert Isaacson

Rowan Isaacson – 7 year old boy with autism

You tube videohttp://youtu.be/b7GHzselNmA

Hippotherapy - Video

History of Animal Therapy

World War II Corporal William Wynn

Found in fox holeSmoky-Yorkshire Terrier

Dr. Charles MayoCommanding Officer of

Hospital in New GuineaMayo Clinic, Rochester,

MNUsed Smoky for 12 years

as therapy dog

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoky_(dog)#First_therapy_dog

The dog-day life of the Plains Indians changed dramatically around the early 1700's. When the big, four-footed animals came to the tribes, the way of life changed quickly and dramatically as Elk Dog "ponokamita" was adopted into tribal cultures.

Integrating the horse into native way of life included deep understanding of the animal, the habitat and behaviour. The horse rapidly became important to securing food, transportation and territory. Games that were played during dog-days transitioned onto horse back. For example: Foot and Horse Race, Hoop and Staff, Horse and Hide and many other games became popular with all plains tribes. The respect for the horse grew and there became Horse dances, Medicine Bundles, and Ceremonies were adopted to honor this new relative.

The Medicine Wheel Model is a guide to help us find balance in our lives and to understand how our actions affect everything around us: horses, humans and all living things.

Source: http://www.medicinewheelmodel.com/cms/index.php?page=Medicine-Wheel-Model

Native American Horse History

http://www.traditionalnativegames.org/horse_culture_86.html

Traditional Horse Culture Class of 2012

Phillip Whiteman Jr. (Cheyenne)How the Medicine Wheel Model Applies to Horses

The philosophy uses the medicine wheel as a model to work with the horse: the four colors, the four directions, stages of life and behaviors that come with each stage. “Horses too have four sides, the child, adolescent, adult and grandparent side, they mirror us as humans and our behaviors.”

This is just some of the philosophy: This simple, practical approach will benefit any level of horsemanship from the novice to the master horse trainer, or will benefit those that don't even own a horse. Research has proven that horses help people; with disabilities, and emotional problems or just young people that are misunderstood.

http://www.medicinewheelmodel.com/cms/index.php?page=native-horsemanship

Traditional History

Native Americans and the Spiritual Connection to Animals (Allen and Linda Anderson - Minnesota)

“We're fascinated by the spiritual perspective Native Americans teach in their culture. Native American spirituality offers the belief that everything is sacred. This means that we're connected to each other with invisible golden threads. To express gratitude for the sacredness in all creation, Native Americans give thanks to animals, who give their lives to be food or clothing, and to the clouds for the water they bring.

.......who remind us how spiritually connected we are to each other and all forms of life. When we take time to notice the subtle messages animals deliver, we may find the depth of our connections to be absolutely astounding.”

Source: http://www.angelanimals.net/articles025.html

“There is something about the outside of a

horse that is good for the

inside of a man”Winston Churchill

37

Photo courtesy of International Traditional Games Society

Certified Horse Culture Trainers Jim Mason – Cowboy, Retired Police Officer, Horse lover. A keen study and interest in the traditions of the Blackfeet tribes. AFCC volunteer instructor for the traditional games in Calgary, AB. Jim works with the Aboriginal Youth in fine tuning their riding abilities and instructs on how the games of the Plains Indians played.

Dutch Lunik – (Blackfeet) Movie Stunt Specialist, most recent movie contract completed and released in theatres early fall “Cowboys & Aliens,” providing Native horses and riders for some very exciting scenes. Instructor for traditional horse games. Benita Plain Feather - (Fort Belknap) ITGS President, Instrumental in research, restoring, recording and reviving old traditional horse games of the North American Plains Indian. Craig Falcon - (Blackfeet) Educator and historian on horse culture history, ceremonies, and residential school trauma instructs on the modern Indian horse culture. DeeAnna Leader – Executive Director of ITGS, 20 year passion of keeping the traditions of Blackfeet Indian traditional games. Educator, teacher has published her books on the stories and the games of the Blackfeet Traditional Games.

Train the Trainer - Outline

Level I and II• History of horse medicine, Tribes of Plains • How the horse shaped tribal socio-economic foundation • The horse and women & children • Herbal remedies for horse care • Beginning research and recovery of meaningful tribal horse culture

Level III Training• Mock classroom teaching by participants • Mock arena teaching • Advanced research techniques • Advanced elder research and preservation (consideration for what is

passed on and what is kept within tribal/personal knowledge) • How to implement programs into the schools, juvenile programs, courts,

family services, Alcohol/Drug programs, Suicide prevention programs, and other Aboriginal agencies.

Horse Therapy Testimonials(AFCC Students in program)

• “Tyson (the horses name) makes me feel I could trust more and he doesn’t hurt me”

• “I haven’t been called to the principles office for 3 weeks and I am more relaxed in class”

• “I accomplished lots of things through team work”

• “Next time I work alone with “Diesel”! Other than that it was a good day”

• “My horse trusted me, he was good and I trusted him”

• “My horse was so nice and he listened to me”

• “I learned control and I’m not scared anymore”

Train the Trainer Certification TestimoniesQuotes from first Horse Clinic (January, 2011)

Lana Crying Head, Blood Tribe: “The most important segment of the clinic was the aspects of what we lost (relationship with horse) and how we as individuals can gain it back for our homes and communities.”

Karyn Gagnon, Metis: “The clinic provided me with a comfortable pace for learning and for allowing the horses as well as the trainers to teach us. It was a good balance between knowledge and practical.”

Charlane Starlight, Nakoda Stoney Nation: “To me, the camaraderie that developed among the participants was important.”

Jim Mason, Calgary: “Understanding the healing power of the horse and the way the horse brought people together then and now. The horse was friend and relative.”

Lawrence Gaudry, Metis: “Learning the horse culture history (early, middle, and modern North American Plains Indians).”

Fundamental Concerns

Animal Therapy provides treatment at low cost

Is it effective?

How does it compare to clinical counseling?

Research is required

AFCC Horse Culture Program Cost

BUDGET $63,000

Time frame 6 months - I day a week - 6 hours per day

6 month program $10,500 per month

40 Students divide into $10,500 per month

$262.50 per child

4 classes per month divide into $262.50

$65.63 per hr – 40 students

5 hr classes divide into $65.63 $13.12 per hr Man and Horse Power

2 Coordinators, 4 Instructors, 2 ranch hands

60 horses – tack, saddles, saddle blankets

1 indoor horse facility

A lot of will power

Equine Assisted Learning – Spirit Equine Connectionswww.equineconnection.ca or email: kari@equineconnection.ca

The First Nationally Recognized Certified Equine Assisted Learning, Building Block Program

The Spiritual Equine Connection follows the Cartier Equine-Assisted Learning Centre's BuildingBlock™ teaching format.

Interactive programs

Each exercise is custom designed to maximize the progressive learning potential and focus on developing individual skills as they work through each interactive group challenge. Teams will work to: develop relationships; accept responsibility and accountability; overcome barriers to find change; be encouraged to be creative and innovative; find opportunity in working together; realize the benefits associated with effective communication; and recognize the value of mutual trust, respect, and personal integrity.

Behaviour is the result of a dialogue between your brain and your experiencepowerful individual journey of learning

• There is nothing like a 1200 pound teacher (self esteem)

• Horses in this program are effective teaching tools; immediately responding to what participants do.

• Facilitators, like myself, are trained to look for

"teachable moments" that horses identify.

• Instilling a sense of leadership in young people learn to develop a personal sense of responsibility through the care and attention that a horse requires.

• Responsibility is one of the key attributes of leadership and having to care for a horse and be immersed in its continuing care has proven to be a powerful tool that is used to teach responsibility.

• Learn to communicate effectively.

• Working with horses in an equine assisted program gives young people the chance to learn how to become effective communicators and listeners. This is an important part of developing leadership skills in children of all ages. Being able to listen to what your horse is telling you without resorting to frustration is a vital skill.

BENEFITS FOR YOUTH• Improving self-awareness and self-esteem • Developing trust and respect • Providing training in social skills • Encouraging sensory stimulation and integration • Developing choice-making and goal-setting skills • Encouraging responsibility • Promoting pro-social attitudes through care-giving experiences • Considering the needs and views of others • Sharing responsibility for social and physical environments • Communication skills • Leadership skills • Emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual wellness • Playfulness • Creativity • Laughter

EAL - TESTIMONIALS"I had fun and I haven't had fun in a while, I can't wait to come back."

"This equine program was so much fun! I've never had this experience before and I feel I'm so confident. I loved being here so much. Hope you guys keep this going so

everyone can have an awesome experience like this!"

"Today I've been stressed out and upset. But when I came here everything changed about how I felt, because I was building a relationship with Tanya Tucker."

"Today Pepper could tell I was sad, and he was also unhappy. I feel he wouldn't move until I smartened up and started being happy."

“It is not enough for a man to know how to ride,

he must know how to fall”

Old Mexican Proverb

Source: Shelley Green, Ph.D., Professor of Family Therapy Olivia Schlapfer, M.S.,Family Therapy Doctoral Student, Nova Southeastern University presentation.

Time Healing takes time and time is healing

Relationship Healing takes place within the context of a relationship.

Intensity Achieving an energy of activation is necessary

Holism Mental/emotional/physical

Peace and Quiet The distractions of modern life "inactivate" catalysts for change

Self-awareness Self-reflection needed for healing

Rest Change often requires a break in usual daily rhythms.

Ceremony To access spiritual aid to healing

Source: Lewis Mehl-Madrona, M.D., Ph.D . Traditional (Native American) Indian MedicineTreatment of Chronic Illness: Development of an Integrated Program with Conventional American

Medicine and Evaluation of Effectiveness. http://www.healing-arts.org/mehl-madrona/mmtraditionalpaper.htm )

Methodology Principles

Outcomes • Youth learn to care and communicate with the horses; through this learning and teachings, • Learn to care for themselves and build healthy communication patterns and relationships with

others• Enhance their cultural connection and sense of belonging that will in turn develop leadership

skills, self respect, and a positive outlook towards the future with the help of peers, horses and nature.

• Develop a strong sense of identity and self-worth; they strengthen their sense of belonging and are supported by the Elders; they begin to develop life skills and resilience.

• To experience nature and the healing power of horses, engage in activities and experiences designed

• Guide and inspire the youths to learn personal integrity and make positive changes to take with them for the rest of their lives.

• Return as mentors and begin to develop leadership skills.• Discover and chart a path for themselves.• Become positive role models for other youth and advocate for themselves and other at-risk

youth.• Become aware of suicide prevention and the cycle of life.• Develop a strong awareness for the value of life, recognize the signs and symptoms of suicide,

and learn ways to prevent it through various techniques.

Animal-Assisted Therapy has been shown to help children who have experienced abuse or neglect, patients undergoing chemotherapy or other difficult medical treatments, and veterans and their families who are struggling to cope with the effects of wartime military service.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal-assisted_therapy#Equine_therapy

Conclusion

OUR CONCLUSION

The participating youth will sustain overtime the cultural attachments that they gained in this program, through

continuous and ongoing practices of traditional ways and ceremonies, attachment to the Elders and mutual support.

Our children need help and only we can find the solution to our success.

cmason@afccalgary.org Carol Mason 403 270-7379 x 230

caroljimmason@msn.com Jim Mason 403.764.48791

http://www.equineconnection.ca Kari Fulmek 403-519-6765

chris@hylton.ca Chris Hylton 1 800 449 5866

Thank you!

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND OR YOU WANT TO MAKE A DONATION PLEASE CALL

Carol MasonAboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary

#101, 427-51st AvenueCalgary, AB Canada

T2H 0M8

403.270.7379 x 270www.afccalgary.org

Email:info@afccalgary.org

Animal-Assisted Therapy and Activities: A Study and Research Resource Guide for the Use of Companion Animals in Animal-Assisted Interventions , by Phil Arkow , (2011: 189 pp.), ISBN: 978-0-615-46239-4

Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association, Inc. (2009). http://www.eagala.org/ Dolphin Therapy. http://www.dolphintherapy.eu Animal-Assisted Therapy. (2010). http://www.mahalo.com/animal-assisted-therapy Miscellaneous Therapies: Pet-facilitated Therapy. In The Complete Guide to Autism Treatments, Freeman,

S. K., Ph.D (pp. 327-333). Lynden, WA: SKF Books USA, Inc. Dolphin Therapy and Autism.

http://www.researchautism.net/autism_treatments_therapies_intervention.ikml?ra=64&infolevel=2 Life Changing Stories: The American Hippotherapy Association.

http://www.americanhippotherapyassociation.org/stories/life-changing-stories-2/ A n i m a l - A s s i s t e d A c t i v i t i e s ( A A A ) http://www.deltasociety.org/Document.Doc?id=10 Animal Therapies and Autism, Dr. Matt Coldwell,

http://www.slidefinder.net/2/20553_20Animal_20Therapies/23601139 www.medicinewheelmodel.com/cms/index.php?page=Medicine-Wheel-Model Traditional Horse Culture – International Traditional Games – www.traditionalnativegames.org Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary – www.afccalgary.org

Reference Material