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When a former upper-level dressage mount named Carter joined the equine team at Maryland Therapeutic Riding (MTR) in 2020, no one could have predicted how many different roles this 17.1 hand “gentle giant” would come to fill within their program. Today, the imported German Sporthorse gelding serves participants in everything from unmounted equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions to summer offerings for children to adaptive riding lessons. But perhaps some of Carter’s most important contributions are what he offers to participants in MTR’s Equine Services for Heroes program.

Over 70 veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families participate in the Equine Services for Heroes programming, all of which is offered at no cost. Activities include both mounted and unmounted equine-assisted horsemanship programs, equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions, occupational, physical, and speech therapy, and riding for wellness. Additionally, MTR offers one day equine-assisted sessions for groups such as the Wound Warriors Project, Ft. Meade, Ft. Meade Exceptional Family Member Program, Baltimore Station, and others.

Carter, with his ability to transition seamlessly from one activity to the next, has proven to be an invaluable asset in providing veterans and their family members with non-traditional -- yet profoundly impactful-- therapeutic interventions. According to staff, the gray gelding quickly assesses the needs of each participant and adjusts his behavior and movement to meet people where they are. A sensitive soul, during unmounted programming, Carter connects deeply with those who need a safe outlet to explore anxieties, better regulate emotions, or navigate depression.

“When he looks at you, Carter seems to have the heart and understanding of a human, but the intense loving and majestic presence of a prestigious equine,” says Amy, a veteran participant in Equine Services for Heroes programming. “He responds to every little command or movement, intentional or not, showcasing his sophisticated level of training and skill.”

Through working with Carter, Amy says she has learned how to better align her energy with her intention, and has re-learned how to build deeper, more trusting relationships. These tools have proven essential as she works to heal from the invisible wounds left behind from her time in the service.

“His incredible responsiveness, loving nature, and deeply felt heart have been so impactful in my healing,” says Amy. “I am profoundly grateful to MTR, the staff and to Carter for this beautiful
journey.”

When Kirby returned from his service in Afghanistan, he was wheelchair-bound, and during his first rides on Carter, he required a leader and two sidewalkers. A year and half later, thanks to Carter’s gentle nature and plenty of hard work, Kirby was able to ride independently for the first time.

“He is a powerful and elegant horse,” says Kirby. “He enjoys riding to his maximum capability, and at the same time, is acutely aware of how much I can handle. He instinctively dials it up or down accordingly — pushing me, challenging me to be stronger, but not overwhelming
me.

“In fact, on several occasions Carter could tell I was in pain, though I did my best to mask it,” Kirby continues. “Even though I wanted to do more, he held me in check, and we worked on the basics.”

On another occasion, Kirby’s legs were unsteady after dismounting. He says that Carter slowed his pace and allowed Kirby to lean on the animal’s sturdy body while walking back to the barn.

“Carter gives his heart to his rider, wholly and unconditionally, and without it, I wouldn’t be walking as I do today,” says Kirby. “I owe Carter an enormous debt of gratitude, and it is with honor and pride that I call Carter my friend and my hero. Thank you, Carter, for getting me back on my feet.”

At MTR, the goal is not only to honor the sacrifices of veterans but also to empower them and their families to find peace, resilience, and joy through connecting humans and horses in a healing environment. Through his work with the Equine Services for Heroes programs, Carter has changed countless lives.