Our Beginning

Open Gait’s name was born out of a love for gaited horses (thus the play on the word gate to “gait”), especially the Tennessee Walking Horse. David Tucker, Open Gait’s founder and Crissy Tucker Open Gait’s co-founder built their barn in February 2003. They also purchased a Tennessee Walking Horse stallion and two Tennessee Walking Horse mares to fill the stalls and become steady, loyal companions.  As they were sitting on their couch one night, exhausted from a day of cleaning stalls, other barn chores, and a brief trail ride they happened to tune in to a television program that featured therapeutic riding.  Instantly they both looked and each other and said “that is what we have to do”! So the dream was born and nearly three years later Open Gait is becoming a reality.  Open Gait also uses beautiful Polish Arabians in the program.

Open Gait is located approximately 20 miles east of Huntsville in Paint Rock, Alabama.  We use equine assisted therapy for children diagnosed with chronic or life threatening illness.  If a child is too weak or uncomfortable riding they are encouraged to build relationships with the animals by grooming, feeding, and petting the horses, as well as the rest of our critters.

Each child is considered on a case-by-case basis. If you think this type of therapy could benefit your child, please call (256) 776-3847 or 256-468-4548 to receive more information or schedule a tour of the farm.

Our Staff:
Program Managers - David and Crissy Tucker