Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic Horseback Riding is a unique form of therapy that uses the special bond between horses and humans to help improve physical and emotional well-being. It's tailored to each individual's needs and preferences, ensuring a personal and effective experience.

The natural setting and interaction with horses provide an extra layer of benefit, creating a peaceful and engaging atmosphere. For those with physical limitations, riding a horse can offer a sense of freedom and independence that's hard to find elsewhere. This therapy is not just about riding; it's about learning, growing, and enjoying life, no matter what challenges one might face. It's a blend of fun, education, and healing, all rolled into one.

Therapeutic Riding covers three main areas: functional intervention, education, and leisure participation. It helps people develop skills and behaviors needed to enjoy leisure activities, no matter their physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. This therapy builds therapeutic relationships, uses fun activities to motivate, provides helpful experiences, helps people understand themselves better, and boosts self-efficacy & confidence.

The horses in the LTRA program are matched to the ability and special needs of each individual.  When riding a horse, the muscle movement is the same as when walking.  So through riding, those with physical injuries such as paralysis or stroke benefit from a balanced workout with symmetrical movement.

Our therapeutic riding program is offered in multi-week sessions, typically between 5-8 weeks in length and operate year round. Riders are organized into groups according to their abilities and riding experience.

Each participant rides once per week at a specific time.  Presently scheduled classes take place at the following dates and times:

Monday

• 10:00 AM | 11:00 AM | 1:00 PM | 2:00 PM

Tuesday

• 1:00 PM | 2:00 PM | 5:00 PM | 6:00 PM

Wednesday

• 10:00 AM | 11:00 AM | 1:00 PM | 2:00 PM

Classes are added based upon demand. Please ensure to contact us for availability and more information.

Anyone with a physical or mental disability or behavioural issues on a physician's referral.  Students must have the Registration and Waiver forms completed.  These forms help the instructor design an appropriate program that is safe and rewarding for the rider.

Participants in our program must be at least four years of age, regardless of their disability, and must consult a doctor to evaluate whether this type of program would be beneficial. Additionally, for the safety of the rider, horses, volunteers, and instructors, there are rider weight restrictions. A rider that is not balance compromised must not exceed 79 kg (175 lbs), and a rider that is balance compromised must not exceed 75 kg (165 lbs).

The LTRA then works with the doctor or physiotherapist to set goals and design individual programs around these goals.  Though fundamental riding skills are taught, the program is designed to attain the many benefits of this type of therapy.

Session costs vary dependent on number of classes scheduled. The base fee for Therapeutic Riding classes in $30.00 per class.

An LTRA membership fee, which includes insurance, is required once a year:

• Individual $30.00 | Family $65.00 

Please note that your registration will not be confirmed until the full payment is received and the medical form is completed and up-to-date.

We want to ensure that our services are not cost prohibitive, therefore multiple subsidies are available and we are happy to discuss this in more detail if applicable.