Did you know that hippotherapy and adaptive (therapeutic) riding are not the same thing? Hippotherapy (Early Intervention Program on Friday mornings) is a medical therapy led by licensed professionals (like PTs, OTs, or SLPs), where the horse’s movement is used as a treatment tool. Adaptive riding (Lessons from Monday to Thursday) focuses on building confidence, independence, physical mobility, and overall wellbeing in a supportive environment, with riding skills as one piece

This May, Victoria artist Tanya Bub invites the public to experience a powerful fusion of art, storytelling, and activism with her latest exhibition, Wild Art for the Big of Heart. Running May 12–31, 2026, this ambitious sculpture show celebrates ten local charities while directly supporting their work: 25% of any Tanya Bub artwork purchase will be donated to a participating charity of the buyer’s choice, transforming each piece into a vehicle for change. The exhibition featu

Curious about volunteering with us? Join our Volunteer Orientation event on June 4th at 5:30pm! This session includes a 1-hour informative discussion on volunteer position opportunities, followed by an exciting barn tour. Don't miss this chance to learn about our volunteer roles and explore our facility firsthand! The Volunteer Orientation event is NOT mandatory to apply as a volunteer and attend one of our training session in the future. Free session - Save your spot HERE. F

As part of the Gage Gallery charity exhibition Wild Art for the Big of Heart, join the Victoria Therapeutic Riding Association (VTRA) for a fun and creative afternoon. Drop in to paint your own real horseshoe, try our MiraColt, Western Canada’s first mechanical horse, and learn how VTRA supports individuals and families through therapeutic riding programs and other equine‑assisted services. This hands‑on, family‑friendly event is perfect for all ages. While your horseshoe dri

You may notice that instructors often tell riders what to do rather than what not to do, and there’s a good reason for that! Positive instructions are clearer, easier to process, and help riders feel more confident. As volunteers, we can help reinforce this by echoing the instructor’s words in a positive way. For example, instead of saying: “Don’t lean forward,” try “Sit tall” or “Shoulders back.” “Don’t kick,” try “Gentle legs” or “Quiet legs. “Don’t lean into the turn.” try

When handling the lead rope, it’s essential to hold it correctly for safety and effective communication with the horse. Here’s how to hold the rope: Two Hands on the Lead Line: Always use both hands for a stable and controlled grip on the rope. No Loop Around Your Hand: Never loop the rope around your hand to avoid injury if the horse pulls. Leave an Arm’s Length from the Buckle: Keep about an arm’s length of slack from the buckle to provide the horse with freedom of movement