Adaptive / Therapeutic Riding
IMPORTANT NOTE
All VTRA programs are currently full, and our team is actively working with individuals on our waitlist. At this time, we are unable to accept new requests. We encourage you to check our website regularly for updates as space becomes available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
What is Adaptive/Therapeutic Riding:
According to Path International, "therapeutic riding is an equine-assisted activity for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals with special needs. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of health, education, sport and recreation & leisure." Professional instructors and dedicated volunteers work closely with riders to ensure safe riding lessons. Riding classes are taught by a certified instructor who has a strong equine background, as well as an understanding of various abilities.
Parameters for Participation:
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We serve those with a variety of diverse abilities and diagnoses including but not limited to: ASD, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Brain Injury, Anxiety, Depression, Down Syndrome, etc.
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Ages 4 and up
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Maximum weight of 150lbs
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Seizure-free for the past 6 months if on seizure medication or 1 year if unmedicated
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Free of contraindications to adaptive/therapeutic riding or safety concerns
Important Note:
Before participating, prospective participants must consult with a physician. CanTRA (Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association) and PATH Intl (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) require participants in a therapeutic/adaptive riding program to present a completed medical history and signed physician’s consult forms. Forms are sent to you in the Intake Package after the initial inquiry process has been completed.
Fees:
Adaptive/Therapeutic Riding classes are $42/lesson (45 minutes group lesson or 30 minutes semi-private or Early Participant). Participants sign up for a term of riding (between 6 and 10 weeks), so fees are generally between $252 and $420 per term. Payment is due prior to the start of the riding term.
A variety of funding sources including Autism Funding Unit, Jumpstart, KidSport, and school funding can be applied to VTRA Programs.
2025/2026 Term Dates:
VTRA programs run September to June. There are no classes on Stat holidays.
Term 1: September 15 – October 31 (7 weeks)
Term 2: November 10 – December 19 (6 weeks)
Term 3: January 12 – March 13 (9 weeks)
Term 4: April 7 – June 12 (10 weeks)