50 The Heights About Therapeutic Horseback Riding The therapeutic value of riding was first recognized by the Ancient Greeks. Riding programs for handicapped people have been existence for years in Europe and have been established more recently in North America. The many benefits of therapeutic riding include:
The Antigonish Therapeutic Riding Association (ANTRA) was founded in 1986 and serves the residents of eastern Nova Scotia. Its chief objectives are "to provide a therapeutic and recreational horseback riding program for physically, mentally, and emotionally handicapped people, and to promote public awareness of such a program." Several handicapped young people benefitted from a program conducted in Antigonish in the summer of 1986. Our organization is committed to ensure the development and growth of such programs in order to benefit all handicapped people. ANTRA is a registered charitable organization affiliated with:
Riders in our program are taught normal principles of horse care and equitation. Specific therapeutic activities and equipment modifications are incorporated according to the individual needs of each rider, by physiotherapists, occupational therapists and paramedical professionals. As with all therapeutic riding programs, safety and enjoyment are considered of paramount importance. In addition to a riding instructor, our riders are given physical and moral support by volunteers; sometimes as many as three assistants may be required for one horse/rider combination. Rider's fees are kept at an absolute minimum to ensure availability to all. Our Needs Our program needs volunteers who enjoy people and/or horses. Anyone 14 years of age and over may volunteer his.her time to help our riders. Training programs for volunteers are provided by ANTRA. Financial contributions and donations of equipment, service and expertise are needed on an on-going basis. The long-term goal of our fund-raising committee is the provision of an indoor riding ring, to permit us to operate regardless of weather conditions and thereby increase our service to our riders. New members are always welcome. Community input is essential for the growth of our organization. Membership in ANTRA entitles you to a voice in the business of the organization, a vote at general meetings, and to become involved in a variety of ways to promote the growth of our program.
I saw a child who could not walk
I saw a child, no legs below
I saw a child who could only crawl
I saw a child born into strife (By J.A. Davis, Arch. Phys. Med. Rehab., Oct. 1974)
RIDING ASSOCIATION
50 The Heights 
Supported by Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre Technical Resource Centre |