The Healing Power of Therapeutic Riding in Greely
On a sprawling 20-acre pasture in Greely, a rural community south of Ottawa, therapeutic horseback riding offers profound benefits that extend far beyond physical rehabilitation for children and adults with developmental and learning disabilities. The Therapeutic Riding Association of Ottawa-Carleton (TROtt) has been providing specialized equine-assisted programs for half a century, creating transformative experiences for participants facing various challenges.
A Personal Journey of Transformation
Thirteen-year-old Keira Reaney's story exemplifies the life-changing impact of therapeutic riding. After contracting bacterial meningitis at just 15 months old, Keira suffered several strokes that affected each side of her body differently, resulting in significant loss of trunk control and mobility challenges. Her customized ankle and foot orthotics feature a photo of the first horse she rode during therapeutic sessions, symbolizing the profound positive influence equine therapy has had on her life.
"Keira loves Chica so much," says her mother, Emma Reaney, highlighting the special bond that has developed between her daughter and the therapy horse. Following intensive physiotherapy at CHEO and transitioning through various educational settings, Keira began therapeutic riding at age four as recommended by a physiotherapist seeking additional activities for the young girl who sometimes uses a wheelchair but can also navigate with a walker.
The Science Behind Equine Therapy
Emma Reaney explains the therapeutic foundation of horseback riding: "Horses have a gait similar to humans, so it's very good sensory information for the brain in terms of learning gait. The games and exercises amplify the work we're doing in physiotherapy and occupational therapy." This unique aspect of equine therapy provides participants with valuable sensory input that supports neurological development and physical rehabilitation.
Keira's weekly sessions take place in TROtt's indoor arena alongside three other riders, guided by certified instructor Amanda through carefully designed games and activities. These include relay races and obstacle courses specifically developed to enhance motor skills, sensory processing, and muscle engagement while maintaining an atmosphere of enjoyment and accomplishment.
Building Confidence and Community
Beyond the measurable physical benefits, therapeutic riding at TROtt fosters significant emotional and social development. Keira beams as she reflects on her nine years with the program: "I love riding, I love the horses, I love the people." The experience has substantially grown her confidence while providing a meaningful sense of community that extends beyond the riding arena.
Three dedicated volunteers—Grant, Tasha, and Lydia—have become cherished friends who support Keira throughout her sessions. They ensure her safety on the horse, with Tasha and Lydia linking their arms over her legs as an extra precaution due to balance challenges. Grant, who connected with Keira on their first meeting and drives over an hour to participate, leads the horse around the arena during her therapeutic program.
A Legacy of Support and Transformation
The non-profit stable in Greely quietly supports numerous children and adults living with a range of physical, developmental, and learning disabilities through its specialized horseback riding programs. For participants like Keira, the benefits are multidimensional, combining physical rehabilitation with emotional growth and social connection.
As therapeutic riding continues to demonstrate its effectiveness across multiple domains of wellbeing, organizations like TROtt remain vital community resources. Their work exemplifies how specialized equine-assisted programs can create meaningful change in the lives of individuals facing various challenges, offering hope, progress, and connection through the unique bond between humans and horses.
