Traditional medical techniques are available to special-needs people in Prince George but the city also has a horse of a different colour. The Therapeutic Riding Association puts unique patients on the backs of unique horses for a combination of happiness and therapy.
"It helps people with special needs to develop social skills, self esteem, and helps with physical development and fine motor skills," said Barb Warkentine, who co-founded the association in 1992 in part to help her son with cerebral palsy.
The group has grown now to 35 clients with all sorts of mental and physical challenges, each of whom has their own reasons to saddle up and go for a supervised ride on one of the society's three very docile horses.
"It is a dream that has come to fulfillment," said Warkentine. "My son Brett is 25 now and he's been riding since he was six, and I have seen the health benefits with his muscles and bones stretched so he can move more freely, but it has a real effect on his spirit, too. As every spring comes along [the twice-weekly sessions halt during winter] Brett says 'neigh' neigh' because he knows when it warms up he rides again."
The society wants more people to have the same experience. Sessions currently cost the clients $15 each, covering only a fraction of the true expenses involved. The association relies on volunteers (there are 14 now, and more needed with a basic understanding of horses and a care for people) and fundraising to keep the costs down.
The sessions are based at the city's equestrian centre next to CN Centre.
Two events are coming soon to raise funds and awareness for the program. Spruce Capital Feeds and the Treasure Cove Casino are hosting a dinner and concert with country star Julian Austin on Oct. 1 at the casino's show lounge. Tickets are $60 and there will also be a silent auction and other ways to contribute.
"It is our biggest fundraiser of the year," said Warkentine. "It is a very important night."
Their other major annual event happens Oct. 16 at the municipal riding arena, when the clients gather for a public horse show to demonstrate their skills and love for horseback riding.
Anyone wishing more information on the Prince George Therapeutic Riding Association can call Warkentine at 250-962-5082.
