About
The Therapeutic Riding Association of Ottawa-Carleton (TROtt) has been providing therapeutic riding lessons and other horse-assisted programs for children and adults with physical, developmental and learning disabilities for over 50 years.
We invite you to come and see what we’re all about. Our friendly barn cat might even come out to say hello! We simply ask that you give us a call to schedule a visit. With the calm energy of our horses combined with the fresh country air and beautiful surroundings, TROtt promises an experience you won’t forget.
“I have enjoyed the challenge, the risk-taking, the learning, and, above all, the opportunity to share my sport – riding horses – with so many others.”
– Lelia Sponsel
Our mission
To provide accredited therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted programs that enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities.
Our vision
To grow as a center of excellence for therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted programs that is recognized in our community and beyond.
We are proud of our program and of the support we provide for families in our community. What makes our program so significant is TROtt supports the Canadian standardization of therapeutic riding instruction and has Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) and Equestrian Canada certified instructors.
CanTRA is a member of Horses in Education and Therapy International (HETI) and is recognized as the only governing body for therapeutic riding in Canada. In February 2010, TROtt was awarded Accreditation Status by CanTRA and we continue to be the only accredited therapeutic riding centre in the Ottawa area. In addition to ensuring our staff and facility are accredited, we support quality standards in equine-assisted activities by arranging trainings, certifications, clinics and workshops at our facility.
Core values
Volunteerism – As the cornerstone of our service delivery model, volunteers are valued, well-trained and thanked regularly.
Inclusivity – We facilitate access to the joys and benefits of equine-assisted therapies and activities. We mindfully create a place where all people feel safe, respected, and valued.
Excellence – As the only CanTRA-accredited stable in the Ottawa-Carleton region, we aim to achieve excellence in all activities.
Safety – We provide a culture of safety with formal protocols that are learned and followed at all times.
Compassion – We consistently exercise compassion and patience in our interactions with clientele, with the horses, and with each other.
Facility
TROtt currently rents the facility at Equidae Stables on approximately 20 acres of beautiful pasture in Greely, Ontario, just 30 minutes south of downtown Ottawa.
TROtt’s barn contains 13 box stalls for our wonderful herd of therapeutic riding horses. We have a large, heated indoor arena for inclement weather and an outdoor riding ring where our riders and horses can enjoy the warmer months surrounded by the beauty of the grounds. The footing is a rubber crumb and sand mix, providing a surface that has enough give for the horses and is firm enough for people to walk on.
We have viewing areas for both indoor and outdoor lessons, so families can watch their loved one during class. A heated classroom next to the arena is fully accessible to our participants and their families.
