CLIENT HANDBOOK

This booklet contains the following information:

Introduction Page 2

General information Page 3-4

Benefits to riders, Program schedules Page 5

Certification Page 6

Hints from Occupational Therapist Page 7

Emergency accident plan Page 8

Fire plan Page 9

Rider registration and release forms Appendix A

Bodily contact form Appendix B

Stable release form Appendix C

Physician referral form Appendix D

Atlanto-axial x-ray form Appendix E

Stable fire plan/map Appendix F

Summary form Appendix G

Contact information:

Instructors:

Stacey Hope 506-721-3266 (text messages)

506-652-3872 kest@nbnet.nb.ca

Tomalyn Comeau 506-642-2605 tomalyncomeau@hotmail.ca

New rider co-ordinator:

Ann Bone 506-721-8468 Ann.Bone@BellAliant.net

Parent liaison:

Eric Daley 506-696-6541 daley@unb.ca

General inquiries: shininghorizonsnb@gmail.com

Associated sites:

www.cantra.ca, www.shtra.ca and on

www.facebook.com/ShiningHorizonsTherapeuticRidingAssociation

Pg 1

Introduction

Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding Association (SHTRA) is delighted that

you are interested in finding out more about our organization.

Horseback riding for mentally and physically challenged people is recognized

throughout the world as an excellent form of therapeutic recreation. Riders

benefit from the program by successes in learning, confidence, skills and self

esteem. The SHTRA program is based on longstanding, scientifically based

evidence. On horseback, many riders are able to experience mobility far

beyond their own physical capabilities.

The people that make up SHTRA include instructors, physiotherapists, and

volunteers in many guises: leaders (of the horse), sidewalkers,

parent/caregiver liaisons, volunteer coordinators, fundraisers, and arena

helpers.

Parents and caregivers also play a major role in the operation of SHTRA by

having the rider dressed appropriately for the lesson and the weather

conditions and at the facility at least ten minutes before the lesson is

scheduled to begin. This ensures there will be time to prepare the rider by

having their safety equipment properly fitted. In the event a rider will not be

able to attend a scheduled lesson, please contact the parent liaison or

instructor as soon as possible. It is also important that the parent/caregiver

wear appropriate footwear. Sandals and high heels are not permitted in the

arena. Parents and caregivers must remain on the property during the lesson.

When the facility has a viewing room, this is the recommended waiting area. It

is permissible to wait in the arena if there is no viewing room.

Pg 2

General Information

Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding Association (SHTRA) was established

in 1996. Our objective is to provide a horseback riding program for mentally

and physically challenged people as a source of enjoyment, therapeutic

exercise, and recreational sport. SHTRA currently operates out of Foshay

South Eventing Inc., 21 Gallagher Road, Lakeside, NB E5N 7K2.

Basic criteria for rider eligibility:

Must have a disability, either physical or cognitive

Must be able to stay on the horse for the entire lesson

Parent/caregiver must be able to stay for the entire lesson

Must have permission from attending physician

Must have specific goals that will improve physical, cognitive and/or

psychosocial impairments

Must not display inappropriate behaviours which could lead to placing

self or others at risk

Must be able to tolerate all approved safety equipment for the entire

lesson

For information on rider eligibility and space availability please contact the

‘New rider co-ordinator’ (information found on page 1).

For any rider who requires an Epi-Pen®, it must be brought to each lesson

and be immediately available if needed.

Appendices A, B, C, D, G and if applicable E, must be completed in their

entirety and submitted, following the rider’s tentative acceptance into the

program, 2 weeks prior to attending the first lesson.

Because SHTRA is a charitable organization, there is a cost associated for

the lessons. For information on the cost, please contact our ‘New rider

coordinator’ (information found on page 1).

Pg 3

Unless otherwise arranged, fees are required to be paid by the beginning of

each session. This allows for purchase or replacement of required

equipment.

If you require financial assistance, there are several local programs that

accept applications for supplementing recreational activities.

Recreation NB-Inclusive Recreation Activity Fund: Exclusive to

persons with disabilities. www.recreationnb.ca/programs-and-initiatives

PRO Kids: Assists with cultural and sport/recreation activities and is

exclusive to low income families. www.prokidssj.ca/main.html

Canadian Tire Jumpstart: Similar to and administered by SJ PRO

Kids. Exclusive to low income families to reduce financial barriers to

sport participation. Contact SJ PRO Kids manager for more

information. David.dobblesteyn@saintjohn.ca

Kidsport : A provincial program administered by Sport NB to assist low

income families in reducing financial barriers exclusively to sport

participation in areas where similar organizations do not exist.

www.kidsportcanada.ca/new-brunswick/

Pg 4

Benefits to Riders Being a rider in a therapeutic riding program gives a sense of

achievement, as riders improve their physical condition and all around well

being. There is a strong positive attitude. The program makes it possible

for mentally and physically challenged persons to enjoy a unique form of

therapy and recreation.

Horseback riding for mentally and physically challenged persons is

recognized throughout the world as an excellent form of therapeutic

recreation. Riders benefit from the program by successes in learning,

confidence, skills and self esteem. The SHTRA program is based on

longstanding, scientifically based evidence. On horseback, many riders are

able to experience mobility far beyond their own physical capabilities.

I acknowledge the risks and potential for risks of a horseback riding

program. However the possible benefits are greater than the risk assumed.

Program Schedule

There are two sessions of five to eight weeks each year, one in the

spring, and one in the fall. Lessons are given on Tuesday through Friday

evenings, and on Saturday mornings. Lessons are between thirty and

sixty minutes in duration, and there are between three to five lessons per

day. Lessons are dependent on the soundness of the horse(s), and

availability of volunteers. Unfortunately for these reasons, it may

sometimes be necessary to cancel a lesson. The parent or caregiver will

be notified by either the instructor or a parent liaison in the event of a

cancellation. If the rider will be unable to attend a lesson, please notify the

instructor or a parent liaison as soon as possible. Fees are non-

refundable once a session has started.

Pg 5

Certification

Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) is the governing

body for therapeutic riding organizations across Canada. They set forth

a set of strict rules and guidelines regarding the facility, the instructors

and the volunteers.

The facility must undergo a rigid safety inspection every five years. The

local organization pays a fee for this inspection, and also pays liability

insurance to CanTRA. All instructors and volunteers must undergo a

criminal background check.

Instructors must act as a volunteer for a minimum of 50 hours

before they can begin the training program. They must complete a

rigorous training program and then pass certification by CanTRA to be

allowed to teach in a therapeutic riding program. The instructors also

attend workshops on a regular basis to keep current with their

counterparts across Canada, and ensure they have the latest ‘best

practice’ information for this field.

Volunteers in the SHTRA undergo a thorough training program to

ensure the safety of the riders. They attend training sessions where they

are taught safe handling practices for the rider and the horse, facility

safety rules, and specialized procedures to follow in the event of a fire or

accident. They are taught how to ensure the safety of the rider both on

the ground, and on the horse, and to monitor their condition. They

respect the confidentiality of the riders and their parents/caregivers and

do not discuss them outside the facility or the needs of the lesson. They

are considerate of other people’s conditions and do not wear products

that may trigger allergic reactions such as scented or latex products.

Pg 6

Helpful Hints From Occupational Therapists

1. The rate of progress of a rider is measured in months or years.

2. The rate of progress of a rider is not always a reflection on the instructor

or team of volunteers. It is frequently dependent on the disability.

3. Be aware of the rider’s endurance as fatigue may occur, resulting in a

negative outcome, both physically and mentally. Relaxation, enjoyment

and learning to ride go hand in hand.

4. A change of activity will keep the rider engaged.

5. Keep to the basics since the rider must learn balance and gain

confidence. Have the rider keep one hand on the pommel strap at the

trot since using the reins for balance does not encourage a proper seat

for any rider.

6. Encourage and praise the effort as much as the action.

7. A change of horse is often for therapeutic reasons, and the rider should

not feel demoted.

8. Do not compare riders to each other. Each rider’s progress will be

different.

9. The support that each rider requires is unique to that individual.

10.Touching and supporting the rider is an intimate action and should be

done with the greatest respect for the rider’s dignity and sense of

personal ability.

Pg 7

Emergency Accident Plan

The following is the procedure to be followed in the event of an accident or

unusual occurrence during a lesson:

1. The Instructor will call the entire ride to a halt.

2. Each leader and all sidewalkers will stay with their assigned horse and

rider.

3. The Instructor will go to the rider in difficulty.

4. The Instructor will determine which sidewalkers should assist, and only

the Instructor will give directions and instructions. Parents/caregivers

and spectators may be requested to help.

5. The Instructor will send for a first aid kit and blanket if necessary.

6. Depending on the severity of the incident, no one is to move the rider or

remove their helmet. A volunteer may be requested to call 911 for an

ambulance.

7. The Instructor should stay with the rider in difficulty, and if the incident is

more than a minor injury, the remaining riders should be dismounted.

The Instructor will decide if they need to stay with the rider in difficulty,

or supervise the dismounting.

8. If the injury is minor, the rider in difficulty may sit out for a while, and the

lesson will continue for other riders. The injured rider may continue the

lesson, or wait until the next lesson to resume riding.

9. When a rider has fallen, it is imperative that they go to the hospital, or

be checked by either their attending physician.

10. The Instructor will always complete an incident report. If the

parent/caregiver or rider refuses medical attention, this must be noted

on the incident form.

It is crucial that everyone involved remains calm, and follows the

Instructor’s directions.

Pg 8

Action in the Event of a Fire

The following is the procedure to be followed in the event of a fire on the

property:

1. The person who discovers the fire is to advise the Instructor and stable

management or staff and call 911 immediately.

2. The Instructor will call the ride to a halt, and commence the evacuation

process for the riders, volunteers, and horses in use.

3. If the riders are mounted, volunteers are to remove the riders from the

horses, under supervision of the Instructor. Under emergency

conditions, use of the mounting block is not necessary. Riders can be

lifted or helped to slide off. Riders, volunteers and parents are to

proceed to the parking area beside the barn. From the arena, exit via

the arena doors. Do not go through the barn. Sidewalker volunteers are

to remain with the rider at all times.

4. Assigned leaders of horses are to bring the animals they are

responsible for outdoors, and remove the tack and place them in a

paddock, unless otherwise instructed.

5. Instructor must ensure the call to 911 has been made, and designate a

person to direct the fire department responders to the location of the

fire.

6. Fire fighting by volunteers is only to be under taken with direction from

the Instructor or stable management.

7. Perform a head count to ensure all people have been evacuated.

It is crucial that everyone involved remains calm, and follows the

Instructor’s directions.

Pg 9

Rider Registration Form

Rider Information:

Name: _____________________________ Date of Birth:________

Address: ______________________________________________

Phone: (h)____________ (c)______________(w)______________

Email: ________________________________________________

Parent/Caregiver: _______________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________

Phone: (h)____________ (c)______________(w)______________

Email: ________________________________________________

Emergency contact:

1. Name: _____________________________ Phone: __________

2. Name: _____________________________ Phone: __________

LIABILITY RELEASE

__________________________________________(name) would like to

participate in the Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding Program. I

acknowledge the risks and potential for risk in horseback riding. However I

feel that the possible benefits to myself/ my child/ my ward are greater than

the risk assumed. I hereby intend to be legally bound for myself, my heirs

and assigns, executors or administrators, waive and release forever, all

claims for damage against the Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding

Program, it’s Board of Directors, Instructors, Therapists, Aids, Volunteers

and/or Employees for any and all injuries and/or losses that I/ my child/ my

ward may sustain while participating in Shining Horizons Therapeutic

Riding Program.

Signature:_______________________________ Date:______________

Witness:________________________________ Date:______________

Appendix A: Pg 1

Photo Release Form I hereby consent to authorize the use and reproduction, by Shining

Horizons Therapeutic Riding Association, of any and all photographs

and/or any other audiovisual materials taken of me/ my child/ my ward, for

promotional printed material, educational activities, exhibitions, or for any

other use for the benefit of the program.

Signature (rider, parent or caregiver):__________________________

Date:____________________________________________________

Appendix A: Pg 2

Consent for Release of Information Form

I hereby authorize ___________________________ (person or facility) to

release information from the records of ___________________________

(prospective rider’s name). The information is to be released to Shining

Horizons Therapeutic Riding Program for the purpose of developing a

Therapeutic Riding Program for the above named prospective rider.

The information to be released is indicated below.

Medical history Yes ( ) No ( )

Physiotherapy evaluation, assessment and program plan Yes ( ) No ( )

Occupational therapy evaluation,assessment and program planYes( )No( )

Speech therapy evaluation, assessment and program plan Yes ( ) No ( )

Classroom Individual Education Plan (I. E. P.) Yes ( ) No ( )

Other________________________________________ Yes ( ) No ( )

Signature (rider, parent or caregiver):____________________________

Date:______________________________________________________

Appendix A: Pg 3

Information Release Form

I hereby authorize Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding Program to

release to it’s instructors and helpers such information as may be

necessary to conduct a beneficial and safe Therapeutic Riding Program.

Name of rider:____________________________________________

Signature (rider, parent or caregiver):__________________________

Relationship to the rider: ____________________________________

Witness:_________________________________________________

Date:____________________________________________________

Appendix A: Pg 4

DEGREE OF BODILY CONTACT WHEN WORKING WITH RIDERS

Due to the nature of the activity at Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding Association, it

is understood that instructors and trained volunteers will need to assist the majority of

riders when mounting or riding a horse.

It may be necessary to lift a rider onto the horse, or correct posture by placing hands

at the front or back of the trunk of the rider, or to correct leg and hand positions.

It is understood that this is part of the therapy/recreation sessions to which

parents/caregivers and riders have consented.

During riding lessons it may be necessary to quickly remove the rider from the horse

due to safety concerns. This is done for the well being of all concerned, and may

involve two volunteers lifting the rider.

Any bodily contact provided by the trained staff or personal care workers is in the

interest of providing a safe and fun environment for the riders and will be undertaken

with the utmost discretion.

Many of the riders who participate in the Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding program

like to give hugs. This will be monitored by the staff so that other riders will not be

placed in an embarrassing situation and behaviour will be monitored as deemed

necessary by the staff.

I have read and understood and agree to the terms above.

Rider:__________________________ Parent/guardian:__________________

Witness:_______________________ Date:___________________________

Appendix B

Appendix C: Pg 1

Appendix C: Pg 2

Physician Referral Form

Prospective Rider Information:

Name:_______________________________________________

Date of Birth:__________________________________________

Address:______________________________________________

Phone: (h)____________ (c)______________(w)_____________

Parent/Caregiver:_______________________________________

Living arrangement: Home ( ) Other ( ) Details:______________

______________________________________________________

Medical background:

Primary diagnosis:_______________________________________

Secondary diagnosis:_____________________________________

Height:_____________ Weight:____________ Gender:__________

Diabetic:___________ Insulin:_____________ Epileptic:_________

If epileptic, frequency of seizures:____________________________

Date of last seizure: ______________________________________

Medications and indications:________________________________

_______________________________________________________

Communicable diseases: Yes( ) No( ) If yes, details:____________

________________________________________________________

Surgery and dates: ________________________________________

________________________________________________________

Appendix D: Pg 1

General physical condition:

Ambulatory: Yes( ) No( ) Details:____________________________

________________________________________________________

Muscle tone: (Spasticity, flaccidity, etc.)

Tone in upper extremities: ___________________________________

Tone in lower extremities: ___________________________________

Tone in trunk: ____________________________________________

Balance: Sitting__________ Standing__________ Walking_________

Communication: Spoken__________ Sign language_______________

Speech: Good ___________ Fair____________ Poor______________

Ability to understand: Good ________ Fair _________ Poor _________

Sensory function: Sight _________ Hearing_______ Tactile_________

Continence: _______________________________________________

Allergies:__________________________________________________

Comments:________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

Physician’s Permission:

I hereby give my permission for the above individual, _______________

to participate in the Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding Program.

Physician’s name (print):______________________________________

Physician’s signature: ________________________________________

Date:______________________________________________________

Physician’s address: _________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

Phone: _____________________ Fax: ________________________

Note: It is important that this form be filled out completely and in detail, in order for the

instructor and physiotherapist to match the rider with the mount.

Appendix D: Pg 2

ATLANTO-AXIAL X-RAY VERIFICATION FOR RIDERS

WITH DOWN SYNDROME

Rider Information:

Rider: _____________________________ Date of Birth:________

Address: ______________________________________________

Phone: (h)____________ (c)______________(w)______________

Height: ____________________ Weight: ____________________

Physician Information:

Physician: _____________________________________________

Phone:______________________ Fax: _____________________

Date of X-ray: __________________________________________

Result of X-ray:__________________________________________

Physician’s signature:_____________________________________

Date: __________________________________________________

Note: Due to the nature of this activity, persons diagnosed with Down Syndrome

cannot be accepted for riding instruction without proof of a negative diagnostic X-ray

for Atlanto-Axial instability. This form must be accompanied by a signed and dated

statement from a qualified physician giving the date and result of the diagnostic X-ray.

Appendix E

Stable Map

S T A L L S

Door

X A X

I S L E W A Y

S T A L L S

B R E E Z E W A Y

Door

A R E N A

X

Mounting block

Tack room

S T A L L S

SHTRA Tack

Wash stall

Walkway to Arena

X Door

Washroom

X Fire Extinguisher X Telephone

X First Aid Kit

Appendix F

SUMMARY FORM

Rider:_______________________________________________ (To be submitted at least two weeks before first scheduled lesson)

I have attached the completed applicable forms:

Rider registration and release forms Stable release form

Bodily contact form Physician referral form

Atlanto-axial x-ray form (If applicable)

I have paid or made payment arrangements (receipt attached):

o Cash o Certified cheque

o Money order o E payment

o Other( Please specify):

Because there is a waiting list, I understand not having the above information

and funding in place may cause my application to be delayed, to allow the

other applicants access to the program.

I have read the Shining Horizons Therapeutic Riding Association Rider

handbook, and understand and agree to the content.

_______________________________________________________ (Name, print and sign)

_______________________________________________________ (Witness, print and sign)

_______________________________________________________ (Date)

Appendix G