Therapeutic Support – Side Walker

The Side Walker works directly in the therapeutic riding classes alongside the Horse Leader to support the client receiving the service. Volunteers who have prior experience with horses are preferred. Additional specialized training for therapeutic riding programs is provided by CanTRA-certified or alternatively credentialed instructors. The side walker plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and safe mounting and dismounting for the rider, as well as maintaining control and ensuring the rider’s well-being during lessons, under the guidance of a certified instructor. An adept side walker works closely with the horse handler—and, if present, the other side walker—maintaining clear communication to stay attuned to the rider’s body language and ensure a balanced collaboration with the horse. They step in to assist as needed, especially with less experienced riders.

• Aid for Individuals with Disabilities : Volunteers are crucial in supporting individuals with disabilities participating in our therapeutic horseback riding program.
• Preparation of Horses : Responsibilities include grooming and saddling horses, with new volunteers receiving support and guidance from experienced individuals.
• Following the direction of the Instructor, Side Walkers, oversee and manage assigned riders during the class.
• Reinforce what the instructor is asking of the rider.
• Provide physical support for the rider at the high, hip, knee, ankle or toe(instructor will advise you on how to help each rider.
• Post-Class Responsibilities : Volunteers must complete the Volunteer Attendance Formby scanning the posted QR code and completing the short form.

Requirements :

Qualifications :

Age Requirements

18 years old or above

Requirements

Training Provided :

For the safety of our clientele, all volunteers will receive training on the following topics :

Following mandatory training, an assessment of horsemanship skills – based upon the CanTRA Volunteer Training Rubric – will occur regardless of individual experience prior to being assigned as a Side Walker within an active class :

Additional training based upon individual skill and need may be provided in the following :

Periodically, training clinics will be held for prospective & active volunteers to ensure continuity of practices and maintenance of safety standards. Volunteers serve as the vital backbone of LTRA, serving as a crucial element in the foundation of our programming. We deeply value and appreciate your assistance!

Schedule

Time Commitment : Minimum of 2 hours / week for a minimum commitment one full session (typically 3-6 months).Our instructors rely on regular weekly participation of volunteers to provide a quality program in a safe environment.

Animal Care , Health, Wellness & Recreation , Mental Well-Being

Application Type

Advanced

Other Opportunities with Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association

Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association

Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association

Reporting to the CanTRA Instructor, the Horse Leader works directly in the therapeutic riding classes alongside the Side Walker to support the clients receiving the service. Leaders who have prior experience with horses are preferred but horse experience is not necessary. Additional specialized training for therapeutic riding programs is provided by CanTRA-certified or alternatively credentialed instructors. The leader plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and safe mounting and dismounting for the rider, as well as maintaining control and ensuring the horse’s well-being during lessons, under the guidance of a certified instructor. An adept leader is attuned to the horse’s body language and understands the balance of control between themselves, the horse, and the rider, stepping in to assist, when necessary, especially with less experienced riders.

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