Horses are the cornerstone of RDAV, with horse welfare and safety as primary focuses. Each centre requires a variety of horses and ponies of different sizes to carefully match the riders’ needs and abilities. If a suitable horse is not available, the rider cannot join the program. The horses are carefully selected for their temperament, obedience, and calmness to handle the unique challenges posed by their riders, such as unbalanced riders, loud noises, and wheelchairs.
With their calming presence, horses help participants learn new skills, follow instructions, gain confidence, build strength, interact with others, and enjoy the freedom of movement. They also help participants find a sense of calm and wellbeing.
One heartwarming story from the RDAV community features a rider named Fiona and her horse, Snoopy. Thirteen years ago, Fiona was introduced to Snoopy, a four-year-old ex-racehorse acquired by a friend. He needed lots of groundwork, TLC, and training in social skills and riding aids. Although Fiona initially intended to sell him, she fell hopelessly in love with his personality.
One day, while riding next to a train line, Fiona found herself stuck between a speeding 100 km/h train and a barbed-wire fence with nowhere to escape. She dismounted and held tight, and Snoopy stood calmly, watching the train speed past. At that moment, Fiona knew he was special. She began training Snoopy for RDAV, and despite a challenging start, Snoopy adapted perfectly to each rider and continues to enjoy his fortnightly trips to RDAV, walking and trotting around the yard.