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THERAPEUTIC EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAMS

at Quail Valley Ranch

16620 Old Shamrock Highway Drumright, OK 74030

VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK

Side Walking March 2016 Edition

Thank you for becoming a volunteer. You are a blessing to the program and we in turn hope that you

will receive blessings in your duties here at The Right Path.

The Right Path Riding Academy is a non-profit organization created to help special needs children and adults enjoy

the therapeutic benefits of equine assisted activities. The Right Path is a member of PATH International. All

instructors at The Right Path are certified by PATH International. You may visit www.pathintl.org, send an email

to The Right Path at walkon@rightpathacademy.org , or go to our website at www.rightpathridingacademy.org for

more information.

INSTRUCTOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• person in authority during a riding class, gives all instructions to volunteers & participants

• present for all mount & dismounts

• in charge of all emergency situations

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES

• be physically & mentally able to perform assigned duties

• be willing to commit to a regular day & time for a 3 month semester

• be fully trained, aware of responsibilities given to you & aware of performance expected of you

• Read the Conduct policy, Privacy & Confidentiality policy, and Sidewalker/Leader Standards policy, then

complete a volunteer application and sign all necessary releases annually.

• Volunteers are encouraged to interact with the participants. Keep socialization to a minimum as

participants are easily over stimulated. Your instructor may ask you at anytime to stop interaction. This is

for the benefit of the participants, not to offend volunteers. Instructor will inform you of any special dos or

don’ts for your assigned participant. Feel free to discuss with instructor (in private) any ideas, observations or

concerns you might have related to the progress of a participant.

• Understand that you are irreplaceable to a participant who has come to trust you. If you are unable to attend

scheduled class, please do one of the following in order to not disrupt the participant’s lesson:

• If giving more than 24 hours notice, email the office at walkon@rightpathacademy.org .

Written notice is key, not just a mention, in circumstances where advance notice is known.

OR

• In emergencies with less than 24 hours notice, call the office at (918) 352-4110. You are

part of a team, participants & volunteers are relying on you to make each class safe &

successful.

• As a leader your primary responsibility is handling horse in a manner that creates a safe environment for

your team of participant and side walkers

• As a sidewalker your primary responsibility is the safety of the participant, both on and off the horse.

• Be respectful of confidential information. Participants have a right to privacy, just as though they were

in a medical center. Information learned about the participants is confidential and not to be discussed

outside the arena.

• NO PETS! With the exception of certified therapy animals, The Right Path does not allow animals on the

property.

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CELL PHONES

Cell phones are an important part of life today but can be a distraction at best and a safety hazard at worst in an

equine program. The Right Path is a “no phone zone” during class time.

• Cell phones and/or pagers must be turned OFF (not just set to vibrate) once participants or horses are present.

DRESS

• Volunteers are encouraged to wear long pants; closed toed footwear is mandatory.

• Avoid loose jewelry that may get caught in equipment or participant’s hands

• Wear nametag on shirt for participants to see easily.

ALL VOLUNTEERS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND AN ANNUAL TRAINING SESSION.

YOU WILL BE GIFTED ONE RIGHT PATH T-SHIRT AFTER WORKING ONE FULL SEMESTER.

VOLUNTEER DUTIES

There are 6 distinct parts to assisting during class. Tack up, opening procedure, leading, and sidewalking,

untacking and closing procedure. Tack up and untacking are advanced duties and require extra training. They

will not be discussed in this manual. Let us know if you are interested in pursuing these advanced duties.

THERE’S A RIGHT WAY, A WRONG WAY AND THE RIGHT PATH WAY!! FOR THOSE OF YOU

THAT HAVE HORSE EXPERIENCE, PLEASE UNDERSTAND THAT OUR METHODS ARE NOT

THE ONLY WAY OF DOING THINGS, BUT THEY WORK FOR US. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT

PROCEDURES AND TECHNIQUE REMAIN CONSISTENT FOR BOTH THE HORSES AND THE

VOLUNTEERS SO WE ASK THAT YOU FOLLOW OUR METHODS WHILE HERE AT THE RIGHT

PATH. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION.

SAFETY AND FUN Although this isn’t the first thing in your handbook it is the most important factor that will allow all parties involved

to have fun. Yes, SAFETY at all times. If in doubt, check with instructor before proceeding and always err on the

side of SAFETY. Horseback riding takes on an inherent quality of risk, simply due to the nature of the activity.

We, at The Right Path take great measures to ensure that this risk is kept to a minimum by selecting and training

gentle horses, using quality tack, keeping our facility free of items that might cause injury, and training you as

volunteers to perform and understand the duties of your job. If you have any questions or any input that can assist

in making this environment better and safer, please tell us.

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OPENING PROCEDURES

• arrive 15 min. before class, your help is needed to set up the arena

• go to staging area

• check sign in sheet by office door – roll will be called from this list in emergency situations

• get nametag outisde office

• check board for assigned rider and duties

• set up arena using arena set up sheet for correct day/class time

CLOSING PROCEDURES

• remain after class to help clear arena of games

• muck arena, stalls, & sweep alleyway

• turn off sound system

• clean up break room & class room

• let cats out of feed room

Duties with Rider on the Ground

Two side walkers assist each rider; they are titled L SW (left) and R SW (right). In the cases where a

rider only requires one side walker, you will be considered a RIGHT SW.

• L & R SW have different duties prior to rider mounting. They are as follows:

• Both SW will greet rider and care giver upon arrival – R SW is responsible for the rider. L SW will take

care of any concerns or questions from care givers. Ask if there’s anything to make the instructor aware of

before class. Encourage family or caregiver to watch class quietly from staging area. Remind the parent or

caregiver that all children not participating in classes must be supervised by a parent or caregiver. The

classroom is available also as a waiting area. • R SW: Fit rider with helmet – located in the classroom. Helmet size and helmet number for each rider is

on a form on the wall above helmet rack.

1. Check helmet inside and out for dust, spiders, wear and tear on straps.

2. Open dial at base of helmet. Adjust dial carefully – do not force it.

3. Place helmet on rider and adjust chin strap to fit firmly under chin. With helmet in proper position, close

dial until plastic touches base of rider’s neck.

4. Helmet should fit snugly at level of eyebrows without constricting vision.

• Fit rider with belt – located in the classroom in a basket next to the helmets.

1. Belts will wrap around waist once or twice depending on size of child.

2. Insert buckle into teeth first and pull snug.

3. Insert buckle into smooth side of clasp, just like a regular belt.

• Purpose of the belt

1. For use in emergency dismount

2. To control child on the ground as needed.

3. To aid in adjusting position on horse.

Do NOT hang onto the belt while the child is riding unless advised by the instructor.

• Let children be as independent as possible with their helmets and belts.

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SUPPORTING MOUNTED RIDER Horse skills are not required to perform this duty. You will be in close contact with the horse at all

times so if you have concerns or fears, but would like to volunteer in this duty please talk with us and we

will attempt to help you overcome any anxieties.

MOUNTED RIDER EMERGENCIES

Both on and off the horse, the safety of the rider is paramount.

• Emergency requiring rider to be pulled off horse - side walker on arena side will pull rider from the

horse immediately. Pull rider’s feet from stirrups first. Use safety belt or wrap your arms around rider and

pull away from horse.

o Hold rider if able or lower to ground as gently as possible. After horse is out of the way, rail side walker will assist as needed.

o If you are a team in the arena and witness this emergency situation, the leader will stop your

horse and you will stay with your team. Instructor will intervene and give directions.

• Non emergency requiring rider to be pulled off horse – go to center of arena first, call for instructor, rider

will be dismounted in normal fashion.

• Emergency off the horse - Alert instructor and give details of situation. If requested, go to nearest phone,

call 911 and read directions to arena posted near the phone. Phone locations are: alleyway by classroom mid

alleyway to arena and office.

• Freeze Emergency- If Instructor yells “freeze” all teams will stop immediately and side walkers will hold

their rider firmly. This command is given if instructor sees intruder or object that will likely startle the

horses. (i.e. loose dog in arena, flapping flags, etc.)

Duties While Rider is Mounted in Class –side walkers are no longer L & R once rider is mounted

and duties are similar

• Responsibilities - keep rider centered on horse

- participate in games/exercises as instructed. If you have not been

instructed to participate in a game, it is imperative that you remain with your rider,

using the support hold required. Do not reach for stray balls, bean bags or other

objects, unless they are about to injure your rider and you are in a position where you can

continue to support your rider, while redirecting the object.

- assist rider with reining technique (voice, body language, pressure in that order)

• Please keep chit chat to a minimum- riders are easily distracted and over stimulated

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Support Holds

• Hip hold (A) – “near” hand on rider’s thigh and forearm supporting hip/buttock. (Primary Hold)

• Tie On (B) – “near” hand rests on cantle (back saddle swell) or pad just behind rider. This hold is used for

more advanced riders with good balance.

• Double Tie On (C) – “near” hand rests on cantle (back saddle swell) or pad just behind rider, and “far” hand

rests on front swell or in front of rider. Use this hold to exit ramp, unless otherwise instructed.

• Ankle hold (D/E) – with “far” hand, cup ankle. "Near" hand "ties on". Always use this hold & thigh hold

when trotting to keep rider from bouncing.

• Human Stirrups (F/G) – Instructor may request “human stirrup”, requiring SW to use “far” hand under

forefoot to prevent foot drop, near hand rests (F) behind rider or (G) behind ankle.

• Over the thigh (H) – place “near” arm over rider’s thigh applying light pressure. Hold at swell of saddle.

Do not hang on saddle or rider; do not dig elbow into horse.

• Hip or shoulder block (not pictured) – “near” hand uses fingertip pressure at hip or shoulder for balance.

This is usually done only for short distances at the walk. This hold will be specially instructed.

A. B. C. D.

E. F. G. H.

There are many other “touch” points on the body to align posture or create rider awareness of position. Instructor

will apply these techniques or demonstrate their use on an as needed basis.

• At first the instructor will direct you in the most beneficial holds for your rider. As you become more

comfortable and familiar with your rider, these holds will become second nature to you.

• Changing sides if your arms get tired. First alert instructor, and then go to center of arena.

The SW that calls for the change releases hold on rider, walks in front of horse & replaces other

SW. Once in place other SW walks in front of horse to take position by rider. Be sure to talk to

each other to make sure rider is securely held by one SW while other SW releases hold to change

sides.

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Rider Positions

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RIDER MOUNTS AND DISMOUNTS

Use good body mechanics- BEND YOUR KNEES & LIFT WITH YOUR LEGS!!! Mounts &

dismounts are the most dangerous part of riding and require everyone’s total attention and cooperation.

A. Duties for Mounting the Rider Right side walker - mounting

- rider safety on ground while in arena.

- Hold rider’s hand & stand between horse & rider

- fit rider with helmet & gait belt, wait at red gate for instructor's call to mount

- walk up outside of ramp with rider

- wait behind red line on platform for instructor's cue to mount

- assist rider mount from ramp platform

- emergency dismounts

Left Side walker - mounting

- assist horse into position at platform by walking with the horse (hand on his back) as leader before

entering mounting area

- stand on left side of horse at barrel with right hand resting lightly on pommel or surcingle.

- assist rider mount from platform

- emergency dismounts

B. Types of Mounts DO NOT MOUNT OR DISMOUNT A RIDER UNLESS INSTRUCTOR IS PRESENT.

• Split /sit – used for small children. Lift child onto horse, placing one leg on either side of horse.

• Side sit and leg over crest – rider’s back to horse, gently lower rider to seated position on horse’s

back. Once seated squarely on horse’s back with buttock a little past center, assist leg over neck

of horse to straddle position.

• Cowboy mount – rider steps over horse and lowers gently into straddle position. SW spots mount

or gives minimal assist, usually at hips. If instructed, this mount may be done from low platform

using stirrup.

• Standing pivot transfer from wheelchair – lift rider to feet using gait belt around waist, block

knees to keep them locked straight, pivot until rider’s back is toward horse and gently lower rider

to seated position. Once seated squarely on horse’s back with buttock a little past center, assist leg

over neck of horse.

• Sliding transfer from wheelchair – requires rider to have good arm strength. With wheelchair

parallel to horse, place riders near leg over horse’s back. Primary side walker on ground will pull

that leg at same time as rider pushes off chair towards horse’s back. Ramp SW guides rider’s

hips onto horse

• 2 man lift - demonstrated as needed

To save our horse’s backs, help rider lower seat as softly and gently as possible onto horse. If you

are assigned a mounting procedure that you are not comfortable to perform for any reason, please let

the instructor know so that the duty can be reassigned. As you work with each rider, you will

become more confident with each of these mounts & dismounts. Each rider’s mount & dismount is noted in the red

binder on the helmet rack.

Dismounts Dismounts are primarily to the ground. Instructor must be present when dismounting.

• Leg over crest- Rider brings leg over crest of horse, asks SW "Are you ready," reaches for SW shoulders

and slides off. Must have SW behind rider to support back.

• Leg over croup - Rider brings leg over croup, SW assists drop to ground.

2 man lift- demonstrated as needed

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EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

Medical Emergency (or occurrence with injury)

• Alert the instructor, give details and follow the instructor’s direction.

• If requested, go to the closest phone and call 911 – read the directions to the arena. Stay on the line with 911.

• In case of a rider incident requiring an Occurrence Report Form (as determined by instructor), volunteer is

asked to stay after session until Form is completed in order to provide all needed information.

Fire (in the arena barn or outside creating imminent danger)

• Alert instructor of danger – get first aid kit if safe to do so (from file cabinet in classroom).

• Instructor will call for the “freeze” and will give further guidance – instructor is responsible for all decisions.

• Participants will be dismounted. Participants, personnel and all volunteers will move outside to safe area

north (pump house) or south (light pole at stables) as specified by instructor.

1. Walkers- dismount in arena.

2. Wheelies- stay mounted, ride to large red gate and dismount to wheelchair.

3. Blanket drag technique as needed for wheelies/walkers.

• Instructor will assign volunteer to check alleyway for horses/volunteers/personnel/riders.

• Horses will be led from arena after participants are dismounted and out of harm’s way. If time does not

allow, horses will be turned loose and arena gate will be opened to allow their escape.

• Instructor will assign volunteer to grab lists and take them to safe area for roll call. List of participants who

should be present is available on the bulletin board inside the office; an additional checklist of volunteers is

posted on wall outside office.

• Appropriate measures to put out fire will be taken by instructed personnel using Right Path equipment or

personnel will be asked to contact local fire department. Emergency numbers are posted next to all phones.

• To use a fire extinguisher use the PASS method: PULL the pin to unlock the extinguisher, AIM at the bottom

of the fire and stand 6-10 feet away, SQUEEZE the lever to discharge the agent, SWEEP the spray from left

to right until flames are totally extinguished.

Tornadoes • Instructor will be responsible for all decisions, once alerted of imminent tornado danger.

• Participants will be dismounted. Participants, personnel and volunteers will move to safest indoor structure

until threat has passed. This structure is the arena class room in the west alleyway across from the bathroom.

1. Walkers- dismount in arena.

2. Wheelies- stay mounted, ride to large red gate and dismount to wheelchair.

3. Blanket drag technique as needed for wheelies/walkers.

• Instructor will assign volunteer to check alleyway for horses/volunteers/personnel.

• Horses will be led from arena after participants are dismounted and out of harm’s way. If time does not

allow, horses will be turned loose and arena gate will be opened to allow their escape.

• Instructor will assign volunteer to check alleyway for all remaining horses and people, and tell them to

evacuate.

• Instructor will assign volunteer to grab lists and take them to safe area for roll call. List of volunteers and

participants who should be present is available on the bulletin board inside the office; an additional checklist

of volunteers is posted on wall outside office.

• Horses, if time allows, will be let out of stalls and gates to arena will be opened to allow access outside or stay

indoors as they wish.

Power Outages: • Instructor will be responsible for all decisions.

• Flashlights are provided in several locations. See map on page 10.

• Breaker box is located on the north wall behind the curtain next to the office.

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The Right Path Safety Rules

We ask all riders, families, volunteers, staff and guests to comply with all posted safety

rules.

Safety is our top priority

1. NO SMOKING, if you want to smoke please do so in your vehicle.

2. No weapons allowed on premises. Weapons must remain in your

locked vehicle.

3. No alcohol or drugs are permitted on the premises. You will be asked

to leave if deemed under the influence.

4. Observe and obey all posted safety and restricted area signs.

5. Any persons riding or driving horses must wear ASTM/SEI approved

helmets.

6. NO FAMILY PETS. Please leave them at home.

7. Family and guests are requested to sit quietly in the staging area or in

the classroom.

8. Do not climb or hang on the arena fence or gates.

9. PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE HORSES. The instructor or staff will

accept treats for the horses.

10. The mistreatment, abuse, or verbal suggestions of abuse, of any

person or animal will not be tolerated.

11. Cell phones must be turned off, not on silent or vibrate, when you are

in the arena.

12. Please remember to keep our facility clean by disposing of trash

properly.

13. Parents/Caregivers are responsible for the the supervision of their

children at all times.

Thank you for your help, we want to keep The Right Path safe and fun for everyone!

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COMMON RIDING PATTERNS AND TERMINOLOGY:

The direction is usually clockwise or counterclockwise, but can be stated:

▪ Track left – means the rider/horse left shoulder will be to the inside of the arena

(counter clockwise if track on the rail pattern).

▪ Track right – means the rider/horse right shoulder will be to the inside of the arena

(clockwise if track on the rail pattern).

▪ The Instructor will use the letters around the outside of the ring to give the location

(see the ARENA BUILDING LAYOUT AND LOCATION sheet).

ILLUSTRATIONS:

CHANGE CHANGE

TRACK ON DIRECTION DIRECTION

THE RAIL (LONG) (SHORT) CIRCLES SERPENTINE

PATTERNS:

▪ Track on the rail – With this pattern, the Instructor will give the direction. It

follows the inside of the arena all the way around.

▪ Change Direction (Long/Short) – This is a change of direction and the Instructor

will give the location for change to take place using the letters around the ring.

▪ Circles – With this pattern, the Instructor will give the size, location and direction.

▪ Serpentine – With this pattern, the Instructor will give the size, location and

direction.

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When working around horses, there are some special words and terms that you will need to know.

Some parts of the horse are shown below.

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Tips & Warnings

• Never stand directly behind or directly in front of a horse! Because of the position of its eyes, a horse cannot see what is right in front or right behind it. It is likely to bolt, buck or kick out at what it can feel but not see. If you have to walk behind a horse, be sure to approach from the side, and put your hand on its croup so that it knows that you will be passing behind.

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GLOSSARY OF PHYSICAL & COGNITIVE DISABILITIES

The following are brief, non-medical descriptions of some disabilities and conditions of participants one

might encounter in a therapeutic riding setting. This is not intended to be a comprehensive explanation of

specific disabilities. Rather, it is a general overview with an explanation of how therapeutic riding can be

beneficial.

ARTHRITIS: Inflammatory disease of the joints.

Types: Osteo, rheumatoid and juvenile rheumatoid.

Characteristics: Pain, lack of mobility, loss of strength.

Benefits of therapeutic riding: Gentle rhythmic movements to promote joint mobility and to relieve pain: increase

strength.

AUTISM & PERVASIVE DEVELOPMENT DISORDER (PDD): A broad spectrum of disorders raging from

mild to severe, which affects thought, perceptions and attention. Autism is a self-centered mental state from which

reality tends to be excluded.

Characteristics: Unresponsiveness to the presence of others; withdrawal from physical contact; severely delayed

and disordered language; self-stimulating behaviors; unusual or special fears; insensitivity to pain; unawareness of

real dangers; hyperactive; passive; unusual behaviors such as smelling, tasting, licking, mouthing all objects;

ritualistic behaviors; developmentally delayed; unusual response to sounds; clumsiness; social withdrawal; resistant

to change. Impairments in social interaction and communication, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior,

interests and activities, impairments in the use of nonverbal behaviors such as eye to eye gaze and facial expressions,

lack of social or emotional reciprocity, delays in or lack of the development of spoken language, impairments in

ability to initiate or sustain conversations with others, abnormal responses to senses such as sight, hearing, touch,

balance, smell, taste, reaction to pain, deficits in gross and fine motor skills.

Benefits: Interaction in a group setting stimulates interest away from self and toward others and the horses. Postural

and verbal stimulation. Provides sensory input and promotes sensory integration. Promotes communication skills

(expressive and receptive). Develops strength, coordination, muscle tone and gross and fine motor skills. Promotes

socialization.

CEREBRAL PALSY: Brain damage occurring before, at or shortly after birth. It is a non-progressive

motor disorder.

Types and characteristics:

Spastic - hypertonicity with hyperactive stretch reflexes, decreased or increased muscle tone, muscle imbalances and

equilibrium. Increased startle reflex and other pathological reflexes.

Athetoid: Extensor muscle tension, worm-like involuntary movements, difficulty maintaining upright posture,

abnormal posturing and slow and deliberate speech.

Ataxic: weakened muscles, poor balance, and difficulty with quick, fine movements and often described as having a

“rag-doll” appearance.

Benefits: Normalization of tone, development of posture, stimulation of posture and balance mechanisms, muscle

strengthening, and perceptual motor coordination. Opportunity for promotion of expressive skills, socialization and

confidence.

Associated Problems: Seizures; hearing defects; visual defects; general sensory impairment; perceptual problems,

communication problems; mental retardation; emotional disturbance; learning disabilities.

CEREBRAL VASCULAR ACCIDENT (CVA) – STROKE: Brain hemorrhage or

brain emboli, which causes varying degrees of functional impairment.

Characteristics: Flaccid or spastic paralysis of arm and leg on same side of the body. May impair thought,

mentation, speech, sight, balance, coordination and strength.

Benefits: Promotes symmetry, stimulates balance, posture, motor planning, speech, socialization, and confidence.

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DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (DD): A general term applied to children functioning two or more years

below grade level. A diverse group of physical, cognitive, psychological, sensory and speech impairments that begin

anytime during development up to 18 years of age.

Characteristics: Varied, but can include processing delays, and delays in physical, motor and social development.

Benefits: Increase confidence and self-esteem, stimulates processing, speech and body awareness, provides

opportunity for sport and recreation, promotes socialization. Provides arena for success.

DOWN SYNDROME: A genetic disorder in which a person is born with an extra chromosome (chromosome 21),

resulting in retardation and developmental delay.

Characteristics: Mild to severe learning disabilities, low muscle tone, speech impairments. Broad, flat face, slanted

eyes, neck and hands are often broad and short. Usually hypotonic, have hypermobile joints and tend to be short and

slightly overweight. Prone to respiratory infections.

Benefits: Promotes expressive and receptive language skills. Increases gross and fine

motor skills, balance, and coordination, posture and muscle tone. Promotes social skills.

Increases confidence and self esteem.

EMOTIONAL DISABILITIES: Social, emotional or behavioral functioning which is not age appropriate and

affects a child’s academics, social relationships and self-care. A congenial or acquired syndrome often compounded

by learning and/or physical disabilities incorporating numerous other pathologies.

Characteristics: Difficulty coping with everyday life situations and interpersonal relations, inappropriate affect or

behavior responses, depression, anxiety, physical symptoms, difficulty learning, withdrawal, and aggressiveness.

Behaviors such as short attention span, avoidance, aggression, autism, paranoia or schizophrenia may be exhibited.

Benefits: Increase confidence, self-awareness, and self-esteem, provides opportunities for

accomplishments, promotes positive socialization.

EPILEPSY: Abnormal electrical activity of the brain marked by seizures with altered consciousness.

Types and Characteristics:

Petit Mal: Brief loss of consciousness with loss of postural tone. May have jerky movements, blank expression.

Grand Mal: Loss of consciousness and postural tone. Usually preceded by aura. (Note: An active seizure

disorder is a contraindication for horseback riding.)

HEARING IMPAIRMENT: Congenital or acquired hearing loss varying from mild to profound. Characteristics:

Difficulties in communication or communication through sign language, lip reading, or finger spelling.

Benefits: Increases confidence, self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. Provides recreational activity

with opportunity for socialization, stimulates balance, posture and coordination.

LEARNING DISABILITIES: Catch-all phrase for individuals who have problems processing, sequencing and

problem solving, but who appear to have otherwise normal intelligence skills. Neurological disorders that interfere

with a persons’ ability to store, process or produce information.

Characteristics: Short attention span, easily frustrated, immature. Difficulties with reading, writing, speech,

computing math. May affect development and social skills.

Benefits: Effects depend upon the particular disorder. Stimulates attention span, group skills, posture, and

cooperation. Promotes processing, language skills and attending skills, increases confidence, and self-esteem.

Provides opportunity for success and socialization. Increases balance and coordination.

MENTAL IMPAIRMENT OR MENTAL RETARDATION (MR): A disorder in which a person’s overall

intellectual functioning is below average with an IQ of 70 or less. Lack of ability to learn and perform at normal and

acceptable levels. Impaired ability to cope with common life demands and daily living skills. Degree of retardation

is referred to as educable, trainable, severe, or profoundly retarded.

Characteristics: Developmentally delayed in all areas. Short attention span. Impairments in learning, communication, social interactions, self-care.

Benefits: Stimulates group activity skills. Increases balance, coordination, strength and posture, improves gross

and fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination, promotes socialization, increases confidence, reinforce life and

vocational skills. Provides a structured learning environment.

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MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS): Progressive neurological disease with degeneration of

spinal column tracts, resulting in scar formation.

Characteristics: Most commonly occurs in the 20 to 40 year old range. It is progressive with periods of

exacerbation and remissions. Fatigues easily. Symptoms include weakness, visual impairment, fatigue, loss of

coordination and emotional sensitivity.

Benefits: Maintains and strengthens weak muscles, provides opportunities for emotional therapy, maintains balance,

increases confidence and self-esteem.

Associated Problems: Visual impairment, emotional lability, and impaired bowel and bladder function.

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY (MD): Deficiency in muscle nutrition with degeneration

of skeletal muscle. Hereditary disease that mainly affects males.

Characteristics: Progressive muscular weakness, fatigues easily, sensitive to temperature extremes.

Benefits: Provides opportunity for recreational, physical, and social activity. May help slow progressive loss of

strength, stimulates postural and trunk alignment, allows for movement free of assistive devices.

POLIO: Infectious virus disease.

Characteristics: Flaccid paralysis, atrophy of skeletal muscle, often with deformity.

Benefits: Strengthens non-paralyzed muscles, stimulates posture.

PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME: A complex non-hereditary birth defect resulting from an abnormality on the 15th

chromosome.

Characteristics: PWS typically causes low muscle tone, short stature, incomplete sexual development, and a

chronic feeling of hunger that, coupled with a metabolism that utilizes drastically fewer calories than normal, can

lead to excessive eating and life-threatening obesity. Intellectual, social and motor deficits also exist.

Benefits: Exercise to combat calorie intake, social interaction, and strengthening of weak muscles.

SCOLIOSIS: Lateral curve of the spine with a C or S shape with rotary component.

Characteristics: Shoulder, trunk and waistline asymmetry. Postural asymmetry. May wear scoliosis jacket or have

had stabilization surgery. May have back pain and postural fatigue.

Benefits: Stimulates postural symmetry, strengthens trunk muscles.

SPINA BIFIDA: Congenital failure of vertebral arch closure which results in spinal cord

damage.

Characteristics: Varying degrees of paralysis of the lower limbs coupled with sensory loss.

Problems: Infection, lordosis, scoliosis and hip dislocations.

Benefits: Stimulates posture and balance, improves muscle strength and coordination, promotes confidence and self-

esteem.

Associated Problems: Hydrocephalus, incontinence, urinary tract infection, lordosis, scoliosis, and hip dislocations.

SPINAL CORD INJURY (SCI): Trauma to the spinal cord resulting in a loss of

neurological function.

Characteristics: Paralysis of muscles below the level of injury – can be flaccid or spastic. Fatigue, sensory loss and

pressure sores.

Benefits: Stimulates posture and balance, strengthens trunk muscles, and provides opportunity for recreational and

social activity.

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TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI): Accidental injury to the head resulting in intra-cranial bleeding with death

of brain cells; impairment of cognitive, emotional and/or physical functioning.

Characteristics: May include deficits in gross and fine motor skills, balance, coordination and strength. May have

deficits in language, communication, processing, memory and perceptual skills (vision).

Benefits: Stimulates balance, posture, coordination, and gross and fine motor skills.

Stimulates speech and perceptual skills. Increases confidence.

VISUAL IMPAIRMENT: Moderate to total loss of sight.

Characteristic: May include insecure posture, lack of visual memory, anterior center of gravity, fearfulness, and

developmental delay.

Benefits: Stimulates spatial awareness, proprioception, posture, balance and coordination. Provides opportunity for

socialization, structured risk-taking and freedom of movement.

BASIC SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO RELATE TO INDIVIDUALS

WITH DISABILITIES:

If a person has difficulty speaking, allow them to finish their sentence. If you do not understand what they

are saying, tell them so. Do not pretend you understood if you didn’t.

Always address the person with a disability directly. Do not speak “about” them as if they were not there.

Do not push a person’s wheelchair. Take their arm or try to help by asking first.

Do not make assumptions. A person with a disability is the best judge of what they can do unless they are

substantially cognitively impaired.

The individual is always placed before the disability. It is a “person with a disability” – not a “disabled

person.” At The Right Path, we like to say it’s “differently-abled.”

It is important to keep in mind that “boundaries” are an important part of establishing relationships. While

you will become a friend to many of TRPRA participants, you should also try to maintain a professional

relationship. This protects both you and the participant.

Remember that boundaries go further than touch. You must prepare yourself for TRPRA participants who,

due to their disability or personality, may be difficult, possibly rude, or overly dependant and attached to

you. Remaining professional will help you deal with those situations.

Effective TRPRA volunteers love participating in lessons and therapy sessions as horse leaders and side

walkers. What makes these particular jobs such fun is that you actually get to interact with participants.

What distinguishes the effective lesson volunteers is that they develop a keep awareness of the

instructor/therapist, the rider and the horse. They know when to interact and speak, but also know when to

be quiet. Avoid constant chatting with the rider, do not have side conversations with other volunteers and

keep focused on the goal of the lesson. It is a real skill to be an active participant without becoming a

distracting presence.

Know that all of your support of The Right Path Riding Academy at weekly lessons, special events and other

occasions is greatly appreciated, even if you are not thanked on a weekly basis.

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Sidewalker/Leader Standards Policy

A sidewalker’s primary responsibility is the safety of the riding participant, both on and off the horse. A

leader’s primary responsibility is the control of the equine before, during, and after class. The following

list of criteria is used by the Right Path Riding Academy to determine the suitability of a volunteer for

sidewalker and leader duties. Refer to the appropriate manual for all details required to perform these

duties.

In order to safely and properly perform the duties of a sidewalker or leader, a person must have the

following attributes:

• The physical ability and stamina to walk continuously for up to fifty minutes at a time, with

periods of short jogging of half a minute or less;

• The physical agility and strength to assist instructor as needed or requested;

• Visual and auditory acuity to the degree needed to actively protect the participant;

• The ability and composure to interact safely with equines;

• The ability to commit to a fixed schedule during the riding semester and to be on-time for

participant sessions;

• The ability and willingness to take direction from instructors and other Right Path personnel;

• The ability and willingness to participate in the appropriate training.

In addition,

• Leaders must demonstrate knowledge of horse behavior for all class situations.

• Leaders must be responsible for the control of their equine from mount to dismount.

BADGE DESCRIPTIONS:

Beginner Sidewalker – Volunteers who are new to The Right Path and have attended ONE sidewalker

training. Also, volunteers who are under the age of 14 retain Beginner Sidewalker badges.

Sidewalker – A volunteer who has attended a MINIMUM of TWO (2) sidewalker trainings, has

demonstrated ability to safely assist riders and has completed at least ONE (1) semester in the arena.

Leader – A volunteer who is an experienced sidewalker, attends all mandatory Leader Trainings and has

passed the requirements for safely handling horses in the arena.

Horse Handler – An experienced leader who has passed the Level II Leader requirements, demonstrated

those skills to an instructor and/or staff personnel and has passed the written exam.

Master Horse Handler – An experienced horse handler who has mastered skills pertinent to The Right

Path standard of safety in and out of the arena regarding children and horses. This level has completed

all previous requirements.

If you are interested in advancing your skills, please see an instructor or other staff member for more

information.

19

Confidentiality Statement

General Principles

The Right Path Riding Academy shall preserve the right of confidentiality for all individuals in its

program. To ensure this, we have created a Privacy and Confidentiality Policy.

Information Covered

In fulfilling its mission, the Right Path Riding Academy collects and records information from students,

parents, volunteers, foundations, and third parties. We recognize that it is our fiduciary duty to do what

it takes to ensure that the information entrusted to us is available only to those with a need to know. Our

confidential information is never released without the expressed written consent of the information

owner. We take any violation od our privacy policy seriously, and the Right Path Riding Academy

reserves the right to sever any relationship with an entity that violates this policy.

It is our policy to collect only the information necessary to fulfill our mission. The information that we

collect in the process of our mission will not be given away or sold to third parties for marketing

purposes. We do not disclose nonpublic personal information about staff, volunteers, business partners,

or students except as required by law. We adhere to industry standard best practices for protecting our

data, and those involved with the Right Path Riding Academy have been instructed on our privacy

policy and their responsibilities in adhering to it.

Persons Subject to This Policy

Anyone who works or volunteers for, or provides services to our riding academy is bound by this policy.

This includes but is not limited to staff members, independent contractors, temporary employees,

volunteers, and board members. It also applies to anyone connected with the center who could contain

this information either accidentally or on purpose.

20

The Right Path Conduct Policy

The Right Path Riding Academy is a Christian organization which seeks to help special

needs children and adults achieve their highest potential through the unique avenue of an

equestrian environment. In order to achieve our mission, we require that all therapeutic

participants, paid and volunteer personnel, and guests abide by our conduct policy. This

will ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.

It is expected that everyone participating at The Right Path Riding Academy, to the best

of their ability, will maintain regular and punctual attendance, courteous interactions with

others, quiet and orderly conduct, conscientious attention to duty, and performance that

reflects support for our mission.

Prohibited Activities When on The Right Path Riding Academy grounds, the following activities are prohibited:

• Violations of existing Right Path privacy, safety, attendance, cancellation, and other policies.

• Violations of federal, state, and local laws/ordinances.

• Possessing, using, or being under the influence of alcohol and/or other illicit and illegal drugs.

Drugs mandated as part of the treatment of a current medical condition are exempted.

• Mistreatment of animals.

• Inappropriate and/or abusive behavior towards others.

• Insubordination in regards to The Right Path instructors or supervisory personnel in connection

with their official duties.

Unlawful Harassment Our academy prohibits harassment because of color, race, gender, age, religion, national origin,

disability, or any other basis protected by law. Prohibited harassment behaviors include:

• Verbal threats, epithets, derogatory comments, or slurs.

• Derogatory posters, photographs, cartoons, drawings, or gestures.

• Assault, unwanted touching, or blocking normal movements.

• Retaliation for reporting, or threatening to report, harassment.

Dress Code Professional dress required for activities at the barn.

• closed toe shoes required in the arena/pastures

• no dangling jewelry

• any shorts should be of moderate length

• Please be respectful of others when dressing. Modesty is kindness to others. Keep private body

parts private.

Penalties Any prohibited activity may become grounds for disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. If

necessary and appropriate, a report will be made to law enforcement personnel.