GARELOCH Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is looking for brand new volunteers to help with their “special animals”.

The RDA is a national charity founded in 1969 dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through the provision of horse riding and carriage driving, and now has over 500 volunteer groups across the UK.

Gareloch’s chapter gives individual riders the chance to reach their therapeutic goals, achieve their personal ambitions and develop life skills.

Louise Worrall of the Gareloch group spoke to the Advertiser about volunteering and said: “Before I started riding with Riding for the Disabled, I had very few interactions with horses.

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“Other than a series of lessons when I was at university, my interactions extended to yelling ‘horse’ if I was in a car passing a field of them, just to make sure everybody was aware of their presence.

“As such, I had never thought of what would be required of a ‘working horse’.

“Every horse, like every person, has their own personality. Naturally herd animals, some will appear to us humans as cheeky, some are shy, independent or even grumpy.

“Working throughout the week with people of different abilities, it is imperative that any horse bought into an RDA group is patient and will listen, as well as show a willingness to learn. At Gareloch RDA, all of our horses have these key traits and temperament.

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“Alongside having the right character, the team must train each pony when they join, as well as throughout the time they work with the group.

“The ponies must be happy to be led at a walk and trot, and to be able to stand quietly.

“Our volunteers must understand the horses, voice commands and requirements of the riders.

“We teach them to use their body language to support the herd, as well as how to handle the ponies in a workmanlike and purposeful manner.

“This is found to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience by our volunteer team.”

If you are interested in volunteering with Gareloch RDA or learning more about the group, contact Louise on 07716 543734.

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