Our Programs

Meet & Greet

Discover personalized support with Jennifer Semach at Walkabout Farm TRA. Whether you're seeking an individualized treatment plan or programming stream for yourself or a loved one, we're here help. We also collaborate with mental health professionals and occupational/physio therapists allowing you to utilize private insurance or OAP funding for your care. Reach out today to begin your journey towards wellness.

Recreational Equine Assisted Participation (R.E.A.P)

In part because there are higher barriers to participation in long term care (LTC) facilities, we are pleased to offer our mobile miniature horses Sweet Pea, Poppy & Sassy to join your recreational therapy team. Horses provide full sensory engagement and spark renewed interest in movement for even the most participation reluctant resident. These sessions can be hosted indoors by the LTC facility or be hosted by us outdoors at Walkabout Farm Therapeutic Riding Association Inc. located in Minden.

We encourage both the caregiver/staff and LTC resident to attend group sessions. Connecting with horses erases the hierarchy and puts both the caregiver and the non-ambulatory or cognitively disabled person on the same playing field through an activity that can be shared together. These sessions also remind the caregiver that it’s ok to find time for themselves, even while providing care for a loved one.

Movement through grooming, leading, holding, hugging, or petting horses activates your autonomic nervous system and release endorphins brought about by physical activity thereby lifting the mood and contributing to a sense of well-being.

A study published by the British Horse Society concluded that “horse interactions stimulated many positive psychological feelings, reducing depression by 30% and lowering the chance of dementia by 30%.”

We welcome any questions you have about this new and innovative service, let’s REAP the benefits together!

Friendship Fri'YAY's

Welcoming seniors, Community Living agencies, independent living, and long-term care residents, or anyone looking to make new friendships… drop in on us Fridays anytime between 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Please check our events calendar for any cancellations.

The aim is to assist individuals in making connections, integrating into the community, and enjoying themselves in an inclusive environment. Participants will have the opportunity for individual time with the horses, where they can learn basic skills such as grooming, leading, bathing, and feeding the horses. Guided nature walks can be ATV-assisted for those with limited mobility. Attendees are welcome to bring a lunch and have a picnic with the volunteers and farm animals. Those interested in gardening are invited to help plant and maintain the memorial, pumpkin and sunflower gardens.

A passport funding initiative or by donation.

*Weather permitting* Not sure? Please call ahead.

PLEASE NOTE - December 12, 2025 is the last Friendship Fri'YAY until Spring 2026

Therapeutic Riding

Walkabout Farm tailors its sessions for participants to achieve their physical, cognitive, occupational and emotional goals. Participants would typically be walking with assistance, performing tasks, playing games, guided trail riding and possibly some trotting. An individualized treatment plan will be developed with lead instructor and executive director Jennifer Semach and the participant’s health care team. Half of the session will be spent on the ground with your horse, grooming and preparing your mindset to mount your horse. Occupational and physiotherapists are most welcome to participate with their clients and the lead instructor in a collaborative session.

Youth Outreach

Strengthening character, resiliency and self awareness in the leaders of tomorrow. Building on a foundation of mental wellness, healing and personal growth for youth at risk from factors like anxiety, mental illness, trauma, substance abuse, and bullying while nurturing a safe and welcoming environment on a working therapeutic and emotional support horse farm. Some of our goals for these kids are a reduction of social/socioeconomic isolation, appropriate peer interactions, building strong leadership qualities, confidence, community focused volunteerism and improved self esteem. Youth will be working with children enrolled in our programs, and horses rescued from slaughter for rehabilitation.

Reading Buddies Initiative

Creating a stress-free environment for the reluctant reader to read to the horses, and write letters and stories. The animals at Walkabout love to hear your voice and never judge.

Respite Services

One-on-one respite services for families with loved ones who have complex medical conditions or behavioural impairments/ disorders in an environment of friendship, compassion, enrichment, and respect. Focusing on family emotional support, nature therapy, equine-guided meditation, and fun on the farm.