Horse Therapy In Kelowna

Western Riding Lessons & equine
Therapy

Horse Petting Kelowna

A Tailored Approach to Learning

At The Happy Ruth Ranch, we take a personalized approach to every lesson. We recognize that each individual has unique needs, so we take the time to learn as much as possible about our students before their first lesson. This allows us to create a supportive, tailored experience that sets them up for success.

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A man in a cowboy hat is adjusting a saddle on a horse while a young girl with a blue helmet watches nearby. They are in a barn setting.

Our team incorporates visual aids, structured guidance, front-loading techniques, and gentle redirection to help students feel confident and engaged. We emphasize a calm and adaptable environment that promotes emotional regulation, builds meaningful connections with animals, and fosters skill development at a pace that feels right for each learner.

The first step in any lesson is establishing trust and comfort with the horse. Because every student’s experience is different, sessions are flexible and evolve based on individual needs. If a student feels uneasy or overwhelmed, we adjust accordingly—returning to familiar activities that bring them a sense of security before moving forward.

During the initial lesson, students are introduced to their pony or horse through gentle, hands-on interactions like brushing and grooming. Sometimes, we begin with a short “theory session,” discussing key horsemanship topics such as horse behavior, safety, and equipment. This foundational knowledge ensures a respectful and enriching experience for both the students and the animals.

A riding arena scene with two people on horses, one using a lasso, and a third person on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) near a training apparatus resembling a small horse.

A girl wearing a helmet sits on a saddle of a horse while a man watches nearby in an indoor riding arena.

It’s important to note that riding does not take place in the first lesson, and in some cases, we may not even move on to grooming. Instead, we focus on simple, low-pressure interactions—meeting the horses, petting them, and observing their behaviors. Every step is guided by the student’s comfort level, ensuring a positive and rewarding introduction to the world of horses.

This approach not only sets clear expectations for parents but also prioritizes safety, confidence, and individualized learning, making each session a meaningful and enriching experience.

For us, Western riding lessons aren’t about just winning ribbons and buckles—they’re about building confidence, making lasting memories, and finding joy in the process. At The Happy Ruth Ranch, every student is a winner, and the first-place prize is always the smile on their face.

A couple in cowboy hats walks hand-in-hand through a field with horses grazing in the background.

Parties and Pods

Parties, events, gatherings and goat yoga

A woman and a child sit on the grass next to a green tractor in a field, with hills and buildings in the background.

Our
Learning Pods

Our learning pods are designed as a collaborative homeschooling community where parents remain actively responsible for managing their own children. We provide a welcoming space for home-learning families to come together, fostering connection, exploration, and growth.

Children have access to a variety of enriching activities, including a playground, craft tables, creation stations, a fire pit, story time, group games, and meaningful interactions with animals. Our groups are neurodiverse, embracing and celebrating neurodivergent children in an environment that prioritizes inclusivity, flexibility, and support.

At The Happy Ruth Ranch, we believe in working as a team with families to create a safe and nurturing space where every child can learn, play, and thrive.

Kids’ Birthday Parties at The Ranch

Celebrate your child’s special day in the most magical way—surrounded by ponies, goats, and wide-open skies! Our space is perfect for curious minds and joyful hearts. Whether it’s pony rides, scavenger hunts, animal cuddles, or just time to run wild in nature, our birthday parties are packed with fun, connection, and sensory-friendly options for all kinds of kids. Let us help create a birthday they’ll never forget!

Custom packages available. Inclusive of neurodivergent and neurotypical children alike.

A wooden playground structure with a slide, climbing area, and swings, featuring several children playing.

Private Space Rental

We welcome Occupational Therapists, Behavioral Consultants, and Behavioral Interventionists to utilize our space and animals as part of their therapy sessions. The calming environment of The Happy Ruth Ranch, combined with the therapeutic benefits of animal interaction, creates a unique and supportive setting for clients to grow and progress.

To make sessions as seamless as possible, we provide pre-made visual support and are happy to assist in creating custom visuals tailored to individual client needs. Our goal is to help set both therapists and their clients up for success in a space designed for comfort, connection, and learning.

We also welcome families, schools, and learning groups to book time on our ranch to learn about animals and or ranch life. We tailor each visit to meet your needs.

Come as you are, exhale, and gather around the fire. Our parent campfire gatherings are quiet, grounding spaces for caregivers to connect, share, and reflect. With guided discussion prompts, intentional conversation, and the peaceful backdrop of the ranch at dusk, these evenings are designed to nourish the grown-up hearts behind the little ones.

This is a judgment-free zone—bring your thoughts, your questions, and your honest self. We’re all figuring it out together.

Parent Campfire Evenings

Craft Days & Community Events

Let’s make something beautiful—together. Our craft events are all about creativity, community, and hands-on fun. We host seasonal workshops for kids and families, from nature crafts to sensory-friendly art stations. Whether you’re painting a pumpkin, weaving wildflower crowns, or making handmade gifts, it’s more than just crafting—it’s connection.

Inclusive. Low-pressure. Mess encouraged. Laughter is guaranteed.