Experiences

The single most asked question is, why do we work with horses in our EAL program? The number reason we work with horses is because they are a prey animal! In a horse’s world, the rules are clear, easy to understand and dealt with swiftly when challenged. Nature provides them with instincts and senses that are very astute. For their mere survival, a wild horse must be aware of their surroundings at all times and be quick to react. They watch for the slightest movement, especially threatening body posture. Horses know how to discern the difference between a calm non-threatening approach and an anxious, nervous energy; immediately identifying individuals struggling internally. ​ Participants are guided by the horses and facilitator to come to their own decisions and work on building life skills for where they are right now in their life! The horses help humans of all ages to move forward with their lives, to build skills and to truly tap into their potential! As facilitators listen to a horse’s non-verbal communication, together, they have the ability to walk participants through to finding life-changing results. By understanding why and how horses are aware of our every movement – you will grow your self awareness and mindfulness.

EAL is a non-riding life skills development program. We only work with horses on the ground in their natural state. You will work alongside the horses as part of your team rather than as a tool. This way, the horse can be its true self and not be "on the job". This allows for the best and true reaction of the horse and the most beneficial way of learning for you.

During our pilot program we can have groups as small as 2 and to a maximum of 4 people.

No prior experience is necessary. All of our programs have a detailed safety briefing where we inform every group of the rules and safety precautions to take around the animals and in the arena. We always put safety first and can accommodate everyone's different comfort levels around the horses.

If you aren't being pushed out of your boundaries, you aren't learning. This is an opportunity to overcome your fears or pre conceived notions about horses.

Knowing and being prepared is half the battle. Just be sure to take an antihistamine before you come

Our Equine Experience sessions include learning about horses and how they communicate, safety when working with horses, grooming the horse, and depending on your comfort level a lead line ride will follow. This is offered as a group experience where we can accommodate up to 4 people aged 6 and up. Private sessions are available for an additional fee.

During our Equine Meet & Greet you will meet us and our horses! You will learn how to be safe working around the horses, how they communicate, how to groom and how to lead them. A great way to have some horse time while enjoying the outdoors. Each session is 30 minutes in length.

For the EAL program a cognitive age of 10 years old is required. Horseback riding lessons are available for those aged 6 and up. For our young riders under age 9 we do offer a shorter lesson. Please reach out to learn more. Our Equine Experience & Meet & Greets are both a great way to meet our horses and get up close and personal. The ideal age is 4 and up.

The only required clothing for EAL sessions and visits are closed toed/hard soled shoes for safety while working around the horses. Other than that, just dress for the weather and wear clothes that you are not afraid to get a little dusty in! Youth are provided with a CSA approved helmet for EAL sessions. If you are attending a horseback riding lesson you will need comfortable jean/long pants, and sturdy boots with a small 1" heel. Please dress for the weather as we will be outside (dressing in layers). Applying fly repellent before you arrive is a good idea during the summer. We provide CSA approved riding helmets. Helmets are mandatory for anyone under 18 years of age.

Yes! We are certified through the Academy of Equine Assisted Learning, a leading organization in EAL, that offers the only certified BuildingBlock™ program in the world. We also carry extensive insurance for ourselves and those who attend our programs. We carry up to date First Aid certification through St. John Ambulance Canada and Concussion Awareness training through Equestrian Canada.

Yes! During our pilot program we will be offering private and semi private riding lessons to those aged 6 years old and up. All levels of experience are welcome! **Please note that for the 2024 season we have very limited availability for riding lessons. We are sorry for any disappointment this may cause, we hope to have more availability in the future. Please reach out with any questions you may have.

During our pilot program we are operating in a small, mobile capacity with our office being located at 410 Snow Eagle Dr.. Being mobile the location of sessions may vary, we will reach out with your session location once you are booked in. We are able to offer our services wherever horses are currently permitted in Fort McMurray, including Tower Rd and Anzac too! We are hoping to have our permanent home next year, this will allow us to expand our offerings and bring even more wonderful horse based activities to our community.

Please note that we require a minimum of 24 hours notice for cancelation of Riding Lessons, Meet & Greets, Equine Experience or Equine Assisted Learning sessions. Special event bookings and retreats require a minimum of 5 days notice of cancelation. We understand that things happen unexpectedly but the more notice we have for cancelation the better it is as it takes a significant amount of time to prepare for each session. Please ensure to cancel your session by email only at hello@fairytalewellness.com so that your request is not missed. If you do not give us notice of cancelation or you are within the cut-off time you will be charged in full for your session. As we are operating outdoors there will be days that the weather will require us to reschedule your session on short notice. While we know this can be disappointing, the safety of our horses and all humans involved is our top priority. Your session will be rescheduled to a later date but please note that there may be a wait depending on the weather or available space. Thank you for your understanding.