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ABOUT US

our mission

Changing Lives through Horses.

Our approach harnesses the extraordinary power of the horse-human bond to foster personal growth, emotional healing, and self-discovery. Experience how these majestic animals can mirror your emotions, leading to profound insights and emotional development.


Our inclusive programs cater to all ages and backgrounds, offering a nurturing environment for learning and growth. Whether through therapy, education, or recreational interaction, we are dedicated to unlocking new paths of self-awareness and resilience. Join us, and let the intuitive nature of horses guide you to a journey of meaningful and lasting change.

HORses

Honesty & Integrity • Open-Mindedness • Respect • Self-Motivation • Enthusiasm • Stewardship

History

A Need for Innovation...

From 1999 to 2001, a comprehensive evaluation of 127 program models, each addressing high-risk behaviors in teens and relationship breakdowns, was conducted. This meticulous process led to the selection of the most effective, financially accessible, and replicable models. These chosen programs underwent thorough audits, and their best practices were integrated into the pioneering Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) programs developed by Higher Trails Equine. This integration marked a significant advancement in the field, positioning Higher Trails as a key originator of EAL methodologies that would later be adopted and refined by EAL Canada.

History

EALCanada© Inception

In 2015, a significant collaborative effort involving the Business Development Center, various organizations, and government agencies led to the formation of EAL Canada, based on the highly effective programs initiated by Higher Trails. This new entity focused exclusively on teaching Equine Assisted Learning, reflecting a dedicated commitment to this innovative educational approach. Incorporated in 2017, EAL Canada has since been a beacon of excellence in EAL instruction across Canada. The organization is known for its continuous development of new materials and products for its coaches, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the EAL field. EAL Canada's commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in Equine Assisted Learning is evident in their constantly updated course materials and the cutting-edge, hands-on training provided to students.

government aid

Grants Available for Your Business

Funding programs from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) are government grants and contributions that help support jobs, training and social development.


Check if your business is eligible to cover your EAPD training costs now.

Check Eligibility

Staff & Affiliates

Meet the Team

The Legacy of EAL,

Ross and Dee Macinnes

Ross and Dee work together to utilize their knowledge and skill sets in the Equine Assisted Learning field. They developed the Equine Assisted Personal Development (EAPD) Coach program based on the research that began in 1999. This is their gold standard program that has been used to train over 950 students. 


They continue to develop material for those working in the EAL field. Most recent they developed their Equine Assisted Organizational Development Professional program. This program takes EAL a step further into the corporate field, working with government, agencies, private sector to enhance the dynamics of their organizations. Full or half day sessions targeted toward team building, communication, adjusting to organizational change and similar situations identified by the client organization.  It is only available to EAPD Coaches. 


Ross and Dee own Higher Trails Equine, their home ranch in the Foothills of Alberta. Ross grew up with horses, learning first at the knee of his grandfather Angus Graham, and later was trained under the protocols of the RCMP Musical Ride. He transferred to Calgary City Police, then retired and intensified his research into horses and their influence on at-risk youth. Dee worked in the personnel field with the Federal Government where she was a trainer and interviewer.


Their focus now is on EAL and its impact on those who encounter that human/horse experience. Their ongoing work with high anxiety teens, First Nations, those with Operational Stress Injury, and others who benefit from what the horses have to offer.

National Training Directors,

Lee and Bobby Brochu

Bobby and Lee Brochu began instructing with EAL Canada in 2021, a great addition to the team as EAL Canada continues to grow. Both are certified Equine Assisted Personal Development Coaches and Equine Assisted Organizational Development Professionals with EAL Canada.


Bobby brings a background that adds dimension to EAL Canada. With her degree in business and her 20 years of experience as a professional accountant, she can offer EAL Canada graduates assistance and education as they build new businesses. With her degree in Business and her Professional Accounting designation, she is a valuable addition to the teaching team. Bobby is also an accomplished horse person, bringing her knowledge and experience in the horse field into their EAL practice.

 

Lee is a Jack of All Trades, with a life focus on farming and ranching. He is a skilled horseman, respected and knowledgeable rancher, and the owner/operator of a large haying production. 

Lee provides a wealth of knowledge in these areas that is valuable to the EAL graduates as they develop their programs and EAL services 


Both Lee and Bobby grew up around horses and continue to enjoy saddle time when ever they can. They own Paradise Acres Ranch located close to St. Albert, Alberta. They also offer variety of equine services to all levels of riders including riding lessons, trail rides, obstacle course, equine clinics, colt starting, tune- ups, problem solving and Equine First Aid. As well Lee and Bobby have an active EAL practice working with individuals, families and organizations.

Connect

Contact Us for More Information

Phone call or text

1-26212 Township Road,

552 Sturgeon COunty Alberta, T8R-2E1

Progressive Learning

Endorsed Research

We are committed to engaging in and supporting credible, well-established research. This ensures our methods and approaches are not only effective but also ethically and scientifically sound. Our dedication to leading-edge therapeutic innovation is crucial, guaranteeing that both our coaches and clients benefit from the most advanced and effective care. EAL recognizes and approves the specified research studies, verifying their validity and conformity with our organizational standards and protocols.

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