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Ex-Racehorse Finds New Life as Therapy Star
4 Aug
Summary
- Dr. Troutman, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred, transitioned to therapy work.
- He helps adults and children with physical and emotional challenges.
- The program matches war horses with military veterans for healing.
Dr. Troutman, a former racehorse, has embarked on a successful second career as a therapy horse, offering comfort and support to riders of all ages. The 11-year-old Thoroughbred, who competed extensively in California and Arizona, retired from racing in early 2025. He now works at the Ride Above Disability Therapeutic Riding Center in Poway, California.
Ride Above serves adults and children aged 4 to 64 with diverse challenges, including anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, vision impairment, and cerebral palsy. Dr. Troutman's calm demeanor and strong work ethic make him particularly suited for therapeutic riding, helping students build crucial relationships and rapport.
A significant aspect of the program involves matching military veterans with horses like Dr. Troutman. This initiative, which began after Dr. Troutman joined Ride Above in November 2025, pairs veterans with "war horses" to facilitate healing and connection. The center, founded in 2014, currently features 19 horses, eight of which are Thoroughbreds.
Donations to support organizations like Ride Above and horses like Dr. Troutman can be made through CARMA's annual CARMAthon fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, August 8th. CARMA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides essential resources for these versatile Thoroughbreds.
