Calmer despite ADHD

A horse as a therapist for Dominik (13)

Andrea Thomayer (55) notices that Dominik is already more open. That is what drives her therapy work.

(Bild: Berger Susi)

Despite having ADHD, Dominik has become much calmer thanks to the riding therapy in Straßwalchen. The boy first came into contact with animals through his mother.

Dominik's eyes light up when he comes to the riding stables in the Stockham district of Straßwalchen. Emil the Fjord horse, Andrea Thomayer (55) and her family are waiting for him there. Katharina B. and her son have been regular guests at the riding stables for six months. Dominik (13) lives with ADHD and not only has problems concentrating, but also approaching his peers. The horses at the riding stables are the greatest thing for him. Every two weeks, the family comes to the farm for a weekend, when Dominik is allowed to groom the horses and even try out small gymnastic exercises on their backs. In addition to occupational therapy and medication, the riding therapy helps the "whirlwind", as his mother calls him, to be himself.

Dominik with Fjord horse Emil

(Bild: Berger Susi)

Katharina B., who is in a wheelchair, was originally looking for therapy for herself. When her son attended a session, she noticed how quickly he found access to the animals. He has been going to riding therapy ever since. And he has already changed: "He is gaining self-confidence and is confident with the horses. He is very different at the farm than at home." For the 55-year-old therapist, this is what drives her work. She enthuses: "Dominik is so helpful and has already become calmer in the six months."

Originally, mom Katharina did the riding therapy.

(Bild: Berger Susi)

Therapy works with good-natured four-legged friends
Thomayer, who is actually a special needs teacher, trained in the healing integrative horse setting, a holistic approach for body, mind and emotions in equal measure. This was followed by training as a life and social counselor and a course in equine pedagogy at the Landesfortbildungsinstitut.

Being accepted by the animals helps the children. They become calmer and more in touch with themselves. After six months, this is also the case with Dominik.

Andrea Thomayer, 55, Sonderschullehrerin und Reitpädagogin

Bild: Berger Susi

Since summer 2021, she, her daughter Selina and two employees have been offering children with autism, learning disabilities, hearing loss or problems settling in a place where they feel accepted. Very patient and good-natured horses do the rest.