On a huge property in Lantier, just 10 minutes from Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, André Ladouceur, Nancy Cyr and their daughter Stéphanie have created a ranch for raising horses…as well as one hundred or so goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas, emus, rabbits and other farm animals. The goal is to pass on their passion for animals through a range of year-round activities, services and events for a very diverse clientele.

Pony rides, horseback rides with a guide and classic or Western-style riding lessons (group or private) are some of the equestrian activities offered, often combined with a visit to the mini-farm or a picnic in a specific area set aside for the purpose. Officially open since 2014, the ranch also boards horses and provides refuge for old or abandoned horses.

There’s a boarding service for dogs, cats and small animals in a family setting for periods from a few hours to several months in length. While dogs are accommodated in the house with the Ladouceur family, the cats live in 10 x 10-foot rooms with windows. The owners also offer services in line with the condition of the animals given into their care, such as providing physiotherapy exercises after surgery, for example.

The farm welcomes individual customers, families and groups. Schools, daycares and groups of individuals with developmental delays or physical or mental handicaps are all welcome. There are also programs adapted for persons with Down’s syndrome and those on the autism spectrum, using animal therapy in their approach.

Riding day camps for young people from six to 18 years of age (in summer and some parts of winter), as well as events and an equestrian store complete the offering of this family business.

There will be day camps on December 27 and during School Break from March 4, 2019. The next themed event will be on December 23 (Holiday Enchantment with Santa Claus), February 10 (Cupid’s Day), April 20, 21 and 22 (Easter celebrations), and in June there will be an Open House on a date to be confirmed.

While it’s all right to arrive without an appointment for a guided visit of the mini-farm or to participate in an event, for a small entry fee, phone reservation are required for participation in horseback riding activities. The same is true for the boarding service for pets because places are limited. The ranch is open 365 days a year from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

ranchladouceur.ca