Horses have long been considered symbols of peace and harmony with nature, but this is especially true when these animals are used in therapeutic programs. Equestrian therapy is recognized by many psychologists, psychiatrists and medical doctors as beneficial for the young and old alike, and in a variety of circumstances.
Physical Therapy
The most common of the therapeutic uses for horses is physical therapy, for both permanently- as well as temporarily-disabled individuals. It is thought that the gentle motion of the horse stimulates the rider's muscles, improving circulation as well as range of movement. Modern technology and innovation ensures that even the severely disabled can benefit from equestrian therapy.
There are a number of organizations, most of which are non-profit, that promote equestrian therapy. Pegasus, which is based in Connecticut, is one of the most popular programs. In operation since 1975, Pegasus provides therapeutic riding and other equine-assisted activities to more than 200 children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities.
Other programs include Houston's S.I.R.E., CTR in Colorado and Cheff in Michigan.
Psychological and Emotional Therapy
In addition to the physical therapeutic uses of horses, equestrian therapy is also used for children and adults with emotional and psychological problems. Bonding with a horse is a singularly buoying experience, giving humans an outlet for their fears and anxieties while promoting leadership skills and responsibility.
Many of the equestrian therapy programs that offer physical therapeutic programs also work with individuals with emotional and psychological trauma. Victims of assault, children with learning disorders, people who have recently suffered a tragic loss--there is no limit to the ways in which horses can help humans cope with life's difficulties.
Criminal Rehabilitation
One of the most unusual therapeutic uses for horses is prison programs for violent and non-violent offenders. This type of program usually involves letting inmates train, care for and ride wild horses that are rounded up on the range. Mustangs are the most common breed, but all horses are beneficial in this type of equestrian therapy.
Inmates are assigned a horse and made responsible for its care. They groom, bathe, train, ride and help sell each horse for the benefit of the prison. Although prisoners are not paid for their work, they benefit from the rehabilitative aspects of the program and some states allow them to earn credits toward commissary purchases.
According to Christy Chalmers of the Nevada Department of Corrections, their inmate equestrian therapy program allows the prisoners to work with the horses until they are sold at auction. The money generated from the sales goes toward grain, hay and other expenses incurred by their upkeep.
Equestrian therapy has opened up numerous therapeutic uses for horses, and the applications grow every day.
Sources:
Pegasustr.org, Pegasus Now and Then
Christy Chalmers, "Inmates, Wild Horses Make Good Partners", Nevada Dept. of Corrections
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