Equine Therapy: What It Is, Benefits, and How Horse‑Assisted Therapy Works

Equine therapy is considered a therapeutic resource capable of positively affecting important aspects of people’s health. Its growth worldwide has been steady because of its short‑term benefits.

At EQUSPADDOCK, as leaders in the development of products for horses across any discipline, we know how important it is to use quality equipment to carry out this therapy. That’s why we offer the best.

What is equine therapy and how Is It performed?

Equine therapy is nothing more than the therapeutic use of horses. It dates back to the Greek era, when these animals were used to prevent certain ailments.

According to historical accounts, this practice began in Mexico around 1969 thanks to Rogelio Hernández Huerta. Since then, groups have been formed to support people with various disabilities.

Definition of equine therapy and differences from hippotherapy

In practical terms, it is defined as a therapy that involves the use of horses to help those with emotional and cognitive problems and even physical disabilities.

This therapy with horses can address many physical and psychological conditions. Therefore, it serves as a health support that—through the horse’s movement and, above all, interaction with these animals—enhances patients’ quality of life.

What equine therapy involves, step by step

This therapy with horses for adults is conducted in a safe, controlled environment. It requires the expertise of trained professionals, and the general steps are as follows.

Preparation. The horse and the setting must be prepared so everything proceeds correctly.

Introduction to the animal. The therapist introduces the horse so the patient can get to know it and explains the horse’s role in the therapy.

Activities with the animal. The patient carries out different tasks with the horse to become familiar and interact with it—for example, grooming, riding, etc.

Therapy. After interacting with the animal, the therapist sets various goals for the patient.

Finally, after the activities, the therapist assesses the patient’s progress to make any necessary adjustments and continue advancing.

Horses used in equine therapy: types and characteristics

To carry out this equine therapy, the horse used must have several characteristics related to conformation, training, sex, temperament, age, and docility. These include:

• Temperament. It should be calm and responsive to the rider or handler.

• Age. The animal should be more mature than those just beginning training.

• Height. The horse should be between 1 m and 1.70 m to facilitate the patient’s movement.

• Sex. Geldings and mares are used more often.

• Body conformation. The animal should have a rectangular rather than square frame. In addition, its back should be well muscled to allow work without a bareback pad (albardón) and to support the weight of two people.

• Docility. The horse must be gentle and confident so the patient can interact with it calmly.

Beyond the aspects mentioned above, regarding the horse’s physical training, it should show a strong, muscular body. Its back should have good swing, and the neck should be well muscled.

Beneficios de la equinoterapia en adultos y niños 

Los beneficios de la equinoterapia son amplios para las personas de todas las edades. Por ese motivo, aquí exponemos los más destacados. 

Benefits of equine therapy for adults and children

The benefits of equine therapy are extensive for people of all ages. Here are the most notable.

Physical and motor benefits of equine therapy

This practice can improve muscle strength, coordination, and balance. In this way, the horse’s movement can help with the patient’s muscle relaxation.

Emotional and cognitive benefits of horse‑assisted therapy

Therapy with horses can reduce anxiety levels, promote confidence, decrease stress, and increase self‑esteem. It also helps with concentration and cognitive capacity.

Social benefits of equine therapy and Its Integration into vulnerable communities

In social terms, this practice can promote integration in vulnerable communities. For that reason, therapy with horses for adults develops communication skills.

Types of therapy with Horses: equine therapy, hippotherapy, and equine‑assisted therapy

There are three types of therapy with horses. Each can strengthen specific areas to improve both physical and cognitive function.

Hippotherapy: what It is and how It differs from equine therapy

Hippotherapy and equine therapy are two comprehensive approaches centered on the use of the horse. However, the former focuses more on the horse’s movement and less on interaction with the animal.

Equine therapy for adults: objectives and expected results

In this therapy, the main objectives are to improve self‑esteem, reduce stress, and build patients’ confidence. Favorable results are expected so people can enjoy a better quality of life.

Social equine therapy: support for people with functional diversity or at risk of exclusion

This form of horse‑assisted therapy combines therapeutic action with the animal’s companionship. As a result, nerves can be calmed during the interaction, and people are encouraged to open up to others.

How does equine therapy help, according to specialists?

Equine therapy helps patients overcome cognitive blocks and gradually regain trust. It therefore optimizes emotional regulation and improves social skills, while also having a positive impact on motor function.

Clinical cases and studies on the effectiveness of equine therapies

Beyond understanding what hippotherapy is, there are several studies on equine therapies that demonstrate their effectiveness. Here are some examples.

In a study conducted with 11 children with psychomotor delay, changes in motor control were found after undergoing the therapies.

Another study found that equine therapies in 17 children with cerebral palsy, between 10 months and 9 years old, improved gross motor function, reducing their motor disability.

Thus, it is demonstrated that these types of therapies are effective for people with disabilities. And these are not the only records found regarding therapies with horses, such as equine therapy.

Indications and contraindications of therapy with horses

Therapy with horses is indicated for those with disorders and disabilities. It is often useful for people with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, autism, anxiety, and cognitive and social issues, among others.

However, although its effectiveness has been demonstrated, this therapy also has some contraindications. The most common are related to allergies to horses or severe motor problems that prevent participation.

At EQUSPADDOCK we know how important this type of therapy can be for patients. For that reason, we stay up‑to‑date on trends in the products used for treatment with horses.