What
equine assisted activities offer...
Equine assisted
activities offer the opportunity to be in control of
one's own mobility
Equines can get a
person somewhere outdoors that is inaccessible by
wheelchair
Equines compensate for
uneven footing and facilitate outdoor activity with
dignity and ease
The equine can often
become an equalizer offering people who move at very
different speeds to get to their destination together.
The barn is a totally
new environment that provides stimulating and exciting
interaction
The relationship with a
horse or donkey can serve as a bridge between
psychotherapist and a client.
Equine activities allow
people with a physical disability to be able to join
with or successfully compete with those who have a
different physical function.
Animals can model
positive and negative personality traits for mental
health clients
Unlike a mechanical car
or wheelchair, the horse provides rhythmical,
multidimensional movement that recreates natural
movement. The horse's movement will also facilitate
activation of postural control, balance, and motor and
sensor systems
Because movement is so
closely linked to other functions, the participant will
likely experience other systemic changes such as those
that involve levels of arousal, cognitive function, mood
or behavior responses.
