If you’re familiar with horses, you already know what incredible creatures they are. So, it is no surprise that medical professionals have recognized the many physical and psychological benefits individuals experience when building a relationship with one.
In fact, there’s a therapy that strategically uses the synergy between humans and horses to change the lives of individuals with all kinds of conditions and disorders—equine therapy!
What Is Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy is an approach to animal-assisted therapy that focuses on patient-horse interaction and the completion of equine-related activities. A health specialist supervises each session to identify issues and monitor progress, and a horse professional is usually present as well.
The goal of equine therapy is to help patients develop the necessary skills and attributes that they experience deficiencies in due to certain physical and mental health conditions. The benefits of equine therapy include improving muscle strength, motor skills, balance, flexibility, movement, self-confidence, responsibility management, social skills, and much more!
How Does Equine Therapy Work?
There are several types of equine therapy and ways to benefit from them. Horseback riding and the tasks that go along with it is one therapeutic approach to take. This typically involves learning best horseback riding practices, preparing tack, vaulting, trotting, and/or pulling a carriage.
Alternatively, if riding is too difficult, caring for a horse is equally as beneficial for patients psychologically and physically. Patients using this treatment style will practice grooming, feeding, petting, and leading a horse.
Who Can Benefit From Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy can have a vast range of positive impacts. Patients suffering from many different types of physical disabilities can experience marked improvement when working with horses. It has been proven to be an effective treatment for those suffering from neurological diseases, movement disorders, muscle problems, balance issues, and more.
The psychological benefits of equine therapy similarly enhance the lives of individuals with an extensive variety of afflictions. This therapeutic approach is very useful for people suffering from PTSD, autism, mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, and other mental health patients.
It’s important to remember that a horse is a living creature, not just a healing tool for us to use. Take care of your horses the way they take care of you or your patients! Invest in a a top-quality shed or barn from Deer Creek Structures for your horse to call home.
Contact us at (254)546-2276 today to get started on a custom design, or browse our website to choose from our prefab models!