Indicators for Equine-Assisted Therapy: Therapists` Perspectives on Horse Training

In equine-assisted therapy, the horse is the main actor, as horse-human interaction provides biopsychosocial and communicative benefits for individuals with disabilities. However, most horse training studies do not focus on equine-assisted therapy, and studies on equine-assisted therapy rarely address horse preparation (Brubaker et al., 2021; Grandgeorge & Hausberger, 2019). Research on horse behavior with familiar and unfamiliar humans highlights the need to identify key characteristics of successful therapy horses (Brubaker et al., 2021). Our proposal emphasizes a relational training approach to replace violent methods, promoting harmonious interactions that benefit both horses and therapy participants. We argue that therapists` perspectives should be considered in horse preparation and selection for equine-assisted therapy.

The aim is to identify behavioral indicators for assessing horses in equine-assisted therapy.
This study involved ten therapists (five speech-language pathologists, three physiotherapists, two psychologists), two horse trainers, and two therapy assistants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore therapists` roles, commonly used instruments, and relevant horse behaviors. Based on these findings, group meetings were held to refine key instruments and define testing procedures in the riding arena.

Seven human-horse interaction activities were identified in interviews and later consolidated into three categories: (1) approach by an unfamiliar person, (2) simulation of therapy-specific objects (small and medium-sized objects near the horse), and (3) simulation of auditory stimuli near the horse.
Within these categories, 22 relevant activities were identified. In group meetings, they were narrowed down to four in the first category, seven in the second, and three in the third. Activities included child-horse approach with touch and voice, object introduction (e.g., writing board, ball, mirrors, miniatures), and auditory stimuli (human speech and recorded sounds).

The integrated work of therapists and horse trainers allowed the identification of equine assessment indicators related to equine-assisted therapy. These indicators were categorized based on therapeutic practices, including auditory stimuli, materials, and equipment.

Brubaker, L., Schroeder, K., Sherwood, D., Stroud, D., & Udell, M. A. (2021). Horse behavior towards familiar and unfamiliar humans: Implications for equine-assisted services. Animals, 11(8), 2369.

Grandgeorge, M., & Hausberger, M. (2019). Autisme, médiation équine et bien-être. Bulletin de l`Académie Vétérinaire de France, 172(172).