OT WITH HORSES (EQUINE THERAPY)

Interacting with horses during OT sessions stimulates the function of multiple domains which are therapeutic for some people with psychosocial, physical, intellectual and emotional disabilities (Scopa et al., 2019).  Initial assessments can determine if OT using horses is right for you or your client. Please contact us. 

The American Veterinary Medical Association describes the human-animal bond as a "mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that is influenced by behaviors that are essential to the health and well-being of both. This includes, but is not limited to, emotional, psychological, and physical interactions of people, animals, and the environment." (AVMA, 2018). 

Human Animal Bond has been found to be responsible for many positive effects on human wellbeing. 

Occupational Therapists can utilise the human-animal bond to encourage their clients to participate in meaningful activities and improve quality of life.  For example, how to care for themselves and others through occupation-based activities such as grooming and feeding.  A natural setting also helps clients better engage in therapy.  The bottom line is that people do better when they are enjoying what they are doing.   Issues of confidence, trust, self-esteem and communication can be positively addressed through interaction with horses. As well as gross and fine motor skills and social skills. 

- To explore the human-animal bond! 

- The horse environment provides self care opportunities, routine, structure and experiential learning 

- Horses can support us to identify feelings and what these feelings mean  

- Horses help people to stay present and focused on the task at hand.   

- Offers a sensory rich experience and natural ways to implement sensory strategies

- They sense where someone is at (you can never fake it with a horse) 

- The focus is off the person and onto the horses (safe place, team approach) 

- They are sensitive to body cues 

- They can provide a challenge  

Progress Therapy Services use their own horses to provide OT sessions with horses.  See Our Horses page below.  Sessions are provided at Progress Farm in Maryborough West.  

Firstly, the OT must complete an initial assessment to check if OT with horses is suitable for the individual client.  In some cases, a medical clearance may be required.  Then programs can begin.  Our equine therapy sessions do not involve riding a horse.  Programs include off-horse activities such as grooming, leading and feeding the horses. 

Interventions are carefully planned to meet individual physical, cognitive and psychosocial goals.