Utah State University Extension’s Center for Equine-Assisted Services (CEAS) is an innovative university-based program dedicated to advancing education, research, professional development, and community outreach within the field of equine-assisted services. Established through a partnership between USU Extension and the Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, the center promotes evidence-based practices while providing meaningful equine-assisted opportunities for individuals, families, students, professionals, and communities throughout Utah.
The center serves as the home of USU Equine Experience, a community-focused program that combines adaptive horsemanship, equine-assisted learning, veteran services, and educational opportunities. By integrating university research with hands-on programming, CEAS helps participants experience the benefits of equine-assisted services while preparing future professionals in the field.
About This Program
The Center for Equine-Assisted Services is built around Utah State University’s mission of teaching, research, and extension. Through community programming, academic pathways, and professional development opportunities, the center works to improve access to high-quality equine-assisted services while advancing knowledge within the industry.
USU Equine Experience programs are directed by university faculty and industry-certified instructors with support from trained students, volunteers, and specially prepared horses. Programs are designed to promote physical, emotional, social, and educational development through safe and structured equine-assisted experiences. The center emphasizes evidence-based practices, horse welfare, and professional standards while fostering positive human-equine relationships.
Services Offered
- Adaptive riding and horsemanship
- Equine-assisted learning programs
- Equine-assisted services for individuals with disabilities
- Veteran horsemanship programs
- Programs for active-duty military personnel
- Drive Utah horse-driving experiences
- Ride Utah equestrian activities
- Professional development opportunities
- Student internships and mentorships
- Equine-assisted services education
- Research initiatives and community outreach
- Volunteer opportunities within equine-assisted programs
Who They Serve
Utah State University Extension – Center for Equine-Assisted Services may be good for:
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Individuals with disabilities
- Veterans
- Active-duty military personnel
- Military families
- Students pursuing equine-assisted services careers
- Educators and healthcare professionals
- Community members interested in equine-assisted learning
- Organizations seeking professional development opportunities
Facility and Setting
The Center for Equine-Assisted Services operates through several locations across Northern Utah, including the Sam Skaggs Family Equine Education Center in Wellsville, the Davis Agricultural Heritage Center in Kaysville, and the Bastian Agricultural Center in South Jordan. These facilities provide access to equine-assisted learning environments, adaptive horsemanship opportunities, and community-based programming.
The atmosphere combines the resources of a major land-grant university with the personalized support of community-based equine programs. Participants benefit from professional instruction, research-informed practices, hands-on learning experiences, and a strong commitment to safety and horse welfare.
What Makes Them Unique
The Center for Equine-Assisted Services stands out because it integrates higher education, research, professional development, and community programming within a single equine-assisted services framework. This approach allows participants to benefit from evidence-based programming while creating educational opportunities for future industry professionals.
Another distinguishing feature is its leadership in advancing equine-assisted services education. The center supports academic certificates, student internships, instructor mentorship pathways, and industry research initiatives that help strengthen professional standards and expand access to quality equine-assisted services throughout Utah and beyond.