How Horses Help Build Skills and Confidence
Learn how horses help build skills and confidence through equine assisted activities that support learning, communication, and emotional growth.
Resources
The Resources category gathers practical guides, tools, and reference materials to help families, professionals, and newcomers navigate the world of equine-assisted services. Here you’ll find terminology explainers, program vetting checklists, nonprofit overviews, certification pathways, decision guides, safety information, and supportive educational materials designed to make research clearer and choices easier.
These resources simplify complex topics into plain language so readers can understand how different program types work, what credentials mean, how to evaluate quality, and where to find reputable equine-assisted programs. Whether you’re exploring options for the first time or deepening your understanding, this category is your go-to library for reliable, accessible information.
What Is Equestrian Therapy?
Learn what equestrian therapy is, how it works, and how equine assisted programs support physical, emotional, and developmental goals.
Horses4Heroes: What They Do and Where They Operate
Learn about Horses4Heroes, an equine assisted program supporting veterans, first responders, and families through horsemanship and riding activities.
CanTRA: Canada’s Home for Therapeutic Riding Education and Standards
What is CanTRA? Canada’s therapeutic riding body sets standards, certifies instructors, and accredits centres to ensure safe, credible programs.
PATH International: Accreditation, Certifications, and Organizational Role
Learn about PATH International, its history, standards, certifications, and role in supporting equine-assisted activity programs across North America.
History of Animal-Assisted Activities: From Moral Treatment to Modern Practice
Explore the history of animal-assisted activities, from early “moral treatment” to today’s structured, welfare-focused programs.
National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy: Programs, Setting, and Community Role
Learn about NCEFT’s equine-assisted programs, adaptive riding, and community activities at its long-running equestrian campus in Woodside, California.
American Hippotherapy Association: Mission, Education, and Role in the Field
Learn about the American Hippotherapy Association, its mission, history, and role in professional education related to equine movement.