Characterization of Horse Use in Therapeutic Horseback Riding Programs in the United States: A Pilot Survey.

The research article details a survey of therapeutic horseback riding (THR) programs in the United States, looking at how horses are used and cared for in the sector. It aims to establish baseline data for horse usage, demographic characteristics, common health issues, and care routines within THR environments.

Objective of the Research

• The main goal of this study was to gather and analyze essential data on the use and care of horses within Therapeutic Horseback Riding (THR) programs. This was undertaken with the aim of setting a foundation for the standard of care within this sector.

Methodology

• The researchers designed a 20-question survey and sent it to 659 different Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.)-affiliated THR programs.
• With a response rate of around 40%, the survey collected data on a large amount of horses within the THR sector.

Results and Findings

• The survey found that the median number of horses in each program was 10, with geldings outnumbering mares.
• The age of most horses was between 16 to 20 years, predominantly being Quarter Horse or stock-type breeds.
• Median session length was 8 weeks, with a median lesson length of 45 minutes, and horses were generally ridden by clients 4 days a week for 2 hours each day.
• Most horses were donated to the programs, participating for about 7 years, and typically left due to aging.
• Common health issues were limb lameness and back soreness, with a minor percentage of colic and ulcers reported. More horses received nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for lameness, underwent chiropractic adjustments, and had massages than any other supplemental treatments.

Conclusion

• The survey’s findings suggest that horses in THR programs are not overworked. They are ridden less compared to recommendations of PATH Intl.’s maximum of 6 hours/day for 6 days/week, as well as compared to horses in university programs.
• The health issues reported were fewer than those noted in other national reports, indicating good care within THR programs.
• The findings can serve as a foundational reference for future discussion around best management practices for horse health and well-being within the THR sector.