Why horses make incredible therapy animals

I have often wondered why horses are such terrific therapy animals, haven’t you? I know deeply that they do something that none of the other animals I have encountered in close proximity do, but what is it and why?

I went back to University in my 30’s to attempt to understand exactly what it is. And 18 years ago I completed my master’s dissertation attempting to move closer to an understanding, titled: “Physically Disabled Adolescents’ Experience of Therapeutic Riding. A Phenomenological Investigation”. Thinking back, I would have structured the topic much differently, and although many sources, including the participants, offered some explaination, I am still completely mystified.

I quote this from my disertation:

“Traditionally, horse riding is seen as a purely recreational activity. However,

the horse has been an integral part of human progress and prosperity for
centuries. Horses have been used as a mode of transport, either by riding or driving; have been implemented as an agricultural tool; been a force to reckon with in many a battle; and been a loyal friend and companion for those more fortunate.

 

For many of us there is a tangible, yet mystical connection between the spirit of the horse and the human psyche. This connection has driven the courageous to experiment with these huge, people-loving, highly intelligent beasts as therapeutic assistants in many disciplines.”

I live with the 6 horses that I use in therapy. The oldest (26) and 2 youngest (14 & 10) were born with us. There is one true rescue (From SAID) and 2 adoptees. None of the horses are ridden. I know them intimately, their characters, their quirks, their preferances. I know which one is likely to step forward when a client steps into the field with them. Yet, there is no way for me to imagine what could happen next. I am blown away at every single session.

The depth of work that they are able to do in 90 minutes, in the here-and-now, experiential, somatic, nervous-system based, is just phenominal. I am just as mystified as I was back then.

Then this week, sending a message to a friend, I came to a conclusion: I think that horses have actually come to tolerate human beings. No, actually even love human beings over the eons of sharing this planet. I think they actually choose to help us, that is the only explanation I have. In my imagination (probably fueled by the fact that I’m currently reading Watership Down), I can see the council of horses coming together to discuss this and sending a delegation to the council of early humans: We are willing to help, but we have one condition. You may never again use our bodies to satiate your appetites! And that my friends, is why, even to this day, we deeply frown at consuming horse meat.

The horses and I offer sessions on our farm at the foot of the Magaliesburg Mountains in Hekpoort. Believe me, its worth the drive.

Feel free to reach out telephonically on 011 660 7847 / Alternative: 084 452 9888. I know they would LOVE to help.

Writen by Suzette Weideman, Clinical Psychologist and facilitator for Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy on her farm in Hekpoort.