The unique Equine-Human bond is unparalleled anywhere in nature.
Dating back to our earliest ancestors the two species have been mysteriously linked, forming a tight symbiotic relationship that literally charts the course of human development.

Now, in the last few decades, it appears that a new chapter in this intriguing story is being written in the form of Therapeutic Horseback Riding and Carriage Driving.

Therapeutic Horseback Riding and Carriage Driving, also known as Equine-Assisted Therapy or Hippotherapy, taps into the unique Equine-Human bond to facilitate benefits for individuals suffering from a range of psychological, social, cognitive and physical disabilities.

In the case of motor dysfunction, for instance, the horse's gait – quite similar to a human's walk, helps riders strengthen spine and pelvic muscles, improve posture and coordination, and increase joint mobility. Additionally, the warmth and motion of the horse has been found to sooth involuntary muscle spasms throughout the neck, back, arms and legs of many patients.

For individuals with mental and / or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship developed with a horse can help overcome anxieties and fears, encourage mutual trust, teach problem solving techniques and build self-esteem. Therapeutic Horse Back Riding and Carriage Driving has been found to be especially applicable for treating autistic patients in any of the various Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

It should be noted that not all Therapeutic Riding approaches require the individual to mount the horse. A common alternative which is just as efficient is a leisurely Horse Drawn Carriage ride. Here, the patient sits in a custom-made carriage next to a certified instructor and holds the reins, putting him in full command of the horse with all the associated benefits for one's self-confidence and sense of freedom.

More and more companies in the UK and throughout the world offer a range of such services, and can be contacted through our directory.