How do I choose the best horse therapy program for my child?

With hundreds of horse therapy programs available, each offering unique therapeutic approaches, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Begin by asking your child's doctor for recommendations on local programs. If they're unfamiliar with local programs, you may need to conduct your own research. To find horse therapy programs near you, explore reputable databases such as Eagala programs, PATH international, and CHA certifications by location.

Here are some important questions to ask when evaluating horse therapy programs:

• How full is your program right now? Is there a waiting list?
• What’s your availability?
• Have you had experience working with my child’s disability? If so, what kind?
• What kind of adaptive devices are offered?
• How hard do you work your horses? Do they have breaks? (This is an important question because it can be dangerous to put your child on a horse that is over- or underworked.)
• What’s your injury report/count?
• What’s your horse's training? How are they desensitized?
• Where have your instructors obtained their certifications? The most common are from PATH, CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association), or Eagala.

By asking these questions, you can ensure that the program you choose is safe, experienced, and well-suited to your child's needs.

It’s equally important to know when horse therapy might not be the right fit for your child. Certain disabilities or conditions, such as brittle bone disease, might make it unsuitable. Consulting with your child’s healthcare provider can help you determine whether horse therapy is a safe choice for your child.

Learn more in our article Horse Therapy 101.