Programs
USU Equine Experience is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) and we follow PATH Intl. Standards exist to provide consistent safety provisions for participants, highly-regarded facility and program management processes, and humane treatment for working with equines. The following definitions will help you have a clear understanding of the different types of equine-assisted services and what they entail. Meeting with the professionals at your local center is imperative to learn what services are offered there, and they will help determine what service best suits the individual needs of you or your participant.
Therapeutic/Adaptive Horsemanship
Related to the broad area of horsemanship, equine professionals may offer four distinct non-therapy services that are adapted from traditional equine disciplines of horseback riding, driving, and vaulting. These include adaptive equestrian sport, adaptive riding or therapeutic riding, driving and interactive vaulting.
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Equine-Assisted Learning
Related to the broad area of learning, specially trained or certified professionals may incorporate horses in three distinct non-therapy services: equine-assisted learning in education, equine-assisted learning in organizations and equine-assisted learning in personal development.
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Therapies Incorporating Equines
Related to the broad area of therapy, licensed therapy professionals may incorporate horses in five distinct therapies: counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychotherapy and speech-language pathology.
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Equine Assisted Services for Veterans/Active-Duty Military
Equine-assisted services of all types have proven effective for veterans and active service personnel. Some participate in therapeutic horsemanship including riding and driving, while others benefit from healing their trauma through psychotherapy or strengthening their bodies with physical therapy incorporating horses. We also partner with RideUtah!, a seasonal trail riding experience for veterans and their families. Depending on the type of service in which a veteran participates, there are various physical and psycho-social benefits.
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RideUtah!
Ride Utah! provides a trail ride experience for military personnel and an invited guest. Trail rides are held throughout the summer and fall ranging from Cache Valley to St. George to San Juan County from May-October. Equine trail rides have been shown to be relaxing, provide enjoyment, as well as improve relationships with friends and family.
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DriveUtah!
Drive Utah! Is an outdoor horse-driving experience where military families can enjoy time in our wagon and drive up a canyon with our harnessed team. Great for families with children too young to ride, or for those where riding is physically not possible. Currently only offered in Cache Valley.