In the wild, a horse’s survival depends on being attuned to subtle cues from other herd members through the heart’s invisible electromagnetic field, which is estimated to be about five times larger than a human’s. Studies show that this larger field naturally lowers human blood pressure & steadies heart rhythm. When a person stands near or touches a horse, their heart rate variability syncs within minutes as a reflection of the autonomic nervous system seeking balance.

Based on the theory that divides predatory animals from prey animals, we believe horses make the best therapy animals. Predators, such as dogs, disguise their feelings to fool their prey, while prey animals, such as horses, cannot. It is impossible for humans to mask or hide their feelings from horses, whether conscious or unconscious, because horses sense every micro-expression, tension, and subtle movement. In this sense, the horse acts as a living biofeedback machine in sessions that provides valuable information to the instructor & deepens the effectiveness of the therapy.

People who have experienced trauma often share some of the same alertness & sensitivity that horses have. This shared way of perceiving the world helps explain why the bond between horse & human is so transformative.

Like family pets, horses offer comfort & companionship that help people feel grounded & regulated. The difference is that horses live entirely in the present; they do not dwell on the past or anticipate the future. This steady awareness or connection invites (requires) the people around them to meet them there.

Horses provide a safe environment for emotional expression without fear of judgment. Since they don’t hold biases, individuals are offered unconditional support to freely express themselves.

Working with horses has been scientifically proven to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) & increase oxytocin (the bonding hormone), helping participants feel calmer & more connected. Some research has even shown improvements in sleep patterns & long-term reductions in anxiety after regularly-occurring equine-assisted sessions.

The rhythmic gait of a horse mimics the natural walking pattern of humans. Thus, this movement engages the core strength, balance, and postural symmetry framework needed for rehabilitation.

Equine-assisted services activate cognitive, sensory, and motor systems all at once. This combination is powerful for neural pathways & motor skill development. Emerging research shows improvements for both children with developmental delays & veterans with PTSD in months beyond the initial program.

Because horses respond to clear, consistent cues, participants subsequently learn the value of honesty, patience, and boundaries. In practice, this may look like a veteran building trust with an equine, then being able to explore vulnerability with this equine before they can with another human.

Horse care requires teamwork. For participants, especially children & young adults, this structured social environment provides opportunities to learn & practice collaboration, empathy, and responsibility in a safe space.