Special Needs, Special Horses: A Guide to the Benefits of Therapeutic Riding

Abstract

Scott N. Denton, TX 76203, University of North Texas Press, 2005, paperback, 226 pp, illus, ISBN: 1-57441-192-6, $14.95. Special Needs, Special Horses: A Guide to the Benefits of Therapeutic Riding Scott N. Denton, TX 76203, University of North Texas Press, 2005, paperback, 226 pp, illus, ISBN: 1-57441-192-6, $14.95. Equine-assisted activities (EAA) is the term preferred by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) for interactions between people with special needs and horses, whether the individual is mounted on the horse or standing on the ground. The purpose of this book is to provide information, in simple terms, about procedures, techniques, and benefits of EAA. The author’s intent is to acquaint prospective clients with horseback riding programs, particularly children who have never ridden or have never been around horses before. Most of the information is compiled from 3 main sources: (1) the author’s interviews with instructors, therapists who utilize EAA, and others involved in riding programs, (2) research from the NARHA on the use of the horse’s motion as a treatment tool, and (3) the author’s own experience as a volunteer assisting participants in a riding program. Information obtained through other personal communications with parents, therapists, instructors, and NARHA members is referenced throughout the book. The book is divided into 2 parts. Part I, “Therapeutic Riding and Activities,” has 14 chapters that cover the basics and benefits of therapeutic riding programs and activities. In chapter 1, the author defines the various types of treatments available that involve horses, including hippotherapy, equine-facilitated psychotherapy, equinefacilitated experiential learning, and recreational riding. Hippotherapy uses the horse’s movement as a …