Creating a standard of care for horses working in the equine-assisted fields

This thesis addresses the need for a standard of care for horses working in the fields of equine-assisted therapy and educational programming. It begins with a discussion of the horse and its co-evolution with humans and the current roles horses play in a variety of equine-assisted programs. A literature review reveals current debates on what is considered adequate care for horses. In order to obtain statistical information on actual practice, a quantitative survey instrument was designed and distributed to three fields of professionals interacting with horses: horse owners, doctors of veterinary medicine, and equine-assisted programs. Distribution was based mainly in the United States.;The results indicate that professionals working with horses agree on several aspects of basic horse care. From this information recommendations are made for a standard of care for horses working in these programs. Additionally, several suggestions are given for the long range implementation of this standard.