Humane training and ethical guidelines in equine-assisted services

Abstract

Equine-assisted services (EAS), which fall under the umbrella of animal-assisted services (AAS), involve complex dynamics and considerations for specialty practice. The inclusion of an additional sentient being into therapeutic work creates ethical responsibilities that extend beyond human safety and clinical effectiveness. Although AAS standards increasingly recognize animal welfare, many equine-specific guidelines remain less operationalized regarding training, handling, and consent to participation. Further operationalizing equine-specific standards may benefit the field of EAS to move beyond broad commitments to welfare and establish behaviorally specific expectations that promote mutually beneficial human-animal relationships.