Research & Resources

Terminology

Leaders and stakeholders in equine-assisted services conducted a consensus-building process regarding terminology to define the diverse services. This resulted in a paper published in a peer-reviewed journal. Learn more about this process and its results recommending optimal terminology for services incorporating horses.

Research

There is a growing evidence-base for the impact horses have on mental health and well-being. HMH is pleased to provide a summary of peer-reviewed research supporting the benefit horses have for mental health and well-being. Click the button below to read / download reference lists by population and abstracts. Thank you to Nerds for Herds for compiling this resource.

Resource Partners

Arenas for Change (ARCH) teaches a framework of facilitation for mental health, organizational development and personal growth incorporating horses.

Abijah’s on the Backside partners with racetracks around the U.S. and Europe to provide on-site mental health services incorporating off-track thoroughbreds.

The American Horse Council works daily to advocate for the social, economic and legislative interests of the United States equine industry, including equine-assisted services.

Thoroughbred Assisted, home of Racing to Relate R&D, is an innovative and collaborative knowledge platform to share resources, champion best practice, and engage with audiences in racing, thoroughbred aftercare, and equine-assisted services.

Horses and Humans Research Foundation serves as a catalyst to advance global knowledge, through research, of horse-human interactions and their impact on health and wellness.

Nerds for Herds provides science-based research and program evaluation consulting for professionals and programs who incorporate animals in therapy and learning services.