Horses were
originally seen as working animals, used in transportation and on the likes of
farms. Given a horses size, strength and intelligence they were heavily relied
upon to pull ploughs for field work and carriages for those wealthy enough to
have the luxury of such transportation. Over the years, horses have been
continually used as ‘working’ animals including during the war and although
many no longer work in labour intensive jobs, they still have a vital role to
play in some working environments – specifically horse therapy.
Horse
therapy or equine assisted therapy can be used as part of a therapy treatment
to help those with learning disabilities, behavioural difficulties, mental
health issues and as part of rehabilitation after a severe injury. According to
Equine Psychotherapy,
the treatment can be used to promote emotional growth. In its basic stages, the
therapy teaches how to move a horse in a calm and gentle manner as well as
tacking a horse and feeding or grooming them. Little work is usually emphasised
on actually riding the animal. There has been much evidence to support the
benefits of equine therapy including building confidence, trust and improving
social skills as well as improving communication skills and self-acceptance.
Building a relationship with a horse is seen as a ‘healing process’ and with
that brings great opportunities to better a person’s outlook.
As said
horses are seen to be very therapeutic animals and with that have many positive
effects on those who partake in such programmes. These animals are used because
of their emotional intelligence. They too fear, act on instincts, change their
moods and show very definite personality traits. With these characteristics,
horses are able to show kindness and love as well as show fear or uncertainty
in situations that they do not like. It is these changing emotions that can
allow participants of such therapy treatments the chance to better understand
emotional needs and how to act in specific situations.
This type of
therapy has grown in interest in recent years and has picked up high acclaim
for the positive effects that it can have on a person’s life. As part of the
therapy, the animals need to be looked after including grooming and feeding as
well as the everyday chores required when looking after a horse. American barn units could help to offer a safe environment for such interactions. These
outbuildings are equipped with stable areas as well as additional space for
grooming and storage space for tack and feed. American barns may help in such
therapy treatments by giving a familiar and calming environment for the animal
whilst offering the best facilities to participants for the best possible
outcome.
For
additional information on American barn out building, please speak to a member
of the Jon William Stables team by calling 01380 850 965.
