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Why PATH international?Discover your answers here.

We lead the advancement of professional equine-assisted services by supporting our members and stakeholders through rigorously developed standards, credentialing and education.

Why PATH International?Discover your answers here.

We lead the advancement of professional equine-assisted services by supporting our members and stakeholders through rigorously developed standards, credentialing and education.

Why PATH Intl.

Supporting both those with special needs and those who want to help.

PATH Intl. was founded in 1969 to promote safe and effective therapeutic — also known as adaptive — horseback riding throughout the United States and Canada. Today, through the work of 794 member centers and more than 4,800 professionals credentialed through PATH Intl., more than 46,600 children and adults, including 5,200 veterans, are helped through a variety of equine-assisted services.

For Participants

You are the parent or caretaker of someone with disabilities. Or you are a therapist wanting an alternative to traditional therapy for your clients. Equine-assisted services may be for you. But you want it to be safe, and you want it to be professional, following best practices for an industry you know little about.

Are Equine-Assisted Services Safe?

PATH Intl. Member Centers, by complying with PATH Intl. standards, provide the highest standards of safety and utmost professionalism. Each member center is required to have a PATH Intl. Certified Professional on staff. These individuals complete a rigorous certification process, thereby proving competency to offer services with participant and equine safety top of mind.

For Professionals

PATH Intl. professionals serve in a number of different capacities, but one thing they have in common—dedication to the people and animals with whom they partner. From the accredited center directors to the equine specialists, instructors and volunteers, their dedication and passion lead them to advance their knowledge and professionalism to help those in need.

What makes PATH Intl. the place to grow your career?

Currently, with more than 4,800 certified professionals at 794 PATH Intl. member centers, PATH Intl. helps to change and enrich the lives of more than 46,600 individuals with and without disabilities, including 5,200 veterans and military service personnel. Since 1969, PATH Intl. has represented a growing number of equine-assisted services, including horseback riding; groundwork; psychotherapy incorporating equines; physical, occupational and speech and language therapies incorporating horses in treatment; carriage driving; interactive vaulting; competition; equine-assisted learning; and other therapeutic and educational interactions with horses. 

Want to get involved and learn more? A great first step to learning about the organization and the industry is to become a member.

I belong to PATH Intl. because PATH Intl. Centers offer tremendous benefits for many special needs, and it's an excellent educational resource.

Judi Nelson
Member

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