Every now and then there's an article in the press or a segment on TV that opens the floodgates of people asking about our Therapeutic Horse-riding services. While we are delighted that the word is spreading about the amazing and multiple ways that being with horses can benefit children and adults with a range of physical, intellectual, mental heath and other challenges, we have a duty of care to be honest about possible outcomes. Parents regularly find us as a last resort, desperate for something to hold their child's interest, and we are upfront about the fact that we may not be able to provide the solution they're seeking. We created this Managing Expectations piece that we now include in the early stages of correspondence with a prospective new client. It has helped us to establish clear boundaries and prevent parents and children thinking that horses are an instant cure-all! You are welcome to copy and edit it to suit your own needs. We've learned a LOT since 2014 - most of the hard way - and we're always happy to share so don't be shy about asking. 🙂 MANAGING EXPECTATIONS Please, do not expect instant results when you bring your child to Horses Connect! There has been a lot of media coverage recently about how horses can help people, especially children on the autistic spectrum. It’s really important to know that there is science behind the effects of being in the presence of horses. It’s not magic. It’s not instant. And it’s not for everyone. Just like football, swimming or any other activity, horse-riding will not be a good fit for every child. We see little miracles - that are actually huge milestones - on a daily basis. A first word, eye contact, or initiating an activity – but these little miracles usually happen after weeks, months or even years of consistent work. So don’t be disappointed if your child doesn’t want to get up on the pony, or is more interested in playing with the sand! We have years of experience, and will do our best to encourage your child to ride, but it may not happen!

Make sure you let them know to keep scratching 🤣

Why It Matters to Check Qualifications in Equine-Assisted Services -and why those of us doing it right are tired of cleaning up the mess 😳 Equine-assisted services can be transformative—improving confidence, emotional regulation, boundaries, communication, and overall wellbeing. But like any professional field involving vulnerable people and large animals, it must be grounded in competence, ethics, and safety. That’s why checking a provider’s qualifications, experience, insurance, and safeguarding standards is not optional it’s essential. It’s also important to be aware that not all Equine assisted services and qualifications are the same. For example, someone qualified to provide Equine assisted Learning sessions may not be qualified in Therapeutic Horse-riding - and vice versa. 1. Horses Are Not Props . They Are Powerful, Sensitive Animals Working safely with horses requires significant hands-on skill. A properly trained equine-assisted professional understands herd behaviour, body language, risk management, welfare law, and how to maintain a safe learning environment. Unqualified operators may not recognise early warning signs, or be aware of the contradictions putting clients and horses at risk. 2. Clients Deserve Evidence-Based, Ethical Support Good equine-assisted work is not guesswork. It’s grounded in psychology, coaching principles, learning theory, and ethical frameworks. Professionals invest heavily in training, accreditation, ongoing CPD, supervision, first aid, and safeguarding. If someone cannot clearly articulate their training pathway, code of ethics, and insurance cover, that’s a big red flag. 3. Insurance and Professional Standards Protect Everyone Anyone offering sessions (paid or not) must have: 👍 Accreditation in the service they are offering 👍 Public Liability Insurance 👍Professional Indemnity Insurance 👍 Equine-specific coverage 👍 Safeguarding training and Garda vetting (where relevant) 👍 Clear risk assessments and welfare policies These aren’t bureaucratic boxes to tick. They are the safety net for clients, horses, and the reputation of the entire sector.