Studio dei cavalli adibiti ala riabilitazione equestre: una review

The present work wants to deepen some aspects related with horse's involvement in Therapies and Actitivities-Animal-Assisted (AAT/AAA); these evidences seem to be tight related with the role of veterinary practitioner in Therapeutic Riding Team. Therapeutic Riding, in agreement with the most recent psyco-motor theories, is a global therapeutic method that consider the whole person as a subject (rather than object) of the rehabilitation. The human-horse relationship, placed in a specific structured setting, is the central point of the therapeutic intervention. The horse becomes therefore an active component of therapeutic program, on condition that are recognized, respected and exploited his species-specific and individual features. Several scientific studies has identified the relationship as a potential source of stress for the horse involved in equine assisted activities or therapies. On the basis of present knowledge (on equine biomechanical and mechanisms of action of equestrian activities in the treatment neuromotors pathologies) it is possible to give some indication about morphological attitudes of animals; nevertheless it is more difficult to give some indication about their behavioural attitudes. The most important suitability feature is the availability in establishing positive relationship with human people, showing a correct reactivity and responsiveness towards environmental stimuli. In this sense some factors may be considered to be limiting: - management factors (with a particular reference to the factors affecting social and biomechanical equine characteristics); - a better knowledge of learning mechanism; communication theory and application of different kind of horse language. In conclusion the outcomes reported offer a cue about the necessity of further researches, focused on a definition of best animals management factors, on the basis of their effects, evaluated through behavioural and physiological parameters (yet to be deepened and transmitted to the technicians). Considering what has been highlighted up to this point is outlined how veterinary practitioner is for the team of AAA/AAT a key figure, to reach the goal of animal wellbeing preservation. Then he will be able to strengthen, through his/her specific skills, effectiveness of the therapeutic intervention, ensuring the whole access to his rehabilitative and educational potentialities, not available through a mere instrumental use of animals