Volunteer Foundations
Program Support Volunteers | For Sidewalkers and Horse Handlers

Horse Handler Roles + Responsibilities

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Role Overview:
The Horse Handler supports instructors/therapists and participants by safely managing horses during programming. This role ensures horses are calm, responsive, and properly guided, helping create a safe and positive experience for all.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Groom and tack horse for programming

  • Lead horses during programming at the direction of the instructor/therapist

  • Read horse body language and respond appropriately

  • Communicate any horse behavior concerns to the instructor

  • Maintain control of the horse in emergency situations

Why This Role Matters:
Horse Handlers play a vital role in our participants receiving the unmatched benefits of equine movement in a safe and effective way..

Horse Handler Timeline: Before, During, and After the Session

Before the Session

15 minutes prior - Gather Supplies + Groom

  • Put your horse's grooming kit, easy lead, and dressage whip at the designated cross tie

  • Groom your horse with emphasis on hoof cleaning and brushing where the saddle and girth will go

10 minutes before - Tack Horse

  • Tack up your horse using the tack that one of the sidewalker has collected for you

5 minutes before - Warm Up

  • Warm up your horse in the arena making sure to work in both directions, while focusing on creating a good connection with the horse and making sure they are comfortable with any obstacles/objects in the arena

Below is a video about tacking our horses:

During the Session

  • Guide your horse through session activities as directed by the instructor/therapist

  • Maintain focus on the horse and any changes in behavior

After the Session:

  • Untack your horse in the cross tie area and return them to their stall

  • Assist with tack clean up

Common Feedback for Horse Leaders:

Here is a list of common points of correction for horse handlers:

  • Holding your lead rope too tightly, thereby hindering the horse's free movement and/or causing negative behaviors

  • Coiling the lead rope around your hand or letting it drag on the ground

  • Paying attention to the participant rather than the horse

  • Standing too far forward or too far back in relation to the horse's throat latch