Path International

PATH Intl. drives excellence through rigorously developed standards, credentials and education as a global leader promoting safe and effective equine-assisted services to transform lives.

About Path International

About Path International

PATH Intl. was formed in 1969 as the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association to promote equine-assisted  services (EAS) for individuals with special needs. Since that time, the association’s work to credential professionals and accredit centers has expanded, as have the categories of individuals served through EAS. Through the work of 767 member centers and more than 4,525 professionals credentialed through PATH Intl., 71,288 children and adults including 7,427 veterans, find health,wellness, a sense of independence and fun through EAS. Member centers range from small, one-person programs to large operations with several credentialed instructors and licensed therapists. In addition to therapeutic horseback riding, a center may offer any number of services such as PT/OT/SLP and mental health therapies incorporating equines, carriage driving, interactive vaulting, trail riding, competition and more. Through a wide variety of educational resources, the association helps individuals start and maintain successful programs. In 2022 the PATH Intl. CTRI® Certification became the first independently accredited credential in the equine industry. There are 51,995 volunteers, 7,694 equines and thousands of contributors from all over the world making a difference in people’s lives

Founded in 1969

Mission Statement

PATH Intl. advances professional equine-assisted services by empowering its members, credentialed professionals, partners and the public through rigorously developed standards, credentials and education that recognize the power of the equine-human relationship.

Vision Statement

PATH Intl. drives excellence through rigorously developed standards, credentials and education as a global leader promoting safe and effective equine-assisted services to transform lives.

Core Values

We uphold the highest standards of safety, prioritizing the well-being and ethical treatment of all participants, equines and professionals.

We are dedicated to ethical conduct, accountability and continuous improvement, reflecting our commitment to quality and integrity in equine-assisted services.

We promote accessibility and embrace diversity, working to make equine-assisted services inclusive and welcoming for all communities.

We value partnerships and collaboration, fostering innovation and shared knowledge to strengthen the global community of equine-assisted services.

We empower our community through comprehensive education and training, fostering expertise and growth in equine-assisted services.

We prioritize the needs and success of our members, centers and credentialed professionals, providing resources, support and opportunities to enhance their impact in the field.