The Healing Power of Prey Animals in Therapy: How Horses and Rabbits Foster Emotional Growth

The Healing Power of Prey Animals in Therapy: How Horses and Rabbits Foster Emotional Growth

Authored by: Tyler VanAllen

When we think of therapy, we often imagine traditional talk therapy in an office setting. While this can be highly effective, some individuals find that healing takes a different path—one that involves connecting with nature and animals. Equine-assisted therapy (EAP) and rabbit-assisted therapy (RAP) utilize the unique characteristics of prey animals to support emotional regulation, self-awareness, and personal growth. But what makes these animals particularly effective for therapy? The answer lies in both science and emotion.

Why Prey Animals? Understanding the Science

Horses and rabbits, as prey animals, are highly attuned to their surroundings. Their survival depends on detecting subtle cues in their environment, which makes them exceptionally sensitive to human emotions and behaviors. Unlike predators, who may exhibit dominant or assertive behaviors, prey animals rely on trust, calmness, and social connection for safety. This sensitivity creates a unique therapeutic opportunity.

1. Biofeedback in Real Time

Research has shown that horses and rabbits provide immediate biofeedback to human emotional states. Because they are finely tuned to body language, energy levels, and nonverbal communication, they respond to our emotions with remarkable accuracy. If a person is anxious, a horse may step away or mirror that nervous energy. If a person is calm and centered, the horse is more likely to remain close and engaged. Rabbits, while smaller and more subtle, also reflect human emotions—tensing up when a person is distressed and relaxing when they sense safety.

Furthermore, this biofeedback can help clients become more aware of their emotional states in real-time. For example, individuals with anxiety may not always recognize when their tension levels rise, but a horse’s reaction to their presence can serve as an external cue. This real-time reflection allows for greater emotional awareness and the opportunity to develop healthier coping mechanisms.

2. The Role of the Parasympathetic Nervous System

Interacting with these animals activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s "rest and digest" functions. Simply petting a rabbit or grooming a horse has been shown to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the bonding hormone), promoting relaxation and emotional regulation. Studies have also found that equine-assisted therapy can improve heart rate variability, a key indicator of overall emotional and physiological resilience.

The rhythmic motions involved in grooming or riding a horse can also contribute to sensory integration, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with sensory processing challenges. The repetitive actions can help ground individuals in the present moment, fostering a sense of calm and focus.

Emotional Benefits of Prey Animal Therapy

Beyond the science, the emotional benefits of working with prey animals are profound. Their presence can help individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges. Here’s how:

1. Building Trust and Emotional Safety

Many individuals who have experienced trauma or relational wounds find it difficult to trust others. Prey animals, being naturally wary, require patience and consistency before they fully trust a person. This process mirrors human relationships and allows clients to experience trust-building in a safe, nonjudgmental way.

Because prey animals are nonjudgmental, they provide a space where individuals feel accepted regardless of past experiences. This allows for the creation of safe emotional attachments, which can be essential for healing trauma and fostering personal growth.

2. Enhancing Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation

Because horses and rabbits are highly present in the moment, working with them encourages mindfulness. A person who is preoccupied with stress or ruminative thoughts may struggle to connect with the animal. Learning to be present—whether through mindful grooming, walking with a horse, or sitting quietly with a rabbit—can help regulate emotions and bring a sense of peace.

Additionally, mindfulness with animals teaches individuals to control their breathing and energy levels. A person who approaches a horse with rushed movements or tension may startle the animal, reinforcing the need to slow down and approach situations with intentionality. These skills can be applied to everyday life, helping individuals manage stress in various settings.

3. Increasing Confidence and Self-Efficacy

Successfully interacting with a large horse or a delicate rabbit fosters a sense of accomplishment. Whether guiding a horse through an obstacle course or simply getting a rabbit to approach willingly, these moments build self-confidence. Clients often leave sessions feeling empowered, knowing they have developed communication skills and emotional attunement that can translate into their daily lives.

Moreover, working with prey animals encourages problem-solving and adaptability. Because these animals have their own personalities and comfort levels, individuals must learn to adjust their approaches, reinforcing the ability to navigate social interactions and challenges in their daily lives.

Who Can Benefit from Prey Animal Therapy?

Prey animal-assisted therapy is beneficial for individuals of all ages. It is particularly effective for:

• Trauma survivors seeking a safe, nonverbal way to process emotions.

• Children and adults with ADHD who benefit from structured, hands-on interactions.

• Individuals with anxiety and depression who need help regulating emotions in a calm, supportive environment.

• Those struggling with grief or loss who find comfort in the gentle, intuitive presence of an animal.

• People working on social and relational skills, as these therapies encourage trust, patience, and nonverbal communication.

• Veterans or first responders dealing with PTSD, as the nonverbal yet deeply connected nature of these therapies can provide a grounding, safe space for healing.

A Unique Path to Healing

Traditional therapy provides incredible benefits, but for some individuals, healing requires something different. Prey animals like horses and rabbits offer a unique mirror into our emotions, helping us regulate stress, build trust, and develop self-awareness. By working alongside these sensitive creatures, individuals can embark on a journey of healing that is both scientifically grounded and deeply personal.

If you’re looking for an alternative therapy approach that connects the mind and body with the wisdom of nature, equine and rabbit-assisted therapy may be the key to unlocking emotional balance and personal growth. Through their quiet presence and intuitive nature, these animals teach us how to slow down, trust, and find peace in the moment—offering a profound and lasting impact on mental health and well-being.