Our Ethical Commitment: A Partnership of Agency

At Farmer Equine Interactions, our work is built on a foundation of profound respect for the animals we partner with. We do not view them as “tools” for therapy, but as autonomous individuals with their own personalities, needs, and rights.

The Power of “Yes” and “No”

The core of our philosophy is mutual consent. Most interactions are conducted at liberty, meaning our animals are never forced, or pressured to engage with humans. We believe that the most transformative therapeutic connections happen only when the animal voluntarily chooses to participate. If an animal chooses to walk away, that choice is respected without exception—this creates a safe, authentic, and honest environment for both animal and client.

Life-Long Sanctuary

Our ethics extend beyond the session. We believe in the intrinsic value of animal life, independent of their “utility” to humans:

• Not for Production: None of our animals are bred or kept for food, or commercial farming.
  
• Retirement for Life: When an animal is no longer interested in participating in sessions, they remain with us in their familiar home. We do not “rehome” or move animals once their working life has ended.
  
• Species-Appropriate Living: Our animals live in environments that allow them to express their natural behaviours, surrounded by their social groups.
  

By choosing our services, you are supporting a model of interaction that prioritises the mental and physical well-being of the animal as much as the human.