The objective of this thesis was to investigate the meaning of riding therapy and social pedagogic equine activity. Another objective of the thesis was to explore the current state of the companies in the sector in Finland. A further objective was to produce information to develop the sector and improve the conditions for the companies.

This thesis was completed quantitatively i.e the results are measurable. This method was chosen as we were seeking measurable information on riding therapy and social pedagogic equine activity. The information gathering was completed via a structured electronic questionnaire, which also had one open ended question. It is considered that benefits of the Wepropol questionnaire include the short lenght of time it takes to complete, its flexibility and environmental friendliness. It has also been found that the method makes it possible to reach a large sample group geographically and culturally. The sample was based on 22 Suomen Ratsastusterapeutit ry and Sosiaalipedagoginen Hevostoimintayhdistys ry qualified members who are working in the sector. The findings have been illustrated with frequences and percentages.

The results of the thesis show that the companies offering rehabilitating and preventative equine activity are operating as private companies. They offer the forementioned services mainly towards disabled people and people with behavioral problems. Based on the results, the companies felt it was important that more research was made available to make their services better known.

One further area of research we are suggesting is further study on the effectiveness of riding therapy and social pedagogic equine activity in terms of care work.