MSU Extension Equine Assisted Services

Our horses teaching us that rest is part of the work too.

Our fake apples April Fools' day joke didn't quite get a laugh out of Fabio!

MSU Community-Engaged Service Award Winner: Hoof to Heart

Congratulations to Lori Irvin, Narsis Whigham, and Dr. Clay Cavinder of the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences for their work with Hoof to Heart.

This innovative program supports individuals in addiction recovery through small-group, equine-assisted learning experiences. Using the Eagala Model, participants build resilience, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop critical life skills, all through the powerful connection between humans and horses.
Hoof to Heart is making a meaningful difference by helping participants reduce anxiety and depression, work through trauma, and improve overall quality.

Left to right:
Executive Director for Outreach and Engagement Joe Fratesi. Professor Clay Cavinder, on behalf of Extension Associate III Lori Irvin, and Agricultural Technician Narsis Whigham, from Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences. Associate Vice President for the Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine Ashli Brown and Senior Vice Provost Brent Fountain.

Equine therapy at MSU offers relief for veterans and more Mississippi State University is offering a unique program that is helping veterans and others find healing through horses.

Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation is partnering with the Mississippi Board of Animal Health to host an educational meeting focused on equine biosecurity best practices and proactive planning to support preparedness within Mississippi’s equine industry. This meeting will serve as a collaborative effort to ensure the industry is well prepared should a situation ever arise. All equine associations across the state are invited to attend. Please help us spread the word, and we hope to see you there!