The Shea Center Program currently houses 28 therapy horses acquired through purchase, donation, or loan. These horses possess diverse backgrounds in disciplines such as dressage, jumping, western, English, reining, arena work, or trail riding. While many horses are donated, there are also instances of purchase donations funding the acquisition of new horses. For example, Jericho and Boots were purchased with funds donated by the Assistance League of Laguna Beach in August 2023.

The Center accepts horse donations, purchases, and horses on a month-to-month lease. Owners are encouraged to schedule visits during operating hours.

Each horse undergoes a trial period lasting 90–120 days to ensure compatibility with the program. During this evaluation, horses are exposed to therapy equipment, toys, and various stimuli. An equine checklist helps evaluate the horse’s response to different environments, objects, and sounds.

A successful therapy horse at The Shea Center is physically fit and trained in walk, trot, and canter. These horses are groomed, handled, and participate in various activities daily, including during hippotherapy treatments attended by a team of professionals and volunteers.

The Center accommodates horses of varied breeds and heights to cater to a wide range of clients. The preferred age for program horses is between 6 and 15 years old. Most program horses serve for around ten years before retiring. Retired horses are usually offered back to their owners/donors or placed in retirement pastures or loving homes.

The Center is open to adding more equine members if they meet the criteria. Individuals interested in donating, leasing, or selling a horse to The Shea Center can contact Equine Operations Manager Christina Lee (Clee@SheaCenter.org) and are required to submit a video showcasing the horse’s performance at walk, trot, and canter. All horses considered for donation or purchase must be sound, comfortable, and exhibit a free-moving stride.