The Philosophy

'THE SCIENCES'

EVIDENCE BASED FACTS

• Brain Pathways
• Emotional Systems
• Bio/Neuro Chemistry
• Positive Reinforcement
• Negative Reinforcement
• Target Training
• Intrinsic/Extrinsic Motivation

Science-based horse training is a style of learning theory where the trainer combines evidence-based understandings of equine behaviour with genuine love, honor and respect for the horse.   

This makes it possible to train and handle horses in an ethical, yet effective way.

I teach the sciences behind animal learning and training. 

I show you how to use positive reinforcement and other non-coercive and limited force techniques to train a wide range of behaviours. 

The Sciences are an Evidence-Based Approach. Evidence-based practice means the conscientious use of the best practices available. 

These treatments are scientifically proven to produce positive results. ... In short, an evidence-based approach constantly looks at new research and studies and re-evaluates practice based on findings. 

An integrative, wholistic approach takes the 'whole' animal into consideration.

Their physical, mental and emotional well-being and care, along with their training. 

This integrative wholistic approach combines the best of complementary and conventional therapies and methods. 

With years of experience, here are the  therapies I currently use in my practice and teaching with my animals and my student's animals. 

• Homeopathy
• Essentail OIls
• Flower Essences
• Herbs
• Nutrition
• Enery Work
• Reiki
• Crystal Therapy
• Animal Communication
• Body Work/Massage
• Equine Touch
• Masterson Method
• Accupressure/Accupuncture
• Red Light Therapy
• EMF Therapy
• Chiropractic
• Cranio Sacral Therapy

I teach the basic principles of many of these therapies to my students to support the UNIQUE care and training of their animals, but especially their horses.

POSITIVE TEACHING 

AND TRAINING

Autonomy.  

Choice.  

Voice.

Trust + Understanding  

IS...

The Relationship 

The Relationship Ingredients: 

• Mindset
• Intention
• Picture
• Energy 

Creates ...

The Connection

The relationship ingredients lead to the connection, which leads to positive training, which leads to motivation, which leads to intrinsic or extrinsic motivation. 

It depends on which one is needed!

I take this relationship to autonomous movement and the study of movement science, and my development of my brand of  FUNctional Movement.

Groundwork:  That which forms the foundation or support of anything; the basic; the      

essential or fundamental part; the first principle.

Groundwork basics are an essential tool every equestrian should utilize.  It is the gateway to strengthening your relationship with your horse. 

A few basic groundwork exercises:

• Train your horse to stand still.
• Train your horse to lead properly.
• Train your horse to flex and soften to pressure. 
• Train your horse to go on a circle.
• Train your horse to move the front-end and the hind-end.

'In-Hand' groundwork takes these basics to an advanced level.

If you can't do it on the ground, then you're going to have trouble doing it on their back in the saddle.

Groundwork is a great way to introduce new tasks to horses. It eliminates the stress of a rider on their back and allows them to simply focus on what you are asking them to do. 

 "At liberty, in a free environment and unrestrained, with the absence of tack, a bond is created through a series of companionship interactions that are naturally enjoyable to the horse." 

~Robin Gates

 A horse is “at liberty” when he is free of tack and, therefore, free to leave the lesson at will. 

These three elements are essential for building confidence between horse and human.

Autonomy - without force.

       Choice - making a decision when given         two or more possibilities. 

Voice -  a particular opinion or attitude expressed. 

 My positive reinforcement approach is based on the impact of relaxation and awareness and the commitment to true choice for the horse.  This leads to their full and wholehearted engagement in whatever you are suggesting 

in that moment. 

Horse and human energetically dance together as confidence grows and 

their spirits and lives are enriched.

Horsemanship: The art or practice of riding, care and handling, and training horses.

I teach all areas of horsemanship with positive reinforcement.

Relaxation and calmness are essential in your horsemanship.  They are the elements that allow us to create the dynamic energy connection on the ground and in the saddle. 

Take these elements to your:

• 'Being Together' grooming.
• 'Going Together' leading.
• Saddling and mounting. 
• Body scan for horse and rider. 
• Purposeful warmup.
• 'Going Together' in the saddle.

The above are ingredients to have a 'great ride' that brings confidence and joy to both 

horse and rider.

Positive reinforcement while riding will motivate your horse's efforts for forward or other suggested movements. 

The use of positive reinforcement while riding may support your horse through suggestions he finds challenging.