Philosophy
Most of us equestrians got into the world of horses because we were fascinated by something about them.
Whether it was their beauty, their power, their kindness, or ability to forgive, we got into horses because we just enjoyed being with them. But the traditional horse world seems to have forgotten that at times. Horses, to me, are more than just livestock or sport animals, they're companions who's worth is far beyond what they can provide for us. We're often told we need to dominate our horses, be their boss, and never "coddle" them or train them with food. We're told that we're not good owners and our horses will be unsafe if we don't correct them, or if we treat them with too much kindness.
Coming from a more traditional training background, I was told the same thing. That was until what I knew no longer worked and I decided to try something new. This led me to discover the Science of learning, Operant and Classic Conditioning, Equine Language Signs, Affective Neuroscience and more! it made so much sense, and it was right there under my nose the whole time, yet no one in the equine industry talked about it except a small, ever-growing group of people. Simultaneously, in this period of time my mare, Chipsy, offered me an unconditional gift I could have never expected nor ever repay. This changed my whole perspective on equine training and our relationship with horses.
A new path began.
Now, I want to change the way we start our future generation of equine partners, sharing with others the knowledge I have obtained and continue to obtain.
Instead of dominance, force and demanding respect we show kindness, and empathy, gain trust and lead by example.
Instead of keeping the horse for the benefit of the human, the horse is treated as an individual with needs and wants.
Instead of insolation and confinement, the horse gets a herd-driven environment with adequate space, where they can express their natural behaviours.
With a mix of force-free, reward-based training, species-appropriate welfare and an emphasis on a trustworthy relationship, we can ensure our equine companions are happy, enthusiastic, and balanced members of society.
Our Story
What is Force-Free Horsemanship?
The basis behind force-free horsemanship is that empathic training, species-appropriate welfare and a focus on facilitating the human-horse relationship, is what brings us closer to our equine partners.
The priority is the horse, and their relationship to their human. This means that they have the choice & freedom to interact with us they are allowed to say "no" at any point, unless their, or our safety is in jeopardy.
Now of course, safety & health is paramount, and such basic handling and Healthcare skills are always taught first. as force-free trainers and horse owners, we do so with kindness, understanding, and reward-based methods over the use of punishment and escalating aversives.
under saddle work, and advanced skills
Our horse is an active partner in their own education, and that they get to communicate their wants and needs without any negative consequence from their human.
It is our job as their human partners to listen, and hone our own communication skills as horsewomen & men, in order to teach them with no force and no coercion.
Want to Learn more about Force Free Horsemanship?
Check out our latest Educational Blog posts:
“You and your horse. His strength and beauty. Your knowledge and patience and determination and understanding and love. That’s what fuses the two of you onto this marvelous partnership that makes you wonder… ‘What can heaven offer any better then what I have here on earth?’ “
-Monica Dickens