❓️ Did you know ❓️
Horses have an incredible natural ability to stay present, sense their surroundings, and settle after moments of high energy.
However, when their instincts are constantly triggered, these responses can dull, leading to automatic, reactive flight.
This is why intentional, mindful interactions are so important—they form the real foundation of trust. Everyday moments, like a horse walking with you—neither pulling, dragging, bumping into you, nor lagging behind—are more than just tasks.
✨️They’re the groundwork for a relationship where both horse and human are in sync, aware, and connected at every step.✨️
Our star Olive - demonstrates that perfectly..
I am here for them and their needs.
❓️Did you know❓️
When we give our horses the time and space to process new things, it lets them fully understand and accept what we're asking. Much like us, horses benefit from a pause to digest each experience. Rushing and pushing can lead to confusion or resistance, but with patience, they develop genuine understanding and trust. In allowing this processing time, we respect their needs, and the connection that forms is deeper and more lasting.
✨️So, next time, try to wait a little longer—your horse may surprise you with a clearer response and a stronger bond.
Like our wee star Olive ❤️
✨️Did you know? Spending time on the ground with horses while they’re lying down offers a rare and powerful opportunity to deepen trust and connection. When horses rest, they enter a vulnerable state—one where they’re naturally more alert to any potential threat. If a horse allows you into this space, it’s a profound gesture of trust, signaling that they feel safe in your presence. This level of comfort doesn’t just happen; it’s built on a foundation of respect and consistent, positive interactions. For horse and human, sharing this moment can strengthen the relationship in ways that go beyond typical training or handling.
We hope you enjoy they video- it's super sweet ❤️
❓️Did you know?❓️
The terms "backing" and "breaking" highlight two very different approaches to starting a horse under saddle. "Breaking" often implies forceful methods to make a horse accept a rider, which can overlook the horse's feelings and well-being. In contrast, "backing" is a gentler, more mindful process where the horse is gradually introduced to the rider, building trust and understanding step-by-step. Backing respects the horse’s natural curiosity and allows them to be a willing partner, rather than a submissive one, leading to a more positive and lasting bond.
✨️See our beautiful Olive doing so so well here...
The Littlest Hooves! ❤️
I had the privilege of working with some truly special little creatures today, including Miss Pippa, a clever and sensitive Mini Shetland. Overnight, Pippa completely changed her attitude towards headcollars and being caught. It’s easy to feel disheartened when things stop working as they used to, but every setback is an opportunity to move forward!
As we worked and asked questions it became clear that little Pippa had never been properly introduced to this process. Instead, she’d been haltered while being fed, which left gaps in her understanding. We spent time addressing this, and later, her owner Alison tried the headcollar herself. I guided her carefully through the process, showing her how to respond to Pippa’s moments of uncertainty.
I also met the youngest member of the herd, and I melted at how sweet they were!
Alison will now take a few days to reflect and practice, and we’ll reassess whether any further guidance is needed. What a special client this was!
#horselife #horsebehaviour #bridgingheartsandhooves #iwanttohelpyou #noquickfixes #horseconfidence #scottishbordersbusiness #equestrianlife #equinebehaviourist #LetsGrowTogether #mylife
What I do
✨️Grateful, Emotional, and Proud Today...
Today marked the end of my weekly sessions with the wonderful Nyree and her beautiful horse, Poppy. It’s been an emotional journey, filled with hard work, patience, and incredible growth. Nyree's last ride on Poppy ended in an unexpected way — Poppy bolted back home. But that moment was the start of something deeper.
✨️Instead of rushing or forcing a fix, we stripped everything back to zero, allowing Poppy the time and space to address her own challenges. We didn’t just focus on the big steps forward; we praised every single effort, no matter how small. Slowly, we rebuilt, step by step.
✨️Today, as Nyree put it so perfectly, “Everything came together. All that we’ve done until today came together.” And that’s exactly what Bridging Hearts and Hooves is about — giving both you and your horse the time and space to learn, adjust, and grow, all at your own pace.
✨️Every journey is unique, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been a part of this one. If you’re looking for someone who understands the value of patience, trust, and connection in your partnership with your horse, I’d love to help guide you on your path.
✨️Lessons from horses: We learn to be the best version of ourselves, conquering worries and fears without it being at the horse’s expense. Patch, who came to me as a shutdown young horse, showed a massive leap forward today, and so did I.
✨️ As a woman and a mother, my body and mind went through changes beyond my control. It took time to feel comfortable riding again.
The hardest thing in life is to admit a "weakness" and be honest with ourselves. On the ground, I’m a wiz—able to communicate with horses like WiFi—but riding has been different.
Patch and I worked purely for his benefit for months. My partner helped Patch understand what riding is about without emotional burden. Today, when I got on, both Patch and I felt amazing. In riding, both parties affect each other’s experience.
✨️Horses are highly sensitive to safety. Safety builds confidence, confidence is power, and power is partnership.
Nyree and Poppy today, i can't believe that next week will be our last session. Couldn't be more proud of you two beautiful souls. ❤️🙏
#horsebehaviour #bridgingheartsandhooves #equinebehaviourist #LetsGrowTogether #HorseBehavior #scottishbordersbusiness #noquickfixes #equestrianlife #horseridingaccident #confidencebuilding #horseconfidence
#joinus #horses
