Learn Equine

07/09/2024

All set for a Perry Wood clinic this weekend 🖤🐴

16/08/2024

Did not look back 😊, nobody wanted to play though ☹️

So happy to see him rolling, getting down and back up with no issues ♥️ Although whatever he munched on while he was down there, looked like it wasn’t very nice 😊

I always try to trust my instinct when it comes to him, and after everything it has not failed us yet. He is looking and clearly feeling great right now, after some time off from being lame 💪🏻🖤🐴

A vet who had never seen him before had such kind words, which gave me a real sense of pride.

The bond we’ve built over the years, the trust between us, has brought us this far. Our relationship, our partnership, has been crucial, and I believe it’s what has kept us going.

We shouldn’t be shy or feel embarrassed to share our proud moments—they matter, no matter how big or small.

What makes you proud?

09/08/2024

Caught some lovely synchronised grooming yesterday as I was leaving ♥️🐴

I feel bad for Joe with his rug on, unfortunately have to protect his sarcoid scar. It is at least a thin rug and they can still give him a good scratch.

04/08/2024

Lately, I've found myself, rightly or wrongly, tuning out of social media a bit. The sheer volume of opinions, comments, and debates I find can be overwhelming at times.

However, amidst all this noise, one topic has consistently caught my attention: the discussions about opinions from those who aren’t typically involved with horses, or as they are often referred to, the ‘non-horsey’ people. This discourse has been especially prominent since the release of "the" video, which has sparked a wide range of reactions from both horse enthusiasts and the general public.

When "the" video surfaced, I received a flood of questions and comments from non-horsey friends and family. These interactions were surprisingly insightful. Their questions were thoughtful and their perspectives refreshing, offering a different angle on the issues at hand. It made me wonder why there is often such disdain or dismissiveness towards opinions from those outside the horse community. Are these perspectives difficult to hear because they challenge our established views? Or is it because they expose aspects of equestrian culture that we might prefer to ignore?

Perhaps, it's easier to dismiss these voices because they haven't walked in our boots or shared our experiences with horses. Yet, there's value in considering why their observations resonate. Could it be that their distance from the subject allows them to see things more objectively? They might notice things that those of us deeply entrenched in the equestrian world overlook, precisely because we are so close to it.

This brings me to an important question: should we not welcome diverse perspectives, especially if they encourage us to reflect and possibly improve? Instead of dismissing these non-horsey voices, maybe we should engage with them, listen to their concerns, and use their insights to better understand our practices. After all, fresh eyes often bring new solutions to old problems.

The conversation around non-horsey opinions is more than just noise—it's an opportunity for growth and understanding. Whether these perspectives are right or wrong isn't the point; what matters is that they challenge us to think critically about our own views and potentially open doors to dialogue and change within the equestrian community.

02/08/2024

Def worth taking some time to watch ♥️

30/07/2024

Well worth a listen when you have a spare 15 minutes from Sharon Smith - EBA Registered Equine Psychology Specialist and Equine Behaviour Affiliation

Lots to think about and thinking about horses as individuals, not a one size fits all ♥️

We are an international horse charity that improves the lives of horses in the UK and around the world through education, campaigning, and hands-on care.

23/07/2024

I don't normally comment on these things, but here we are.

I am hopeful there is a further explanation from Charlotte, BD, FEI etc. I think there needs to be more education and riders like Charlotte to say what they did wrong and why it was wrong and what the better way of coaching and training is.

Lessons to be learned and new learnings to be had at all ages and experiences, sharing them and being open and honest matters. I do understand the world of social media can be very unfair, but we must try.

I have certainly made mistakes and let my frustrations and emotions get the better of me. I am not proud of that. I try my best to learn from them, understand them and not do it again.

Also, no thought to any pain caused to the horse in question, apologies made to the people though? Just a thought.

STATEMENT FROM CHARLOTTE DUJARDIN

A video has emerged from four years ago which shows me making an error of judgement during a coaching session. Understandably, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) is investigating and I have made the decision to withdraw from all competition – including the Paris Olympics – while this process takes place.

What happened was completely out of character and does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils, however there is no excuse. I am deeply ashamed and should have set a better example in that moment.

I am sincerely sorry for my actions and devastated that I have let everyone down, including Team GB, fans and sponsors.

I will cooperate fully with the FEI, British Equestrian Federation and British Dressage during their investigations, and will not be commenting further until the process is complete.

Charlotte Dujardin, 23rd July 2024

22/07/2024

In this webinar, Felicity George will present a detailed account of an individual case where establishing physical and emotional safety took time...

10/07/2024

What a nice surprise to come home to, didn’t think it was arriving until Saturday ♥️🐴

Applied Equine Psychology - the book

Equine Behaviour Affiliation

Felicity George - Understanding Equines

03/07/2024

Can not wait for my copy to arrive ♥️

02/07/2024

Lately, I’ve been diving deeper into attachment theory through, my counseling course, essay writing, and the enlightening Lucy Rees workshop last week. Not to mention everything I learned with EBA. It’s fascinating to see how this theory applies to our relationships with our horses!

We aim to be a secure base for our horses, just as they can be for us. But what happens when that secure base is disrupted? How do we ensure we stay that solid foundation for each other?

Our bond with our horses is crucial, and when it’s off, it affects everything. We worry about them constantly, questioning if we’re doing the right thing. Could all that worry be shaking our connection and security? Life’s external pressures can make our secure base feel unstable, trapping us in a tough cycle.

Let’s explore how to maintain that essential secure base with our horses and strengthen our unique bond. How do you ensure a strong connection with your horse? Share your thoughts below! 🐴💬✨

25/06/2024

What an amazing couple of days Northumberland College Equestrian Centre at Kirkley Hall for the Lucy Rees Workshop. Learned loads, thought loads and met lots of lovely likeminded people 🖤🐴

If you haven’t heard much about Lucy check out her website and have a watch,

https://youtu.be/NjR5sl7NHFM?si=XNJnrflTLqKi6Lgo

The primitive ponies who hold the key to better domestic horse welfareIn the Spanish Gredos Mountains, one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, live 3...

22/06/2024

Walk number 3, lots of foraging. Love the way he just gets the top of the thistles with his teeth, making sure not to touch his lips.

It was pretty successful, apart from the flies, which he gets really annoyed at. Need to find a new fly spray, this natural one I used did nothing. Usually, he’s content strolling beside me, maintaining a nice distance. But the moment the flies show up, he transforms into a clingy giant, practically begging, ’Can we leave now, or can you please do something about these annoying flies?!’.

19/06/2024

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cv223z15mpmo?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR13HPmrdqOsifMqzVYVshJ7uTEdsMSTMGefBHVutzyuU41TrpX-K5LTbGs_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw

A series of experiments have led a number of scientists to say animals may be conscious.

06/06/2024

Hey everyone! After my last post, I thought it would be fun to share progress videos, so here we are with Walk Number 2!

We started off with a lot of stops and stares on the road and at the beginning of the track. I had to channel my inner zen master, stay calm, and keep my cool—easy, right? 😬😳

Then, out of nowhere, a deer appeared, seriously, how do they spot these things that I completely miss? I made sure to look around more, so he knew I was on high alert for any surprises. It's amazing how helpful that was! Wish I'd thought of it earlier on the road, but hey, live and learn, right?

Once we were in, he was super relaxed, munching on grass like it was a gourmet buffet. We even met a dog walker with their dog off the lead, and he didn't bat an eye. The last two times we encountered dogs there, it was a bit chaotic, so this was a major win!

I promise to improve my videography skills for next time 🙈

02/06/2024

We have faced significant challenges with hacking since our fall, especially me. I’ve been putting immense pressure on us to get back to it because I know how beneficial it is for him, but at what cost?

Today didn’t go as planned. The weather was perfect, and we were dressed to keep the flies away, but we ended up doing a lot of napping just outside the yard. I wasn’t going to fight with him — he’s too big, we were on a road, I was starting to panic and couldn’t think straight. This wasn’t a battle I was going to win, so we turned back. Our instincts were telling us we were in danger.

However, all was not lost. After a change of shoes (mine, not his) and grabbing a lead rope, we went back out on foot.

When I’m on the ground in those situations, he’s much happier, and as a result, so am I. So why wouldn’t we?

After about half an hour, I was considering heading back when I let him stop and graze whenever he wanted. I want him to enjoy being out there, to have good experiences, and let’s face it, there’s a lot of grass to enjoy. Today was a first step. I’m not going to push either. We’ll keep doing this until we’re both ready.

Every partnership is unique. What works for one may not work for another. Being brave doesn’t always mean tackling the highest jump or the hardest test. Sometimes, it’s about doing what’s right for you and your horse, no matter what.

🖤🐴🖤

23/03/2024

Exciting news! As I near the completion of my professional training with the Equine Behaviour Affiliation (EBA), I am eager to connect with horse owners like you. If your horse’s behavior has been a cause for concern, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can discuss how to address any challenges your horse may be facing.

Curious about what sets EBA apart and what we focus on when it comes to understanding your horse’s behaviour? Learn more here,

https://equinebehaviouraffiliation.org/about-us/

Let’s work together to ensure your horse is happy, healthy, and thriving! Get in touch today.

Please like and share this post and like my page.

Thanks!

20/01/2024

Today starts a new journey, first day of my relationship counselling course.

I am excited, nervous and all of the imposter syndrome this morning, but here we are on the train, first step.

This course will go completely hand in hand with my EBA REPS course that I am on track to complete in the summer and become qualified.

01/01/2024

This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to manage, handle and train horses in a way that meets their behavioural & physical needs.

13/11/2023

Applied Equine Psychology: The Art and Science of Helping Horses

04/10/2023

🍏 ATTENTION Youthclubbers!!
Module 2 is being planned to start 16th October at 7.15 with an introduction meeting as usual.
This course runs for 5 weekly evenings over Zoom (not counting the intro meeting). We will:
- Look into equine evolution
- Discuss what horses need to be comfortable in life and how this benefits us
- Evaluate environment and well-being and much more.
Price £60
To sign up email 👇
[email protected]
Looking forward to seeing you all again
Annika

17/09/2023

Our next webinar is on the 18th September, you can book tickets at https://www.trybooking.co.uk/CQHZ.

In this webinar, EBA registered equine psychology specialist Venya Bonebakker will share with you her personal journey, trying to discover how best to help horses with behaviours we find challenging. This involves encounters with different training systems, exploration of theories and practical experiences and experiments. She considers the obstacles presented by social constructs, biases and opinions which held her back from seeing the full picture. A deeper understanding of the factors influencing behaviour, combined with careful listening to horses opinions on ‘what helps’ led to shifts in her priorities and focus.

Many of us embark on such a journey. Each of our journeys is unique, but there is much common ground in what we seek, how we try to find it, and the challenges we face; reflections on one person’s experience can help us all along this path.

20/08/2023

Had a lovely afternoon with two handsome boys today, and of course their lovely owner.

Charlie in the video is about 18 months and came from the SSPCA after being rescued with his mum, and has been with his new mum since February.

As you can see at the beginning of the video, every time she asked him to stop he would shake his head and circle round, so we just worked on some leading and stopping.

We just took it really slowly, putting no pressure on him and he picked it up so well. We did two short sessions with a break in between, then he went back out to play with his brothers.

28/06/2023

Worth the read

https://www.theguardian.com/news/2023/may/30/can-humans-ever-understand-how-animals-think?CMP=twt_a-environment_b-gdneco&fbclid=IwAR3JyE_Keizgcv_sQoNayLsP9GCLFxLXOHL4Z9wGLr6lIBb5FtZBQj4kVyU

The long read: A flood of new research is overturning old assumptions about what animal minds are and aren’t capable of – and changing how we think about our own species

09/05/2023

In this webinar, we compare understanding of problems, interventions and outcomes for 50 cases in 2017 working as an equine behaviourist and 50 cases in 2022 working as an equine psychology specialist.

Over the past 4 years, the EBA has offered webinars presenting much of the theory behind how Registered Equine Psychology Specialists (REPS) work - attachment theory, understanding trauma and Judith Herman's Trauma treatment phases and trans-species psychology for example. We have also talked about professional practice – the use of formulation and how we work with clients. This talk links theory to practice.

Book at https://www.trybooking.co.uk/CHXI