Green Duchess Equine

26/02/2024

Positive reinforcement is on the rise in the horse industry. Anecdotally, I have seen a correlation between sensitive/altruistic personality types and adoption of positive reinforcement training with horses. That made me curious to see if R+ trainers fall into a specific personality type or if they are distributed across a broad range of types.
I created a short survey to answer this question. I will share the results through the email address that you provide after analyzing the data.
Thank you!

In the survey below, please select the level of R+ you identify with and your Myers Briggs personality type. If you don’t know your Myers Briggs personality type, you can take a free survey through 16Personalities. https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test

23/02/2024

As riders and trainers, our primary goal should be to ensure that the horse carries itself in balance as a result of correct training. Therefore, we must resist the appeal of quick fixes provided by gadgets.

Despite their aesthetic appeal, gadgets advertised as aids for achieving a desirable frame often lead to dysfunction in the horse's musculoskeletal system. While they may promote muscle development, they target the wrong areas due to the horse's tendency to brace against them.

Instead of relying on shortcuts, riders should prioritize proper training techniques that encourage the horse to engage its muscles correctly.

While I admit to sparingly using the Pessoa lunging system in the past, because the pulleys appeared favorable over a fixed system, I no longer use it. Since delving into the science of biomechanics, I only use proprioceptive aids like T-Touch Body Wraps, Equicore Bands, and KT tape.

We must be open to learning from experience and adjusting our practices for the benefit of our horses' welfare.

23/02/2024

Sharing a great 'train your eye' post with examples of what to look for when observing your horse'smovement.

31/01/2024

If you ever feel ashamed for being kind to your horse, know that it's not you. It's them; horse culture at large.
Also, know that you can always come to me for support and encouragement.

The issues in the horse world are unlikely to resolve so long as it’s viewed as inherently shameful to approach things with more kindness and consideration to the horse.

You’re not weak or a “snowflake” for not wanting to hit your horse or use methods that you know will stress them out and scare them immensely when there’s other options available.

You’re not a less experienced rider for opting to take longer to train certain behaviours so that you don’t have to resort to harsher and more aversive equipment.

It isn’t anything to be ashamed of to be highly empathetic and considerate of your horse’s experience.

This is a GOOD thing.

Don’t let people gaslight you into thinking it’s not.

Those who are threatened by other people using softer tactics feel threatened because it calls to question their need to resort to harshness and the insecurity that draws out in them is then projected onto you.

They try to make their insecurity YOUR problem and do so by trying to mock you for caring about how your horse may experience the world.

Empathy is an incredible trait.

Hold onto it. Don’t let people try to make you feel ashamed for possessing it.

You are far better off being hyper aware of your horses’ potential distress than you are completely shut off and ignorant to it.

23/01/2024

Creatine isn't just for weight lifters. It can actually help in case of traumatic brain injury. This blog article from The Sweaty Equestrian has some great info that might convince you add this supplement to your daily routine.

Heads up, riders! This affordable supplement could reduce harm and improve recovery from TBI.