Communicating with horses entails all the facets of leadership in a parental role:  assertiveness, kindness, empathy, attention to detail, consistency, and honesty.  In many ways horses are more sensitive than people. Horses generally pay attention and read body language better that people do. They pick up on your mood and any fear or aggression immediately. They are almost always honest and consistent in their behavior, and they require the same from us in order to be comfortable. They are particularly responsive to a gentle touch.

Many people think that once a horse has gone through a training program, that’s it – he’s trained for life – he’s done. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you don’t do things regularly you lose fluency – fluidity – leadership authority.  We all need regular work and reinforcement of learned skills.  Regular exercise is the key to solving behavior problems for the horse and the rider. It’s consistent practice, done with honesty, respect, and clear communication that makes a great relationship.

I teach natural body language which eliminates confusion between horse and rider.  Many times a rider gives the horse mixed signals, or contradicts himself without realizing it.  Body awareness is paramount to effective communication with the horse.  I teach precision control so that both horse and rider are tuned in to each other’s movements and intentions and are therefore safe in all situations.

Kindness works better than force whenever possible. Horses are sensitive (very much like a cat) and don’t respond to force nearly as well as to kindness.  At the same time assertiveness is paramount to leadership, while fairness and honesty are essential to gaining respect for one’s leadership.  

My training method for both horses and riders entails learning the body language that horses know and read so well, from the ground and from the saddle.  I teach lateral movements from the very beginning to gain control of both ends of the horse.  Freedom of movement is paramount to maintaining a good attitude in the horse.  Obstacle training and trail riding are essential to my program and give both horse and rider balance, muscle control, confidence, concentration, and partnership.  The end result is a good attitude and a great relationship.

Over the years, horses have turned out to be my best friends. They’re honest, consistent, faithful and true—qualities we humans would strive for. It has become my life’s work to help horses and humans learn what it takes to communicate well with each other, so that they can establish and maintain a great relationship.