Groundwork & Problem Solving
Groundwork
Establishing a good relationship on the ground provides a good basis for learning how to communicate with horses which can be directly transfered to all ridden work. Groundwork can incorporate various difference exercises, for example, desensitisation, yielding forwards and backwards, lateral flexion, moving sideways and lowering the head, to name but a few! Groundwork can be a really useful and fun activity adding an extra dimension to the time that you spend with your horse.
Groundwork not only improves our communication skills with horses, it also helps to build a partnership based on trust, responsibility and respect. It provides a solid foundation for all ridden work and is particularly useful in helping to build confidence in both people and horses alike.
It can also be enourmous fun and very rewarding!
Whether you have done groundwork excercises with your horse before, want to improve your relationship with your horse or fancy trying something different, sessions are availaible on a private, semi-private or small class basis. On-going support over the phone or online can be provided if required.
Problem Solving
Many people experience problems and challenges with their horse. Common problems include leading, barging, reluctance to pick feet up and reluctance to being touched. Sometimes, all it needs is to see things from a different perspective. By considering things from the horse's point of view, understanding their natural instincts and what motivates them, many problems can be overcome.
Good horsemanship is about working with the horse's natural instincts using calm, fair and consistent techniques. All techniques are developed on an understanding of communication, equine psychology and behaviour, human psychology and behaviour and are firm,fair and non-violent. The aim of all problem solving sessions is to address the challenge you and your horse are experiencing.
Although part of my work involves working with your horse, equally as important, I work with you, so you can develop your own knowledge, skills and confidence.
All problem solving sessions are carried out on a 1:1 basis and on-going support by telephone or online can be provided.
Prior to contacting me, if you are experiencing problems with your horse, it is always advisable to check for any physical causes and have these addressed.
Before arranging to come out and see you both, you will be asked to complete a form which provides details of both you and your horse, the problem and information relating to aspects of your horse's mangement. Please let me know of anything that you feel may be relevant, even if it's just a hunch. This information provides the background required to work with your horse.
The session includes an initial assessment of your horse to ensure that there is no obvious pain or discomfort. If any obvious pain or discomfort is found or suspected, for the sake of the partnership, this would need to be addressed by a suitably qualified person (this is the responsibility of the owner not Just Equus), before I can continue working with you both.
Subsequent visits may be arranged if required for any further support you and your horse may need.
Just Equus is based near Market Rasen in Lincolnshire. Telephone number: 07905 623758. E-mail: caroline@just equus.co.uk
