TRAINING - If communication between a horse and the handler breaks down it can lead to bad equine behaviour, frustration and resentment on both sides. Advice of the “he’s just trying it on - give him a good wallop” variety may be offered, but obviously pain and fear will only increase the bad feelings. Steve believes that, while training horses to change their behaviour, there are three main stages in establishing a successful training partnership -

Compassion, Consideration and Cooperation.

By following these stages, he can help a horse to understand what is required without causing stress. A stressed horse will switch off and refuse to listen to the trainer, leading to bad behaviour. They will react purely by instinct and the opportunity to teach them something will be lost. Yes, they can be stressed and forced to do something - but unless they have been given the opportunity, through training, to think things out for themselves, in the same situation they will again make the same 'mistakes'.

The aim isn’t to turn out automated horses. If it’s in a horse’s nature to pull faces when a human passes by then that’s OK.  However if he pulls faces AND tries to bite a chunk out of you then he needs training to convince him that life would be better for all concerned if he altered his behaviour!  Most horses prefer an easy life and when they are shown (with kindness and consistency) what is expected of them, they are normally happy to oblige.

TRAINING DAYS/WORKSHOPS - Can also be arranged for preventative training so that handlers can get it right before any problems are unwittingly created. By learning the basics of leading, asking, recognising a 'try', going soft or fluffy feathers etc., clients can gain confidence which will communicate itself to the horse or pony.

These training sessions can either be on a one-to-one basis or a group session with a maximum of six students and can last from one hour to a full day. When held at Steve's yard in Cumbria they are normally one or two day courses. Horses can be stabled at the yard and there is accommodation at the farm for handlers. Training day/Workshop charges by arrangement, depending on numbers and location. Please contact Steve for a quotation. Steve sometimes gives demonstrations so please check the forum for details of any upcoming events or contact him if you'd like to arrange one.

WHAT - NO ECLAIRS?

There was a time he scared me stiff
something I'd try not mention,
but that's now gone I'm pleased to say
I now pay him attention.
He'd been telling me of things he liked
of some he was not sure,
but now I understand him
and know his heart is pure.
It seemed that I just couldn't win
he'd never be quite right,
but then I called the quiet man
one frustrated angry night.
My horse behaved, did nothing wrong
how could that be I thought,
an hour or two with a strange man
but see the change he's brought.
I remember all the lessons
simple things I'd never tried,
how to listen, how to ask
it worked so well I cried.
Now the spell is finally broken
thank you Steve for all you've done,
with those quiet words you've spoken
horse and I are having fun.
(A client)

HIGH SPIRITS