Are you a horse whisperer?

- No, this is not another fad training technique looking to 'wow' the crowds. The Equine Method was given it's name because it is built on the ethos of training the horse as a horse, a donkey as a donkey, and a mule as a mule . By using evidence-based, ethical training methods we work to help owners overcome concerns and difficulties which are preventing a fulfilling and harmonious horse-human relationship. We do not use gadgets or 'quick-fix' techniques. What we do use is systematic training principles which are tailored to you and your horse. Through the training process the training program may well be altered and adapted to suit you and your horse's individual needs. Throughout the process you are encouraged to question the training methods used. Evidence will be provided to show its validity and suitability to your training program. For more information about who is The Equine Method, please see our About Page.

Can I leave my horse with you?

- Sadly no, for now all services are performed at your current yard or location of your choosing should you wish to hire a venue for specific concerns e.g. Jumping in to water, jumping key-hole fences, working in open spaces, show-ground anxiety.

Can you help me with riding my horse?

- Yes, absolutely! As a qualified, registered and fully insured BHS Accredited Professional Coach I am more than happy to provide focused ridden sessions, both on the flat and jumping. But that's not all, within your training sessions you will gain access to so much more than just a 'riding lesson'. Through the session you will be provided with an insight into your horse's emotional state and guidance on how to improve in a manner which works with your horse. Your comfort zones may well be challenged but by doing so, you will gain new skills, knowledge and most importantly, confidence.

I don't ride my horse and I don't know how to do any of this groundwork stuff, can I still be a client?

- Yes, absolutely! Non-riders are always welcomed to become clients and in most cases, groundwork becomes an active part of ridden training programmes too. We can take you from the very beginning of getting started on the ground to working with your horse at liberty, if that's what you would like to achieve. For other's it's a case of having their horse relaxed and under control when being led, lunged or while long-reining.

I'm still not too sure what you're about, can I talk to someone on the phone?

- Yes, of course! Please click on the button below and someone will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

What is 'Evidence-based training'?

- To put it simply, we train using techniques with have scientific backing and which work to reduce stress in our horses. We do not use 'hearsay' or 'word of mouth' methods, or doing things because 'that's the way it's always been done'. The goal of The Equine Method is to provide horse owners with guidance and support through systematic and ethical training. At no point will gadgets or 'quick-fixes' ever be used to 'force' the horse into submission. The Equine Method does not support the viewpoint that any horse should ever 'submit'. Such language is dangerous and can subconsciously affect how we handle and train our horses. By using evidence-based training techniques we will not only train the horse physically, but we will work with you to challenge your mindset and perception of 'why' the horse might be behaving 'badly'.

Are you are positive reinforcement trainer?

- The Equine Method utilises positive reinforcement in training and promotes the use of appropriate positive reinforcement at every possible opportunity. However, we believe that, as in all aspects of life, there is a necessary balance and as such to promote the sole use of positive reinforcement would be untrue. The use of negative reinforcement at the correct time, with the correct method should not be a taboo, nor should it ever be confused with punishment. 'Punishment' and 'Reinforcement' are two distinctly different things. The Equine Method does not promote the use of punishment. We believe that the best training uses a combination of positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement. All training programmes are tailored to you and your horse and as such different types of reinforcement will be more suited to different horse-human relationships and individual horse needs.

Where in the country do you regularly visit?

Cheshire > Derbyshire >Staffordshire > North Shropshire > Greater Manchester > North Wales

Other areas of the UK, including Scotland are frequently visited, Get In Touch to find out if we are in your area soon! Long-distance online clients are accepted purely on a individual basis.