The knowledge of the nature of a horse
is one of the first foundations
of the art of riding it. Francois Robichon de la Gueriniere
Understanding how horses think, act and move naturally within the herd is an important consideration that Kylie Godwin uses to improve communication between horses and their owners. Building our understanding from the horse's point of view as a prey animal (potential food for predators), being asked to follow the suggestions of predators (humans), is imperative to establishing a trusting partnership. Horses are programmed by nature to outsmart predators - if they weren't, they would have become extinct. They are born to be perceptive to danger, sceptical, claustrophobic, gregarious (herd-bound) and to take flight from fear in order to survive. When humans enter their world, we are asking them to go against their instincts and trust predators, enter small enclosed spaces (float loading), not to perceive anything a dangerous, leave the safety of the herd and not to run when fearful. Proving to a horse that we are not a threat but a faithful friend who will reliably look after their primary need to feel comfortable and safe, is the first step to building a mutual communication system.
To learn more about understanding you horse,
email info@kyliegodwin.com.au or call 0412 368 933

