Wellness, Well-being, WELFARE || A Basic overview of equine welfare + what it means

Research shows that when we meet the biological needs, safety, + social needs of social animals, they are far less likely to display abnormal or stereotypic behaviours. We can achieve this by providing environments that focus on the horses physical + behavioural needs. The sad truth is that the equine industry as a whole has some very old + out dated belief patterns that really require some shaking up, some reevaluation + a different trajectory for the future.

Mel Spittall10 July 2021Comment

Consent + why asking for it matters

It's simply about being asked v's being forced right? It's about offering an option + a choice to say no with no repercussions. Asking your horses for consent + handing over some control + choice will not always end in an endless stream of 'no's' from your horse. And in any respect a no is not a bad thing anyway, a no is just feedback during a conversation. Respecting a no will actually nurture trust + a truer, more authentic connection + partnership…

Mel Spittall27 May 2019Comment

Right Relationship + Horsemanship

A focus on right relationship helps you to connect with your horse on an energetic level whilst deepening your awareness of relationship as a whole. The domino effect is then a drastic increase in confidence for both horse + human, + a heightened awareness of the importance of breath, intentions + mindfulness. All beautiful lessons that reflect directly on your personal life.

Mel Spittall14 February 2019Comment

Lessons of the Horse || The Key is Consistency

Horses (and children) like the security of knowing what to expect. They thrive in safe and predictable boundaries. With every step they offer in the right direction, offer them praise and a release of pressure. It takes a great deal of patience and determination to be consistent in all areas of your life but the rewards for your horses (or your kids) is many!

Mel Spittall15 January 2019Comment

Lessons of the Horse || The Importance of Developing Solid Foundations

On the other hand, a lack of a quality foundation usually expresses itself in negative experiences + emotions. Lets look at say an off the track Thoroughbred. Generally speaking, as a riding horse, they seriously lack a solid foundation, yes? This lack of foundation usually manifests through one, or a number of the following behaviours - lack of confidence, spookiness, stress/flight behaviour, over sensitivity + a lack of response to basic aids etc. Now their 'foundation' to be a good race horse might be just right…

Mel Spittall4 January 2019Comment

My Story || The Zookeeper Equestrienne

‘So, before we get down into the nitty gritty I thought I should do a quick little intro.

I grew up in the thick of the Zoo world, my dad a Curator of a Wildlife Park + my mum handrearing various sick, injured or orphaned critters. However, despite being surround by all the beautiful wildlife, I was that little girl that loved horses…’

Mel Spittall22 December 2018Comment