Training – l'écurie equine

The Potential Perils of Natural Horsemanship Part 2: Natural for whom? Challenging the myths

The second part of The Potential Perils of Natural Horsemanship challenges some common beliefs inherent in the practice of natural horsemanship. The ‘alpha’ & the dangers of dominance “Dominance hierarchies, alpha positions or leadership in social groups of horses are man-made concepts that should not form the basis of human-horse interactions” (ISES, 2017). If a trainer/handler […]

by Natalie Ethier

The Potential Perils of Natural Horsemanship Part 1: Round-pen training

With advances in welfare science and equitation science, great strides have been made in horsemanship, training, and veterinary practices. We now have a much richer understanding of equine cognition, learning abilities, social needs and behaviour, which all play an important role in the evolution of species appropriate training and handling techniques. Natural horsemanship (NH) […]

by Natalie Ethier

A Guiding Statement for Equine Welfare

Another Equine Guelph course has come to an end. For the final activity, we were encouraged to develop a Guiding Life Statement for Equine Welfare and a few goals to guide us as responsible members of the industry, with welfare as a priority. I thought this would be an appropriate place to share the statement and […]

by Natalie Ethier

Examining Xenophon’s ‘The Art of Horsemanship’ through the Lens of Modern Equine Welfare

A Greek philosopher and cavalry officer in the 4th century BC, Xenophon is highly regarded for his writings on horsemanship, which advocate for the humane handling of horses. He produced one of the earliest written accounts on horse conformation, care, riding, and training. In examining Xenophon’s teachings in The Art of Horsemanship (1893 translation), a […]