Our philosophies are a little different from some farms. We believe that horses as well as any living creature demand respect, love, and correct care as well as correct training. I believe in the 'natural' horsemanship method of behaving around a horse, and it has worked for me for many years. I have been training horses in this method long before it ever had a name pinned to it. I'd guess for around 40 years now... Gentle, patient intelligence is used to teach a horse to understand what is being asked of it. Not told...
I find that if one 'asks' a horse in a language that the horse understands, then most of the time the horse 'answers' correctly. Yes, my horses become "Bi-lingual". They know and understand clearly 30- 35 words and phrases in English as well as subtle signals while being ridden or driven. Whether they choose to listen to me when I ask them these things is up to them !
I've seen the results of force and fear being used when dealing with horses, and its not good. It creates a horse who is confused, guessing what his handler wants him to do. Then if he should guess the wrong answer, he is hit or hurt in return; therefore becoming more and more confused. There are horses who will simply shut off their brains and panic when pushed to far. There are some who just learn to ignore, pushing their way past their handlers and then there are the ones who fight back in response to being scared and confused from the pain involved. How many humans would learn easily that way ? I don't learn easily when intimidated, confused and scared of guessing the wrong answers, would YOU??
In essence, we " Train The Brain".
So, here at WoodFinn, the horses are happy, well adjusted and able to have "Horsey Opinions". This doesn't mean they are out of hand in their behavior, but allowed to have thoughts and a sense of humor as well. Just ask Lynn, who tosses her halter from her stall door, to the floor, then stands there looking right at you, in total innocence....
During lessons, either riding or driving, I believe in teaching one to become a Horse Person, Not just someone who can ride or steer a driving horse. This creates a person who is compassionate, knows horse communications, body languages, and how they attempt to communicate with us. So many times I have witnessed horses who 'tune out' their owners because the owner has no idea of how to communicate with their horse.They keep sending what I call 'Mixed Messages' to their horses who eventually just stop listening.
We teach stable management, which includes stall and tack care. A student learns the names of tack / harness, and what they are used for as well. Not to mention how they work and should be properly adjusted to fit each horse...
We offer 'Horsin' Around' each Saturday morning for those who want to hang out with the horses or help around the barn !
Below is my husband and his gelding, BoJangles having a big discussion about something :
