Jennifer’s foundations in classical dressage and natural horsemanship would at first glance seem to be two very different schools of thought when it comes to training horses. Classical dressage is a method steeped in tradition and is currently the standard of excellence in competitive dressage. Natural horsemanship is as old as the relationship between horse and man but has resurfaced in recent years and is considered by many to be the ultimate in creating a strong and lasting relationship with a horse. Both methods, however different they may seem, are based on similar concepts which allow a harmonious partnership without the use of force, intimidation, or mechanics and teach the rider to work with, not against the horse.
The origins of these methods lie in the natural ability of the horse and its movements in the wild. In fact, most definitions of both methods state that the goal is to have the horse perform under saddle with the degree of athleticism, grace and playfulness that it naturally shows when free. This origin also points out why Jennifer believes that every healthy horse, regardless its breed, can be trained to perform these movements and forge trusting relationships with human beings as strong as those they create between the members of their herd. The psychological dimension is all too often ignored or neglected, although it is every bit as important as the physical one. Understanding how to bring out this althleticism, grace and playfulness can only be achieved without force, and thus must employ the use of a greater understanding of equine psychology, behavior and needs. Jennifer has spent a great portion of her life studying horse behavior. Jennifer teaches the mind and the language of the horse, giving students the tools to become closer and more understanding of horses, and the knowledge to have leadership with horses like they have never experienced before.
These philosophies are universal, reaching into multitudes of disciplines and helping horses and owners from the recreational trail rider to the highest levels of all types of competition. Not only has Jennifer produced national-level competitors using these techniques, she has been able to rehabilitate countless “hopeless” horses and turn them into safe and reliable partners for a human that decided to give them another chance. From sour competition horses, aggressive horses, timid horses, the quirky to the extreme, Jennifer has helped horses and their owners find common ground.
As opposed to “breaking” horses, Jennifer’s philosophy of trust, communication, and respect with the horse ensures far greater results and in a substantially shorter amount of time. The product of this approach is a horse who wants to be with you and work for you — the relationship with your horse that you always dreamed was possible.
