I've gone back to school!
Louise started a part-time degree course last year in Animal Behavioural Science and Welfare. She has a long term interest in animal welfare and works as a volunteer at Wildlife Heritage Foundation.
In the future Louise would like to develop her skills to be able to offer animal behaviour and problem solving. Her specific interest is in horses.
It is early days, but despite this Louise already has successes including helping a horse owner with her horse who was not safe to mount:- Tom came to his new owner in poor shape unable to continue with hunting as he was 'too old'. After a couple of weeks of settling in it became apparent that Tom had severe back pain and would go berserk if anyone attempted to get close enough to get on. Therapy involved 3 months of regular treatment with a back specialist so that he was sound and free from any back pain. (This is still ongoing but at longer intervals). Then it was just a case of helping the horse understand that having a rider was not going to hurt! With gentle handling Tom's trust in people began to improve and, with the help of treat rewards and verbal encouragement, he stood for longer periods next to the mounting block, then would permit a rider to stand next to him, progressing to putting a foot in the stirrup and the rest is history. Tom now stands steady as a rock for anyone to get on. Now the two are enjoying long rides and summer sunshine! Tom is pictured being mounted by Sarah Bradley, and also be ridden by his owner, Dot Pope
If anyone has a horse with a behaviour problem or issues, Louise would love to hear from you. She is now a trained behaviourist but needs more evidence for her portfolio, so would welcome the opportunity to observe and investigate behaviour problems and give advice. Email at louiserey@live.co.uk or call 07919 854854, or post to this blog!
