I am an Equine Behaviour Affiliation Registered Equine Psychology Specialist (EBA REPS) which is a 'behaviourist-plus', if you like! I'm a qualified behaviourist, and have an MSc in Applied Equine Science. I use EBA models adapted from clinical psychology, including behaviourism only if and when it is appropriate. "Hmmm... psychology sounds too human?"
The basis for the EBA approach is recognised
by the British Psychological Society, called 'trans-species psychology' (TSP). You may have already heard of phenomenon such as elephants with 'trauma' (Gay Bradshaw), or dogs being capable of 'love' (Prof Clive Wynne). TSP says mammalian brains are more alike than they are different. We avoid ‘silly’ types of anthropomorphism through comparative neuroscience and credible sources of equine ethology (eg. Lucy Rees)
"Psychology sounds complicated?"
It is actually a simpler approach than a behaviourist; less intrusive and less hassle than solutions based on retraining-first behaviour modification plans. You don’t need any special tack, pens, sticks, ropes, training techniques or treats. Nor will we be offering consequences (food, scratches, releases) for their behaviour - at least initially. "Do you work under veterinary referral - will this show on my vet records and insurance company as a ‘behaviour problem’?"
Our data suggests we actually engage more actively with vets and other professionals than behaviourists, but no, because we aren’t coming to you with the intention of directly modifying behaviour initially, it doesn’t have to impact your vet record or insurance. You don't need to get veterinary referral or permission for me to come and meet you and your horses, or to make modifications around the horse. However, I'll refer you to a vet if there is any doubt as to your horse's physical health at any time and we have no control over what your vet does or does not record. Also if we agree re-training (behaviourism) would be helpful - by you, me, or anyone else suitably qualified - any REPS would suggest prior veterinary and other appropriate checks, of course. "Can you teach this stuff, is it expensive?"
For individuals, groups, charities and clubs, I can offer truly unique, psychology based, ‘relationship-building' theory and experiences between people and horses. This is not EFL or round-pen stuff. It starts with observing, noting, and experimenting with your individual horse’s body language and social interactions and then you slotting yourself into their social world appropriately. It is rooted in real science, but I won't be talking about neurons. Yes, you can learn this stuff, for the cost of a riding lesson from a coach educated to post-grad level. I feature in ‘Horse and Rider’ magazine regularly and have provided articles for Haygain. I am a BHS-qualified riding coach and groom (registered BHS APC). I have postgraduate training in equine health, fitness, nutrition, pasture mangement, social relationships and performance. I have extensive professional experience of both environmental and water industries. I've owned and cared for horses for more than 20 years, as well as working in a riding school with beginner adults, RDA and children on less-than-perfect horses/ponies. I own a patented technology called 'Define', which attaches quickly to tack, or plaits into your horse’s mane to monitor behaviour and performance when you can't be there to watch. Pentalib Ltd is based at the RAU's Agri-tech growth hub; Farm491. In 2018, we successfully delivered projects funded by Innovate UK and Swindon & Wiltshire LEP.
