Shows
Lead a Horse to WaterIn conversation with Irith BloomIn conversation with-Irith Bloom certified professional trainer, behavior consultant and TAGteacher.I hope you enjoy the conversation I had with friend and colleague Irith about training and behaviour including, parallels between horses and dogs and much more.Irith Bloom, author, presenter, trainer, and teacher, owns The Sophisticated Dog, a company that provides both peer-to-peer and trainer-to-pet-family services worldwide, as well as in-person training to select clients in Los Angeles. Along with Dr. Kristina Spaulding, Irith co-founded and is faculty at Carefree Companion, a program that helps people teach greater stress resilience and better emotional regulation to their...
2025-07-221h 06Lead a Horse to WaterCan we shape behaviour using negative reinforcement?We often think of behaviour produced with positive reinforcement as the only behaviour that can be shaped but of course behaviour produced using negative reinforcement can be shaped too. In this episode, I explore what constructional training is, how CAT protocols use R- to build functional skills, and where R- stops serving the learner and starts serving the trainer. Spoiler: for me it’s all about whose needs the behaviour is meeting.
2025-07-1527 minLead a Horse to WaterCan we build 'giving a break' into a reinforcerAs humans we might perceive many reinforcers in our world from edible delicacies to buying new clothes but often we feel limited with finding different reinforcers for our horses. This is a hypothetical discussion about using a 'time to relax' or 'giving a break' as a reinforcer. https://www.equine.training/my-courses/ for my courses.
2025-07-0725 minLead a Horse to WaterPodcast Postbag- Your questions answered with Katrina Per-CarruthersWe consider your questions on:Hunter training- balance and moreChoice vs Structure in trainingListening to horsesReinforcers failingTechniques we stole from dog trainersX-species training
2025-04-1351 minLead a Horse to WaterWorld Horse Welfare Webinar Unanswered QuestionsIf you didn't catch the webinar you can do so at this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bd-rr-4HLVYThanks to those who asked some brilliant questions.
2025-04-0520 minLead a Horse to WaterWe all make mistakesIn my equine scent work session with Rum this week, I made a mistake that really highlighted the need for an errorless approach. He indicated on the wrong container, the blank without odour (in theory) and my instinct, was to offer no reinforcement, and redirect him to the search. Not really an errorless approach. In an errorless framework, we don’t let the learner practise mistakes. Instead, we set up the training so they always have a clear path to success. In scent work, that means making the right choice easy and reinforcing it well, while using free food to...
2025-03-2122 minLead a Horse to WaterThe fix starts with you: in conversation with Katrina Per-CarruthersIn this episode my friend and colleague Katrina Per-Carruthers unpick some training fails and discuss solutions that are horse centred.Mounting block problems, fence refusal and unwillingness to go forward were in our sights this time. If you have topics you'd like us to cover then do drop me a message.Katrina Per-Carruthers lives in British Columbia, Canada where she trains a variety of species. Katrina has been a coach for over 15 years and is a passionate advocate for the use of humane training methods to improve animal welfare.Find...
2025-02-281h 01Lead a Horse to WaterWhy clicker training might not be my go to with new equine clientsI don't always recommend clicker training as a first option when I start working with a new client. Why? Well take a listen as I talk through a specific example and explain ways that I might add some R+ based training without the pressure of the trainer carrying food and having to be great at timing and mechanics.How do I square this with working inside a LIMA framework?As always questions and comments are welcome!Email me at trudi@equine.training
2025-02-1116 min
Lead a Horse to WaterMale horses 'dropping' when training with foodThe topic of male horses 'dropping' when training with food (clicker training) has reared its head again- I'm glad because it is a topic we need to consider.
In this short episode I will explain (again) why I don't think we should brush this topic under the carpet!
Warning- I talk about penises in this episode.
If you want help with your horse dropping or over threshold when training with food- get in touch, trudi@equine.training or www.equine.training
2025-01-0818 min
Lead a Horse to WaterCooperative Care In conversation with Dr. Katerina Junghansova
In this episode Dr. Katerina Junghansova (Kate) and I chat about cooperative care for horses. Kate is an equine veterinarian, lifelong equestrian, animal lover, and the founder of an educational project called VetCareTraining. Her mission is to promote safe, and ethical horse handling and training. She is really passionate about equine cooperative care, and she thinks it´s the future of equine health care. In her project, she offers online courses and individual online consultations. She also teaches clinics and seminars focused on helping horse owners, as well as equine professionals, handle horses in an easier, safer, more effective, an...
2024-12-291h 12
Lead a Horse to WaterTalk about clicker training targets; it's a wrapIn this final short episode on target training I delve a little deeper into how and when I use targets in my training.
Questions? Comments? Drop me a message or email trudi@equine.training
2024-12-2316 min
Lead a Horse to WaterTalk about clicker training targets; when to use a target
The third (hop back and listen to the first two if you haven't yet) in the clicker training targets mini series.
In this one I discuss when I use targets in my training from cognitive enrichment to training movement.
If you want to learn how to train in this way then join me on my accredited professional trainer course in 2025 https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate
Drop me any questions trudi@equine.training
2024-12-1212 min
Lead a Horse to WaterTalk about clicker training targets; plans and blueprintsThe second (hop back and listen to the first if you haven't yet) in the clicker training targets mini series.
In this one I discuss planning and setting up the behaviour- essential for all training.
If you want to learn how to train in this way then join me on my accredited professional trainer course in 2025 https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate
Drop me any questions trudi@equine.training
2024-12-0217 min
Lead a Horse to WaterTalk about clicker training targets; an overviewMy Understand Horses Trainer's course https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate
My IAABC Foundation course https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/equine-discomfort-ethogram/
My IAABC Foundation Journal article on targets
https://journal.iaabcfoundation.org/target-training-for-horses-hit-or-miss/
2024-11-2812 min
Change of TackEpisode 6. Trudi Dempsey, Equine Trainer and Behaviour ConsultantThis week we meet Trudi Dempsey, an Equine Behaviour Consultant based in the UK. Trudi offers online and in person behaviour consultations as well as coaching in positive reinforcement training and general horsemanship. Her passion is Classical dressage and she has a holistic approach that enables clients from all backgrounds to benefit from her knowledge of behavioural science. You can find out more through Trudi's website: www.equine.training or facebook: www.facebook.com/CreativeEquineTraining or you can find her courses on the following sites: w...
2024-11-011h 21
Lead a Horse to WaterYoung horse training, in conversation with Chess WattsIn this episode I talk to Chess about her journey with Gambit her young Exmoor pony. I met them when she needed help with his behaviour and the two have been a real joy to work with.
My new accredited trainer course is now live at Understand Horses
https://courses.understandhorses.com/courses/horse-trainer-foundation-certificate
Check out my IAABC Foundation course here https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/equine-cooperative-care/
2024-10-3150 minChange of TackEpisode 5. Gabriel Lencioni - Cooperative CareThis Episode I'm joined by Gabriel Lencioni, a Brazilian Vet who has specialised in Animal Behaviour. Gabriel specialises in using Cooperative Care to help reduce stress during veterinary procedures and husbandry activities and together with Equine Behaviourist, Trudi Dempsey and the IAABC; is offering training for horse owners and professionals to help build the necessary skills to enable horses to engage positively in their care. the next course begins on 11th November, you can find out more here: https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/equine-cooperative-care/ You can also access a recorded webinar on Youngstock Handling, h...
2024-10-2659 min
Lead a Horse to WaterIn Conversation with Jessie SamsIn this episode Jessie Sams and I finally got around to talking to her about her life and work with horses and other topics like a biopsychosocial model, the 3 C's of communication, choice and consent (with Emily Kieson) , compassion for human horse carers and lots more.
Jessie Sams is an animal behaviour consultant with a degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science from the University of Greenwich. She’s currently a Provisional member with the APBC and is working towards her certification as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist. Jessie has a wealth of experience with horses, having worked with showjumpers and ra...
2024-10-101h 00Lead a Horse to WaterScience, evidence...does it support clicker training? Summer short 6Are science based or evidence based titles a good idea?
How do we feel about science, especially in light of the recent dog study.
Does science absolutely support R+ based/clicker training?
How science has made me cross and how I'm learning to cut more slack!
Heads up my Horse Trainer Foundation Certificate Course (accredited by Rural Skills) will be coming online in 2025, details will be released by Understand Horses very soon!
2024-09-2717 minLead a Horse to WaterShould we combine reinforcement, does it work? Summer short 5It will come as no big surprise that intentionally combining positive and negative reinforcement isn't something I'm huge on. I was surprised to hear experts/academics lack of understanding regarding things like shaping and backchaining and reducing reinforcement without frustration.
It's a bit ranty :)
2024-09-1218 minLead a Horse to WaterSetting up your horse training with a clear pattern to follow Summer Short 4As a young horse trainer I was very aware of creating situations where the horse could 'guess' the behaviour- we called it anticipation. Back in those days I didn't know about using reward based training but anticipation was a great way to create a willing and enthusiastic horse. Sadly some of the old ways haven't been passed on- in some cases that's a good thing, in others I think it means we lose a little of the common horse sense.
Join me in considering how we can motivate horses and be better trainers.
2024-09-0311 minLead a Horse to Water'mis'behaving horse behaviour professionals Summer Short 3Videos showing behaviour professionals sitting out bucks and rears gain thousands of likes, why?
Above all other areas of equestrianism shouldn't behaviour be seen for what it really is and not used as a social media magnet?
Or maybe I'm old and jaundiced!
2024-08-2211 minLead a Horse to WaterSummer short 2 of 2024 The basics when clicker trainingWe owe every animal in our care the ability to know how to interact with our world and us. That requires some basic training. I rarely see the basics done well or even at all.
My courses at www.understandhorses.com and www.iaabcfoundation.org
2024-08-1810 minLead a Horse to WaterSummer Short 1 of 2024 How might it feel for a horse when they are tired?I've had a tiring few weeks and my poor brain and body hurt. How might it feel for our horses when they are tired and we ask them to perform behaviours when training?
Taking note of changes in behaviour might help us spot problems early.
This is part 1 of my summer shorts 2024, if you have questions you'd like answering in another short episode message me!
2024-07-2415 min
Lead a Horse to WaterAffective Neuroscience and Horse Training with Dr Robin FosterThis time on the podcast I'm joined by friend and colleague Dr Robin Foster. For a very long time I've wanted to dip into Panksepp's work on emotions, which in some small way has been adopted by the clicker training world, and finally I got to chat with Robin.
We STILL didn't get to valence...I think another chat is needed soon.
I hope you enjoy Robin's this thought provoking chat.
Robin Foster has a PhD in Animal Behavior and is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB), Certified Equine Behavior Consultant (CEBC) and Certified Fear Free Professional.
After 20 years as...
2024-07-111h 06
Lead a Horse to WaterRiding without a bridleIn this episode I was again joined by the fabulous Heather McManamy of Equus Integratus.
Our focus was on bridleless riding but the skills we discuss go so much deeper than riding.
Heather shares some great resources on her website https://equusintegratus.com/ on Facebook and Instagram
Articles and videos can be found here
https://equusintegratus.com/resources/videosarticles/
2024-06-141h 02
Lead a Horse to WaterEquine Ecology in conversation with Annabel HolmesIn this episode I had the great pleasure of talking to Annabel Holmes, The Equine Ecologist a mum, ecologist and passionate horsewoman based in the Cotswolds.
Growing up on a nature reserve in Suffolk,
Annabel later went on to study Ecology, starting her career splitting her time between a feed company, and later in agricultural botany during the holidays.
After university, while working in ecological consultancy and conservation, she turned her studies back to horses, to study equine behaviour and nutrition.
Soon after having her baby (now a wild toddler), she combined her expertise and creativity to help horse owners...
2024-05-171h 00
Lead a Horse to WaterWild Horses with Sam CouperIn this episode I am thrilled to talk wild and feral horses with the wonderful Samantha (Sam) Couper PhD. We delve into Sam's back story right up to her present day training with her own horses and her work as a behaviour consultant.
Sam is Board Chair of the Onaqui Catalogue Foundation, a group dedicated to compiling citizen observations of the Onaqui wild horses in Utah, USA, in the pursuit of research and public education. With the foundation, Sam teaches a course on wild horses at the University of Utah three times a year.
...
2024-03-181h 18
Lead a Horse to WaterRope Halters, pressure and clicker training with guest Polly SmeathIn this episode I chat to Polly Smeath about rope halters and controlling horses when leading.
Polly has an extensive background in the world of
horses, a passion that has woven throughout her life since childhood. Born into
a family with a history of racehorses, Polly's earliest memories include a
vivid encounter with a tall, dark brown horse at the age of two. Her journey as
a "pony mad youngster" began at the age of nine, marked by a
memorable fall from a skewbald pony named Star Trek, who had been rescued with
severe laminitis.
Undeterred by challenges, Polly persevered t...
2024-02-2050 min
Lead a Horse to WaterSelf ControlSooz Foster joins me again and this time we're talking self control. We consider horses and dogs, whether they can have self-control and how we can build build patterns to help.
You can find Sooz these days at https://soozdogtraining.co.uk/ or come and join me training at her new club https://www.dreamsdogclub.co.uk/
Or catch us both presenting at Understand Horses Live in July https://www.understandhorses.com/understand-horses-live
2024-01-2354 min
Lead a Horse to WaterIn conversation with Dr Eduardo J Fernandez: Training as enrichmentI was thrilled to be able to talk to Dr Eduardo J Fernandez on the podcast. Not only is he an amazing applied behaviour researcher but he is great at putting some of the more technical definitions into easy to understand terminology.
Our discussion centres around training as enrichment but there were also some rabbit holes and side stories that we delved into.
Eduardo J. Fernandez is a Senior
Lecturer of Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare in the School of Animal and
Veterinary Sciences at the University of Adelaide (Australia). He received his
Ph.D. in Psychology (minors in Neuroscience...
2023-12-141h 20
Lead a Horse to WaterIn conversation with Heather K McManamyIn this episode I had a fabulous chat with Heather. We had aimed to look at what draws people to more 'glamorous' 'from different world' trainers but it turned into a wonderful introspective (well certainly for me, I hope Heather enjoyed it too).
We ask how to be credible.
What are our insecurities
How to collaborate and build connections.
If you are a trainer, a coach, a consultant, a business woman, a horse lover...this one is for you.
Heather helps horses and people learn to be comfortable with healthcare procedures using positive reinforcement
training. She also help horses and...
2023-11-301h 06
Equilogical PodcastTalking Agility With Horses: Part 2In this episode Sarah and Becky continue the Agility Conversation and are joined by the fabulous Trudi Dempsey and Kate Blackmore.
Don't forget Little Green Stables are hosting an Agility half day clinic with Trudi in May. Please mge to book.
We talk Do's and Don'ts and so much more.
You can find us all on Social Media Platforms and Don't forget to follow our training on Pateron/Littlegreenstables
2023-11-251h 13
Lead a Horse to WaterAll About Cues (part 6)In this final (for now) episode on cues I look at transferring cues which is great if you want to tidy up your complex cues or change your original cue for something more appropriate.
Please share these short episodes and let me know if you've tried any of my suggestions for improving your cues!
2023-11-1917 min
Lead a Horse to WaterAll About Cues (part 5)What to choose as a cue?
Physical, verbal, tactile? What is clear, easy to use, easy to replicate?
2023-11-1417 minEquilogical PodcastTalking Agility with Horses: Part 1Welcome back! It's been a while :)
In this episode Becky chats to the fabulous Sarah Johnson one of Little Green Stables valued Patreons about horse agility. Sarah lives in Switzerland with Kenda her horse who is of a similar age to Becky's Rum.
Becky has just started training agility with Rum and all this training and more can be found over on the Patreon site. Sarah and Becky discuss the obstacles, how beneficial they can be for both humans and horses and how agility training can really suit R+ and clicker trainers.
2023-11-101h 11
Lead a Horse to WaterAre you quitting on me?Rebeccah Baylis is one of my fave students, we talk in this episode about a session that felt quite sticky at the start but ended well. Do you know when it might be acceptable to push on a little further? Should we always stop at the first sign of resistance? It's definitely a training conundrum. Find Becky and our shared events in 2024 at
https://littlegreenstables.com/
2023-11-081h 10
Lead a Horse to WaterAll about Cues (part 4)Discrimination
Knowing what to do to get reinforced- the best friend of stimulus control (part 3) and discriminative stimulus (part 2).
How can you help your horse know what a cue means?
Please enjoy and share, Trudi
2023-11-0817 min
Lead a Horse to WaterAll About Cues (part 3)Stimulus Control
In this third short on my continuing theme of cues I'm looking at how 'clean' our cues are. Stimulus control is an essential part of developing cues, it helps us create a clear language that reduces the chances of frustration.
I share the 4 criteria of stimulus control and what we need to consider right from the get go in terms of cues.
2023-10-2717 min
Reinforce the Horse#41 | Trudi Dempsey | Be Yourself | Things that Can't be Unseen | Learning from Pain | the Broken MasculineTrudi Dempsey is a certified equine behaviour consultant with the IAABC and an accredited animal Behaviourist with the ABTC her love affair with horses began as a small child and her work today as an equine behaviourist and trainer aims to recreate those healthy relationships she had with ponies when growing up.Trudi draws on her experience as a classical dressage coach to improve a horse’s physical balance and her knowledge of how horses behave and learning theory to address behaviour and training problems.Based in the UK, Trudi supports clients locally, travels internationally to...
2023-10-261h 07
Lead a Horse to WaterAll About Cues (Part 2)What to do when? Does your horse know? Do you think you know what your cues are? Does your horse agree?
This short episode builds on the previous and looks at the idea of a discriminative stimulus- do you know what your SD is and does your horse agree?
2023-10-1813 min
Lead a Horse to WaterAll About Cues (Part 1)I've done cues before but have we ever 'done' cues...this is the first part of a deep dive into cues. Send me questions and thoughts to trudi@equine.training and share this episode with your friends.
More soon, Trudi
2023-10-0513 min
Lead a Horse to WaterTargetsWhat to do when things go wrong with targets and how to train a follow target, great questions sent in by a listener.
2023-08-2613 min
Lead a Horse to WaterFailure (Summer Short 5)Failure is scary, so much that we might allow failure to stop us doing what we enjoy (horse training).
Be brave, embrace the fear!
2023-08-1813 min
Lead a Horse to WaterPlaying with Time (Summer Short 4)Reducing anxiety by playing with the temporal gap (aka what I call temporal tinkering) needs shaping the same as every behaviour. In this summer short I answer a question or two posed by one of my current course students. If you have any questions drop me a message or email trudi@equine.training
2023-08-0913 min
Lead a Horse to WaterSummer Short 3 LabelsCan labels be useful in horse training? Labels are used everywhere in life and often to the detriment of the label wearer. Take a listen to this short episode and drop me a message if you have ideas for future episodes.
2023-07-2814 min
Lead a Horse to WaterSummer Short 2 The Emperor's New ClothesIn this, my second Summer Short episode, I consider how we can know if something is awesome or BS and does it matter as long as you and your horse are happy and healthy?
Might be a bit controversial but I opened my mouth and out came me!
Ideas for other Summer Shorts can be emailed trudi@equine.training
2023-07-1415 min
Lead a Horse to WaterSummer Short 1 The human elementIn this, my first Summer Short episode, I look at the human side of the training equation. Training can take it's toll on both sides of the learning partnership and I often address this for our horse/dog but this time it's all about the human.
How can you reduce your own stress and lack of motivation.
Ideas for other Summer Shorts can be emailed trudi@equine.training
2023-07-0816 min
Lead a Horse to WaterIn Conversation with Karen LukeIn this episode I chat to Karen Luke about her most recent study linking horse welfare and behaviour with rider safety and satisfaction.
Karen is a lifelong horse enthusiast and horse owner
who is currently completing a PhD where she is investigating the relationship
between horse welfare, rider safety and rider satisfaction.
She has expertise in ridden horse behaviour and
training and has authored several published papers on these topics. Karen
regularly presents at conferences and workshops on the topics of ridden horse
welfare, horse training and rider safety. She is also interested in what
motivates equestrians and helping...
2023-04-2044 min
Lead a Horse to WaterGaping holes in your Shaping?Do you have shaping issues? It's an intense element of our training with horses, part art and part technique.
Do you reward the slightest try and feel that your behaviours are getting nowhere? Perhaps you get frustrated and cross with yourself.
Enjoy this episode and please share it with your friends.
Find my courses via trudidempsey.carrd.co
and my website www.equine.training
2023-04-0435 min
Equilogical PodcastCurious BobThis week Kate & Becky talk to Ella Bartlett from Bristol University about her recent study into horse training. Ella is currently studying for a PhD at the University of Bristol, where the aim of her project is to better understand how horse owners decide which approach to take when training their horses.
The hope is that this knowledge will mean we’re in a better position to promote the wider use of evidence-based training methods in the future. You may have seen the study on social media, the study has now closed & Ella is collecting data with a fantastic response from...
2023-01-271h 04Equilogical Podcast2023 Let’s PlayLaunching into 2023 with Positive Vibes... Kate is very excited about the response to the recent Equischolars competition with some awesome winners: Congratulations Field Of Joy in Norfolk & Holly Ingham from North Dakota, receiving the fantastic Equischolar Curriculum. Kate has also been working with The Ranch in Weymouth & looking at all the fantastic activities they are providing.
We have been super impressed by the young up & coming Equine ambassadors. Both Willow & Ella are busy at different University's working on surveys that can help gather information about how we train & how we look at pain & act on it with our horses. Please t...
2023-01-1036 min
Lead a Horse to WaterShaping behaviour (taster episode)Sooz Foster and I whizz through our thoughts in a taster episode on shaping. Check out our courses at understandhorses.com and find me at www.equine.training and Sooz at soozequine.co.uk
2022-12-0511 minLead a Horse to WaterBrave pants, confidence, confusion and disappointment in reinforcers.In this episode I talk about the awesome Understand Horses Live and my less stress workshop in the summer as well as answering questions on wearing your 'brave pants' and why horses may continue to 'mug' you. I close with a quick look at reward prediction error. You can find all my courses, my website, Ko-fi and social media accounts via trudidempsey.carrd.co For those wanting to read about reward prediction error this is a great place to start https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4826767/
2022-11-0643 min
Lead a Horse to WaterRecognising equine pain, in conversation with Gabriel Carreira LencioniIn this episode I chat to Gabriel Carreira Lencioni about his love of horses and his recent projects looking at pain assessment in horses. Gabriel recently graduated as a Veterinarian from the University of São Paulo, Brazil, where he took part in research groups on animal behaviour and welfare and developed a project on automated pain assessment in horses (you can read about it here https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/authors?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0258672 ) . Gabriel is an IAABC Certified Horse Behaviour Consultant and Certified Fear Free Elite Professional (Dogs/cats and horses). You can find his scientific dis...
2022-08-3047 min
Lead a Horse to WaterClicker training cats and MORE with Cheryl KolusIn this episode I was joined by the wonderful Cheryl Kolus. From Colorado, USA, Cheryl is a veterinarian who specialised in behaviour, working with shelter animals (primarily cats) and with pet owners to help them better understand their dogs and cats and manage or resolve unwanted behaviors in their pets. She and her colleagues even published research on cat clicker training. Although no longer in clinical practice, Cheryl remains passionate about animal behaviour and welfare and is always looking for learning opportunities in those fields. She is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, served on the board of...
2022-08-0952 minEquilogical PodcastRaising Resilient HorsesWhat a colab! Joined by the fabulous Trudi Dempsey and the wonderful Sarah Johnson for this weeks podcast. Sarah is on holiday from Switzerland 🇨🇭 and spent the morning training Rum and Reggie with Trudi. We talk about the importance of training different horses, working with different trainers and all the challenges we face along with the celebrations. The discussion explores how we build resilience in our horses how easy it is to make mistakes but not to dwell on those but to be honest, own them and train them out. A very open discussion about horse personalities, the benefit of hindsi...
2022-07-231h 11
Lead a Horse to WaterEquine clicker training workshop where were you?Sooz joins me for a natter about our recent live workshops. We hit some big topics Including the ethics of novice clicker trainers! Of course we return to our favourite topic, reinforcement routines, and much more.
You can find Sooz Foster CHBC AAB for dog training at https://www.tarkadogtraining.co.uk and for horses at https://www.soozequine.co.uk
Join me at ko-fi.com/leadahorsetowater for Trudi's Training, a private group where I share my training and lots more.
2022-07-171h 03
Lead a Horse to WaterStanding on the Shoulders of GiantsWelcome to Season 3! A new season of interviews, deep dives into training and behaviour and some giggles when Sooz joins me!
In this short episode I consider the greats that went before me and wonder why women often look to men for coaching.
If you would like to support the podcast I have created a Ko-fi account where you can come and join me as I look at my students and personal training strategies. Weekly training information will be added with voice over or annotated description. All for a £10 a month membership. Come and join m...
2022-07-0618 min
The HorseTribe Podcast13. Trudi Dempsey - horse behaviour consultant on equine problem-solving with positivityWe find out more about Trudi Dempsey, equine behaviourist, in this episode of the HorseTribe podcast. With a background as an engineer and an airhostess her career has been varied to say the least!
Now passionately involved in training horses, and supporting owners to understand their horses, Trudi helps people work to solve problem behaviour, through positive reinforcement techniques.
Find out more about positive reinforcement and the problems she helps solve, as we delve into her incredible insights, top tips, and funny stories from a life working with horses!
To join Trudi's webinar for the HorseTribe on positive reinforcement, click to...
2022-06-1051 min
Lead a Horse to WaterHorse herd leadersScience continues to inform us about the nature of horses and old accepted ideas of herd leader (alpha stallion and mare) have been reconsidered. This is not a scientific stroll but a practical chatty episode about horses exhibiting behaviours that might be considered as 'leadership' qualities or dominance along with the assumption that there is a 'pecking order' in horse herds.
Thanks to Jo and her enquiring mind for the great question.
Equitation Science position statement on misuse of leadership and dominance in training
2022-03-2628 min
Lead a Horse to WaterSaying GoodbyeIn this episode I talk about the last day with my lovely Moralejo (Moo). If this subject could be difficult for you PLEASE don't listen. If this episode helps anyone then Moo and I will have given one last service to horses and their carers.
Love to you all, take care of yourselves.
For help with end of life decisions this is a good starting point https://www.equine-endoflife.co.uk/end-of-life-options/planned-euthanasia/
2022-03-2021 min
Lead a Horse to WaterBeing KindThis episode is a meander through the concept of being kind to each other. In the world of horses there can often be conflict and it has lead me, in the past, to be less kind to the human in the horse-human partnership. I try to do better and we could probably all do better and with this in mind I ramble through some wonderful responses to a recent social media question I posed about how to be kind.
I mention the wonderful Andrea Harrison in the podcast and especially her gratitude project for which I am truly, well, grateful!
...
2022-03-0227 min
Lead a Horse to WaterIn Conversation with Kate Blackmore A relaxed natter with the lovely Kate Blackmore about her new venture- Equischolars!
Kate Blackmore is Head of Welfare at the Conquest Centre, equine behaviour consultant with Equilogical and founder of Equischolars – stewards of the horse.
Kate started volunteering at Conquest in 2012, became a groom, RDA GI, yard manager, deputy manager before going onto study for her behavioural consultancy qualification with the NAC. She then set up my own consultancy business, Equilogical, and joined forces with Becky Baylis from Little Green Stables to bring out the Equilogical podcast and create a Patreon site which follo...
2022-02-0744 min
Lead a Horse to WaterIn conversation with Dr Hannah DonovanIn this episode I'm joined by my wonderful colleague Dr Hannah Donovan a veterinary surgeon and a certificated clinical animal behaviourist (CCAB) for equines, dogs and cats. Hannah talks to me about her journey to becoming a vet and behaviourist and how horse owners, vets and behaviourists are coming together to share modern understanding of horse behaviour. Hannah and I share some tips for horse guardians about how they can better prepare for vet visits and procedures and when you need to seek the help of a behaviourist with your horse.
Dr Hannah Donovan gr...
2022-01-1751 min
Lead a Horse to WaterClicker Training Horses, clarity in liberty movementsThe final short Christmas bonus episode discussing how to develop good cue discrimination in complex liberty movements. This was in response to a call out for questions following the previous episode on Stimulus Control. In this episode we discuss Anne's fabulous question. Our new Train Clean interactive online workshop (back chaining) at the end of January is available to purchase from Trudi Dempsey Equine Trainer and Behaviour Consultant's Facebook events.
Wishing every listener the very best for 2022!!
2021-12-2610 min
Lead a Horse to WaterClicker Training Horses, send to a distant placeIn this second of our short Christmas bonus episodes discussing how to create a behaviour of sending your horse to a distant place. This was in response to a call out for questions following the previous episode on Stimulus Control. In this episode we discuss Lisa's wonderful question. Our new Train Clean interactive online workshop (back chaining) at the end of January is available to purchase from Trudi Dempsey Equine Trainer and Behaviour Consultant's Facebook events.
Wishing every listener the very best for 2022!!
2021-12-2511 min
Lead a Horse to WaterClicker Training Horses, Wait While I MoveA super short Christmas bonus episode discussing how to develop a solid stand and wait for your horse. This was in response to a call out for questions following the previous episode on Stimulus Control. In this episode we discuss Drea's great question. Our new Train Clean interactive online workshop (back chaining) at the end of January is available to purchase from Trudi Dempsey Equine Trainer and Behaviour Consultant's Facebook events.
Wishing every listener the very best for 2022!!
2021-12-2410 min
Lead a Horse to WaterClicker training horses- errorless learning and stimulus controlAnother wander through some of the crucial theories surrounding clicker training. Errorless learning sounds too good to be true- what it is all about? Stimulus control was the topic of our last weekend Train Clean deep dive and as usual there were some interesting results.
Friend and colleague Sooz Foster joins me again as we take these topics down some interesting rabbit holes. High fiving cats and why extinction bursts in your horse are thankfully less dangerous, or are they?
Shout out to Sooz who since our last recording has gained her IAABC certification and ABTC accreditation, check her out...
2021-11-2649 minEquilogical PodcastThe Power of the PauseIn today’s podcast we discuss the power of giving a pause. It’s something both Kate and Becky have been introducing to our training with the horses. Becky uses the pause in a slightly different way when training Squawk her rescue African Grey as he is bonded to her husband and when the daylight changes this can offer hormone challenges. The passive pause is used with the horses at the beginning of the training session and in between each separate behaviour being trained (unless you are chaining ). The passive pause has been so valuable for creating calmness in the trai...
2021-11-0652 min
Equilogical PodcastThe Dempsey's in the detail!On today's podcast we have the wonderful Trudi Dempsey, Equine Trainer and Behaviourist. With over 30 years of experience under her belt, Trudi tells us how she got into training with +R back at a time when it was almost unheard of in the equine world!
The three of us have an open and honest discussion about training, the pitfalls and the ups and downs of behavioural consulting. Kate and Trudi discuss the feat of getting people on board with +R versus meeting the expectations of the client.
Becky shares her experience in working with two...
2021-10-291h 05
Lead a Horse to WaterClicker Training- Reinforcement RoutinesSooz Foster and I recorded this episode amidst our live in person training weekend at Nine Acres equestrian in Norfolk.
We dive into the detail on reinforcement routines (loops, procedures, practices...) in a light-hearted episode!
Train Clean Stimulus Control Event https://www.facebook.com/events/168407405378673
2021-10-1637 min
Lead a Horse to WaterTrick Training in discussion with Maisie WakeIn this episode I speak to colleague and friend Maisie Wake. We discuss trick training, the ethics and methods. What are tricks and should we train them?
Maisie is an Equine Massage Therapist and a behaviour consultant for both equines and chickens. She is a supporting member of IAABC, and a member of the Equine Behaviour and Training Association. She is also currently in training to be an animal physio, as it is important to her that she can offer help both behaviourally and physically. Maisie loves working with a variety of species, and started her career...
2021-10-051h 01
Lead a Horse to WaterTalking Tracks with Larri Davison-BowesDear listener, Season 2 is upon us! Episode 1 of the new season (episode 16 as we go) is ready for you.
Larri is not only a good friend but an amazing horse person. We recorded this episode earlier in the summer when I visited my old boy Moralejo (Moo) who is on retirement livery at Larri's amazing track livery Horse Haven - Holistic Livery and Ethical Training.
You can find Larri on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HorseHavenWales and Instagram and her website is https://www.horse-haven.co.uk/
Not just a livery provider (rehab, re...
2021-09-0348 min
Lead a Horse to WaterClick or Miss?A question that came up on one of my recent R+ training course Q and A sessions was just too good not to answer publicly. Thanks for such a great question Sara...what do you do when your horse appears not to hear the click?
In this final episode of the season I consider this scenario and offer some solutions. What do you do when your learner doesn't react to the bridge in the way you expected?
I'll be back at the end of summer with a new season and some great guests and topics. G...
2021-07-0531 min
Lead a Horse to WaterLauren Fraser talks CAT and compassionIn this episode I talk to friend and colleague Lauren Fraser, in the main, about CAT and having compassion for horse guardians that are transitioning from traditional methods. A couple of LaHtW rabbit holes and the off tangent. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
Lauren is an experienced horsewoman, who has worked professionally with horses since 2006. Prior to her current specialization, Lauren taught riding and horsemanship, and trained horses. Lauren holds an Equine Science Certificate (with Distinction) from the University of Guelph, and obtained her Masters of Science degree in Clinical Animal Behaviour (with M...
2021-06-1949 min
Lead a Horse to WaterLIMA and negative reinforcement, my thoughts on these two mind benders!Lately there has been a growth in the UK of trainers and groups labelling themselves as LIMA. What is LIMA and what is its impact on my work as a trainer and behaviour consultant?
From the IAABC (iaabc.org) “LIMA” is an acronym for the phrase “least intrusive, minimally aversive.” LIMA describes a trainer or behavior consultant who uses the least intrusive, minimally aversive strategy out of a set of humane and effective tactics likely to succeed in achieving a training or behavior change objective. LIMA adherence also requires consultants to be adequately educated and skilled in order to ensure that the...
2021-06-0229 min
Lead a Horse to WaterPointers and pitfalls when starting out in positive reinforcement trainingStarting out with positive reinforcement training? This episode delves into the pointers and pitfalls that are common when starting out. In this episode I'm joined again by Clare Young of Kindly Equine. Clare is studying the NAC behaviour qualification and I'm really pleased to announce she has been accepted on the MSc at Edinburgh university to study clinical animal behaviour.
Find the podcast on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/leadahorsetowaterpodcast find Trudi at www.equine.training and her online courses at understandhorses.com
https://www.facebook.com/kindlyequine
https://www.i...
2021-05-161h 15
Lead a Horse to WaterPositive Reinforcement, Starting Out, with Clare YoungIn this episode I natter to Clare Young of Kindly Equine (see below for links to FB and Insta) about getting started with positive reinforcement. It's a great chat and we did go on a little longer than planned but I've left it whole as I think it works well. Hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed recording it, there will be further digs into the world of the new trainer in future episodes.
Clare is currently studying Equine behaviour with the Natural Animal Centre and is hoping to be accepted on a...
2021-04-071h 15
Lead a Horse to WaterListen Up! Is Your Horse Talking To You?Your horse appears a little 'out of sorts'. Advice from your trainer to push them through it doesn't sit well. Is your horse trying to tell you something? In this episode I talk about the signs of a horse in discomfort or pain and how to trust yourself in recognising those signs.
Catch up with me at www.equine.training and find my new interactive course at understandhorses.com
The equine pain face information here
Sue Dyson's ridden pain information here
2021-03-0927 min
Lead a Horse to WaterPatterns: Could They Help You Leave Home?In this episode Sooz Foster (check out previous episodes for her bio) and I dig down into patterns and how they can help us help our horses. Adapted from Leslie McDevitt's pattern games for dogs, these simple devices can ease anxiety for you and your horse especially for horses that struggle to leave home because of separation based anxiety.
Apologies for some sound issues from Sooz at the start and interruptions from my dogs- real life problems!
You can get in touch via my website https://www.equine.training/equine-training-podcast/ on Facebook or Instagram and y...
2021-02-2444 min
Lead a Horse to WaterTouchy about targets?Touchy about targets? No, really I'm not! I just love good, careful and clean teaching of handheld target behaviours (and all other behaviours of course). Targets are often used to lure forward movement- again I have no issue with this WHEN DONE WELL. Listen while I ramble through my thoughts on the subject and gather your own thoughts too. Who is targeting for? When should handheld target training be part of your plans? More to come in future episodes: how to train handheld targets, targets as lures, undoing the damage when targets go wrong, cues to help when targeting, m...
2021-02-0630 min
Lead a Horse to WaterChanging management systems to support welfare and behaviour change- In Conversation with Dr Dorothy Heffernan-Thank you all for the amazing support and for listening in. Please reinforce me as you see fit by sharing this episode and by getting in touch with any questions, suggestions or just to say you've listened! You can get in touch via my website https://www.equine.training/equine-training-podcast/ on Facebook or Instagram and you can find my online courses at understandhorses.com Email me (contact via my website) or message me - I WILL get back to you. Fire your suggestions at me for future podcast themes, guests and questions you'd like answering or just let me kn...
2021-01-161h 08
Lead a Horse to WaterGrowth mindsets with Andrea HarrisonIn this episode I speak to Andrea Harrison about positive training and adopting a growth mindset. It's a good one! I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed making it. Andrea is an educator who is passionate about all species, including horses, dogs and humans! She has taken her positive message to the media many times, including appearances on TV shows, print radio, podcasts and more. Andrea has worked with a wide variety of people as an educator for decades. The science of brain research fascinates her. Helping students of all ages be successful, reduce...
2020-12-1255 min
Lead a Horse to WaterLet's talk cuesGive me a clue! Is that a cue?
In this episode Sooz Foster and I dig deep into the topic of cues. What is a cue? When do we introduce a cue? What does a suitable cue look like? Is the environment a cue? And lots more!
It's rather a long episode as we begin to unravel our thoughts on cues and it might need a couple of listens.
I mention in the podcast Understand Horses which is a new online equine education platform. You can find my current course here Understand Horses
...
2020-11-171h 19
Lead a Horse to WaterStuck in a training rut- how to get movingIn this episode (episode 4, I'm on a roll) I answer a listener's question about how to introduce movement behaviour using reward based training. It's a typical scenario where we have trained a good stand calmly behaviour only to find when we want to introduce movement (walk on) our horse is stuck. I talk through some different training protocols to help if you find yourself in the same situation.
Thank you all for the amazing support and for listening in. Please reinforce me as you see fit by sharing this episode and by getting in touch with any q...
2020-10-2031 min
Lead a Horse to WaterThe Positive Equine Conference 2020: in conversation with Jenny Eichner
In this episode of the podcast I'm in conversation with Jenny Eicher from Equine Centred.
Jenny has been involved with horses her whole life. She has a BSc in psychology doing her dissertation on foals understanding of human given cues.
After graduating from university, Jenny went on to train as a Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Equine Therapist. She also studied Applied Equine Behaviour to instructor level in groundwork and qualified as an Equine Behaviourist having completed the Natural Animal Centre Equine Behaviour Qualification.
A lifetime around horses and a passion for le...
2020-09-2540 min
Lead a Horse to WaterClicker train your horse: conversation with Sooz FosterIn this episode Sooz Foster and I discuss her crossover from traditional to positive reinforcement trainer and the joy that horses bring us even without the opportunity of riding. We talk about the importance of considering pain and physical issues before putting a training plan in place and Sooz shares her horse, Teddy's, journey. A BHS stage 4 senior coach and stable manager, Sooz is also a ride with your mind accredited level 1 coach and certified Franklin ball coach and is currently studying behaviour with the Natural Animal Centre. She lives and works in North Devon in the South west...
2020-09-0836 minLead a Horse to WaterWelcome to Lead a Horse to WaterTrudi Dempsey introducing myself (with some trepidation) to my potential six guests (OK if it's less than six I promise not to cry). Who am I, where did I come from and where am I going (someone tell me please)? Answering two of my most asked questions regarding positive reinforcement training. I'm a certified horse behaviour consultant with the IAABC offering consultations in the South West of England and evidence based training in person and online. Fire your suggestions at me for future podcast themes, guests and questions you'd like answering or just let me know how your training and...
2020-08-2223 min