Michaela Hempen

Hi, This is a long email. I thought about splitting it in two, but decided to finish up with Blondie’s saddling project. This topic could easily take ten more emails (in case you want those emails let me know, and I’ll think about it). So let’s continue… Now that we have found our starting point … Read more

Hi, When you are presented with a training puzzle, the constructional approach suggests to start with the identification of your goal, followed by an assessment of your current position in relation to that goal. My goal was a saddling routine during which Blondie remained calm, relaxed and engaged from approaching with a saddle until the … Read more

Hi, The programme I developed for Blondie is tailor-made for her. Each next step evolved out of the training as she needed it. It was a very fluid process that I adapted on the spot. However, the principles that I applied, remain valid for other horses not only those with saddle aversions but basically with … Read more

Hi, Blondie was ridden regularly, almost every day, by her previous owner, for at least 3 years (that I witnessed), plus another 6-12 months at her breeder’s. I was told that the breeder didn’t keep her because her sliding stop had no potential. I don’t want to know what they do with a 2-year old … Read more