Desert Rain Chronicles
Positive Reinforcement Horse Training Blog
Welcome to Desert Rain Chronicles, a positive reinforcement horse training blog where stories of connection meet actionable insights. Dive into inspiring success stories, practical training tips, and thoughtful explorations of equine care and Positive Reinforcement training. Join me as I celebrate the journey of building trust and understanding with equines—and hopefully inspire you on your own path.
From Panic to Peace: Reya’s Journey Through a Nervous System Cycle
When we think of helping a horse through a stressful event, our instinct is often to step in—to calm, to fix, to intervene. But what if the best support we can offer is simply holding space? When my foster mare, Reya, found herself tangled in a thorny branch during a windstorm, I was faced with a choice: force control over the situation or trust in the intelligence of her nervous system. What unfolded was a powerful lesson in stress, regulation, and the role of an anchor in moments of chaos. This story isn’t just about Reya—it’s about how we, as horse people, can learn to see stress not as something to suppress, but as a cycle to support. A lesson that, if we allow it, can deepen our relationship with our horses in ways we never expected.
Meet Reya: A New Chapter Begins
The past several weeks have been full of reflection, preparation, and excitement as I welcomed a very special new horse into my life. Meet Reya, a 7-year-old National Show Horse (Half Arabian, Half Saddlebred) who has already made a lasting impression on me. Rescued by Love This Horse – Arabian Rescue after surviving multiple auctions and a difficult past, she is now taking her first steps toward trust and healing in her new home.
Student Success Stories: Gale and Madison
This is the second in our series of student success stories, where we highlight the incredible journeys my students have taken with their equine partners using positive reinforcement training. Gale and her 16-year-old Rocky Mountain mare, Madison, have built a remarkable bond through trust, patience, and understanding. When Madison’s anxiety surfaced as biting during grooming or training breaks, Gale transformed their routine with enrichment exercises, games, and relaxation techniques. Over time, Madison became calmer, more focused, and deeply connected with Gale, showcasing the power of listening to our equines and prioritizing their emotional well-being.
Student Success Stories: Meet Robin and Jeremiah
I’m excited to share the first in a series of student success stories, where we celebrate the incredible progress my students have made with their equine partners through positive reinforcement training.
Robin’s journey with her mule, Jeremiah, is a testament to the power of patience, persistence, and positive reinforcement. From facing anxiety, resource guarding, and fear of basic care to celebrating milestones like voluntary hoof trims and playful moments in the paddock, their story is one of hope and connection. Guided by compassionate coaching and determination, Robin and Jeremiah have built a relationship rooted in trust and mutual respect. Discover how this incredible pair overcame challenges and found joy in their shared adventures.
