The Nature of Natural’s nature base philosophy of Training:
It has been many years since I wrote the original Nature of Natural. That document was written to assist my students in clinics and training, primarily of their horses. However, over the years, the principles outlined in the original have proven to be true throughout nature and thus we have been able to apply them to other species. These basic concepts, the principles, are also backed by research in behavioral science and genetics. Those species that we will discuss here are; dogs, stock, and of course horses. Occasionally we might through in people. Since the time I wrote the original we have learned a lot about behavior, in conjunction with the continuing research into behavior that has been published in regard to each species. One of the main things we have learned is that science essentially confirms what many of the top trainers, stockman, and handlers have known for some time. Although they learned it through astute observations over many years, and learning from others that came before them, their conclusions can be backed up by the current research that endeavors to promote a more ethical approach to animal training, care and husbandry. We are going to show that these principles are embedded in our selected master’s philosophies and methods that can be taught and if followed, ensure a better approach to relationships and the resulting desired behaviors of each species. I would like to point out, that although there are others, perhaps many that fit into this category, all other trainers and handlers do not fall into this category. In fact, many, if not most, violate the principles through a lack of understanding of how behavior works, and then, often, make up their version of what is happening between them, the trainee. These assumptions usually result in the over use of pressure as opposed to pressure being a guide for what the trainee should do. When this happens, it results in confusion and emotional distress in the trainee. That situation can be minimized if we follow the masters that will be promoted at The Nature of Natural. When students learn these basics of Behavior they can assess other trainers, handlers and stockman’s methods to determine if they want to associate with them and their philosophies and or methods they employ. This is particularly true now that so many appear on the internet promoting themselves, and often a misguided approach to training.
When we talk about nature essentially we are talking about the evolutionary process known as Natural Selection. Darwin’s and Wallace’s hypothesis of how evolution worked and individual species came about. In that selection process certain species-specific behaviors were selected for in order to survive in the environment that they were in. The Evolutionary environment of adaption. In that process evolution built on behaviors and tendencies that were already there at times altering them specifically for that species in that environment. They, the species, were given a road map of how to look at the world and solve problems specific to them. Further learning then occurred on top of that framework. Why is this an important concept? Because when unsolvable problems occur then that preprogrammed wiring for that species will dominate in order to produce some immediate behavior to survive the real or often perceived issue.
Because evolution didn’t build on something new every time, but used what was already there from the previous species (the last common ancestor) there are some universals in animal behavior and thus how we can understand them better and communicate with them so that they understand what we are asking. The magnitude of the concept that behaviors are built on something that that was successful (survival perspective) from earlier species/life development can be supported with the proposition that eukaryotes, one of the first forms of life, developed a form associative learning, learning to associate two previously unrelated things (see Evolution of the Learning Brain). This was millions of years before there were central nervous systems and currently associative learning is fundamental in interpreting the environment and resulting problems that occur. Over time, thru natural selection and learning, solutions to these problems were created and executed by simple chemical signaling thru hormone like substances such as pheromones. So once again, why is this an important concept? For our purposes we will be talking about keeping the trainees, Dogs, Horses, Stock, in a Learning frame of mind. Essentially thinking on how to solve a problem including one you are presenting, as opposed to going back to the hard wired solutions, the proverbial flight, fight, freeze scenario. How do out trainees interpret this? They do so from some simple associations. One of the main ones is interpreting body language. All mammals have some ability to interpret body language, either from their own hard wiring for their own species or learned from exposure to stimuli in their environment. The modern version of this is what is known as the Clever Hans Effect. If you are unfamiliar with it see the attached in the glossary (find it and we can post). When Oscar Pfungst discovered this in the late 1800’s it was and until recently under estimated at how nuanced and important it is, resulting in many behavioral experiments having to be redone without people involved, changing what we thought animals were or weren’t able to learn and interpret. What we did learn, about them, is that they are able to learn better than we imagined. However, they learn within those preprogrammed frameworks. What does that mean? A simple example would be the framework provided by nature is different for Prey animals versus predators, duh!
Ok, now we have laid some ground work for us, at the Nature of Natural to help people connect the dots, meaning we will bring up the common behavioral principles that the masters we have chosen use through understanding of the species they are working with. That understanding is rooted in having some idea of how they, the trainee, perceives the situation, and the emotional state the perception creates in the individual. Then working from that place to keep our trainee in a learning frame of mind, a cognitive state. Like the trainee, the trainer needs to be able to read the body language of the trainee somewhat correctly in order to successfully work from this place, and choose a method that the trainee can understand at that time. Through this process and experience of the trainer, a systematic learning can take place. When that happens and some success is achieved motivation to succeed by both the trainer and trainee will develop helping to speed learning.
Well its time for some examples:
Horse Training:
Tom Dorrance
John Saint Ryan
Ray Hunt
Charles DeKunffy
Stockmanship:
Bud Williams
Whit Hibbard
Guy Glosson
Stock Dogs and Stockmanship:
Bud Williams
Julie Hill
Steve Allen
Tim McGaffic
Another approach:
The original Nature of Natural was written to show that there are universal principles involved in behaviors and the training thereof. In short, those principles involved Learning. All things learn, from slime molds to human beings. That learning along with the innate framework to navigate the environment safely is what forms the mind. The mind or network of experiences that can direct a species to behaviors that solve problems of all sorts. The mind creates motivation and motivation results in behaviors. As one of our mentors and selected masters, Tom Dorrance said, get the mind and the feet will follow. Understanding this biological process can be important as to what actions a trainer may or may not take at any given time. As Tom would have said, “You need to be able to see the whole picture and where you fit in”. We hope to help people with that understanding and for lack of a better term, connect the dots.
In attempting to do so, we will use the maxims and aphorisms of some selected masters, and try to show that the principles of mind to behavior are not species specific, but rather universal. Of course, understanding the species is important as nature did not give them all the same natural tendencies especially between prey and predators. However, in all cases the mind and understanding what motivates that individual in that circumstance is one of the keys to being a good and ethical trainer. Although what we write and show may be true and helpful it still takes experience with each species and individuals to read their emotional states and the motivations in those specific circumstances.
Previously we mentioned the motivation that comes from the mind. Before that motivation is decided upon the feelings that the environmental input received from the senses generate an emotion. And as the word points out, there is motion in emotion. That motion is some behavior. The trainer needs to be able to read that in the individual so that he can create a state of mind that produces a try towards solving the problem at hand. Tom argued that he wanted to work the horse from the inside. Presumably from that emotional place the individual is in at that time. if there is no experience or too much fear is involved the individual will revert to his natural defaults, flight, fight, or freeze. When there is no clear way to solve the problem either from learning and past experience then one of those defaults is on the table and none of them is to be considered a desirable outcome.
Needless to say, a trainer has to be able to read the animal’s body language, postures and expressions to have some idea of where that individual is in his emotional state, either of understanding and working on some cognitive/thinking solution or is drifting toward or actually in one of those undesirable default mental states. If the trainer determines that the latter is the case then it is important to not continue the lesson until he can get the trainee back into a cognitive state, or what Tom might have called, “A learning frame of mind”. When this is achieved then training can resume in steps that the individual understands and has success as it goes thru a series of trail and error tries towards a solution.
Probably the most important key to establishing and keeping that learning frame of mind is to establish trust with the trainee. Depending on the past experiences of that individual it may be easy and already there or take some time if those past experiences with people were negative fear producing and confusing. In either case trust is of utmost importance. When you have it, then the trainee is more likely to stay in the learning mind, longer and exhibit more tries toward the desired behavior. In addition, when that happens, levels of trust increase, and the individual feeling safe is willing to go along with some aspects of training that may have caused anxiety in the past. Get the trust first and build on it every day. In one of our presentations we will show how the use of combined reinforcement will help build trust in particular as it relates to how to deal with pressure.
We will examine some of the master’s methods on how to enhance and or create trust but for now lets look at a brief overview. All animals and for our purpose’s mammals, read body language. They are most attuned to your body language and what they perceive you may be going to do. In that analysis they are then formulating a plan as to how to react. For those unfamiliar with how nuanced their ability to read body language is, please see the attached story of Clever Hans. This now is part of behavioral science and is known as the Clever Hans effect. That reading of body language goes both ways, for the trainee and the trainer, as previously mentioned. Let’s look at some ways that a trainer can use to communicate with the animal to determine where it is emotionally and decide how to proceed from that evaluation. All of the methods that I am going to list have been outlined by one or all of the masters we have chosen to relate these principles.
Tom argued and rightfully so, that all the animal had to know what to do is the approach. That approach can take many forms and in it we assume your body language as you approach is neutral to friendly and not appearing predatory. And it must be simple, no waving, hollering, or other gestures that the trainee cant interpret and if so, cause conflict and default solutions. The speed of the approach is important, along with the angle, and the general position of the beginning of it. As one approaches and reads the body language of the trainee he may choose to pause, give the trainee time to think, and to then resume or even change what he was previously doing. As you can see, to be good at this, one needs to gain some experience. It is not something that you will learn on the internet. To elaborate on this and more detailed concepts lets take a look at what at least two of our masters had to say specifically on this subject.
Tim McGaffic and the Nature of Natural team invite you to explore our introduction to Behavioral Principles in the 3 disciplines of Stockmanship, Stock Dogs and Horses.
As one of our mentors and selected masters, Tom Dorrance said, “Get the mind and the feet will follow”. Understanding this biological process is important as to what actions a trainer may or may not take at any given time. As Tom would have said, “You need to be able to see the whole picture and where you fit in”. We hope to help people find that understanding and for lack of a better term, connect the dots.
We have profiled well respected experts or “masters” in fields of Stockmanship, Stock Dogs and Horses to help us connect the dots of learning and understanding. Click on their picture to read a little more about them. On each page under Stockmanship, Stock Dogs and Horses you will find articles, videos and in-depth discussion to help us learn from the best of the best. The HUB is our central page for current events, services and updates.
The Nature of Natural was written to show that there are universal principles involved in behaviors and training. Those principles involved Learning. All things learn, from slime molds to human beings. Learning along with the innate framework to navigate the environment safely is what forms the mind. The mind creates motivation and motivation results in behaviors.
The Nature of Natural’s nature base philosophy of Training:
It has been many years since I wrote the original Nature of Natural. That document was written to assist my students in clinics and training, primarily of their horses. However, over the years, the principles outlined in the original have proven to be true throughout nature and thus we have been able to apply them to other species. These basic concepts, the principles, are also backed by research in behavioral science and genetics. Those species that we will discuss here are; dogs, stock, and of course horses. Occasionally we might through in people. Since the time I wrote the original we have learned a lot about behavior, in conjunction with the continuing research into behavior that has been published in regard to each species. One of the main things we have learned is that science essentially confirms what many of the top trainers, stockman, and handlers have known for some time. Although they learned it through astute observations over many years, and learning from others that came before them, their conclusions can be backed up by the current research that endeavors to promote a more ethical approach to animal training, care and husbandry. We are going to show that these principles are embedded in our selected master’s philosophies and methods that can be taught and if followed, ensure a better approach to relationships and the resulting desired behaviors of each species. I would like to point out, that although there are others, perhaps many that fit into this category, all other trainers and handlers do not fall into this category. In fact, many, if not most, violate the principles through a lack of understanding of how behavior works, and then, often, make up their version of what is happening between them, the trainee. These assumptions usually result in the over use of pressure as opposed to pressure being a guide for what the trainee should do. When this happens, it results in confusion and emotional distress in the trainee. That situation can be minimized if we follow the masters that will be promoted at The Nature of Natural. When students learn these basics of Behavior they can assess other trainers, handlers and stockman’s methods to determine if they want to associate with them and their philosophies and or methods they employ. This is particularly true now that so many appear on the internet promoting themselves, and often a misguided approach to training.
When we talk about nature essentially we are talking about the evolutionary process known as Natural Selection. Darwin’s and Wallace’s hypothesis of how evolution worked and individual species came about. In that selection process certain species-specific behaviors were selected for in order to survive in the environment that they were in. The Evolutionary environment of adaption. In that process evolution built on behaviors and tendencies that were already there at times altering them specifically for that species in that environment. They, the species, were given a road map of how to look at the world and solve problems specific to them. Further learning then occurred on top of that framework. Why is this an important concept? Because when unsolvable problems occur then that preprogrammed wiring for that species will dominate in order to produce some immediate behavior to survive the real or often perceived issue.
Because evolution didn’t build on something new every time, but used what was already there from the previous species (the last common ancestor) there are some universals in animal behavior and thus how we can understand them better and communicate with them so that they understand what we are asking. The magnitude of the concept that behaviors are built on something that that was successful (survival perspective) from earlier species/life development can be supported with the proposition that eukaryotes, one of the first forms of life, developed a form associative learning, learning to associate two previously unrelated things (see Evolution of the Learning Brain). This was millions of years before there were central nervous systems and currently associative learning is fundamental in interpreting the environment and resulting problems that occur. Over time, thru natural selection and learning, solutions to these problems were created and executed by simple chemical signaling thru hormone like substances such as pheromones. So once again, why is this an important concept? For our purposes we will be talking about keeping the trainees, Dogs, Horses, Stock, in a Learning frame of mind. Essentially thinking on how to solve a problem including one you are presenting, as opposed to going back to the hard wired solutions, the proverbial flight, fight, freeze scenario. How do out trainees interpret this? They do so from some simple associations. One of the main ones is interpreting body language. All mammals have some ability to interpret body language, either from their own hard wiring for their own species or learned from exposure to stimuli in their environment. The modern version of this is what is known as the Clever Hans Effect. If you are unfamiliar with it see the attached in the glossary (find it and we can post). When Oscar Pfungst discovered this in the late 1800’s it was and until recently under estimated at how nuanced and important it is, resulting in many behavioral experiments having to be redone without people involved, changing what we thought animals were or weren’t able to learn and interpret. What we did learn, about them, is that they are able to learn better than we imagined. However, they learn within those preprogrammed frameworks. What does that mean? A simple example would be the framework provided by nature is different for Prey animals versus predators, duh!
Ok, now we have laid some ground work for us, at the Nature of Natural to help people connect the dots, meaning we will bring up the common behavioral principles that the masters we have chosen use through understanding of the species they are working with. That understanding is rooted in having some idea of how they, the trainee, perceives the situation, and the emotional state the perception creates in the individual. Then working from that place to keep our trainee in a learning frame of mind, a cognitive state. Like the trainee, the trainer needs to be able to read the body language of the trainee somewhat correctly in order to successfully work from this place, and choose a method that the trainee can understand at that time. Through this process and experience of the trainer, a systematic learning can take place. When that happens and some success is achieved motivation to succeed by both the trainer and trainee will develop helping to speed learning.
Well its time for some examples:
Horse Training:
Tom Dorrance
John Saint Ryan
Ray Hunt
Charles DeKunffy
Stockmanship:
Bud Williams
Whit Hibbard
Guy Glosson
Stock Dogs and Stockmanship:
Bud Williams
Julie Hill
Steve Allen
Tim McGaffic
Another approach:
The original Nature of Natural was written to show that there are universal principles involved in behaviors and the training thereof. In short, those principles involved Learning. All things learn, from slime molds to human beings. That learning along with the innate framework to navigate the environment safely is what forms the mind. The mind or network of experiences that can direct a species to behaviors that solve problems of all sorts. The mind creates motivation and motivation results in behaviors. As one of our mentors and selected masters, Tom Dorrance said, get the mind and the feet will follow. Understanding this biological process can be important as to what actions a trainer may or may not take at any given time. As Tom would have said, “You need to be able to see the whole picture and where you fit in”. We hope to help people with that understanding and for lack of a better term, connect the dots.
In attempting to do so, we will use the maxims and aphorisms of some selected masters, and try to show that the principles of mind to behavior are not species specific, but rather universal. Of course, understanding the species is important as nature did not give them all the same natural tendencies especially between prey and predators. However, in all cases the mind and understanding what motivates that individual in that circumstance is one of the keys to being a good and ethical trainer. Although what we write and show may be true and helpful it still takes experience with each species and individuals to read their emotional states and the motivations in those specific circumstances.
Previously we mentioned the motivation that comes from the mind. Before that motivation is decided upon the feelings that the environmental input received from the senses generate an emotion. And as the word points out, there is motion in emotion. That motion is some behavior. The trainer needs to be able to read that in the individual so that he can create a state of mind that produces a try towards solving the problem at hand. Tom argued that he wanted to work the horse from the inside. Presumably from that emotional place the individual is in at that time. if there is no experience or too much fear is involved the individual will revert to his natural defaults, flight, fight, or freeze. When there is no clear way to solve the problem either from learning and past experience then one of those defaults is on the table and none of them is to be considered a desirable outcome.
Needless to say, a trainer has to be able to read the animal’s body language, postures and expressions to have some idea of where that individual is in his emotional state, either of understanding and working on some cognitive/thinking solution or is drifting toward or actually in one of those undesirable default mental states. If the trainer determines that the latter is the case then it is important to not continue the lesson until he can get the trainee back into a cognitive state, or what Tom might have called, “A learning frame of mind”. When this is achieved then training can resume in steps that the individual understands and has success as it goes thru a series of trail and error tries towards a solution.
Probably the most important key to establishing and keeping that learning frame of mind is to establish trust with the trainee. Depending on the past experiences of that individual it may be easy and already there or take some time if those past experiences with people were negative fear producing and confusing. In either case trust is of utmost importance. When you have it, then the trainee is more likely to stay in the learning mind, longer and exhibit more tries toward the desired behavior. In addition, when that happens, levels of trust increase, and the individual feeling safe is willing to go along with some aspects of training that may have caused anxiety in the past. Get the trust first and build on it every day. In one of our presentations we will show how the use of combined reinforcement will help build trust in particular as it relates to how to deal with pressure.
We will examine some of the master’s methods on how to enhance and or create trust but for now lets look at a brief overview. All animals and for our purpose’s mammals, read body language. They are most attuned to your body language and what they perceive you may be going to do. In that analysis they are then formulating a plan as to how to react. For those unfamiliar with how nuanced their ability to read body language is, please see the attached story of Clever Hans. This now is part of behavioral science and is known as the Clever Hans effect. That reading of body language goes both ways, for the trainee and the trainer, as previously mentioned. Let’s look at some ways that a trainer can use to communicate with the animal to determine where it is emotionally and decide how to proceed from that evaluation. All of the methods that I am going to list have been outlined by one or all of the masters we have chosen to relate these principles.
Tom argued and rightfully so, that all the animal had to know what to do is the approach. That approach can take many forms and in it we assume your body language as you approach is neutral to friendly and not appearing predatory. And it must be simple, no waving, hollering, or other gestures that the trainee cant interpret and if so, cause conflict and default solutions. The speed of the approach is important, along with the angle, and the general position of the beginning of it. As one approaches and reads the body language of the trainee he may choose to pause, give the trainee time to think, and to then resume or even change what he was previously doing. As you can see, to be good at this, one needs to gain some experience. It is not something that you will learn on the internet. To elaborate on this and more detailed concepts lets take a look at what at least two of our masters had to say specifically on this subject.
The Mission of the Nature of Natural is to promote the welfare, ethical care, treatment and training of horses, livestock, dogs and all animals through applied behavioral science.
In keeping with our mission statement, we have undertaken this educational project in Stockmanship, Stock Dogs and Horses. We are delighted to highlight experts or “masters” in their field that join us in our mission and whose principles adhere to a high standard of ethics.
Click a picture to start your Nature of Natural journey of connecting the dots:
Stockmanship
“The term “low-stress livestock handling” was coined by stockman Allan Nation in 1990 to describe the unique livestock handling of Williams. It is defined as a livestock-centered, behaviorally-correct, psychologically-oriented, ethical and humane method of working livestock which is based on mutual communication and understanding. Practitioners refer to non-low stress methods as conventional livestock handling.”
Oct 20, 2016 Tamara Choat for Tri-State Livestock News
Contact information:
Bud Williams Stockmanship
Eunice Williams
Aldrich, MO 65601
Bud Williams
Dawn Hnatow, owner and founder of Cattle Up Stockmanship, was born into a ranching family in Canada. She has worked with livestock her entire life and spent numerous years under the mentorship of Bud Williams. Their many years together forever changed the trajectory of her life and she now spends her time passing on the wealth of knowledge she gained during those countless experiences.
Contact information:
Cattle Up Stockmanship
PO Box 1764
Aledo, TX 76008
Dawn Hnatow
Whit Hibbard is a fourth generation Montana cattle rancher, former national park mounted ranger, editor of Stockmanship Journal (www.stockmanshipjournal.com), and writes on stockmanship for Drovers and On Pasture. He spent 38 years handling cattle conventionally, then made a paradigm shift to low-stress livestock handling (LSLH) as taught by Bud Williams, which he has studied and practiced since 2005. He believes strongly in the importance and value of LSLH and has been publishing his journal and teaching clinics and consulting on ranches and for government agencies since 2012.
Contact information:
Whit Hibbard
PO Box 224
Elliston, MT 59728
The Five Foundations of Low-Stress Livestock Handling
- Mindset: Mindset is how you think about your cattle. Traditionally, livestock handlers view working cattle as a job that has to be done, with the approach of “this is how we’ve always done it,” or “cattle are stupid and we have to fight them to get them to do what we want.” Stockmanship requires being open to change and learning, and asking why before asking how and what. A good stockman must be willing to take responsibility for how his or her cattle act, have a desire to work cattle correctly, and have a desire to succeed.
- Attitude: Hibbard says Williams always said, “Low-stress livestock handling is more than just a technique of working livestock, it’s an attitude about working livestock.” Aspects of a proper attitude include being positive, determined, confident, decisive, and committed. Also, a stockman must acknowledge the great degree to which cattle are sensitive to a handler’s emotions. Scientific research has shown a direct correlation between attitude and behavior of handlers and cattle behavioral response (and subsequent production and performance).
- Reading Animals: Low-stress handling is based on communication between human and animal, which is done through technique. Hibbard quotes Williams saying “Every step you take and every step the animal takes we’re communicating, so you have to learn to read the animals.” Understanding and communication are based on one thing — proper position, and proper position is determined by reading the animals and evaluating their response. Hibbard says in conventional livestock handling we tend to make two key mistakes: first, when things don’t go right we force the issue, and second, we fall into the habit of doing the same thing over and over again as a memorized routine. “There is no one way to do low-stress livestock handling; that is, there are numerous techniques and each situation is unique and the best strategy is to read the animals,” Hibbard said.
- Working Animals: Just like we work with a young colt or a stock dog we’re training, Hibbard notes the importance of training and teaching our cattle. Conventionally we view cattle as animals we need to conquer – much differently than how we view our horses, dogs or other pets. Practicing maneuvering cattle by asking them to speed up, slow down, or be driven is beneficial in developing responsive and manageable livestock.
- Preparing Animals: Working with animals involves establishing control and leadership, whereas preparing them involves actual “dry runs” of future events such as weighing, sorting, processing, or loading out. Hibbard recommends physically taking the cattle through a practice of the production event. For example, run the cattle across the scale or through the lead-in and open chute. Showing them what is going to happen before it is required makes for a calmer and more efficient event when it is time.
The five foundations are key to building up to principles, then techniques, and finally applications.
Hibbard says, “No matter how good we get at low-stress livestock handling we never transcend the basics and we cannot skip any steps, and that includes the five foundational layers.”
Whit Hibbard
Stock Dogs
“The term “low-stress livestock handling” was coined by stockman Allan Nation in 1990 to describe the unique livestock handling of Williams. It is defined as a livestock-centered, behaviorally-correct, psychologically-oriented, ethical and humane method of working livestock which is based on mutual communication and understanding. Practitioners refer to non-low stress methods as conventional livestock handling.”
Oct 20, 2016 Tamara Choat for Tri-State Livestock News
Contact information:
Bud Williams Stockmanship
Eunice Williams
Bud Williams
Julie Hill has over forty years’ experience as a shepherd and sheepdog trainer. She is, also, the only woman to have won both the prestigious Supreme International and International Brace Championships. Julie developed the pressure/release techniques that underpin The Natural Way by watching and interacting with her pack of Border Collies. Her Training method has enabled her to develop strong bonds with her canine companions that are based on mutual trust, loyalty and respect. Throughout this book Julie explains the intricacies of communication between man, dog and sheep. She shows the advantages of building a good foundation from a pup and why communicating using the dog’s own language benefits your relationship with your dog.
“Since 1982, I have dedicated my life to working with Border Collies, training and breeding exceptional sheepdogs for both farming and competition. My passion for this remarkable breed has driven me to achieve unparalleled success on national and international stages.”
Trailblazing Achievements:
- Supreme International Champion (1996): The first—and currently only—woman to win this prestigious title.
- International and Supreme Brace Championships: Showcasing the exceptional teamwork of my dogs and training methods.
- Scottish National Titles: Winner of the Scottish National Championship, Scottish National Brace Championship, and Scottish National Driving Championship.
- Champion of Champions: Cementing my place among the elite in the field
Contact Information:
Julie Hill
+44 (0) 1875 835249
Carcant Farm
Heriot
Scottish Borders
EH38 5YE
Julie Hill
Horses
TOM DORRANCE
1910 – 2003
“The part that has meant the most to the horse and me is the communication between us. This is the part where I really had to devote a lot of thought. I have watched horses when they are loose by themselves or loose in a group; gentle raised or wild range raised, their naturalness will show. And by studying their actions and reactions I have been helped to understand how to present myself in such a way that the horses will respond to what I may ask of them. This I believe is true nature.
This is something I have had to develop in myself, for myself, by myself. The True Unity and Willing Communication between the horse and me is not something that can be handed to someone, it has to be learned, it has to come from the inside of a person and inside of the horse.” --TD
Tom Dorrance
John Saint Ryan was born in England and raised in Ireland. He taught Martial Arts for 27 years throughout Europe, coaching 12 individuals to become National Champions.
During this time, he rode horses for fun and managed to fit in an acting career, which included theatre work in the provinces and the West End, followed by guest star roles on TV and in films, working alongside several notable stars including Sean Connery, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Heath Ledger. He has written and co-produced independent films and co-starred in many international features.
In 1992, John emigrated to the USA and was invited to Robert Wagner’s ranch outside Los Angeles to watch Ray Hunt work with horses. John spent four days entranced by Ray’s philosophy and work. However, Ray continually gave credit to Tom Dorrance, saying: “If I’m doing anything good with a horse, I got that from Tom.”
John had to find Tom Dorrance, and the rest, as they say, is history. John became an avid student and friend to Tom. Together, they created his first training video, Greetings from Tom Dorrance, which was a great success and led to several other training videos, including Feel, Timing & Balance and Visits with Tom. John also narrated Tom's classic book True Unity.
John is a recognized Equine Behavior Consultant and a Practitioner Member of the International Society for Equitation Science.
He was the USA National Champion in Doma Vaquera in 2004, 2005, and 2006.
John now spends his time teaching horsemanship using his experience with Tom Dorrance through the lens of Equitation Science.
John Saint Ryan
Dr Andrew McLean
Co-Director, Equitation Science International
Winner of the highest Australian science award, the Eureka Prize for Science, Andrew McLean is in great demand as a trainer, coach and speaker. In addition to establishing the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre which was the largest behaviour modification centre in the southern hemisphere, he has written 6 books, including an international best seller, and authored over 55 peer-reviewed journal articles.
An accredited coach for more than 40 years, Andrew’s own riding achievements include winner of the advanced section of the famous Gawler Three-Day-Event, representing Australia in Horse Trials, short-listed for the World Championships, competitor at State and National events in FEI level Dressage and Eventing, and Show Jumping to Grand Prix level. He also held a racehorse owner/trainer license, and raced bareback in Australia and New Zealand in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
Andrew continues to conduct demonstrations at universities and conferences around the world, including in Australia, Europe, South Africa, the United States, Canada and New Zealand. Prestigiously awarded an Honorary Fellow of the International Society for Equitation Science for his ongoing contribution to equitation science, he was instrumental in hosting the 1st International Equitation Science Symposium, held at the AEBC in 2005. ISES conferences continue today throughout the world.
Andrew also began training elephants in Nepal in 2007, which led to the establishment of the not-for-profit HELP Foundation (Human Elephant Learning Program), of which he is now Senior Vice President. This cooperative project focusses on the optimal management, welfare and training of elephants in Asia using innovative training techniques based on learning theory and the elimination of punishment.
Contact information:
Andrew McLean
Charles de Kunffy
Charles de Kunffy, a member of the Austro-Hungarian nobility, was born and raised in Hungary. His parents were eminent horse breeders with derby winning racehorses. Charles started riding as a child, always under expert supervision and instruction. His riding masters were educated during the golden age of equitation between 1900-1945. His teachers were the products of the finest riding institutions of the “inter bellum.” These included Vienna and Wienerneustadt in Austria, Hannover and Berlin in Germany, Pinerolo and Tordiquinto in Italy, and Hungary’s Orkeny. Pal Kemery, Jeno Kosa-Reznek, Imre Bodo and Geza Hazslinsky-Krull attended these institutions, competed with great successes and mentored Charles for years in an institutional setting.
Cross-country riding, jumping and dressage were melded into one comprehensive system of training, adhering to the classical tradition of riding theory and methodology. Diversification of activities, riding skills and the ability to improve any horse were emphasized in the academic training program. Charles de Kunffy was schooled with the strictest adherence to classical training traditions based on scholarship and a profound respect for the horse. He represents the unbroken heritage of classical horsemanship handed down from generation to generation without compromise.
Charles de Kunffy’s expertise and his ability to inspire and instruct his students, earned him great popularity and respect. He was welcomed in Europe, Africa, Australia, Canada and the United States by enthusiastic and appreciative audiences. He has conducted many courses, seminars and forums for instructors and judges. His work is appreciated for its scholastic depth, academic expertise, and the clarity and vigor of its delivery. Regardless of a student’s talent or accomplishments, Charles never refused help to any rider willing to learn. He believes that the honor of teaching the traditions of the great equestrian arts commands an instructor to perform with equal dedication and thoroughness whether teaching a beginner or coaching an Olympic gold medalist.
Charles de Kunffy is the author of six published books and is working on two more (one autobiographical) currently. His books are frequently quoted by other writers, referred to by colleagues, are used as college text books and in educational pamphlets. His equestrian articles are well known on many continents and were published by some of the finest equestrian magazines.
Popular for his lecture/demonstration appearances, his radio and television interviews, and Charles de Kunffy has influenced a great many riders. He has contributed substantially to the popularity of classical horsemanship. His students remain grateful for the understanding of riding principles, for the acquired riding skills and for the improvement of their and their horses’ lives.
“The Ethics and Passions of Dressage”
In this most thoughtful and thought-provoking book, the author calls for a dedication to the traditions of classical horsemanship. Mr. de Kunffy takes the reader's mind for a lesson that embraces history, philosophy, art, nature and the ethics of horsemanship.
“Dressage Principles Illuminated”
In this visually beautiful book the author recalls the classical riding principles and contrasts it to mere competitive riding. He reflects on the nature and training of horses, the education and development of the rider and explains his training methods and schooling philosophy.
“Training Strategies for Dressage Riders”
In this book the author promotes equestrian elegance through effectiveness. He draws attention to the outmost importance of the rider’s correct equitation as a precondition to schooling their horses correctly.
“The Athletic Development of the Dressage Horse:” Manage Patterns
This exacting work concentrates on explaining the meaning and usefulness of traditional riding patterns as schooling aids for the proper athletic development of horses. A unique book devoted entirely to the explaining of the purposes and usefulness of the classical Manege patterns.
"A Rider's Survival from Tyranny"
Charles de Kunffy retells the dramatic events of his privileged and turbulent young life. A European nobleman in the stormy years of World War II and the Hungarian Revolution persevered to become a prominent equestrian. During the Soviet occupation, de Kunffy finds a life-saving island of tranquility in the ancient art of classical horsemanship
The“Journals”
With the journals the author wished to inform, amuse and inspire riders. Inspired by his conviction that equestrian life must include a great variety of interests, a broadening of cultural and aesthetic experiences, a hunger for the cultural expansion of the mind and the uplifting of the spirit.
Regardless of a student’s talent or accomplishments, Charles never refused help to any rider willing to learn. He believes that the honor of teaching the traditions of the great equestrian arts commands an instructor to perform with equal dedication and thoroughness whether teaching a beginner or coaching an Olympic gold medalist.
Charles de Kunffy
The Nature of Natural Team
Tim McGaffic has studied with many of the great legends and to this day remains a student looking for greater knowledge and deeper understanding of stock dogs, horses and stockmanship. Tim was introduced to Ray Hunt during the 1980s while working with difficult horses on a Colorado Ranch. That experience changed his thinking about how to handle horses and set him on a journey to search out Tom and Bill Dorrance and horseman of similar philosophy.
He is well known for low stress stockmanship, his innovative work with wild mustangs most notably the Mesa Verde gather and horsemanship clinics. Tim has conducted horse clinics and taught low stress stockmanship around the country, predominantly in California, Colorado, New Mexico, Hawaii, North and South Carolina, Florida and Virginia. Tim became the ranch manager of two large ranches in Hawaii that had been abandoned for years. Tim’s experience as a Holistic manager, ranch manager, horse and cow guy, made him an ideal candidate for the job getting the ranches under control.
Tim developed “The Nature of Natural”, a philosophy essentially based on the principles of behavioral science.
Tim McGaffic
Virginia Chase Elder
Virginia had the rare opportunity to grow up with a herd of 125 horses at Colorado Trails Ranch, a guest ranch outside Durango, Colorado. With 80 guests a week for over 25 years she literally taught over a thousand people how to ride. A lifelong advocate for the horse she has worked to improve their quality of life by sharing her intense love and knowledge of the nature of horses in national organizations through teaching, public speaking and writing.
As a lifelong student of classical riding she has studied with some of the best horsemen of our time, such as Charles de Kunffy, Arthur Kottas and Dr. Gerd Heuschman. She continues to this day in a never-ending quest for knowledge and understanding. In 1988 she attended the first certification class of the American Riding Instructors Association and is certified to Advanced levels in several disciplines. She has taught both Western and English riding including jumping, dressage and driving.
Virginia believes in teaching her students an awareness of the horse’s view of the world, appropriate training theories and our ethical responsibilities to their well-being. She is known for her passionate love of horses and her enthusiasm in teaching riding.
She was quoted in the ARIA magazine:
“Bring inspiration to your teaching and always put the horse first.”
In recent years my good friend Tim McGaffic and I have collaborated and worked on several interesting stockmanship, stock dogs and horse projects under the auspices of the Nature of Natural. We did research on Heart Rate and Emotionality. We developed a series of clinics designed to improve rider’s skill levels with a progressive comprehensive program that incorporates sport skills, developing new mind and body habits and delving into the nature of horses. All designed with the premise of building better equestrian skills that in turn make life a little better for horses. I main body of work is education in behavioral principles as applied in equitation science as the foundation for ethical and humane training practices.
