Welcome to another enriching episode of "Conversations that Click."
Today, your host Sandra Poppema, founder of HippoLogic, sits down with Jessica Gonzalez, a prominent figure in the field of horse rescue and positive reinforcement training. Jessica operates Empowered Equines, a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of rescue horses through compassionate and ethical training methods.
In this episode, we delve into the unique challenges and triumphs of rescuing and caring for draft horses like Clydesdales. From the financial strain of farrier costs and the immense dietary needs of these gentle giants, to the heartwarming successes and emotional struggles of end-of-life care, Jessica provides a candid look at the realities of horse rescue.
We discuss the transformative power of positive reinforcement and free shaping in training horses, sharing anecdotes that highlight the deep bonds formed between humans and equines. Hear about Whispy, the Clydesdale in need of specialized hoof boots, and the remarkable story of a blind rescue horse who learned to trust and accept human touch through patience and kindness.
Jessica's journey from a young volunteer to a leading advocate for humane horse training is both inspiring and educational, as we explore how providing choice and empowerment to horses can lead to remarkable outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or new to the world of horses, this episode is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt stories that underscore the importance of empathy and understanding in animal care.
Stay tuned to discover more about the essential work done by Jessica and her team at Empowered Equines, and learn how you can contribute to making a difference in the lives of these magnificent animals. Let's get started!
Resources
Check out Jessica Gonzales’ horse rescue: Empowered Equines:
https://www.empoweredequines.com/
Join the R+ Horse Training Facebook group Empowered Equestrians:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/730063170345587
Join my 4-week Introduction At Liberty program and get $25 discount and send a $25 donation to Empowered Equines, a registered non-profit organisation to rescue Clydesdale horses. Use the code EmpoweredEquines25 when you register!
https://clickertraining.ca/at-liberty/
Ready to start clicker training your horse? Buy my ebook Clicker Training Horses on Etsy for $7 and teach your horse a solid foundation with positive reinforcement training. I teach 6 basic behaviours that makes every horse safe and fun to work with.
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