In 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 through early

riding school experiences, determined to regain her confidence and with time

spent at Anne Cory's yard, where she was exposed to her gentle lunging methods

and innovative ideas about fitness regimes Polly flourished and after she

followed the working pupil route at Oldencraig Equestrian Centre and then

received a  bursary from the Leonardo Da

Vinci foundation that took her to Denmark for training, an experience that

influenced her deeply despite witnessing some unsettling practices.

 

Upon returning, Polly, now a mother, started forming her own

opinions on horse care. Throughout her career, she has gravitated towards

rehabilitating horses in need, focusing on understanding and connecting with

them. Today, she primarily works in hoof care, specialising in helping horses

express themselves and be heard, embodying a philosophy of awareness,

lightness, and softness in her approach.

Find Polly via the UK clicker training group on Facebook or get in touch with me and I can put you in touch.