I purchased Nala in August 2020. She was the "tank" that chugged through any ques or questions asked of her, making training initially frustrating. After many discomfort behaviors appeared, I knew Nala wasn't comfortable physically or mentally with what I was asking of her. Surrounded by the support of educated friends, I was able to decipher that Nala's hoof care was further creating discomfort. Working alongside an open-minded barefoot trimmer who allowed me to ask questions and learn, we pulled Nala's steel shoes, kept a 4-week trim schedule, and watched her comfort quickly improve. Nala has served as my "guinea pig" as I've learned to trim, apply casts, glue on shoes, you name it. She is my personal beacon of light, and I aim to improve myself daily to further her comfort level.
I am currently a student of PHCP and a biology major at UNC Asheville. I have been around horses since the age of 6 years old. Since then, I've been mesmerized by horses and their way of moving and functioning. After purchasing my horse, Nala, I began to steer away from riding and follow my interest in equine science to better my care and training through a science-based approach. I began trimming with the help of a local barefoot trimmer and fell in love with the idea of being able to provide comfort for my horse. Since then, I have continued to learn from equine professionals, books, clinics, and courses.