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THE GREYTON POST
MAR /APRIL 2025
Harnessing Harmony: Lessons in Horse Psychology at The 13th Rabbit Workshop
desired, always rewarded in a positive way. I was also impressed by how this method of working with horses helps create a safe space for both human and
Gabby Van Heerden
A group of us spent a fascinating Saturday morning at a horse clinic with Les Ansley, who shared his knowledge, passion, and understanding of horse psychology. As a self-confessed horse lover, I was eagerly anticipating the workshop, knowing there is always something new to learn. Upon arrival, we met Sausage and Joe, the two resident horses. Sausage has a fancier name that escapes me, but Sausage suits him perfectly. They enthusiastically greeted everyone, eagerly demanding bum and neck scratches, which, being the horse slaves that we are, we willingly provided. Les shared a wealth of fascinating information in the generous way that only true animal and horse lovers do, driven by a desire to improve the lives of the animals we work with. Armed with a flag (a definitely useful tool in horse work) and legs as gorgeous as any racehorse’s (Paula, you are the envy of many Greyton women), Les explained the incredible connection he has with his horse, Joe. He demonstrated how such a connection can be fostered between any horse and human by breaking
horse. Horses can be large and often unpredictable; forcing a 600kg animal to do anything is never going to end well. Teaching them gently and clearly to respect space, stand still, move their hindquarters, come forward, and move backwards on request benefits both parties. Once horse and human feel safe, that’s when the magic can happen, which was evident in both horses and Les and Paula’s connection with them. I learned a host of new and interesting techniques, but what excites me most is the potential impact this could have on helping local children and their horses establish a gentle and respectful connection. This could significantly reduce the instances of abuse and poor riding that we often witness. In case you’re wondering why the workshop was called “The 13th Rabbit,” it’s because a horse can walk past 12 rabbits (or spooky things) and not blink, but when he walks past the 13th rabbit, he spooks (they ‘stack’ anxiety until it all becomes too much). Horses can be unpredictable, and to work safely and respectfully with them, we need to understand them thoroughly.
training down into small, manageable chunks that can be easily achieved and practised until they become instinctive. I was deeply touched and impressed by the gentleness, respect, and commitment this process entails. Every move and process is a conscious effort to help the horse understand what is
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