Unapologetic S.H.I.T. Disturber Shelby Dennis:

The Magic of Horsecraft

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Unapologetic S.H.I.T. Disturber Shelby Dennis:

Challenging Tradition and Transforming the Horse-Human Connection with Evidence Based Methods

Paige Lockton

Jan 19, 2025

Transcript

Welcome to another exciting journey into the world of Horsecraft, where we unravel traditional notions of horse training and dive deep into innovative approaches that defy conventional wisdom.

This time, we're inspired by the outspoken Shelby Dennis, who challenges norms and encourages a fresh perspective on equine interaction.

Meet Shelby Dennis: Modern-Day Viking of Horsecraft

Shelby Dennis is a horse trainer and behaviorist used to causing a maelstrom of heated reactions to her posts. Turns out, she can stand a good old fashioned troll-fest. But, that’s NOT her intention. If you aren’t familiar with her, you can find her posts here.

At a time when our social license to operate in the world of horse sport is under fire and our traditional training methods based on pressure and release and Dominance Theory are being challenged, examples of change are needed. And while our governing bodies of sport are theoretically there to protect horses from our human ambition, Shelby is unafraid to show them unequivocally that they are failing.

Here are some examples of her posts. How do they make you feel?

Shelby likes to remind us that how we react to these things we have normalized for so long, says more about us … than it does about her.

Twenty eight year old Shelby and others of her generation are taking us old folks to task. Times have changed. We don’t need horses for war and work anymore. It is time to evolve Horsecraft and Shelby stands as a beacon of change in the equestrian world, known for her unyielding belief in scientifically backed horse training methods. Far from the confines of dominance theory, Shelby's approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and redefining leadership.

Shelby entered the horse world through traditional breed circuits, immersed in methods that often prioritized control rather than understanding. Her transformative journey began when she moved her Arabian horse to a barn where horses roamed freely, a change that led to astonishing behavioral improvements. This sparked her curiosity and led her to explore equine behavior and physiology more deeply.

Debunking Dominance: A New Paradigm

A crucial part of Shelby’s narrative is the debunking of dominance theory—a concept initially derived from flawed wolf studies. Shelby explains how dominance is often misinterpreted as a fight for status, when it’s rather a quest for harmony and resource management among horses. This theory permeates traditional training methods, creating adversarial relationships that belie the horse's true nature.

Shelby advocates for an equitation style focused on partnership and understanding rather than command and control. Her methods emphasize mutual respect and positive reinforcement, reshaping how we view leadership in the barn.

The Science of Change: Positive Reinforcement

Shelby is a staunch advocate for positive reinforcement, a training approach that encourages rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing undesired ones. This method not only fosters a better relationship between horse and rider but also nurtures a positive learning environment for the horse. The key is timing and consistency—hallmarks of good training regardless of the specific methods used.

Through courses and personal experiences, Shelby underscores the importance of adapting our training tools to the needs of our horses rather than adhering to rigid, outdated frameworks. She challenges the notion that harsher tools provide better control, instead focusing on how understanding a horse’s emotional state and needs can lead to safer, more effective interactions.

Personal Growth and Societal Impact

At the heart of Shelby’s philosophy is personal growth for both trainer and horse. She encourages fellow equestrians to cultivate self-assurance and seek community support, helping one another navigate the complex emotions and challenges that arise from questioning longstanding traditions. By doing so, we can build a compassionate community focused on the well-being of the horse.

Conclusion: A Call to Rethink

Shelby Dennis and others like her, are not just changing how we train horses—she’s redefining our relationship with them. Her narrative invites us to embrace the unknown, challenge the status quo, and become advocates for ethical horse welfare.

As the world of equine sports faces scrutiny, adopting a more empathetic approach may be the key to not only preserving but enhancing our beloved practices.

Join us as we follow Shelby Dennis and others in reshaping the world of horse training. Let’s move forward together and see what is possible.

Take a chance,

Paige Lockton

P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!)

Learn more and get in touch at:

www.themagicofhorsecraft.com

https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/

https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/

https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft

Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:00 Meet Shelby: A New Approach to Horse Training