The Healing Hooves Blog
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Why Would a Horse Need to Know Math?
Reimagining the story of ‘Clever Hans’ and what this has to teach those of us interested in Equine Assisted Services
Who is the Smartest?
Why our assumptions about ‘smart’ may need an update!
Moving Intentionally Towards Certification
An overview of the Healing Hooves training process from a participant’s perspective, written by Julie LaLonde MSW, RSW
Storytelling the Grievable Lives of Animal Companions
An exploration of how stories and storytelling can help, support and validate the process of grieving the loss of an animal companion, written by Maren McIntosh BA (Hons)
The Bestest Pony
Share this story with your child, client (or yourself!) to remind us all that being special isn’t about what we do or achieve – it’s about who we are to those we love.
Please – Tell Me What to Do!
This article has been a long time coming! It explores why many of us are looking for a ‘how to manual’ in this field of practice, and why this is not always what we need!
One More Day
Join the ponies of Healing Hooves as they navigate the loss of a dear herd member and find ways to stay connected in ways that go so much deeper than being with.
Who Am I?
Read this book to your child and help them appreciate all of who they are – and are becoming – as much as you do, while they enjoy photos of the horses of Healing Hooves who star in and inspire all the stories!
This is the first picture book in the Healing Hooves series and features the work of award winning photographer, Jeff McIntosh.
What Would Skye Say?
Read our brand new therapeutic story! This one is a little different as it’s a very real exploration of grief and the loss our precious herd leader Skye, from the perspective of his best friend Dubh and a Healing Hooves client who has asked that we share her and Dubh’s story. ‘Bella’ hopes that sharing this story will help others like her who are struggling with feelings of loss and overwhelm. Thank you Bella for your courage and grace in asking us to share this story!
Finnegan – preparing a horse for EFW takes time
What makes for a good EFW horse? What sort of training is required?
These are questions we explore at training workshops and this article provides an example of how a horse who initially did not seem suited to the work can – with time, support and choice – become a wonderful partner in this work.









