Testimonials
Jen is totally dedicated to the health and well-being of horses and all other animals in her care. The only dogma she follows is: “Is the animal thriving? If not, then there’s something wrong.” What I love most about her is that she takes no prisoners; if someone is abusing an animal, whether they’re aware of it or not, they’re going to hear about it from Jen. Most people don’t have the courage to stand up in public and call a spade a spade; but that’s what the animals, and especially the horses, that’s what all of them need from all of us.
But Jen will also teach you exactly what the animal needs from you instead. She dives right in to getting at the root of the problem. Jen has been rehabbing horses for many years and is my go to person for advice on safe ulcer reversal, titers and vaccines, and overall gut heath because “no gut health, no brain health.”
Casey Sugarman
Founder of OSCAR Therapy
Niantic, CT
We all have bucket lists and learning to horseback ride was on mine. But I didn’t get a chance to start until I was nearing retirement age – with zero experience around horses. Jen was the perfect instructor. She provides straightforward instructions for everything from approaching and tacking up a horse to inter-personal skills with a horse and, yes, to riding the horse. Jen strikes the right balance between giving directions and allowing one to experience (and truly feel) the ride. During a lesson, Jen shares her well-developed knowledge of horse psychology, which teaches the rider to understand the horse’s perception, and, in turn, creates a connection between the rider and the horse. Throughout, Jen interjects encouragement, variety and confidence boosters, all while making for a pleasant and sound experience. Thanks to Jen, I went from knowing nothing to cantering in a few months!
Rita
Shrewsbury, VT
We met Jennifer when my granddaughter and I attended one of her bodywork clinics. At the clinic we learned and practiced different methods of finding and releasing tension in horses and were also introduced to carrot stretches. Jennifer helped each person in attendance to individualize the exercises to meet the needs of their own horse. After attending the clinic we had Jennifer come to our barn to follow up on what we had learned. She helped us adapt the exercises so we could use them on our horse, who was recently diagnosed with Kissing Spine and was experiencing a lot of back pain. She also showed us relaxation techniques we could use during our horse’s post-surgery rehab.
Jennifer has a lot of experience and knowledge, as well as a genuine concern for the wellbeing of horses and an ability to figure out what they need, both physically and mentally. Jennifer has kept in contact with us to offer suggestions, answer questions and just to see how we are doing. We are very grateful for everything Jennifer has done for us and would recommend her services to anyone that wants to improve the health and happiness of their horse!
Deb
Wallingford, VT
My teenage son was taking part in therapeutic riding classes with Jennifer. Jennifer was very perceptive and knowledgeable. She organized his riding program to address his unique challenges and work on improving his physical, emotional, and other skills. For example, as a part of his riding experience, he had a chance to experience some responsibility and independence doing tasks. Jennifer had him work on his sensory issues, fine and gross motor skills, remembering multistep directions, following directions, communication, patience, breathing, mindfulness, etc. And everyone had fun doing it. We saw the progress and maturity developing over time thanks to this experience provided by Jennifer and Allegro (horse).
Olga
Rutland, VT
Jennifer uses positive ground working techniques to help bring out the best in your horse. She helped me move a friend’s horse from somewhat difficult to learning many positive behaviors making him a much more cooperative guy all through positive reinforcement. Many of her techniques are similar to the training techniques used by expert trainers at zoos.
Her riding instruction methods help build confidence and strength. The techniques are outside the normal riding instruction techniques emphasizing exercises on your horse and really helped me with my seat.
Melissa
Shrewsbury, VT
Watching Jennifer interact with my horse, Merlin, was astounding. I have owned horses my entire life and hadn’t seen this kind of synchronicity with a horse at liberty. She uses her energy, gives direction to the horse without any aids and before you know it they are having a session of meaningful and focused engagement. To watch her is truly amazing!
I immediately wanted to know how she created this kind of bond so quickly without using a lunge whip, spurs, or a halter. She offers a mindful presence of calm using empathy and patience. I am so glad she is going to be teaching her methodology to others!
C. Riegle
Charlottesville, VA
Jennifer has been instructing my daughter for the past few years. I have seen my daughter gain the skills, confidence, and passion for riding. Jennifer’s lessons have been fun and creative for the girls. We look forward to working with her for a long time.
Dave
Mt. Holly