BACH FLOWER REMEDIES

Holistic remedies are becoming increasingly popular with today's owners and rightly so. Much emphasis is placed on understanding equine behaviour and using that information to manage the welfare of our horses, However we can go even further than this, and use that information to treat the horses emotional state as well as address the management and training - it is this methodology that offers the truly holistic approach.

Anyone who has spent time with a horse will know that that they are capable of a range of emotions. A sad or depressed horse is a heartbreaking sight, and one that we may have observed in our own horses at times when they have been ill, have lost a companion or moved to a new home. Neglected or abused horses can be ingrained with fearful distrust or apathy, making them hard to reach and comfort. The dangerous or difficult is indeed a problem on many yards, but can often be attributed to an emotional state that is unbalanced in favour of aggression or dominance. The horse is a feeling animal, and we must attune ourselves to their emotional needs.

It is my belief that it is important not only to treat the symptoms of the problem but also to target the source. If the underlying cause is not identified and treated, it is possible that the problems will reoccur or manifest elsewhere in the horse's health or behaviour. In the case of emotional imbalance symptomatic treatment may be detrimental to long-term goals if only the symptoms are treated, as with some "solutions", we may actually encourage the horse to suppress the expression of its emotional state.

Emotional imbalance can and does have physical symptoms, consider how nerves make you feel before a show (Sick, upset stomach, hot) or how worrying can bring on a headache. Or stress can make you more susceptible to a cold. Long term emotional disharmony along with the negative effects of stressful management and the use of chemicals can cause all sorts of complications.

THE ROLE OF BACH FLOWER REMEDIES IN HOLISTIC EQUINE
I use the remedies (as well as other holistic treatments including aromatherapy and shiatsu) to help reach the core of the horse. Occasionally I may also feel the rider could benefit from some remedies to help and support them. My concern is for all members of the partnership not just the horse. It is important that both parties are put in the best possible situation to succeed and move forward to achieve their goals.

With all animals (not just horses) it is very important to consider the animal's natural behaviour, instinct and needs. We must retain an awareness that the animal thinks differently to us, and in doing so we must explore what that can mean in terms of the animal's reactions and problems. For instance, a horse that is labelled as being aggressive may actually be dominant or defensive; each of these would require a different approach. When prescribing the remedies it is also necessary to consider past history. It is important that traumatic events in the past are dealt with as well as the resulting behaviours in the present.

The importance of finding and treating the cause is not to be underestimated. Whilst we could treat the symptomatic behaviours, it would be not be as conducive to a long-term solution, nor would the results be as effective.

As both a behaviourist and qualified Bach flower practitioner I am able to combine this knowledge to identify the most suitable holistic approach for you and your horses needs.

IN WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES CAN BACH FLOWER REMEDIES BE USEFUL FOR HORSES
Basically, in any circumstances that involve emotions! Below is a list of just a few of the examples where the remedies have proven to be effective for horse and rider situations:

Fear of travelling -- Moving to a new home -- Spooky / nervous behaviour -- Perceived aggression -- Dominant behaviour (to both humans and animals) -- Horse and Rider bond -- Bullying behaviour (victim or perpetrator) -- Training and concentration -- Loss of a companion -- Apathy and depression -- Stress (both horse and rider) -- Box Rest -- Support during illness -- Stable Vices -- Loss of confidence -- Napping -- Hyper Behaviour (in the box or ridden) -- Weaning or traumatic labour and birth -- Competing problems -- Rearing -- Bolting -- Biting -- Kicking

Holistic remedies and treatments (if applicable) are included as part of your Holistic Equine consultation, however I am also able to offer on line and telephone Bach Flower consultations for you, your horse, pets and family. If you are interested in this service please see my other website www.bachflowerremedies.net or email me at nicolabebb@ntlworld.com