The Power of Positive Reinforcement Training for Horses
Introduction to Positive Reinforcement in Equine Training: As horse owners and trainers, we are constantly seeking ways to enhance our connection with these magnificent creatures. Shawna Karrasch and Jessie Hillegas, experts in positive reinforcement training, joined us on the Double D Trailers podcast to share their invaluable insights and experiences. Their journey from marine animal training to equine mastery is not only unique but also a testament to the power of positive reinforcement in horse training.
The Shift from Traditional to Positive Training Methods: Shawna, with her background in marine animal training, and Jessie, transitioning from traditional riding methods, discuss the noticeable differences in horse behavior when switching from conventional methods to positive reinforcement. This approach, rooted in trust and understanding, leads to a more profound and respectful relationship between horses and their trainers.
Addressing Common Challenges: The Case of Trailer Loading: One of the most common issues horse owners face is horse trailer loading. Shawna and Jessie provide practical examples of how positive reinforcement can be effectively used for this and other challenges. They emphasize that this method is not just about food rewards; it's about creating a positive emotional state and a desire for cooperation in the horse.
> Read more on how to load an anxious horse onto a trailer.
Getting Started with Positive Reinforcement: For horse owners eager to start with positive reinforcement but unsure where to begin, Shawna and Jessie outline the key first steps and essential equipment. They stress the importance of patience and understanding each horse's unique needs and responses.
Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning: If you're a horse owner interested in exploring positive reinforcement or seeking to deepen your bond with your horse, this podcast episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. Visit Shawna and Jessie’s website at www.shawnakarrasch.com for more resources and to embark on your journey towards a more compassionate and effective approach to horse training.
Listen & watch the episode below!
Welcome to the Horse Trailer Podcast! Today we have Shauna Karish and Jesse Ilus from Shauna Karish Equine, who specialize in positive reinforcement training. Shauna and Jesse, welcome!
Shauna and Jesse: Thank you! We're happy to be here.
[00:01:00]
Brad: To start off, for folks like myself, what exactly is positive reinforcement training and how does it differ from traditional methods?
Shauna: Positive reinforcement training is based on adding something that the horse likes to encourage the desired behavior. It's actually science-based, similar to traditional training, which uses pressure and release, but the focus here is on creating a more positive emotional state for the horse. It’s about making the experience enjoyable rather than merely tolerable.
[00:03:00]
Brad: Shauna, I read a quote of yours: “You may be able to force a horse into a trailer, but just try that with a walrus!” You started your career outside of the equestrian world. Could you share a bit about your background?
Shauna: Sure! I started my training career with marine mammals, such as sea lions, dolphins, and walruses, at SeaWorld. We used positive reinforcement methods, like target training, which involve using a cue (such as a whistle) paired with a reward. Eventually, I saw a show jumping event and became fascinated with horses. After talking with Tom Dorrance, who encouraged me to pursue positive reinforcement training for horses, I decided to adapt what I learned from marine mammals to equestrian training.
[00:08:00]
Brad: Wow, incredible. Jesse, I understand you come from a traditional riding background. What made you turn towards positive reinforcement?
Jesse: I worked with many trainers growing up, focusing on traditional training. However, a few years ago, I had a horse come back to me who was really struggling. She was anxious and reactive, and nothing I tried seemed to help. I remembered Shauna’s work with positive reinforcement, and we set up some coaching calls. I started implementing what Shauna taught me, and slowly but surely, the horse’s behavior started to improve. That’s when I knew this approach really worked.
[00:11:00]
Brad: How is the difference noticeable when you switch from conventional training to positive reinforcement?
Jesse: The difference is profound. Horses trained with positive reinforcement are excited to see us; they want to be around us and enjoy the interaction. It’s not just about food—they genuinely trust us and are happy to work with us. It changes their demeanor entirely, creating a relationship based on mutual respect.
[00:14:00]
Brad: I'm in the horse trailer business, and a lot of folks struggle with loading their horses. How can positive reinforcement be used for challenges related to loading and traveling?
Shauna: Trailer loading can be a huge issue because it often represents fear for the horse. Positive reinforcement can help by slowly building positive associations with the trailer. We start small—like asking the horse to touch a target near the trailer or just put their head inside. We break the process into tiny, manageable steps, each one paired with rewards, until the horse feels comfortable with loading. The goal is to make the trailer a place they want to go, rather than something they dread.
[00:19:00]
Brad: You also mentioned giving them freedom during the training process. How does that help?
Shauna: Sometimes allowing the horse to leave if they want to can actually build their confidence. It’s about giving them choice, which helps build trust. When they realize they’re not being forced, they’re more willing to explore and eventually load willingly. We want them to see the trailer as a place where good things happen, so they want to go in rather than feeling pressured.
[00:23:00]
Brad: It’s great to hear these insights. I think I’ll try using your methods on my toddler! Shauna, Jesse, thank you both so much for sharing your knowledge. To our listeners, if you want to learn more, visit their website at shaunakarish.com.
Shauna and Jesse: Thanks, Brad! It was a pleasure.
