On a snowy, mid-February day, over fifty horse lovers braved the cold to watch a natural horsemanship demonstration at Stargazer Farm in Woodstock. Natural horsemanship emphasizes body language to affect horse behavior. Pomfret Horse and Trail Association sponsored the clinic with trainer Danielle Rigby. She began her study of natural horsemanship while working on the film The Horse Whisperer and meeting horse expert Buck Brannaman. In a large indoor ring, she demonstrated ground work exercises for safety and confidence in the saddle. Maintaining a “bubble” of space between trainer and horse was key to teaching respect.

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"What a great clinic. Danielle inspired me to return to groundwork," said PHTA member Betsey MacDonald. "She was clear, encouraging, and very knowledgeable."

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Another participant, Jenn Reilly, commented, "What a well-organized educational clinic! I enjoyed learning some new things from K [Danielle's horse} and Danielle."

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Even though the temperature stayed in the 20s, the group of hearty spectators enjoyed the presentation and the beautiful facility at Stargazer Farm. "Great job!" said another member, Diane Sullivan. "Thanks so much for doing it, and to everyone who organized and ran it."

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