What is life truly like behind the scenes of a horse rescue? Is it only about the horses? Is it also about the people?
In this episode, I’m joined by Leigha Schrader, a remarkable young business professional and horse trainer at Days End Farm Horse Rescue (DEFHR), based in Howard County, Maryland. DEFHR is a nationally recognized 58-acre facility for abused and neglected horses seized by animal protection and law enforcement agencies. Leigha joins this episode en route home from delivering horses to a sanctuary in Texas.
Leigha specializes in liberty horsemanship, colt starting, and trick work. She also shows horses on the local and ‘A’ rated hunter/jumper circuits. Her goal is to find balance in all areas of horsemanship. As we discuss in this episode, she incorporates positive reinforcement in her training and prioritizes the horse’s individual learning style. She is best known for her liberty performances with rescue horses, showcasing the power, strength, and ability that these magnificent animals can offer.
“Just because you’re working with a horse at liberty does not mean you are giving them a choice,” Leigha explains. She further elaborates on the importance of recognizing “What is reinforcing the horse to stay with you? What is motivating?”
Whether she’s teaching tricks, practicing groundwork, or in the show ring, Leigha’s goal is to encourage compassionate horsemanship and care for all equines. She describes, “A Liberated Equestrian is one who is present with the horse you are working. Being fully there. Fully connected in the moment.”
We dig into the nuances of the art and science of horsemanship, equally sharing the belief that connected horsemanship is about being open, curious, and responsive to the horse you have in the present moment. We also dive behind the scenes to reflect on the challenges that are a part of life, not only in the horse industry, but particularly in the rescue of horses. We chat about the risk of burnout, self-care, and balancing work/life balance as well as the themes of trust, healing, grief, loss, and overcoming trauma. Weaving in and out of the mental health concerns, not only for those working in the rescue industry, but also for anyone who experiences compassion fatigue and secondary trauma in any service-based industry.
Whether you’re an equestrian or simply on a journey of liberation, this episode will inspire you to tend to your heart and soul needs as well as gain a picture of grace and healthy boundaries for when you move through challenges that life brings, then lean into this episode for a breath of hope and perspective.
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