TRAUMA-INFORMED
CARE

Trauma is subjective and is therefore likely different for every horse, caused by an extremely variable range of factors.  Sadly, many equines have had either chronically or acutely traumatic experiences which affect how they feel and how life is perceived by them - sometimes the cause may not be something which we, as humans, identify with as traumatic.  As individuals, they can develop coping strategies that work for them, which may be expressed in particular behaviours, whereas some may become shut down or even have a very variable presentation.  Trauma-informed care seeks to understand what may have happened to an individual in the past, how they are feeling today, how the environment, routine, social elements and more can be adapted to improve their experience of the world.  It often involves a lengthy process of emotional rehabilitation, but seeking help from professionals who are knowledgeable in this field can provide a route forwards.