About Ben…
Natural Horsemanship Trainer Ben Collins, ( now retired) based in Wirral, uses non-violent techniques on abused and ill-treated animals. He has a vast of experience working with the horses with behavioural problems, also young horses, and untouched horses.
Ben has produced some brilliant results when working with peoples horses including a stunning result when working with a totally fearful rescued horse called Gregory..He also done an amazing amount of work for his local horse and pony rescue centres. Spending more than 25 years looking after rescued horses and ponies.
How long have you been involved with horses? And how did you get involved with them?
I’ve been involved with horses for 40 years, it all started when I decided to take a few riding lessons and learn how to ride out so I could go on sunday pub rides. Since then I have ridden in places as far apart as Wonderful mountains of Wales to the sunny beaches of Morrocco and Barbados. Since retiring from riding I have been involved with training and reabilatating horses and ponies who have been abused, abandoned and sadly mistreated in many ways. It is a most rewarding feeling when your see horses fit and well again, going to a forever home.
What things should everyone practice with their horses?
There are so many things that everyone should practice like teaching your horse to respect your space and leading. Also loading with ease. Doing groundwork is most important both for you and your horse.
What’s the best bit of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best advice I was given was by Monty at Myerscough college. I was watching Monty loading a horse during a demo and the horse was being a total pain, Monty just carried on till it loaded. After the demo I asked him what he was thinking whilst trying to load the horse. He said always stay calm, you know it will load for you at some point so never rush just be calm and assertive, results will always come. Its now something that I always think of when I’m work with horses.
What has been the proudest moment/biggest achievement in your career?
Being able to take Gregory the most troubled and aggressive horse you could ever meet into the show ring to proudly present him to a huge crowd with him tacked up in some fabulous western silver saddle and reins. A moment I will remember for ever. People could not belive it was the same wild horse. you can see Gregory below taking a treat from me and then dressed up for the show.
