Shelley Phipps
With 35 years of experience working with horses, my journey has spanned across many different training methodologies. I started out using traditional methods and later explored natural horsemanship. However, after witnessing the harsh practices and force often used in the industry, I knew there had to be a better, kinder way. It simply didn’t sit right with me.
My path changed entirely when I began introducing food rewards, initially creating my own reward-based approach. I truly refined this system while working with rescue organizations, rehabilitating and rehoming deeply traumatized, fearful, and sometimes aggressive equines. This intensive experience taught me to look at training through a completely different lens. Today, my practice at own reward-based approach. I truly refined this system while working with rescue organizations, rehabilitating and rehoming deeply traumatized, fearful, and sometimes aggressive equines. This intensive experience taught me to look at training through a completely different lens. Today, my practice at Connected Equine Ireland is rooted in science-based positive reinforcement (R%), where the welfare of the horse always comes first.
Because of this background, I have the experience and patience to handle complex behavioral issues. But my passion isn’t just about training the horse—it is about supporting the person on the other end of the lead rope. I specialize in helping anxious or nervous owners rebuild their confidence. Together, we create a safe, pressure-free environment where both you and your horse can thrive through training built on trust.