Case Study 1

Who: Anita Thomas
Anita’s journey with Buzz has been about building confidence in both horse and rider, with the goal of helping Anita load him and travel with ease.

As Buzz’s confidence has grown, Anita has been able to support and guide him more clearly, allowing him to feel secure in the trailer. In turn, this has strengthened their trust and partnership.

Working with Anita, now based in Italy after moving from the UK, has been a real privilege.

“Dawn is a fantastic coach able to identify the blockers to progress and provide supportive and compassionate instruction to both horse and owner. I can strongly recommend at what ever level you are at.

Dawn with my Jack who she viewed with me 5yrs ago and has been just a phone call away ever since, helping me transfer from my steady 15hh Cob to this competition fit 17hh beauty.

Dawn has been there for me when my mental health has taken a hit as well as all the usual instructor stuff.

I have enjoyed many of her camps and clinics, It’s amazing to have Dawns support and knowledge in my life. Thank you Dawn.”

Anita Thomas, 7 May 2024

Case Study 2

Who: Jacey Bloomberg
Jacey’s journey with her young mare, Disney, has had its challenges for both of them.

Over a series of sessions, we focused on developing a more horse-centred approach to strengthen their partnership and improve communication. During this time, veterinary investigation identified underlying discomfort, which is now being appropriately supported.

With this understanding, alongside time spent building awareness and trust in one another, their relationship has grown into a much stronger, more connected partnership.

“Working with Dawn is hard ! Its hard to look into yourself , its hard to change habits , its hard to listen more than you speak , its hard to accept there are some things you cant change and some things you can , it’s hard to just be and ask no questions of yourself or your horse sometimes and its hard to not always get it right ….. but ….. with Dawn in your corner both you and your horse will learn to love those hard moments and love the journey and love the difference being truly

present gives and love the transformation of your bond and capability on both sides – i couldnt be more grateful for everything both my horse and I have learned and continue to learn that I whole heartedly believe without Dawn wouldn’t have been possible – both my horse and I are better people for her insights, guidance , lessons , and enjoy eachothers company more than ever – nothing good ever came easy but my goodness its worth it and we cant thank Dawn enough.”

Jacey Bloomberg

Case Study 3

Who: Jo Beazley
Having previously supported Jo with her horse Bonnie, where they shared a truly special bond, this next chapter with her new horse, Elsie, has been about building a new, supportive line of communication.

Elsie is a sensitive and thoughtful mare, and by allowing her to express herself, Jo has been able to meet her where she is. Through consistent groundwork, they have developed a deeper understanding and connection with one another.

Much of this journey has also been about Jo’s own growth. By allowing Elsie to guide parts of the process, Jo has developed greater self-awareness, confidence, and feel.

Together, they have both gained a stronger sense of security and trust—and it’s clear in how much more relaxed and enjoyable their time together has become.

“I have known Dawn for many years, ever since she began teaching my daughter at the age of eight (she’s now twenty‑four). Throughout this time, I’ve seen Dawn show the same dedication to her own learning, development, and training as she does to the horses and riders she supports. This commitment to continuous growth is essential in any trainer or coach, and Dawn embodies it wholeheartedly.

For me personally, she has been transformative. When I first returned to riding after a traumatic accident, I couldn’t even sit on the safest pony without shaking. With Dawn’s patience, guidance, and unwavering support, I have grown into a more confident owner and rider. I still have areas of confidence to work on, but what Dawn creates is a true partnership between herself, me, and my pony. She genuinely listens to the horse’s voice and has a remarkable ability to observe and understand how a partnership is developing. Ensuring the horse’s needs and perspective are at the centre of everything she does is what makes her approach so special.
Through working with her, I’ve learnt how important it is to be honest about what I bring to my horse—when to pause, when to hold steady, and when to move forwards (literally and figuratively!) I’ve discovered that more often than not, the challenge lies in my own energy and movement rather than in the horse.
 
If you want quick fixes, shortcuts, or see your horse as a machine rather than an equal partner, Dawn is not the trainer for you. But if you want to learn lifelong skills, develop true two‑way communication, and achieve meaningful, lasting progress, then I can recommend Dawn 100% without hesitation.”

Jo Beazley

Case Study 4

Who: Vanessa

Chabbly, a 20-year-old stallion, has been showing signs of frustration, particularly when having his headcollar put on. Over several weeks, working closely with his owner Vanessa, I’ve taken the time to support him in expressing himself and feeling heard.

This process has focused on creating space for Chabbly to release built-up tension and find a safer, more comfortable way to respond. Along the way, he has shown clear signs of relaxation and processing – yawning, stretching, blinking, resting, and gradually engaging in the communication.

“I’m incredibly proud of the progress he has made. We now have a more consistent and calm approach to putting on his headcollar, built on mutual understanding and shared responsibility in how we show up for him.

Having established this in the stable, we’ve begun transferring the process into the field, where progress is continuing. Vanessa is now

also able to approach him, put on his headcollar, and spend time quietly with him in the field-something that wasn’t previously possible.

This journey is ongoing, and I’m looking forward to continuing it. Thank you, Vanessa, for your trust—Chabbly has been a wonderful teacher throughout.”

“Unlocking Your Horse’s Potential Through Connection” Dawn Fitzhugh