I also write a monthly Basic Training tips article for the “Equine Times” paper, which is available at feed and tack stores throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I have been a certified Veterinary Technician for over 17 years. I also have my Masters Degree in Metaphysics/Holistic Theology and have completed a self-help book for women entitled, Awaken Your Butterfly Within, that should be available this coming year, and am currently writing a Basic Training/Communication book for horses and their owners.
We won the title of reserve champion in barrels, for season ending May 2000 in the Four State Rodeo Association. My mare and I also won, a breast collars, a headstall, and numerous monies, along with a Buckle and Saddle in 2002.
I teach the basics. Basics are the foundation to every move a horse will ever make. Horses already know these moves and can perform them all quit well in nature. My job is to teach the horse to give each move when I need it, and give it willingly with energy and control.
I teach with patience and a keen sense of horse understanding. Staying Consistently Correct. I connect with each horse individually, enhancing and working with each horse’s natural ability and qualities to produce a well-rounded horse.
I teach to instill confidence, along with a desire and enjoyment to do what is asked, without causing pain or fear. Using a positive reward system and using that as my primary means to encourage each positive behavior, I take the time to make sure the horse understands what I am asking, and only ask as much as they can learn at any certain time.
I teach, I do not force the lessons. By doing the basics correctly and consistently.
Excerpt from a news paper article written on my training principles by Judy Hill Nelson, Silver Creek Farms Fort Worth Texas. [She’s not Dr. Doolittle. She’s not the Horse Whisperer. I refer to her as “the Horse Listener”. Nancy Butler is perhaps the best horse communicator that I have ever met. She works from the premise that when you are not getting the results you want from your horse, you are not asking correctly. She says, “You are simply not asking in a way that your horse can understand.” She proclaims that what she does with horses is not magic. It is a case of being aware. “It’s a true gift from God that I have…. I feel things. I sense things with the horse while they’re happening. I have finally realized that what I have is a very special connection with the horse.”]
Excerpt from a thank you letter:Russell and Peggy McAfee, Tolar Texas. [I wanted to let you know formally that Peggy and I appreciate immensely the hard work and labor, which you’ve put into training our daughter this summer. Julia seems to have really come full circle with both her skills and dedication to her horses. I have told her quite a few times that she is very lucky to have you as a mentor and we’re very lucky to have you as a friend.]
I broke and trained my first horse at the age of 15. Along with my own personal experience, I have studied from top barrel racers and trainers. I frequent clinics, and study in-depth with such Natural Horsemen as: Ray Hunt, Pat Parelli, B.F. Yates, Buck Brannaman, Larry Torcha, et Al, keeping myself tuned.