When I look at my horses, I don’t “just see animals”—I see family. They each have their own personalities, preferences and quirks. Just like us, they have good days and bad days, moments of confidence and times of doubt. That deep bond, built on trust and mutual understanding, is the foundation of everything I do at Equithink.
When we design new puzzles, we look at our horses—what would they like, what fits their personality? We are currently working on movement puzzles for Nono and Spuni, who have a strong need to move and learn better while in motion. One idea we are developing is a carrot cannon, where they have to push a button to launch a piece of carrot, then run to retrieve it before returning for another launch. Geisli, on the other hand, loves to use his upper lip to make things happen, so we are creating musical instruments and skill puzzles tailored to his unique style of play. And for Plato, who enjoys deep thinking, we are designing concept puzzles and even a touchscreen-based challenge. Of course, all our horses will get to try every puzzle, but each design starts with a specific horse in mind.
Understanding Horses as Individuals
Each horse is unique, and respecting their individuality is at the core of how I interact with them. Some of my horses love challenges and puzzles, eagerly engaging with new enrichment activities. Others take their time, observing and thinking before they act. I never assume they will all react the same way, and that’s exactly why we are developing so many different puzzles and enrichment objects—to allow for customization, progression and exploration based on what each horse enjoys most.
One of my favorite examples is Plato, my senior play consultant. His curiosity and willingness to explore puzzles inspire me every day. When he engages with a new challenge, I see his mind working, problem-solving in real time. This isn’t just about keeping him entertained; it’s about giving him the freedom to make choices, to think, and to learn—in his own time and on his own coditions, just as we do in our own lives.
Strengthening the Bond Through Choice and Enrichment
Horses thrive when they are given autonomy. I believe in providing opportunities for my horses to express themselves, whether it’s through choosing which puzzle to solve, having the possibility to turn the music or the lights on of off or simply deciding when they want to interact. This philosophy is backed by research and experience—when horses have the ability to make decisions, they become more confident, relaxed and engaged.
Most of my horses are mature individuals with life experience, and that wisdom shows in how they interact with the world around them. Their preferences, needs, and styles of learning are shaped by everything they’ve been through, and I honor that in the enrichment choices I provide.
I see this every day in small moments, like when Geisli enthusiastically spins the Spinner puzzle, when Plato turns on his nebulizer stall for some comforting saline to inhale or when Spuni buries his face in a fresh pile of steamed hay completely absorbed in the sensory experience. These aren’t just cute moments; they’re reflections of a deeper principle—that horses, like us, deserve to experience joy and fulfillment.
A Relationship Built on Trust, Not Force
I’ve always believed that training and interaction should be built on trust, not force. That’s why I never punish my horses for expressing themselves, even when their natural behaviors aren’t convenient for me. Instead, I find ways to work with them, like when my young stallion used to play too roughly around me. Rather than punishing him, I introduced mats and reinforced calm behavior. Now, all my ponies choose to stand quietly on mats while I do my chores—a decision they make willingly, because they’ve learned that it benefits them too.
Bringing These Values to You
Equithink isn’t just about puzzles; it’s about a mindset. It’s about seeing horses as intelligent, emotional beings who deserve the same respect and consideration we give to our human loved ones. When you bring an Equithink puzzle into your horse’s life, you’re not just offering them a toy—you’re offering them enrichment, choice and a chance to learn in a way that strengthens your bond.
My horses are like family to me. And if you feel the same way, I invite you to explore Equithink, where we share training techniques, create puzzles and enrichment objects that honor the incredible minds and hearts of our equine partners.
Let’s give our horses the gift of choice, learning, and connection—because they deserve nothing less.
