Yvonne & Britt

A little bit of life history

Britt is an Irish Cob mare, born in England in 2002 as part of a gypsy herd. She was purchased and moved to Holland, and in 2009 she came to Yvonne. Since then she has moved with Yvonne to France. Britt had a further two foals, the elder of which is a gelding (Guiness) who remains with her. Another Irish Cob gelding (Murphy) also lives in the herd of three.

Physiology

Britt has had lameness and stiffness since 2020. The vet couldn’t find anything serious intially and thought it was likely some arthritis, until this year (2023) when she was diagnosed with PSSM (type 1). Britt has no other chronic health conditions and has never had any surgery, dental issues or infectious diseases.

PSSM (Polysaccharide storage myopathy) is a disorder that causes muscle cramping in horses from abnormal glycogen (sugar) storage in the muscles. Sore muscles, muscle weakness and cramping are all signs of PSSM. Type 1 PSSM is caused by a mutation in the GYS1 gene. It is diagnosed through DNA sampling / genetic testing.

Professional work carried out with Britt prior to commencement of this program.

Britt has had Shiatsu sessions and these are regular and ongoing. On the first shiatsu session Britt was wary of the level of energy but on the second session she relaxed into it well and released a lot of stiffness. She continues to respond well.

Britt has also had Masterton Method bodywork and again responded well.

Britt is also happy with vet, farrier and dental visits which are carried out as needed.

Behaviours as defined by Yvonne prior to the first trust technique consultation

Britt is a confident mare who will take the lead if not shown otherwise by a human. She has a high energy level and wants to get on with things. She doesn’t have a lot of patience. She is a brave horse. She struggles to balance her energy.