TESTIMONIALS
"Toby has worked with a wide range of horses for me over many years, dealing with various problems and issues. He has a unique ability to connect with horses, and view things from their perspective.
This has been an amazing benefit to me and my horses. I cannot recommend him highly enough."
Jo Thomason-Murphy
Racehorse trainer, Essex
"As leisure riders, my husband and I were looking for an expert in natural horsemanship to teach us how better connect with horses; as a human osteopath and student in Equine Osteopathy, I wished to learn how to make horses feel safe and cooperative during bodywork sessions.
We were lucky to meet by chance Toby in a Masterson foundation course. After only 3 lessons in basic horsemanship, we have acquired essential skills to safely and confidently be around horses in and out of a stable and in lunging.
Toby’s level of expertise and vast experience are obvious in his attunement to both horses and humans.
His gentle yet precise and clear guidance gives us the motivation to further developing our curiosity in horsemanship.
We would highly recommend Toby to any horse lover who would like to have a respectful connection and a deeper understanding of horses.”
Heinz and Virginie ~ High Barnet
"I have worked closely with Toby since 2007 managing mares and foals for breeding and with both behavioural and rehabilitation cases. His horsemanship and understanding of equine behaviour is exceptional. Toby has provided training in horse handling and behaviour assessment for our staff and clients over recent years and become a valuable addition to our training programmes. I would highly recommend Toby, from cases that are difficult to load/ catch/ inject/ handle to cases requiring box rest and rehabilitation. He has always been friendly, approachable and kind to patients and is a pleasure to work with."
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Jessica Spanton
BVetMed Cert AVP EM ESM DEIM MRCVS
"Toby has a natural gift, which he has nurtured to enable him to diagnose whether the 'problem' horse has a behavioural or physical issue. This, combined with his passion, determination and commitment, is why I have called upon him on numerous occasions."
Nicky St Lawrence M.Ost ~ Norfolk
"Over many years I have known Toby as a colleague, friend and fellow professional. His natural talent, coupled with a high level of commitment, make him an outstanding horseman. I can thoroughly recommend him and the services he provides."
Brendan Boyle ~ Tipperary
"If I ever encounter a problem with any of the horses I ride or handle, I always seek guidance from Toby. His advice has never let me down."
Will Barley ~ Berkshire
"Three years ago I was gifted a very sensitive, semi-feral, 18 year old Arabian mare. She had never been backed and we had many things to work through together. My vet recommended Toby, mainly to help with catching her, and hosing her legs. I think she fell in love with Toby as soon as she met him! He is quiet, calm and confident, and with a few techniques he helped me to be able to catch her (not always 100% but I’m no longer wasting hours of my day) and I can now very gently hose her legs half way up. Toby is very accommodating and was willing to meet at our yard with my barefoot trimmer, who had some issues. She can now successfully work, giving my mare the space and time she needs without either of them getting frustrated. No more 90 minute trims! I can recommend Toby 1000% and would not use anyone else."
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Susanne Parojcic ~
Havering-atte-Bower
"Toby is one of the most skilled and knowledgeable horsemen I have had the pleasure to ride with."
Joe Stephenson ~ Colchester
"I totally recommend Toby.
He has been helping me this year, with my lovely horse, Olaf, who sadly has a fear of vets, (men especially) and is wary of people touching him.
Toby has helped us with desensitising exercises, some
in-hand ground work and relaxation for Olaf. On the last session Toby managed to do some gentle stretches and relaxing techniques in Olaf's stable and it's the first time anyone has managed to do this, so a real breakthrough.
We still have a way to go, but definitely feel more positive about trying to help Olaf with his trust of people, with the help, kindness and vast knowledge that Toby has with horses."​
Dawn Durrell Fulton ~ Essex
"Toby has been incredible with both my horses and several of my friends' horses. He really helps you see your "naughty" horse in a new light. My thoroughbred used to be such a handful to lead and mount, but now he's a relaxed boy who stands perfectly at the mounting block. My rescue horse, who was once so tense and scared, is now so calm that you wouldn't believe he's the same horse. Toby is reliable, honest, and knowledgeable; he ensures you understand what he's doing and explains everything clearly. He’s always just a phone call away. I can't express enough how much Toby has changed the lives of me and my horses."
Rachel Jeffrey ~ Essex
"In my desperate search for the right person to help with my home bred filly, Toby came highly recommended to me, and that first phone call turned everything around. Toby understood exactly what was happening with Fifi and I was certain that he could help.
At his lovely yard, Fifi learned how to cope with life away from home and was introduced to the magic of horsemanship. I would visit and watch my baby starting to grow in confidence and education.
She came home having been carefully prepared for backing and ridden lightly for a month. She was a star. Toby visits every month and I strive to learn his wonderful horsemanship techniques.
I’ve never met a horseman like Toby Barker before. He is gifted in the art and language of Equus. My career with horses has always been traditionally English and that’s fine, but I believe Toby’s way is better. Toby always has a solution for every problem and it never involves a raised voice or a raised hand."
Kit Rolfe ~ producer of ridden Arabian horses , Arab National winners ,BD dressage winners and HOYS winners .
"I have known Toby for over 10 years and during this time he has supported me with all three of my horses. Each time, I have been extremely impressed, and quite frankly in awe of his skill and understanding of each individual animal. He always works with them with calm confidence, respect and understanding, giving them the time and patience they need and deserve.
Toby has not only helped my horses, but has also helped me to have a better understanding and skill set."