Kathryn Christieson (BAVBioSc, Dip EPT, RHDP) is a hoofcare practitioner who has worked in the industry full time for nearly ten years. Her day to day work involves trimming, composite shoeing, glue on shoe application, hot shoeing and boot fitting services. She works collaboratively with veterinarians, bodyworkers and trainers to achieve the best results for clients in performance and rehabilitation.
Kathryn has a commitment to education and continuous improvement. She co-hosts ‘Canter Therapy Podcast’ and co-founded the International School of Integrative Hoofcare Australia. She is passionate about building community and the sharing of knowledge with as many people as possible.
Outside her professional pursuits, Kathryn dedicates her time to the art of dressage, immersing herself in lessons and clinics to continually refine her skills. Her passion extends beyond riding, encompassing a profound interest in animal behavior and the intricacies of their minds. Kathryn explores the realms of self-awareness, recognising the relationship between personal growth and her horse’s well-being. This commitment reflects her holistic approach, where the pursuit of knowledge and personal development intertwines seamlessly with her love for horses.
Canter Therapy – Dr Shelley Appleton & Kathryn Christieson
In this thought-provoking conversation, we sit down with renowned horseman Josh Nichol to explore the ideas that have shaped his approach to horses, people, and life.
Josh shares his journey from growing up with horses in remote Canada to studying under Harry Whitney and developing his own framework for understanding horse behaviour through mind, space, and pressure.
We discuss the difference between lightness and softness, why behaviour is often the symptom rather than the problem, how tension affects movement and soundness, and why true horsemanship begins with understanding what the horse is experiencing rather than simply trying to control what the horse is doing.
This episode also explores leadership, liberty, personal growth, biomechanics, emotional regulation, and the responsibility we have as humans to create clarity, confidence, and understanding for our horses.
Whether you are interested in groundwork, ridden performance, horse behaviour, or simply becoming a better horseperson, this conversation is packed with insights that will challenge and inspire you.
To find out more about Josh Nichol Relational Horsemanship:
Website: joshnichol.com
Facebook: AHorsemansPursuit
Instagram: @nicholhorsemanship
Contact: info@joshnichol.com
To find out more about Canter Therapy Podcast and the hosts – Dr Shelley Appleton and Kathryn Christieson and support the show, visit the website:
Services include:
Trimming
Trimming for soundness and performance including the application of hoofarmor
Boot Fitting
Boot fitting consultations for Scoot Boot, Equine Fusion, Easycare, Cavallo, Renegade and more!
Shoeing
Correct shoeing with an emphasis on balance and alignment for sustainable performance
Rehabilitation
For acute and chronic pathology including the use of glue ons
Training and Qualifications
Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience (2015)
Diploma of Equine Podiotherapy through the Australian College of Equine Podiotherapy (2017)
Attended the Mustad Conference in 2018
Level 1 Endorsement with Daisy Haven Farm (Recognising Hoof Distortion Practitioner)
In 2018 Kathryn attended Pacific Coast Horseshoeing School in California, USA, finishing top of her class
Attended the ELPC Vet Farrier Laminitis Conference 2022
Attended VetPD Foot Lameness & Podiatry workshop 2022
Currently completing Cert 4 Farriery
