Quick Reads: Say What you mean

In addition to his name, this horse is simply ‘friend’.

Quick Reads: Say What You Mean

By Désirée Braganza, EdD, EBQ

The language we use to refer to our horses sets the tone for how we relate to them. Too often they are spoken of as objects: it. Or infantilized as ‘my boy’ or ‘my girl’. Relationships are framed in transactional terms like buyer, owner, or rescuer. But what if your words reflected the deeper truth of your bond?

There is no single right way to speak about your horse, but changing your language can shift the entire relationship.

Lummi Elder, Squil-le-he-le affirms this in the documentary Resident Orca and Her Relatives Beneath the Waves, referring to orcas simply and powerfully as “relatives.”

Resources

Helpful for finding language options you might prefer:

Resident Orca and Her Relatives Beneath the Waves (2025)

The Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics

About the Author

Dr. Désirée Braganza received her equine behaviorist qualifications from the Natural Animal Centre, then located in the UK and South Africa. As a member of Bodhi Horse Practice, she collaborates with equine professionals worldwide on research projects specific to experiences of domesticated horses from an ethological lens. She is a horse partner, a rider, and has cared for and supported numerous horses over the years. Désirée recently relocated from Northern California and is now based in Athens, Georgia, USA. She consults internationally in-person and virtually.

Friendly Reminder: These articles are meant to spark thought, not replace expert guidance. Consult equine professionals for individual advice.