Our Herd of Equine Specialists
Bodhi Horse Practice is a collective of independent equine professionals brought together by a shared commitment to thoughtful, science-based care. Each practitioner brings a distinct area of expertise, including behavior science, veterinary medicine, ecology and equine welfare. Together, we form a well-rounded perspective to better understand each horse as an individual with their own history, needs and way of being. We work in partnership with clients, recognizing your role as an active participant in the process and offer interdisciplinary, research-driven support wherever you are.
Dr. Désirée Braganza
received her equine behaviorist qualifications from the Natural Animal Centre in South Africa. 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 dressage rider and has cared for and supported numerous horses over the years. Désirée recently relocated from Northern California and is now based in Monroe, Georgia, USA. She consults with clients in-person and virtually.
Ongoing Research Projects
Attention Based Practices: Equine Wellbeing from an Ecological Perspective
Accounts of Adverse Equine Experiences
Dr. Mike Parker
is an equine veterinarian and owner of Crazy Horse Veterinary Services. The name of his private practice is a nod to his Native American roots and is meant to describe his heritage and profession. He is a Makah tribal member from Neah Bay, Washington, USA. He earned his DVM from Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, focusing on large animal and equine surgery. Additionally, he has a Master’s in Animal Sciences and Equine Nutrition from Cornell University. Mike’s career has a solid allopathic foundation, yet he continued to explore new treatment modalities which now include acupuncture and chiropractic care. Mike provides consultation for us and virtual support for our clients who live in remote locations. He is based in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA
Melissa Thomas, LVT
is an independent horse trainer who values listening to both horse and human. She approaches each training session as an opportunity to learn, grow and adapt in order to better serve her clients. Melissa earned her Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology from Athens Technical College in 2022 and brings over a decade of hands-on experience working with horses. Melissa is based in Athens, Georgia, USA
Matthew Bruno
has complementary, well-honed skill sets. As a student at UC Santa Cruz, he studied art and later made permaculture his focus. Add his exceptional carpentry and building skills, and he is a go-to resource for guidance when planning or rethinking your horse property. He recently participated in research where he shared his ecologically based practices as he raises his two young mares. Click here to listen to a short interview. Matt teaches people how to get to know their ecosystem to ensure horses are living in balance as healthy and happy members of a cooperative environmental community. Matt is based on the Mendocino Coast, USA.