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.
Désirée Braganza, eDD, EBQ
is an equine behaviorist whose work centers on applied ethology: how horses experience their lives and environments. She began her career as a professor and director of a graduate program in education, a background that shaped her research-driven approach and commitment to accessible, practical insight.
She trained through the Natural Animal Centre in South Africa and now collaborates with equine professionals worldwide on projects exploring the lived experiences of domesticated horses. Her work blends academic inquiry with hands-on practice. Over the years, she has partnered with, cared for, and supported many horses, and she continues to consult with clients both in person and virtually.
Désirée is a full member of the International Society for Applied Ethology, International Equine Professionals and an associate member of the International Society for Equitation Science. Recently relocated from Northern California, she is now based in Monroe, Georgia.
Current research includes:
Attention-Based Practices: Equine Wellbeing from an Ecological Perspective
Accounts of Adverse Equine Experiences
Mike Parker, DVM
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.
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.