Horses
Dominance Theory Is Dead: What Modern Science Says About Horse Behaviour
For decades, horse training was built on the idea that horses are always trying to climb a social ladder –
Gentled Animals provides expert behaviour consulting for dogs, cats, and horses. We follow the most up-to-date, evidence-based methods in animal behaviour; rooted in neuroscience, ethology, and emotional well-being.
Whether you’re dealing with dog reactivity, horse anxiety, or cat aggression, we offer professional support tailored to your animal’s needs.
Struggling with your dog’s behaviour? We offer calm, kind support for common challenges at any age.
Support for horses that feel anxious, misunderstood, or hard to handle – using trust-based, force-free methods.
When your cat’s behaviour becomes challenging, we help you uncover the cause and gently restore balance at home.
We take the time to understand the why – so we can support the how.
We work under the principles of:
Whether you’re in a deep crisis or just want to feel more connected to your animal, you’re in the right place.
Paige with Mae, her rescue dog of 10 years old.
I’m Paige Grala, a Qualified Animal Behaviourist (DipCABT) – recognised by the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC), based in Cape Town. I specialise in ethical, species-specific behaviour support for horses, dogs, and cats using positive reinforcement and science-led methods. I’ve worked with rescue organisations and shared my life with animals for as long as I can remember. I currently have two young horses raised with R+, a retired thoroughbred who challenged everything I thought I knew, two rescue cats, and a rescue dog.
I’m also studying animal osteopathy through The London College of Animal Osteopathy, to deepen my understanding of how physical and emotional wellbeing are connected. I am a qualified graphic designer and art director – a creative background that helps me think differently and communicate clearly.
At Gentled Animals, I bring together experience, education, and empathy to help people and animals live with less stress and more trust.
For decades, horse training was built on the idea that horses are always trying to climb a social ladder –
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