She had mange, a fractured off-hind pedal bone, and didn't care much for human contact. Given everything Ruby had coped with, it wasn't surprising that handling her could be terrifying for someone like me with very little experience. Picking up Ruby's feet was a dangerous proposition – the vets refused to do it and the farrier didn't like to, although we needed to keep a bar shoe on her to help the fracture heal.

But there was just something about Ruby.

While we tried to heal the fracture, I read everything I could about 'natural' horsemanship – from Monty Roberts to Parelli to Lyons to Dorrance to Brannaman. You name it and I'd tried it. But when my attempts to replicate the "Fix up for Farrier" video using my specially padded carrot stick made to look like a long arm with a hand sent her into a panic, I decided I was in over my head and really needed someone who knew what they were doing. Someone who could help Ruby regain confidence in people – and in herself.

Within five minutes of Ruby's arrival, Carlos had picked up all four feet. We were quite literally off on the right foot – and how.

I dropped off a nervous, frightened horse that had kicked out two walls, would rear if you tried to comb her mane, was frightened of striking off on a right lead (because of the fracture), grabbed the bit, and shied at the slightest movement or noise. What I now have is a remarkably calm, light and responsive horse, willing to give you far more than what you ask of her and happy to work in the arena doing dressage exercises or go out on the trail under a comfy western saddle.

Carlos gave Ruby back her spirit, confidence and trust in humans.

And he is giving me the confidence and skills to be able to catch up to Ruby and become the sort of rider and handler that she deserves – calm, kind and confident. I may be a bit slower at learning everything I need to know, but Ruby is incredibly forgiving, and Carlos is incredibly generous in sharing his knowledge and ensuring that you know how to move forward and build on the foundation he establishes. I know Ruby and I will get there together.

Since that day in late July 2004 when Ruby and I arrived at Whispering Acres, I've had the privilege of watching Carlos work with a huge range of horses, many of which come to him as a 'last resort'. I've also spoken with many of the people who have brought horses to him and continue to learn through lessons and clinics. Regardless of whether Carlos is retraining a horse with serious issues, or giving a foal or young horse a good start, he adapts his philosophy and approach to the individual heÕs working with to produce amazing results – every time.

Oh, and by the way. Thanks to Carlos, Ruby's happily barefoot now.

Always happy to speak to anyone thinking of taking a horse to Whispering Acres. It's the best thing you can do for you and your horse.

Marty & Ruby (tel 0419 103 654)