The Dolly Way™ Practitioner Application

This form helps us understand your work, your values, and how you support horses in your professional practice.

Your answers allow us to maintain a welfare‑first directory that protects horses, practitioners, and clients.

Please answer honestly and in your own words. There are no “right” answers — only your truth.

Code of Ethics

 1. Horse First, Always

I prioritise the physical, emotional, and behavioural wellbeing of the horse over results, expectations, or traditions.
I do not use, condone, or remain silent about training methods that rely on fear, force, pain, or learned helplessness.

 2. Honest Practice

I represent my skills, qualifications, and experience truthfully.
I do not claim titles, results, or specialisms I haven’t earned.
I clearly communicate what I can offer and refer on when something is beyond my scope.

3. Kindness Is Non-Negotiable

I treat horses and humans with respect, even when opinions differ.
I do not shame owners or professionals — I offer education, compassion, and clarity instead.

 4. Ongoing Learning

I stay informed and open to new understanding in welfare, ethics, and communication.
I seek out credible learning opportunities and do not stop questioning what I was taught — especially if it puts the horse second.

 5. Safety With Integrity

I recognise that safety is not a compromise to ethics — it is part of them.
Protecting a horse or human from harm is an act of trust, not control.
I take proactive, informed steps to ensure the physical and emotional safety of everyone involved, including myself.
I intervene calmly and appropriately when risk arises, knowing that clear, confident action prevents fear-based escalation.
I carry appropriate insurance and work within the boundaries of my training.

 6. Responsibility Within Role

If I become aware of harm or distress caused to a horse in my professional setting, I aim to offer education and support to the owner or carer, when safe and appropriate.
I do not confront or criticise others outside my role unless I feel it is safe and necessary to do so.
I understand that long-term change comes through trust, not conflict.



Handling Reported Concerns

Any concerns reported within The Dolly Way™ are reviewed confidentially by the foundation team.
All investigations respect privacy, uphold the Code of Ethics, and aim to support the horse and all humans involved while protecting the integrity of our community.

 7. Dolly Values: Courage, Clarity, Compassion

I support others in walking the quiet, often unseen, path of ethical horse care.
I stand beside fellow professionals facing judgement or financial loss for doing what’s right.
I know we are stronger together — and that horses need us united.