
Since I can remember, horses have been more than just a passion; they are an extension of my soul.
I grew up admiring them, feeling their strength, their sensitivity, and their unique ability to communicate without words.
When my mother started working as a rider and took me with her to train, I felt I was exactly where I was meant to be: by the side of these magnificent beings!
But traditional riding brought me doubts. Where was the harmony, the mutual respect, the understanding? That deep connection I had always believed was possible? That was when I realized my path would be different.
I am a determined person, strong-willed, who never gives up. I believe happiness lies in the journey, and it is this constant pursuit of happiness that motivates me every day.
With each step I take, I strive to be more independent and true to myself. I love nature and everything the universe has created. Hiking through trails with my dog, exploring new places, and discovering new cultures are moments that connect me to the world in a profound way.
In my search for answers on how to improve animals’ lives, I immersed myself in Veterinary Nursing, where I learned to care for them with dedication and technique. Yet, my heart kept calling me back to horses, and it was in the world of ethological/natural horsemanship that I found the perfect balance.
Since 2015, I have dedicated myself to learning the language of the horse: their movements, their emotions, and their essence. With every training session, I respect the time the horse needs, value their individuality, and work to build a bond where they see me not as a threat, but as someone who understands them.
This is something I try to apply to every area of my life: the pursuit of true and respectful connection—with others and with myself.
I believe we can all make a difference in the world, and my mission is to help make it a better place by supporting animals, especially horses. I want to inspire others to do the same and to share this passion with them, building together a network of empathy and transformation.
To truly understand horses, I deepened my knowledge in Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, and Equine Acupuncture. These therapies allow me to see each horse in a holistic way, identifying discomforts that are not always visible and creating training that respects both body and mind.
The true strength in the relationship between human and horse does not lie in domination, but in harmony. That is what I seek every day in my personal and professional journey: harmony, understanding, and genuine connection.
Because when human and horse work as one, something magical happens: a dance of trust, respect, and love.
“Horses are angels in disguise, sent to teach us how to be better human beings.”
Melanie Santos



MELANIE SANTOS
HORSE WOMAN

Academic Background
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Bachelor's Degree in Veterinary Nursing (2012)
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Certified Equine Physiotherapy Technician (2021)
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Certified in Equine Acupuncture (2023)
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Certified in Structural Osteopathy (2024)
Professional Training
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Equestrian practice since childhood
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Internship at Badoca Safari Park (2012)
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Internship at Maison Alfort - Paris (ENVA) (2012)
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Horses in the Sand Equestrian Guide (2012-2014)
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Saddle Exam 4 (2014)
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Veterinary Nurse at Mata de Santa Iria Veterinary Hospital, Torres Vedras (2015-2018)
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Wildlife Training, Mutapa Game, South Africa (2017)
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Equestrian Trainer and Manager in Private Stable (2018-2023)
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Learning Liberty Training, in person, with Zoher Gari, Marseille, France (2018)
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Natural horsemanship training, in person, with Janet Hakeney - Portugal (2019)
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Online Learning with Pat Parelli, TRT Methot, Warwick Schiller, Pauline Beulze, WeHorse, Straightness Training Marijke de Jong's, Feather Light tAcademy
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Equestrian Education and Therapies Project (2023)