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Herd Wired: In Pursuit of Discovery
A literary field companion into the heart of the horse-and the soul of connection.
Herd Wired takes readers on a transformative journey into the equine mind, exploring how horses experience the world through their senses, emotions, and social bonds. Internationally recognized equine behaviorist Kerry M. Thomas, founder of Herd Dynamic Profiling(TM) and Sensory Soundness(TM), distills more than three decades of research into an accessible and thought-provoking guide for horse owners, trainers, breeders, and enthusiasts.
At the core of Thomas's work is the belief that every horse is an individual with a unique psychological "wiring" that shapes how it perceives, processes, and responds to its environment. By understanding herd dynamics-the emotional and social framework that guides equine interaction-readers gain the tools to see horses not just for what they can do, but for who they are.
From decoding the subtle language of the herd to examining how sensory processing influences training and performance, Herd Wired bridges science and storytelling. Along the way, Thomas highlights real-world applications: making better breeding decisions, choosing training strategies that fit the horse's natural tendencies, and developing deeper partnerships built on empathy rather than control.
More than a manual, this is an invitation to reimagine the relationship between horse and human. Herd Wired challenges readers to step beyond traditional views of training and horsemanship, opening the door to a more compassionate, effective, and rewarding connection.
Whether you are a competitor seeking an edge, a breeder looking to preserve temperament, or simply a horse lover searching for greater understanding, this book will change how you see your horse, your role, and the emotional language that unites you.
Herd Wired takes readers on a transformative journey into the equine mind, exploring how horses experience the world through their senses, emotions, and social bonds. Internationally recognized equine behaviorist Kerry M. Thomas, founder of Herd Dynamic Profiling(TM) and Sensory Soundness(TM), distills more than three decades of research into an accessible and thought-provoking guide for horse owners, trainers, breeders, and enthusiasts.
At the core of Thomas's work is the belief that every horse is an individual with a unique psychological "wiring" that shapes how it perceives, processes, and responds to its environment. By understanding herd dynamics-the emotional and social framework that guides equine interaction-readers gain the tools to see horses not just for what they can do, but for who they are.
From decoding the subtle language of the herd to examining how sensory processing influences training and performance, Herd Wired bridges science and storytelling. Along the way, Thomas highlights real-world applications: making better breeding decisions, choosing training strategies that fit the horse's natural tendencies, and developing deeper partnerships built on empathy rather than control.
More than a manual, this is an invitation to reimagine the relationship between horse and human. Herd Wired challenges readers to step beyond traditional views of training and horsemanship, opening the door to a more compassionate, effective, and rewarding connection.
Whether you are a competitor seeking an edge, a breeder looking to preserve temperament, or simply a horse lover searching for greater understanding, this book will change how you see your horse, your role, and the emotional language that unites you.
156 pages, Paperback
Published August 17, 2025
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About the author
Kerry M. Thomas
2 books2 followersKerry M. Thomas: Royal Dutch Equestrian Federation (KNHS) Accredited Ethologist - Internationally recognized equine behaviorist, educator, and writer whose pioneering research has reshaped the way horses are understood in both natural and competitive environments. For more than three decades, he has dedicated his career to studying the psychology of the horse, developing groundbreaking theories and practical tools that bridge science, emotion, and performance.
As the founder of Herd Dynamic Profiling™ and Sensory Soundness™, Thomas created a framework for identifying and interpreting the invisible influences that define who a horse is—not just what it can do. His work reveals how each horse processes information, copes with stress, and interacts with both herd and human, providing invaluable insights for trainers, breeders, riders, and equine professionals across the globe.
Thomas’s expertise gained international attention through his acclaimed Behavioral Genetic Profiling of elite Thoroughbreds, where he introduced psychological analysis into the world of competitive horse racing. His profiles of Kentucky Derby contenders have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Sports Illustrated, BloodHorse, Paulick Report, FanDuel Racing, and other leading media outlets. He continues to write The Competitor’s Edge visual handicapping and scouting report for the Kentucky Derby, an annual publication entering its 14th year.
Beyond racing, Thomas works with equine professionals and enthusiasts in multiple disciplines, helping them uncover the psychological strengths and limitations of their horses. His consulting ranges from pre-purchase evaluations and breeding strategies to training troubleshooting and international workshops. His clients span from sport horse competitors to family horse owners, all seeking a deeper connection and a clearer understanding of their horses’ minds.
A frequent lecturer and guest expert, Thomas has presented his research internationally, including as a featured speaker at the Horse Economic Forum in Portugal and as an invited guest on numerous equestrian podcasts and broadcasts.
Through his company, Sensory Soundness™, Thomas continues to advance the study of equine psychology, offering services, educational programs, and resources that empower humans to meet horses where they are mentally and emotionally. His life’s work is guided by a simple but profound philosophy: know the mind, shape the path.
As the founder of Herd Dynamic Profiling™ and Sensory Soundness™, Thomas created a framework for identifying and interpreting the invisible influences that define who a horse is—not just what it can do. His work reveals how each horse processes information, copes with stress, and interacts with both herd and human, providing invaluable insights for trainers, breeders, riders, and equine professionals across the globe.
Thomas’s expertise gained international attention through his acclaimed Behavioral Genetic Profiling of elite Thoroughbreds, where he introduced psychological analysis into the world of competitive horse racing. His profiles of Kentucky Derby contenders have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Sports Illustrated, BloodHorse, Paulick Report, FanDuel Racing, and other leading media outlets. He continues to write The Competitor’s Edge visual handicapping and scouting report for the Kentucky Derby, an annual publication entering its 14th year.
Beyond racing, Thomas works with equine professionals and enthusiasts in multiple disciplines, helping them uncover the psychological strengths and limitations of their horses. His consulting ranges from pre-purchase evaluations and breeding strategies to training troubleshooting and international workshops. His clients span from sport horse competitors to family horse owners, all seeking a deeper connection and a clearer understanding of their horses’ minds.
A frequent lecturer and guest expert, Thomas has presented his research internationally, including as a featured speaker at the Horse Economic Forum in Portugal and as an invited guest on numerous equestrian podcasts and broadcasts.
Through his company, Sensory Soundness™, Thomas continues to advance the study of equine psychology, offering services, educational programs, and resources that empower humans to meet horses where they are mentally and emotionally. His life’s work is guided by a simple but profound philosophy: know the mind, shape the path.
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