Meet Nele
I’m Nele Svensson, a certified equine therapist and naturopath based in North Canterbury, New Zealand. I work locally and also travel internationally to support horses and their owners.
Over the years, my focus has been on developing a deeper understanding of equine health and wellbeing. Caring for horses comes with responsibility. We ask a lot of them physically, mentally, and emotionally across all disciplines, from farm and pleasure horses to high-level sport. Good care means paying attention to the basics. Appropriate management, nutrition, movement, and therapy that supports the individual horse without excess.
I grew up in Germany and spent many years travelling, which shaped how I work today. Seeing different approaches to horse management, training, and care across cultures has been invaluable. While methods vary, the aim is the same everywhere. Soundness, wellbeing, and a horse that feels comfortable in its work, alongside a satisfied owner.
A turning point for me was my palomino stationbred, Marley. When he came to me, he lacked structure, correct nutrition, consistent handling, and physical comfort. He was unsettled and struggling. Wanting to do better for him, I began studying extensively and learning from trainers, veterinarians, and nutritionists. My goal was to reduce his discomfort and build a calm, functional partnership on the ground and under saddle.
That experience continues to guide how I approach every horse I work with today.
Horses have always been my main interest, but it was never only about sport. What drew me in was working with them and seeing true cooperation when they feel comfortable, balanced, and healthy. There is a quiet satisfaction in that partnership, especially when a horse is well cared for and understood.
I chose to study equine therapy in Canada so I could support horse owners and help them care for their horses in a thoughtful, informed way. Most importantly, I wanted to help reduce pain and discomfort and improve quality of life for the horses themselves.
A few years ago, I started a blog called The Equine Happiness Project to share my ongoing learning and growing understanding of horses. Through this, I connected with many generous and supportive people who shared the same curiosity and respect for horses.
After graduating from the Equine Chiropractic and Massage Therapy School in British Columbia, Canada, I established my practice as an equine therapist and naturopath. This work follows a long-standing family tradition of caring for animals and contributing to their wellbeing.
Along the way, I found an approach that aligns with my values. Supporting horses through different stages of health, recovery, and performance has included both rewarding moments and challenges. Each experience has shaped how I work today.
I believe chiropractic care alone does not address all sources of discomfort in the horse’s body. When combined with acupressure, massage, and naturopathy, it supports better overall wellbeing, movement, and balance.
For me, effective equine therapy means hands-on bodywork working alongside appropriate chiropractic care and naturopathic support.
I am based in New Zealand and travel regularly to work with horses internationally. I spend time each year in Western and Eastern Canada, northern Germany, and Scandinavia. If you would like me to visit your country, town, or farm, please get in touch and we can discuss the options.