A well known "horse whisperer" was in town this weekend sharing his remarkable gift of understanding and communicating with horses.

Pete Rodda, a well versed trainer who practices "Parelli Natural Horsemanship" was on hand this weekend at the Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport teaching owners how to use natural equine behaviors to ultimately achieve trust and respect in their relationships.

The technique drastically differs from the traditional approach of using fear and intimidation to train a horse. Instead, discipline is conveyed through love, leadership, and language.

"Horsemanship is getting mentally, emotionally, and physically fit so you can teach another being. If you're not emotionally and mentally fit, it's not going to work out well" said Rodda.

The "Parelli Natural Horsemanship" approach is helping volunteers at Alaqua Animal Refuge to deal with the abused and neglected horse rescues they receive on a regular basis.