WildStride Animal Solutions - Mel Spittall

14/08/2025

Just an FYI that this page is having a lill nap 💤
I’m a fan of keeping things simple 🌿
I’ll be spending less time on multiple platforms, which means more energy for the work I love (and less time wrangling algorithms).

If you want to keep following my work, stories, and updates, come join me over on my profile page Mel Spittall. That’s where I share all things horses, wildlife, animal training and behaviour, and equine-assisted. As I don’t spend a great deal of time on Facebook, both and Instagram profiles funnel directly to that space.

More connection. Less noise. See you there. ✌🏼🐾🍃
Gorgeous 📸 courtesy of keeper Mykala

21/05/2025

02/05/2025

Ohhh Pig! 🐷
I had the privilege of working with this cheeky little legend during my time at SeaWorld. Pig’s story is a remarkable one and It was a privilege to be part of his journey…I’ll never forget his appetite…or his attitude! 🐷🥬 🫶🏼 Mel Spittall

25/03/2025

↠ For the Keepers

We say we’re just doing our jobs.
But anyone who’s ever worked this closely with animals knows it’s so much more than that.

We show up in all weather.
We know their quirks, their routines, their silent languages.
We celebrate every tiny win, and we hold space for the tough days too.

They aren’t just part of our workdays.
They become part of our rhythm.
Our hearts,
Our stories.

And when they leave, expected or sudden, it’s not just a shift change.
It’s a grief that settles deep.
A quiet ache in the chest.
Losing them is real. And it’s hard.
And you’re not alone in feeling it.

This is just a little shout out for the keepers who have given their whole hearts to animals that weren’t “theirs” on paper, but who were family in every other way.

This guy was one of those for me.
Thank you for your trust, the giggles, and the shared quiet moments.
You’ll always be part of my story 🧡🐾🎋

28/08/2024

🐴🍃 How to be a better human (for your horse) in four easy steps!

✨ Put your Ego Aside: Put it on the back burner. Honestly ask yourself - am I really helping my horse, or just protecting my pride? Take a good, honest look at how you might be contributing to the problem at hand. It’s not about blame; it’s about responsibility + growth.

✨ Be Teachable: Learning never stops, especially when it comes to horses. It’s easy to get caught up in defending our actions but If you’re too busy defending yourself, you’re missing out on valuable lessons your horse (or your trainer or maybe even the next door neighbor) is trying to teach you. Embrace being teachable. Listen, observe, + be open to new ways of thinking + doing. The more you learn, the better partner you become.

✨ Shift Your Perspective: It’s not about being right; it’s about doing right by your horse. Shift your focus from winning the argument to understanding the lesson. Horses are masters at showing us where we need to grow - if we’re humble enough to listen.

✨ Work Together, Not Against: True partnership with your horse isn’t about control; it’s about cooperation. When you put your ego aside + become teachable, you start working with your horse, not against them. That’s when the real magic happens.

Be the kind of human your horse can trust, learn from, + grow with!
Mel 🌿🐴 xx

27/08/2024

Hey hey my inter-web friends! Whether you're new here or have been following along for a while, I figured it’s time for a little re-intro…it’s been a while…

I’m Mel, I'm that person who’ll greet your horse or dog before I greet you - try not to take it personally. My life has always revolved around animals - especially horses. With nearly three decades of experience in the equine/animal industry + working with everything from polar bears to koalas (+ everything in between), I bring a unique perspective to everything I do.

Some random tidbits you probably don’t need to know - I’ve rocked dreadlocks three times in my life + wouldn’t mind doing it again. I’m at that age where I’m debating whether to "embrace the grey" because honestly, covering it up with toxic chemicals once a month is losing its charm. Running = NO. Muay Thai = YES - because let’s face it, sometimes you just need to punch + kick things! I’m not the most social butterfly, but when it comes to animals, I’m all in for those deep, meaningful connections.

I’ve done a lot of random things in my life, like co-editing an equine magazine, co-founding Queensland’s first-ever trick riding team, + winning State of Origin with the NSW Horseball Team at Equitana. And yes, I’ve been through my fair share of challenges, but I’m one of the most resilient people I know. Keeping my s**t together didn’t come easy, but I’ve got it down now - well, most of the time! No ones perfect!

When it comes to horses, I believe you’re the best person to train yours, + so I’m here to equip you with the tools, knowledge, + support to do it. I’m passionate about creating tailored programs focused on long-term growth, trust, + communication, helping you build a harmonious + confident partnership with your horse.

Oh, + when I’m not working with horses, you’ll probably find me at home, with a glass of red wine by a fire, or wrangling life as a parent (which, by the way, is the hardest job on the planet - much respect to all the parents out there!).

Thank you for being here, + I’m excited to continue this journey with you. If you ever want to chat about how I can help you + your horse, just reach out!
Mel ✌️🐴🍃