In capable hands,
animals thrive.
Equine Bowen Therapy and Professional Dog Care in Dartmoor, Devon.
Gentle, holistic therapy for horses and dedicated care for dogs – guided by experience, empathy, and a lifetime’s understanding of the animals we love.
About
Kerry Smith, founder of Capable Hands, brings a lifetime of experience with horses and dogs, shaped by years on Dartmoor and a deep respect for the animals in her care. Her approach is calm, patient, and intuitive; she listens closely to what each animal is trying to communicate, creating space for them to relax, release tension, and settle into themselves.
With extensive training in Equine Bowen Therapy, natural horsemanship, and behavioural work with semi-feral and sensitive horses, Kerry understands how to support animals who need a calm, steady presence. Her home also offers a peaceful, rural setting for dogs to enjoy small-group day care and boarding, with plenty of exercise and quiet companionship.
Whether working with horses or caring for dogs, Kerry’s focus is always the same: building trust and making a positive difference to your animal’s wellbeing so they can feel safe and thrive.
Equine Bowen Therapy
Bowen is a soft-tissue therapy that works through the fascia and nervous system to help the body release tension, restore balance and return to more natural, comfortable movement. Through precise, targeted moves and periods of stillness, the body is given space to unwind patterns of tension and rebalance from within.
Many horses come to Bowen when they are showing signs of discomfort, unevenness, reluctance in their work, or changes in posture or behaviour. Because Bowen influences the whole body rather than a single area, it can be helpful for horses who have developed long-standing patterns or compensations.
With over three decades of experience handling young, sensitive and complex horses, Kerry brings a calm, observant and capable presence to each session. Many horses soften during the work and show clearer signs of comfort, ease and release in the days that follow.
Many horses come to Bowen when they are showing signs of discomfort, unevenness, reluctance in their work, or changes in posture or behaviour. Because Bowen influences the whole body rather than a single area, it can be helpful for horses who have developed long-standing patterns or compensations.
With over three decades of experience handling young, sensitive and complex horses, Kerry brings a calm, observant and capable presence to each session. Many horses soften during the work and show clearer signs of comfort, ease and release in the days that follow.
Bramble is more than happy to go to Kerry on a regular basis. Plenty of walks, a warm fire, and Arlo to play with. It’s her second home. Thoroughly recommend Kerry Care.
“When I first treated this horse he was dull in his coat and general demeanour and appeared old for his years. He also had locking stifles on both hind legs, making him very uncomfortable and restricting his work routine. What a difference a few weeks can make. After a course of Bowen treatment this lovely horse was much improved. Not only were his stifles no longer sticking or his legs dragging but his overall posture improved considerably – standing much more square with improved coat condition and top line and so much happier in himself.”
“My dogs love to spend time with Kerry. She is knowledgable, thoughtful and kind. I trust her completely to look after them.”
“My dopey doodle absolutely adores Kerry! He loves spending time with her and I know he gets a fantastic walk when he is with her but also that she gives him all the affection and attention that he loves.”
“Both myself and my partner first experienced Bowen on ourselves and couldn’t believe the difference it made to us, we felt the healing power of her hands, you really can! After now being convinced Kerry did some work on my 17 year old horse Maximus who was lacking energy along with a few other issues. The difference I’ve noticed in him since having three treatments is amazing, he’s like a different horse- full of life and definitely has his mojo back! I highly recommend her. Thank you Kerry xx”
”Before Kerry I had never experienced Bowen before and nor had my pony, both now converts! We have both had the Kerry touch and highly recommend it! Personally I felt a deep relaxation which with my lifestyle is a rarity, and a feeling of being more centred. I have found a new sellotape to hold my body together! Bear (my pony) has to have his nose in everything, and I mean everything, relaxed, the full works! He had a new level of concentration and now works at a new level; I just need to keep up with him! For people and ponies alike- Kerry is a must”
Before Obe began his Bowen treatment he had been struggling with a number of issues, some old, deep seated ones and others more recent such as a fall a few years ago. Physical and emotional trauma stored in his body for many years is slowly being unravelled, allowing him to move more freely and let go of past trauma and associated behaviours. This photo shows Obe feeling rather full of himself after just one treatment!”
Dog Services
Calm, reliable care for your dog in a quiet rural setting. Small numbers, plenty of exercise, and thoughtful companionship – day care, boarding, and walking with Kerry’s steady, compassionate approach.
Kerry has spent her life around dogs, including rescue and more sensitive cases, and knows how to create a calm, reassuring environment. At her rural Dartmoor home, dogs enjoy long walks, fresh air, and the company of a small, well-matched group.
Day care includes two daily walks and plenty of gentle downtime. Boarding offers a peaceful, homely setting with familiar comforts and steady, attentive care.
Kerry has spent her life around dogs, including rescue and more sensitive cases, and knows how to create a calm, reassuring environment. At her rural Dartmoor home, dogs enjoy long walks, fresh air, and the company of a small, well-matched group.
Day care includes two daily walks and plenty of gentle downtime. Boarding offers a peaceful, homely setting with familiar comforts and steady, attentive care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most owners have questions before booking — whether it’s how a Bowen session works, how to prepare your horse, or what to expect from dog day care or boarding. Kerry’s FAQ page brings everything together in one place, offering clear, practical guidance to help you feel confident and well-informed from the start.