How do you spook-proof a horse? In short, you teach her to FACE what spooks her.
In this session, I will be using a trash bag to try to spook the horse, and Lisa will concentrate on getting the horse to face the trash bag, and approach it when possible. The horse will find a release when she isn't fleeing. The goal is for the horse to learn to manage her emotions and trust her rider no matter what.
Some things to remember:
- Clenching with your legs or reins, though sometimes an automatic response, will actually make the horse more likely to be reactive and will tend to escalate the situation. Stay calm and stay relaxed, and remember to give the horse a release when they are facing up and going toward the scary stimulus.
- The horse needs your LEADERSHIP to tell her she will be okay. The horse needs to know you are in it together, and that you can take on whatever comes your way.
- Your timing is everything. You must take the opportunity to give the horse rest and release when the horse is managing her emotions.
Trustworthiness
Do you want your horse to trust you? Do you want to be able to trust your horse? Trust goes both ways. If I don't trust my horse, he is going to pick up on the nervousness and he won't trust me in return. So remember to give TRUST to your horse.
Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride!
- Ken McNabb
www.kenmcnabb.com