we-love-pet.com

Training cannot begin if you have not first tried to catch the horse. Although this may sound simple, it can be surprisingly frustrating when you attempt this for the first time. This is the most important step in horse training. This is when the foundation of trust will be laid. No matter what you do with any horse at any stage of training, remember the basic 3 p's- patience, persistence, and positive reinforcement. Each step of horse training will involve the use of these three elements.

If your enclosure is of an easily manageable size you will find that the approach stage will be much more efficient. Ideally use a round pen, but a paddock or any large fenced enclosure will also work.

To begin with, use a casual demeanour to approach the enclosure. Do your very best to relax and give the impression of calm. Be sure to leave all your stress outside the pen. Since horses are prey animals, they are easily intimidated by anyone or anything that emits stress or aggression of any kind. You wouldn't want your horse to see you as a possible threat, which is how he will interpret those emotions. A bond of trust needs to be made between you and your horse.

Go inside the enclosure but not to catch the horse yet. This will happen in good time. Focus on becoming familiar with the horse and letting him become familiar with you. Walk inside and just stand around for a couple of minutes. Don't look at the horse directly. Predators eyeball their prey and stare into their eyes to intimidate them. You are not a predator and your horse should not see you as such. You need to be seen as part of the herd.

Take a fork or rake into the enclosure next time and just tidy up a little. Inspect the fence to see if there are places it needs mending. It would not be wise to approach the horse just yet. Wait for the horse to approach and investigate your actions. Horses by nature are curious creatures. The horse will come to have a sniff and check you out once you are a regular visitor.

This first step can take a long time if the horse is unfamiliar with human contact. For some horses shyness is not a problem, and they will approach you the minute you enter the enclosure. It can go either way. The horse will eventually become accustomed to you, and the relationship of trust can begin to be built. Patience!

Do not be tempted to reach for your horse just yet, even though it might seem like a good opportunity to do so. Patience is the key here. It can take a long time to build this foundation for training and a lasting bond with your horse. Do not rush this step.

When the horse at last approaches you, turn your back and walk away. It is important for you to be the first one to do this. This will indicate to the horse that you are in charge of him and not the other way around.

When you and the horse are familiar with each other and comfortable in each others' presence, you can approach him, but not straight on. Remember to use a slow, relaxed manner to walk towards the horse. A side-stepping approach can work well for a skittish horse. Move to the side without staring. Glancing sideways, move towards your new friend. Do not ever attempt to fit the halter by sneaking up on your horse. What will you do to hang on to the horse once you "catch" it if it's frightened? Trust will be broken in this manner and you will be back to square one. And of course you could be hurt. Once again, employing patience and persistence is key.

When your horse does let you get close you must use positive reinforcement. The first moments you spend together should have nothing to do with work. This step is about bonding. Just by grooming, scratching, talking and stroking you will be employing tools of positive reinforcement. Your horse should be able to enjoy these first moments as much as you. The two of you will now be ready for training.

A note about safety:
Unless the horse knows you well never make your approach from behind. A swift kick can connect long before you can contemplate moving away. They are always faster than you are, especially if they feel threatened or surprised. Ensure you can be seen when approaching a horse.

Whether it is your own horse, or you are training the horse on somebody else’s behalf, it is always advisable to ensure that there is adequate equine insurance in place to protect you both should an accident occur during training. Horses, while very beautiful animals, are strong and powerful with the capability of delivering an incredibly debilitating kick. A good horse insurance policy will include third party liability, and it is definitely worth checking this before you begin with your training.