Compared to humans, a horse has a more uniform character. Horses are available in different breeds with each having its own aptitude and personality but highly predictable in their behavior. No matter the breed or size of horse you choose to keep as a pet there are some basics that you need to follow in order to build a healthy relationship with them. Some of these are as follows,
- Always treat a horse with calm energy as this will help you in building a healthy relationship with them.
- Always approach them from the side, walk at a pace that is slow or moderate towards the withers. To approach your horse with arms stretched out or with your hand is a big no.
- Follow consistency and regularity. When you take care of the simple issues such as safety, shelter, food, and water, your horse will be ready for more.
- Mostly importantly maintain the rhythm. Always try to use a steady rhythm when you do all sort of activities such as throw a saddle, swing a rope, brush, curry, pour water while bathing, talk and walk. Set a rhythm as this will allow the horse to understand what to expect as well as not get caught off guard or spooked.
- Make your horse comfortable by providing it proper shelter against the harsh climatic conditions, free from pests such as mosquitoes and flies, keep it properly trimmed or shod and vaccinated. Most importantly ensure that all equipment and tack is properly adjusted, is clean and will allow your horse to perform its work.
- Work on each side of your horse equally. The brain of a horse is two-sided which does not speak to one another. In fact, each of its eyes has an individual framework of experience and history. So, ensure that the horse is well aware of what you need or what you will do. Train each eye separately.
- Do not ever chase a horse in order to catch it. This is because they will either feel scared or think that it is a game and it will make an attempt to win. Patiently teach the horse to approach especially when you call. This holds true while training the horse for riding or racing. Visit TVG to know more about horse racing.
- Remember you cannot do anything quickly with your horse. Avoid teaching a lesson quickly rather include a calm rhythm using your leg, voice or other aides.
- Always pet your horse and not pat them. A pat can be annoying as a slappy pat can be considered aggression for most horses. Take the help of a rhythm that is calm and steady.
- Study your horse’s body language. Making a prompt movement or a prompt request to your horse when its mind is elsewhere will prove risky both for you as well as your horse.
- Unless your horse is trained to handle surprises, do not try to give it a surprise. There should be a special relationship amid you and your pet horse to calmly accept the surprises. Often surprises in case of a horse are taken as a safety threat.
- Last but not the least try to learn from the horse. There cannot be a teacher or friend more honest and generous or noble in character than a horse.
Spend some quality time with your pet horse in order to build that beautiful relationship and see how life changes for the better.
