One who truly loves animals will always find an approach to them. The avid equestrian David Garcia claims that most horse owners find breaking in a horse not enough, they want to make friends with the little ones. Thus, you have to know how to get on well with a companion duly.
Horses are said to be strong, kind, and a bit curious animals. They are loyal and, unlike many people, don’t change their attitude towards the acquired pal. In order to bond with a horse, there are some rules to follow.
First Meeting
Horses may wary of a new horseman. They are careful because they don’t know what to expect from a stranger. In this case, it’s important not to force things. The horse needs to get used to the fact that a new person is nearby. Don’t be stubborn by trying to build relationships right away. While the horse is looking closely, there’s no need to stroke it or even try to saddle it. You can start with the following:
- The time spent with your companion will help it find its feet in the regular presence of a particular person. At the same time, you don’t need to come too close. Alternatively, you can sit on a chair nearby or slowly walk around at some distance from the horse. Soon after you’ll notice that the hooved friend is watching all your actions.
- This routine should be done regularly, ideally every day. After a while, the horse will approach you on its own. Since these animals have a highly developed sense of smell, the horse may sniff you and even lick you. But don’t make rapid moves in return, let the companion feel that there’s no threat from you.
- When the horse comes closer to you, meet and accompany him. This means that a trustful relationship has been successfully established. You can proceed to the next stage of acquaintance.
Communicate with a Horse
The companion accustomed to the presence of a human should now learn how to distinguish his voice. The ears of this animal are in constant motion. Speak to the horse softly but reliant. You can talk about everything in the world. The feeling of confidence in your speech will make the tailed pal listen to you and become even more attached.
If you’re not short of time, you can read a book to the companion or sing a calm song. Animals have an instinct to feel when they are treated wholeheartedly. It’s crucial that the horse doesn’t feel any uncertainty, angriness, and other negative emotions in your voice. The animal should be praised regularly, every living creature loves it!
Smooth and Slow Movements is a Key
Come to the horse slowly, checking its reaction. If the animal snorts, it shows its displeasure. You must approach from the side but don’t move from its back or front. This is due to the fact that horses have poor eyesight so in most cases, the animal can be frightened by your sudden appearance.
It’s vital to pet it carefully, you can touch the back of the companion but not for long. Then remove your hand and step back. So the horse will understand that you’re not a threat. These animals enjoy when you stroke the withers. If you scratch the horse in this place, it will relax faster.
You shouldn’t vividly express your emotions in front of the hooved friend, don’t wave your hands near his face. The horse may take that as aggression and act accordingly. This animal is extremely intelligent and is able to feel everything – this fact shouldn’t be underestimated.
Treat Your Friend
Horses love treats! So if you want to bond with your companion, you should feed him with goodies on a regular basis. The horse will be very grateful. Animals are partial to sugar, apples, carrots, seeds, raisins, and even mint candies.
Even though you crave making friends with the horse faster, you shouldn’t overfeed it. It’s much more effective to reward the hooved pal, thus rewarding the performed command. The horse should be treated with yummies from the open palm, otherwise, the animal may accidentally bite your fingers.
Patience
All animals are different, so finding an approach to one companion doesn’t mean finding it to everyone else. The horse’s age and character play a significant role in the adaptation to the horseman.
- Young horses get used to new people faster. They can make friends with a person in just a few weeks.
- Older animals are not so quick to make contact, especially if they suffered from the owner’s cruelty in the past. It can take months or even years before you bond with the horse.
- Friendship is a mutual feeling, so you cannot force an animal to do what it doesn’t want.
Before you mount a horse, you should overcome your own fear and completely trust your companion. The first stride with the animal can be like walking a dog, but you should lead the horse holding it by the reins. While walking, you should talk to the horse and the tailed friend will get used to such a pastime soon.
It’s important to be a leader and then the horse will go anywhere with you. These animals can be with spirit, sometimes they demonstrate it by biting or pinching their horseman. In this case, you should show that no one will tolerate such an attitude, therefore, the horse will be punished for such behavior.
It’s unacceptable to use brute physical force in relation to anyone. Gradually strengthening the bond with such an animal is way more efficient. When choosing a new horse, trustful communication with your companion will bring many positive moments and unforgettable emotions.