A Better Horse Than You
To go back to the discussion at the barn that I was having ... when the boarder finished grooming and was taking his mare out to the paddock, it was nearing supper feed time. The mare was antsy ... wiggling about and not standing patiently. I heard the boarder say to his mare, "A better horse than you would have better manners." My own instincts welled up to think, "a better horseman than you would help your horse to feel more mannerly." ... not a very nice thing to think. But, it's true.
It is our responsibility, as horsemen, to teach our horses to have manners. Horses are just horses. It doesn't bother other horses when one prances about all wiggly and antsy. This behavior only bothers horsemen. It is only natural for a horse that is feeling trapped to kick out when it can't run away. It is our responsibility, as horsemen, to teach our horses to stand quietly when having their hooves trimmed. It is our responsibility, when we impose restrictions on a horse's "natural" environment, to make sure the horse is comfortable and is able to TRUST us that we will never lead it to harm. The horse that kicks out at the farrier doesn't feel safe. The horse that spooks out on the trail doesn't feel safe. There is no trust between the horse and human.
Teaching a horse to trust humans is done with kindness and gentleness and assertiveness. Not "control" or "dominion" or force. It is done through friendship and understanding ... understanding and acceptance of the horse's "natural" behaviors. Teaching a horse to trust is accomplished with time ... time just being a friend. A supportive, forgiving, understanding and guiding friend.
Horses are just horses. There is no better horse. There are only better horsemen. Do your horse a favor today ... become its friend and leader. Spend time grooming and playing with your horse. Take it for a walk on the trail ... on the lead. Just hang with it while he grazes. Take a book out to the pasture and just sit with it for awhile. Bring some treats with you. Be a friend. Teach your horse that it has nothing to be frightened of because you will be there for it and keep it from harm. Teach your horse patiently to stand, tie, have its hooves handled and trimmed. Be a friend.
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