Help for horse-riders

The Art of Solving Problems with Horses

And now, an observation ...

Not only do we have to change our way of doing things, we also, sometimes, have to change our perceptions and see the world from the point of view of the horse.

Take a look at the picture below. What is your initial reaction?

I expect your first reaction is one of slight horror. "That's no way to lead a horse - or pony!"

OK, so now look at the next picture below. In particular, look at the foal.

Foals have no pre-conceptions or training. They do what Nature tells them to do - and there is good reason for it.

And foals follow along behind another (not necessarily it's own mother) because it's a safe place to be. As you can see, the fully grown and mature gelding is also following along behind - for the same reason.

In short, horses are natural born followers. At the back, or behind another is, as a rule, where they prefer to be - all the more so if they are nervous, unsure of themselves or lacking confidence.

So let's look again at the first picture. What is it telling us now?

It tells us that this pony is perfectly happy, plodding along behind the leader. He has complete trust in where he is, where he is going and above all - in his leader. He knows he is safe!!

Notice the long, low head-carriage, backward pointing ears and dozy look about him, gently swishing his tail against the flies. This shows us that he completely relaxed and has no worries or anxieties at all. In fact, he's almost asleep - but not quite!

The lesson ...

This is the way horses prefer to be led ... plus, it shows complete trust and confidence in the leader.

If your horse will lead like this, you're in clover!