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Continued on PG 50 >
When you spend some undemanding time grazing on beautiful grass, you score points by way of his stomach. Don't forget he is a grazing animal; that's what they do! You have a chance to offer him something of value. This has balanced the relationship of many horse and rider teams.
Think of it as, “You did something nice for me, and now I do something nice for you”. A little something special. If you do it right, the horse will ask you politely if he may eat, instead of it feeling like a disrespectful form of entitlement. I give my horses a verbal cue, “Wait”. And they do.
Standing around without a job over the winter months can cause behavior issues. Idle hooves are the devil's workshop! This can be trouble for you and ruin a nice ride if you expect your horse to be the same as he was last fall. Without a pre flight check, things could go south! Play with your horse on the ground to see if he needs to blow off steam. If you see any negative changes in your horse's attitude, do not get on yet.
Everybody needs a purpose! What can you do with your horse that is fun and interesting? Can you keep him engaged with you as a leader, looking forward to your next adventure together?
You have more to offer your horse than his pasture mates. You have a plan! If you don't, pull one together. You can be so fun and so interesting that your horse can't wait to go with you!
If your horse is getting a good diet, he gets exercised in body and mind, gets to spend
undemanding time with you, is given a purpose that he is bred and trained for, and you are his
project coordinator, there will be no more behavior issues and sassy attitudes!
Now let's get out there and ride!
Everyone needs a purpose. Even your horse.
Get a job!
Standing around without a job over the winter months can cause behavior issues.
Photo by Aponi