Horsemanship Training is the Key to Safe Horse Handling
Understanding horse behavior starts with recognition. Because communication is the exchange of information between individuals (in this case, horse and rider), it is necessary for both to give and, more importantly, receive information from the other in order to carry on a conversation. It’s about paying attention and reading the “signs” that your horse gives.
“Read the signs?” “What signs?” “What does that mean?”
“Signs” are the non-verbal cues that allow us to communicate our desires. Signs are those reactions that the horse gives in response to our cues. When asked, a horse that is “in tune” with his rider will respond to the slightest of shift of weight or placement of leg. Watch any talented rider. They appear to ride effortlessly. The harmony between horse and rider is apparent because their dialogue is congruent and seemingly invisible. This is because the horse and rider are in conversation. The “in-tune” rider is continuously “listening” and assessing their horse’s reactions and visa versa. The rider’s cues are then applied in a way that the horse will understand and so the dialogue continues.
Horsemanship Training is about Communication
Communication is the exchange of information between individuals. Riding is more than just giving the appropriate cue. It’s about assessing your horse’s overall mental state and determining what is needed to achieve the desired result. As rider’s, we are challenged to be more than just passengers. To achieve synchronicity and “effortless” riding, require much effort on our part. It’s about “feel.”
Are you feeling some resistance? Resistance where?
Resistance is your horse’s way of communicating his reluctance or misunderstanding of what is being asked. Unfortunately, un-felt resistance generally results in accidents.
Accidents happen when the lines of communication breakdown between horse and rider. As the rider, you have the power to prevent these accidents by simply reading the “signs.” Your horse’s resistance is a clear sign that there are problems ahead if the dialogue does not change directions quickly.
What are the “Signs” in Horsemanship Training?
Because horses are prey animals, they are observant. They pick up on our body language and tune into the things that we are asking non-verbally. As their riders, it is imperative that we pay attention to their “signs.” Missing these “signs” can be dangerous. Knowing what to look for is half the battle. For instance, physical signs of agitation include: pinned ears, wringing of the tail, a raised head, tensing up or holding their breath. If your horse exhibits these behaviors, there is a reason. It’s up to you to figure out that reason.
Observing your horses in their natural state is a perfect way to learn how to read their non-verbal cues. Watch them in their pasture. Watch them with their herd mates. What do they do when relaxed, nervous or anxious? What do they do when challenging another herd member? Where is their attention focused? Where are they looking? What are they listening to?
Spend extra time grooming your horse. It’s a great opportunity to observe them relax when you scratch that favorite spot. Rub those hard muscle knots until they loosen up and relax.
Two key components to overcoming miscommunications are: Focus and Relaxation.
Focus. ‘Where is your horse’s attention focused when you are handling him?” It should be on you. If it’s not, recapture his focus. You can do this by speaking a word or making a request. For example, verbally say your horse’s name, request him to lower his head, break at the poll or step sideways.
Relaxation. Once you have his attention, the next question should be, “Is he relaxed?” If the answer is no, make an effort to relax him. Tension inhibits your horse’s performance. It can also be a sign danger is looming ahead.
Relaxation can be achieved in a variety of ways from a reassuring word or patting his withers to moving to a safer place. Another technique is to ride exercises that are more comfortable for your horse. Rubbing places like the gums and poll also calms your horse because of an endorphin release. It may take several attempts before figuring out which methods work best for your horse.
Regardless of your goals, understanding your horse’s non-verbal “signs” is imperative. Knowing how your horse communicates and his limitations will help you become a better and safer rider. Remember, tension and resistance are excellent ways for your horse to tell you he’s reached his limit. Your response to this reaction should be to back off and reduce his anxiety before someone gets hurt.
Practical Horsemanship Training – Real World Examples
I spend all day reading and relaxing my horse. I need him attentive and relaxed or I can’t do my job. My horse Major was the herd boss. Although he was a gaited fox trotter, he would spend hours piaffing along the isolation pen whenever a new horse was brought in. His boldness made him a great police horse when I was working alone. But formation riding with unfamiliar horses could spell trouble.
At a police funeral we stood in formation for the two hour service. Major didn’t like standing boot to boot next to an unfamiliar horse. Every so often I would see him slowly lower his ears and give the horse a look. Now this took about 5 minutes because he tried to lower them in increments so slowly he thought I wouldn’t notice. Just before he would reach out to bite, I would flick him on the neck with my finger. This refocused his attention back to me. I would scratch him on the withers until he relaxed. Then we would start all over again.
Being attentive to your horse’s “signs” will make your riding a much more pleasant experience for you and your horse.Written by: Mary Hamilton Mounted Police Instructor