11/25/2022
Object Nervousness!
I made a quick video today to show you how I go about helping a horse overcome being nervous or spooked by an object.
I know the old method and one many people are familiar with is applying pressure(kick, spur and whip) until they move toward the object then release. Not saying that is wrong, but I like this idea better!
To me this way helps them gain confidence much more effectively. What I will do is ride her toward the object(barrels and roping chute in this video) until it bothers her. I won’t push her, I won’t apply pressure, I will simply ride her toward it until she stops and fixates her attention on it. THIS IS THE IMPORTANT PART. Watch those eyes and ears! As soon as she gives you an eye, turns an ear back toward you, or both, I simply turn her and walk away! Retreat and reset. Go again. Each time she will gain more confidence and you will be surprised how quick they will overcome the fear! When I am happy with our progress, I’ll step off, loosen the cinch and quit. What we are doing here is saying, I acknowledge your concern, I’m here if you need me, let’s take our time and we’ll get through it.
To me this idea is no different than our kids being afraid of the dark. If we are there as guiding support, help them through it but DON’T MAKE A BIG DEAL OUT OF IT. Eventually they decide it’s not an issue and if goes away.
Give it a try, let me know how it works, what you guys think and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask!😊
