09/07/2022
Let’s talk sedation! 💉
When working with a horse or pony that may be new to a program, newly imported, or just plain unpredictable, I will most likely discuss sedation with you before our scheduled appointment.
Is this a “shortcut”? No.
Is this the easy way out? No.
Am I being lazy? No.
Am I scared? No.
As sweet as your darling little Muffin might be, when presented with something they are afraid of or uncomfortable with, horses change. They become dangerous. They become afraid. They become overly stressed.
I am a professional and 99.9% of the time, I am able to complete any job thrown my way. I am good at what I do - but the safety of MYSELF and your equine partner are of utmost importance. I am here to present your horse/pony with the most positive experience as possible. And honestly? Sometimes that means sedation is needed.
For me, sedation is a tool. An opportunity to teach and to make progress a little bit at a time. You see, when a horse is stressed, aggressive, or afraid, the job takes twice as long - elongating their discomfort. Some have to be sedated immediately upon my arrival for an appointment, while others only need sedation for head/legs. In this case, I clip every morsel of their body that they willingly allow me to clip, then sedating them when needed. Using this method usually allows me to clip a little more the next time I clip that animal. I safely push both of our comfort zones in hopes that one day, they won’t need sedation at all.
As a trainer/owner, you will know your horse best. The “I’m sure he’ll be fine” mentality just doesn’t cut it if you are not absolutely sure of how your horse will behave. I think one thing we can all agree on is that with these unpredictable creatures, it’s always best to be over prepared than under prepared. There is no better feeling than walking away from a job well done without having to use the sedative that was provided to me.
I am thankful for wonderful customers that always provide me with whatever may be needed to safely and successfully work with their horses/ponies. Whether it is used or it isnt, I greatly appreciate having my safety in mind!!
Show-ring-ready body clipping, award winning grooming, charter hauling, professional Horsemanship. I have been working with horses for my entire life.
