We all want a calm and focused horse – the question is, how do we get them? We have to learn to desensitize a horse. Once we’ve done that, we can count a long and healthy relationship with them under any circumstance.
Like human beings, horses respond to external stimuli through what is known as the “fight or flight” response. But horses are prey animals and they have evolved with a distinct preference for the “flight” side of things. At the first sign of trouble, they bolt – and fast. Speed is their best defense.
But where that made sense for a horse in the wild, a domesticated horse is far less likely to run into a situation that requires a frantic dash over the miles. Our job as riders and equestrians is to help them discern what constitutes a crisis and what does not. That process is called desensitization.
We all have our favorite spooked horse theory. Maybe it’s the Haflinger who can’t bear the sight of a coiled up garden hose. Or the Welsh pony that jumps in the air at the sight of an overturned sap bucket.
Weaning these equines from their fear is tricky and it can take a long time. But as always, your success or failure will come down to communication. Can you be patient with your horse? Can you read its body language? Can you figure out what’s going on and help it find a solution?
The first step is to identify what scares your horse. Go ahead and make a list. Do unusual objects frighten it? Loud noises? What about strange faces? Once you’ve got your list, pick a few items and put them in a good-sized paddock. Your horse won’t like it, but you’re going to give it a chance to face down some demons!
Start small. Maybe fifteen minutes in the ring with something that’s unsettling. Be sure you’re there in clear sight. You want to observe, but you also want to be observed. Your horse needs to know you’re there. Don’t be afraid to talk to it, to soothe it.
You don’t want to terrify your horse – you just want to begin to get it accustomed to being safely in the presence of what has traditionally been frightening. Over time, it will slowly become “desensitized” and the two of you will be able to go anywhere without fear of a hasty race to safety!
