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Lynn Palm Building a Partnership with Your Horse
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Grooming sessions are an excellent way to strengthen the bond between you and your horse. It is also a good time to reinforce basic ground manners that will make life more pleasant for both of you.
Our goal is to teach the horse to accept whatever we want to do with him, and achieving this goal takes time. If you use step-by-step procedures and gradually introduce lessons, your horse will become more trusting and willing to accept new things. Take your time and make sure that your horse accepts each step in the lesson before moving on to the next. Always practice your lessons on the horse’s near (left) side and his off (right) side.
If you pay attention, your horse will let you know when he understands and accepts what you are teaching him. He will not fidget or give a hurried response, and his breathing will be quiet and relaxed.
You may want to just get out there and ride, but remember that hurrying through ground training basics is not the answer. Spend time building his trust and confidence on the ground and you will have a better partner once you are in the saddle.
Grooming Basics
As with all basic ground training lessons, your horse should be equipped with a properly fitting halter and a longe line or lead.
Grooming should be enjoyable for both you and your horse. It is a good idea to start with a towel instead of a brush, especially if the horse is sensitive or if you are introducing brushing on a sensitive area of his body. Let your horse see, smell, and investigate the towel. If he wants to play with it, let him. Once he seems comfortable with the towel, touch him with it over his body and legs using a light flicking motion. Work from front to back and from his top to bottom. When he accepts this step, repeat the process, this time stroking him with the towel as if it were a brush. When he tells you he is ready for the next step, substitute a soft brush for the towel. |
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