by Umer Javed

Created on: July 25, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

The reason why we love horses is that they are strong, sensitive creature, capable of providing us pleasurable rides. They are quick and fast, and possess the ability to understand the unfamiliar circumstances. Due to their devotion and loyalty, most of us find them as our close friends.

Horses are found in various breeds; some of them are very popular due to their smooth and stylish gaits, good looks, endurance, speed and other abilities. For their survival, they are provided with strong special senses that enable them to perceive and act properly according to the circumstances.

Sometimes horses act awkwardly and clumsily. Is your horse one of them? Does it perform below its capability? If it does, then do care of some of its sensitive areas. Those sensitive areas where you should be careful include:

Face and Neck It is the most sensitive area of a horse. Other sensitive spots include mouth, eyes, neck and shoulders. The reins of a horse should be handled lightly; otherwise it will result in the lessening of sensitivity in the mouth. Similarly, our manhandling around its eyes can affect its monocular and binocular vision. Do not apply the belt on the shoulders of a running horse, because it will stiffen the shoulder muscles and shorten its stride. Your touch must remain moderate and gentle around these sharp spots.

Ribs and Flanks Flank is the side of the body between ribs and hip. While running, you will find your horse faltering and slowing down if you use belt heavily along the ribs or flank. It is because some horses are so receptive in this region that they quickly hop when heels are applied there. Since it is a very responsive area, you should avoid using your legs continuously along this area. Take the benefit of its responsiveness and give the instructions to run, stop or turn by just a little flick on it.

Back Horses love to be groomed and have their backs scratched. Before grooming, make sure that the grooming equipment has fine teeth and must not hurt the horse. Your horse will go off balance if you keep shifting your body position with the use of hands and legs and also by loading up large weights over its back. One more thing that you should care of is saddling. Horses often feel uncomfortable with some saddles because they do not fit over them properly. Choose a suitable saddle for your horse and while saddling, place it gently using your both hands, so that your horse do not feel uncomfortable with it or get hurt.

Consequently, by taking care of the responsive areas of your mount and spending some time for its grooming, you can really maintain the sensitivity, understanding, behavior and physical appearance of your horse.

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